tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34883011953122031302024-02-19T07:00:01.494-05:00Daddy StuffDaddy Stuff: Things for, about, and to dads.Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-2561204359977008682012-04-20T09:30:00.000-04:002012-04-20T14:04:58.896-04:00Watch Review: Skywatch - 3 Hand Diver Watch (Part II)<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In <a href="http://daddy-stuff.blogspot.com/2012/04/watch-review-skywatch-3-hand-diver.html" target="_blank">Part I</a> of my Skwatch review, I discussed some of the more rudimentary aspects of buying this watch - the shipping / packaging and the size and details (what, you haven't read it? Go ahead, click the link. I'll still be here where when you come back.... Welcome back!). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This time the focus is on Appearance, Quality and Value.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Appearance / Comfort</strong></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The watch is quite nice to look at in person, and it even photographs well. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_e2ux5UDAqOG599wP6lWmexjfW9tk7emiWK2YABMPwF9I9cTewSZ6wInSjHXmwfC6nvl2AN9jxL8RawUxsFh1ehPZBkz1CPFiJesBbMfGYvnBazZAWuCvwiOPhMnfnqiqGgLVtZ8pyA/s1600/new1+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_e2ux5UDAqOG599wP6lWmexjfW9tk7emiWK2YABMPwF9I9cTewSZ6wInSjHXmwfC6nvl2AN9jxL8RawUxsFh1ehPZBkz1CPFiJesBbMfGYvnBazZAWuCvwiOPhMnfnqiqGgLVtZ8pyA/s200/new1+%25287%2529.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><strong>Case</strong></u> - The case on my watch is stainless steel, with a brushed finish. This helps differentiate it from the newer Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, which is normally polished to a mirror finish. The case back has a simple Skywatch engraving on it that shows a little more attention to detail, and adds a little more interest for your skin. The watch may also be ordered with a case finished in black, rose gold, or hell, if you really want a chartreuse one, they probably will do that for you (for a price of course!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1t7cd-h5jjQSvuFc-hRMC06VKZalIcxJ6AvDifOZYCJcxFDqLwb4plXuvjBpONcviRicL3IUq0Bvzui_yux04cVKH8Pbiua9QwSBL83ltkF4h97BIfkSNKX5u1HwU8-SMG2ixHvsVIaE/s1600/new1+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1t7cd-h5jjQSvuFc-hRMC06VKZalIcxJ6AvDifOZYCJcxFDqLwb4plXuvjBpONcviRicL3IUq0Bvzui_yux04cVKH8Pbiua9QwSBL83ltkF4h97BIfkSNKX5u1HwU8-SMG2ixHvsVIaE/s200/new1+%25289%2529.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Bezel</u></strong> - As mentioned in <a href="http://daddy-stuff.blogspot.com/2012/04/watch-review-skywatch-3-hand-diver.html" target="_blank">Part I</a> of the review, the 60 click bezel is really the key aspect to the watch design and appearance for me. The bottle cap style of serrations on the side, done in a brushed metal finish contrast nicely with the colored bezel. What really sells it for me, and led to my purchase, was the convex profile to the bezel. It adds tactile and visual interest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Skywatch indicates that the bezel is finished in acrylic. That helps the colors pop for sure, but that will likely be at the expense of scratch protection. Many higher end watches now use sapphire glass or ceramic for this high use part to prevent the premature aging that is bound to occur with frequent use. While moderately expensive for a Swiss quartz watch, to include such a feature would likely make this no longer affordable in it's mission as "A Dive Watch for Dive Bars." </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Photo courtesy of Skywatchsite.com</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Crown</u></strong> - Large, easy to grasp with Skywatch engraving on it. Easy to find both time setting positions. First position for setting date, second (all the way out) for setting the time. Smooth, no binding or resistance, no burrs.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI4PhqjdloBgxZC0tUbI52YePQHJCOMtX9CPDvBvzxGO39D2sFFjQdwLVYCWIJvClBJz4XDvBJHxVtudtDGywvWKyEFZkLC0xYWbj6JXsZutbMID-eJQu9q60ysQOX7mA1y4cjWAM3Yo/s1600/new1+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI4PhqjdloBgxZC0tUbI52YePQHJCOMtX9CPDvBvzxGO39D2sFFjQdwLVYCWIJvClBJz4XDvBJHxVtudtDGywvWKyEFZkLC0xYWbj6JXsZutbMID-eJQu9q60ysQOX7mA1y4cjWAM3Yo/s320/new1+%252810%2529.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Dial, Crystal and Hands</u></strong> - The dial on the watch is consistent with it's theme of being a dive watch, tipping it's cap to an iconic design. As mentioned previously, the Super Luminova applied to the numerals and hour markers is done quite well. I do wish there was more depth to the dial, something that would make one to want to look at it for more than the time (textured paint?). There may be opportunity for the company as they grow to do so. Good choice to make the date wheel background black and numerals white to minimize un-needed contrast on the dial. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The flat mineral crystal is one thing that I am not the most fond of on the watch. Since it's flat, it appears less opaque than other mineral crystals that I have seen or owned. I think a slight dome to the glass, nearly matching the curve of the bezel would be a knockout. The sword style hands, one of my favorite styles, have clean edges, are filled with Super Luminova and are an appropriate length. You'd be surprised how many watch companies make hour / minute hands too short or too long for their intended purpose. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQT-1FGY9ji6WvCxg7zmk_TgVOrOWSBw7QXNR3fCgEJqgMfsnV03e78sIaw3Kv8k60QMK4do99gl2g2uhJ8AJCGQcZRFwx_lP3K9Ev6btjPNh_MHVgsCLccfXA-PWU8niLneVAwLnjoA/s1600/new1+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQT-1FGY9ji6WvCxg7zmk_TgVOrOWSBw7QXNR3fCgEJqgMfsnV03e78sIaw3Kv8k60QMK4do99gl2g2uhJ8AJCGQcZRFwx_lP3K9Ev6btjPNh_MHVgsCLccfXA-PWU8niLneVAwLnjoA/s200/new1+%252811%2529.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Comfort</u></strong> - On the wrist, the watch feels light and unobtrusive. I actually forgot I was wearing it for a while. The watch has a lower profile than I am used to, which helps it slip under shirt sleeves easily. In a T-Shirt and jeans, the watch feels right at home, providing a splash of color on the wrist without being gaudy. The strap is comfortable on the skin, using a soft leather to circle your wrist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Quality</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I want to start this off by saying that I have not contacted Skywatch about the one area that I am most disappointed in. They appear to have a robust warranty and Gabriel at Skywatch has been extremely responsive, generous and kind during my purchase. He did not know I would write anything about my watch (hell, neither did I).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Neither seconds hand on the Poppy Red, or the Carbon Fiber watch hits it's marker. It's not even really close on the Poppy, slightly better on the Carbon Fiber. I can't accurately capture it in pictures, but it's noticeable to me and does reduce some of the enthusiasm for the watch. Certainly, I may not be typical (to be fair, this may not be typical either), but for the nearly $300 price, I had higher expectations of quality control. I have owned other watches with Swiss based quartz movements that have shown better alignment. To Skywatch's defense, there is more lash (free play) in some quartz movements which could lead to a wide distribution of alignments. However, being marketed as a watch that Hublot or other high end buyers would choose to wear as a rough and tumble watch for their fun times, I would suspect those discerning buyers would notice as well. I may engage their warranty process. If I do, I'll update you all on how that goes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Had the second hands been better aligned, this would be a slam dunk. As it is, watches of this ilk are luxury purchases. There are many other items that can tell time for less money, with similar specs. Here, though, you get a great looking design, high quality bezel and case finishing, with excellent material selections for straps. My interactions with the Skywatch team have been top notch, and I suspect yours will be too. Putting aside the alignment issue (which may not bother most), I recommend this watch to those that love good design, and value that above all.</span></div>
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<br />Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-21880761300144529542012-04-18T12:03:00.001-04:002012-04-18T12:27:13.872-04:00Watch Review: Skywatch - 3 Hand Diver Watch (Part I)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let's face it - Dads (and guys) like to collect stuff. It doesn't matter what it is - when we collect, we collect MULTIPLES of things. I don't think I'm alone in my affliction, either. To wit, we dads might have:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Guitars ( I have four)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stereo receivers ( how do I have three of them?)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sneakers (am I showing my age here?)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Firearms (to Mommy Stuffs glee, I can't check this box)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Watches...</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You get the point. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we go all in, we go ALL IN. At least for a while, anyway. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That brings me to this new post. I have gone for over a year plus without even thinking about a new watch - and I seriously enjoy watches. However, life (read: house, work, kids and wife) prevented me from having time or money to invest in something new. As my knowledge and interest in watches has grown my appreciation for certain watches has as well. I have been a fan of the </span><a href="http://www.blancpain.com/en/print/1017" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Sport</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> watches for a long time. I am also a fan of my savings account. The two are mutually exclusive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So what made me want to jump back into the waters of watches? One word: travel. I have some sentimental mechanical watches in my very modest collection, and the rigors of travel have begun to take a toll on them. The having to remove them, hide them through security, getting scuffs from the ins and outs of travel, and the worry attendant to it all, told me it was time to seek a stylish, modestly priced travel watch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enter </span><a href="http://www.skywatchsite.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Skywatch</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The </span><a href="http://shop.skywatchsite.com/15-3-hand-44mm" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Skywatch 3 Hand 44mm</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> comes in a multitude of color and strap combinations. One can quickly see the similarities (although, thankfully, not exact duplication) to the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. One can also see the difference in pricing: <u><strong>50x <em>LESS</em></strong></u> than the FF. I was hooked, and placed an order: One for me (Poppy Red), one for my brother (Carbon Fiber).</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let's take a closer look at the goods.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Delivery and Packaging</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When you buy something on-line, besides the normal "I hope I don't get screwed" thoughts, you think about </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How long 'till it gets here, and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Will it be OK when it arrives</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The how fast was pretty simple - Order on Monday, received on a Friday. FedEx ground for $15. Pretty fair I think. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For me, the "will it be OK" was of more concern. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoT2UHWzQ6e-qAWJoYeZCKd6M9gOx7MFY_xbAYKFAvFKcoywvzKDpIcdxSUKAfwemcdW6c2r1IoaEx2041h7kMCcZNPFRhg6wo2b0vmrIktjTFDoEfVynKZKt3JGexp440r-0-XR64Q8/s1600/DSC_0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoT2UHWzQ6e-qAWJoYeZCKd6M9gOx7MFY_xbAYKFAvFKcoywvzKDpIcdxSUKAfwemcdW6c2r1IoaEx2041h7kMCcZNPFRhg6wo2b0vmrIktjTFDoEfVynKZKt3JGexp440r-0-XR64Q8/s200/DSC_0128.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The package from Skywatch was clearly labeled "FRAGILE", which can sometimes mean treat it nicely, or use it to practice the shot put. In this instance, the FedEx people were kind to me - the box had nary a scratch on the outside. </span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Ot1dnw0IVfJyXE-L1cniw1Z-gzeKByj16B7N87PZBkI79L9J4Wfxr8fdx3s6sgs_hHtMLtGG3uBtEi2evinxERqun1Y3_RwDKYPRAiXViTkVc53BWKVIyeVk5URBMvrxJ0EoDLZalOw/s1600/DSC_0132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Ot1dnw0IVfJyXE-L1cniw1Z-gzeKByj16B7N87PZBkI79L9J4Wfxr8fdx3s6sgs_hHtMLtGG3uBtEi2evinxERqun1Y3_RwDKYPRAiXViTkVc53BWKVIyeVk5URBMvrxJ0EoDLZalOw/s200/DSC_0132.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Upon opening the box, I was relieved to see additional bubble-wrap padding surrounding the watches. Skywatch really optimized the space between the shipping box and the watch box + padding to prevent excess movement during shipping. Good work on that, Skywatch.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPG8HI5RJg9zk_F8fNd3a1I1UDcI8hCQ5hCid6jm1cgPJ3r8psHvE_KNiM0GRXNJ6a978MHHzrFRr1KX8wO019fxtB8u6iYJ4H6kKENxm0zfW05tgRG_yp3JhpDvhQGNHbUTALSZCeHw/s1600/DSC_0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPG8HI5RJg9zk_F8fNd3a1I1UDcI8hCQ5hCid6jm1cgPJ3r8psHvE_KNiM0GRXNJ6a978MHHzrFRr1KX8wO019fxtB8u6iYJ4H6kKENxm0zfW05tgRG_yp3JhpDvhQGNHbUTALSZCeHw/s200/DSC_0135.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My semi- trusty assistant, D Man, was happy to help Daddy Stuff remove and unwrap daddy's "Presents". We all had a good amount of fun popping the bubble wrap sheets, startling Mommy Stuff at various points.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWETBqCPk2bZKeB0-HrW1z-9fprHnmNtPYff3GYrYocEjlFs1R0E5oLZfJrZjLD0l7nw_naTVhI3mvnDvZV1_hC6qxqWc6H5dplSjDCe2Lr8jhBvkrZ3qQQ-Y-phXdz4WTvBH9Cpsqrs/s1600/DSC_0136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWETBqCPk2bZKeB0-HrW1z-9fprHnmNtPYff3GYrYocEjlFs1R0E5oLZfJrZjLD0l7nw_naTVhI3mvnDvZV1_hC6qxqWc6H5dplSjDCe2Lr8jhBvkrZ3qQQ-Y-phXdz4WTvBH9Cpsqrs/s200/DSC_0136.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The plastic case that the watch comes in is quite easy to open once you remove the side stickers that hold the lid to box. The plastic itself is pretty thick and tough looking, without excessive burrs or sharp edges. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddnpPRgVX9xuUpj7KAGY_9IaG8FV-kF7ij1aaaQcM22sQQJrMT433bSECbxjPEbyo2i67xcGiEmFxkpgyLU9N3HBYCgUzev3mLHNgdSdSufkBBHdAi60S82h-66tTjIGl2-bdfViEp4c/s1600/DSC_0141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddnpPRgVX9xuUpj7KAGY_9IaG8FV-kF7ij1aaaQcM22sQQJrMT433bSECbxjPEbyo2i67xcGiEmFxkpgyLU9N3HBYCgUzev3mLHNgdSdSufkBBHdAi60S82h-66tTjIGl2-bdfViEp4c/s200/DSC_0141.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKu0xBMi2cnxbc4vt7xBuB0xa_SAagi67yo12MIuT6IfLp9HzLx_YGEmDUULCXs2cMRpGjUK0dJUz8xCa7TOr9Q9kNRzOakZ8myGqT1RrjH_mM5GrzBncpSnGUyhLQd-NxlbhJrA33vLA/s1600/DSC_0144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKu0xBMi2cnxbc4vt7xBuB0xa_SAagi67yo12MIuT6IfLp9HzLx_YGEmDUULCXs2cMRpGjUK0dJUz8xCa7TOr9Q9kNRzOakZ8myGqT1RrjH_mM5GrzBncpSnGUyhLQd-NxlbhJrA33vLA/s200/DSC_0144.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The watch spans two different kinds of material in the box. The head of the watch is above a half inch thick paper / board / foam "plate", and the strap itself is wrapped around a foam core, which also is nested into a foam block. A neat touch to prevent the strap foam to be pulled through the slot is the addition of a rigid plastic pin that is wider than the slot. Nice attention to detail, and a good way to ensure that the watch will stay in place no matter how jostled it may be during shipping. Inside the foam block is also a groove that houses the warranty card and product information. The face and back of the watch head also have a protective plastic film that is easily removed, and makes sure there is nothing between you and your watch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">An obligatory, artsy / fartsy shot below:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeeYaITPGr2fHYkjzR42HjakTrs172-BaNr2jN9T_tf7ivvFXOQWDr83Q50-2pauy5mD1vfX9LIMIJuzVWVpQ3HukZ0JWzRgC_Gabk1w6f7Hg0Qcy7YEt7kOYWCR15rf0ZYRbt8aBBqE/s1600/DSC_0146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeeYaITPGr2fHYkjzR42HjakTrs172-BaNr2jN9T_tf7ivvFXOQWDr83Q50-2pauy5mD1vfX9LIMIJuzVWVpQ3HukZ0JWzRgC_Gabk1w6f7Hg0Qcy7YEt7kOYWCR15rf0ZYRbt8aBBqE/s320/DSC_0146.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overall, the watch is well packaged using a minimum of excess which is probably good for Earth Stuffs landfills.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Specs and Size</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The watch I chose is a claimed 44mm in diameter, housing a Swiss-made 3 hand quartz Ronda 515 movement with date. The dial has a vintage numeral feel (similar to premium Swiss watches), matte black, with applied numerals and hour markers filled with Super Luminova. The hour, minute and second hands are also filled with Super Luminova. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_e2ux5UDAqOG599wP6lWmexjfW9tk7emiWK2YABMPwF9I9cTewSZ6wInSjHXmwfC6nvl2AN9jxL8RawUxsFh1ehPZBkz1CPFiJesBbMfGYvnBazZAWuCvwiOPhMnfnqiqGgLVtZ8pyA/s1600/new1+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_e2ux5UDAqOG599wP6lWmexjfW9tk7emiWK2YABMPwF9I9cTewSZ6wInSjHXmwfC6nvl2AN9jxL8RawUxsFh1ehPZBkz1CPFiJesBbMfGYvnBazZAWuCvwiOPhMnfnqiqGgLVtZ8pyA/s320/new1+%25287%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The bezel is uni-directional, and on the Poppy Red (a more vintage orange, I'd say) it has great color depth and contrast. The bezel appears to be a 60 click unit. The bezel on the carbon fiber watch is three dimensional and immersive. Very, very nice to look at.</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="320" qda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfutol4pPt5mRg8oiq5QMLoWpGGxbtfkoTNkNFbpNCNr-1BIMeUQY2BldBRDX9zmpzhMDv02wyffU3WGo7Gw3As1f3nXGGIyHP578QaYlOIjJ4oyJ_kVBBSlKYEYXMHxx4oQhq34PmG3I/s320/new1+%25284%2529.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The strap width is 22mm, and is made of Italian sail cloth on the front side, leather on the back. A nice nod to the <a href="http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachments/f405/524585d1317314980-longines-legend-diver-no-date-longines-legend-diver.jpg" target="_blank">Longines Legend Diver</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The 44mm really doesn't appear or feel as large as you might think. I have a wonderful <a href="http://www.relojes-especiales.com/portalre/tiendas/aimages/23/5483.1.med.jpg" target="_blank">Victorinox Dive Master 500 Black Ice Mech</a> in my collection, which is listed at 43mm. I will say, the Dive Master feels and looks bigger. Part of that may be the heft of it - mechanical movement, dual sapphire crystals, heavy and solid end link bracelet - but even visually, it just looks bigger. I am not disappointed at all in the Skywatch in this regard, but those that may be shying away from the watch due to the size, don't let the 44mm fool you. She looks and wears smaller.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Skywatch is quite light, which is actually pleasant for me, since I am used to heavy automatic watches. The strap is comfortable on the wrist, holds itself in place nicely, and the small touch of blue from the strap keeper adds even more color to my arm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">In Part II we'll cover Appearance, Quality and overall Value.</span><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As of this writing, the writer has not been compensated for this review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This review is for the purposes of information and experience sharing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The views of the author are his own.</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXBxW2OoKhOy4cYd67_lYJdYD9j4YXKcAArSKwPlkasBumoy6wwF1M1dzTBcRGIOIolZXR8nXIhjmHNptSOacEjG0qc3tttl2CZKqdoYLMW5oQTEQnG_E4Bkj1Xstm_VlwU3ue_TQsOA/s1600/DSC_0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
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</div>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-19505200891530186432012-04-18T12:03:00.000-04:002012-04-18T12:03:11.652-04:00A long hiatus...<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The blog has been on hold for quite a while. Other priorities have taken all of my effort and spare time. There will be new content coming over the next couple of months. First up will be a review of a new watch, later we'll talk about a Pioneer Receiver, some home improvement stuff and have some fun along the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let's have some fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">CP</span>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-45511334721475228812011-05-03T07:00:00.011-04:002011-05-03T13:26:59.178-04:00Kalahari Water Park and Resort - Review: Part 2<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is Kalahari For You?</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those of you that read <a href="http://daddy-stuff.blogspot.com/2011/04/kalahari-water-park-and-resort-review.html">Part I of my review on Kalahari Water Park and Resort</a>, we talked about checking in, food and other stuff. But the real reason to go, is the water park, right? Let's dive in!</span></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Attractions</u></strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With all-due-respect to those that reside in <place w:st="on"><city w:st="on">Sandusky</city>, <state w:st="on">OH</state></place>, we were not there for the city. We were there for the resort and what it offers a family of four for a <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;"><span style="background-color: white;">spring break, uh, er, break.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The theme of the resort is an African safari / village vibe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The in-room TV touts the authentic nature of the design, the art, the everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can't confirm if what they say is true – and I don't care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids dug the faux lions, hippos, elephants and other animals, and enjoyed the large mural outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the map of <place w:st="on">Africa</place> outside our breakfast location was cool, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicN4SsRMvQvcM42IOL9YwLKj3YpC11nVSUom5-mBxhhFIXxFk1JrB1qB-iCLEH9MADWtTRjXAijb3vOSb-oSX9-GHhMDUc5ULQNVBR2ZpxXVUZCrunxTtKECeL4BUb6Ka4_jgXQ3EM0GQ/s1600/Ele.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicN4SsRMvQvcM42IOL9YwLKj3YpC11nVSUom5-mBxhhFIXxFk1JrB1qB-iCLEH9MADWtTRjXAijb3vOSb-oSX9-GHhMDUc5ULQNVBR2ZpxXVUZCrunxTtKECeL4BUb6Ka4_jgXQ3EM0GQ/s320/Ele.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kalahari is a massive, sprawling water park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/pdf/oh/information/resortMap/sanduskyMap.pdf">It is friggin gi-normous</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that is the inside park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wo3ym6gcW3dXc8d-XXG8rhuSGs7X9LaJyKGOWzDgkqO6zaxllQ0CJeiVXTLsdL1e8AMy6MxQnn-WUL8heYqcYXOeMMAi5_CQ-nCHlix_Cxg03KFndxRJ_SuAGlFJRDOPR_DMgnT-AbI/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wo3ym6gcW3dXc8d-XXG8rhuSGs7X9LaJyKGOWzDgkqO6zaxllQ0CJeiVXTLsdL1e8AMy6MxQnn-WUL8heYqcYXOeMMAi5_CQ-nCHlix_Cxg03KFndxRJ_SuAGlFJRDOPR_DMgnT-AbI/s400/map.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: KalahariResorts.com</td></tr>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The outside park (not usable in April when we were there) is massive, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Depending on where your room is, you either have a short walk, or a really, really, really long walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The latter was our experience, and was a suitable surrogate for exercise!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For our kids, and for us, we stuck to the more child-friendly areas in the water park, of which there really are three:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the kiddie park part (with ankle deep water and slides for kids 42" and under only):</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMP1wztADVdGYkHbytxqjQ7zQG-pQUHCsbqzgruvtI9S8j6d8VcuzKPwyB8ShYQHdxa0g23kbnuvLoc8wSVqstWBoFi3-uPwsEg_7aCpkj-AaNjXQVzbCkypryFYmdp14aWvFe7T0RljM/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMP1wztADVdGYkHbytxqjQ7zQG-pQUHCsbqzgruvtI9S8j6d8VcuzKPwyB8ShYQHdxa0g23kbnuvLoc8wSVqstWBoFi3-uPwsEg_7aCpkj-AaNjXQVzbCkypryFYmdp14aWvFe7T0RljM/s320/DSC_0013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOhm4ew_AbjN3A4ClJ6quMJFXQ5bqk6wzyfFLQa84qjcP9W2Mq8Ze4pWe82UziZyNQb9auOLyQzfsmN9qF_mlbonTzwdqA4PEnb2G6woDONYx-wNRtyOCBy6hxhgwfiFjeyIqnQiRSH4/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOhm4ew_AbjN3A4ClJ6quMJFXQ5bqk6wzyfFLQa84qjcP9W2Mq8Ze4pWe82UziZyNQb9auOLyQzfsmN9qF_mlbonTzwdqA4PEnb2G6woDONYx-wNRtyOCBy6hxhgwfiFjeyIqnQiRSH4/s320/DSC_0017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the wave pool, because we could keep a good eye on them and the force of water is pretty interesting and the kids loved being knocked down by waves (to the horror and fear of Daddy Stuff himself, and 3)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the big bucket climbing structure area (not sure what to call it) where there are some bigger single person slides that even our 2.5 year old liked, along with lots of other stuff:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqf-8pdmxsAq249LmrKkJHl8-_FqO3zjeMT15vM-y6fSInsqIqwZ2RZC-vi8V2pH_Mc2Ljl3rPYKsM-aXxpmCECQRnceOB1cgSTBUsWYRhcMsgAioYvyP5T97AMmA0vthBu7Zi7LplbU/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqf-8pdmxsAq249LmrKkJHl8-_FqO3zjeMT15vM-y6fSInsqIqwZ2RZC-vi8V2pH_Mc2Ljl3rPYKsM-aXxpmCECQRnceOB1cgSTBUsWYRhcMsgAioYvyP5T97AMmA0vthBu7Zi7LplbU/s320/DSC_0011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some of you may be saying – whoa – "lame-o" alert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guilty as charged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But this wasn't for me and my wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our enjoyment was focused on having the kids go ape playing in the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Didn't need a lazy river for our adventuresome, non-sitting-still boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Didn't need turbo sleds to hit Mach 3 before slamming into a pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I think our choices worked well for them and for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would do the same, again, if (and when) we go back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids did not get bored (although mom and dad did) and played till they were tired, which took about 2 hours each time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was perfect for our schedules.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this is where Kalahari shines.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In addition to the water park (and obligatory video game area) Kalahari has a mini bowling space but most importantly a <a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/oh/amenities/treetopplay/">climber area for kids, too, included in the cost of the stay</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That scored major points for Kalahari in our book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a pretty tall structure for climbing and also has slides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The center open area has air pressured toys where, for instance, when the "volcano" is stuffed with enough foam balls, the "volcano" erupts at the push of a button.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quite entertaining for the little ones, and cool for the bigger ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0m-WBXdAqWeGivYwwQ_kRSh2DHwdIVzqpo_mCojMrvUCNfjwtRvRHCQJk0RSZTP7KRyVcXOctsdmknE5IvsIzkqXvdjZx77g3Kn24cAk6wGd4VjoQWKlqcl0WChiaoagsaZ8At-JXq8/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0m-WBXdAqWeGivYwwQ_kRSh2DHwdIVzqpo_mCojMrvUCNfjwtRvRHCQJk0RSZTP7KRyVcXOctsdmknE5IvsIzkqXvdjZx77g3Kn24cAk6wGd4VjoQWKlqcl0WChiaoagsaZ8At-JXq8/s320/3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree Top Play - Inside (image courtesy of KalahariResorts.com)</td></tr>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We liked this arrangement very much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all could only take so much water activity at once (usually 2 hours).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We could then entice the kids to not be water-logged anymore with the promise of the climber area and food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This helped our super active kids stay engaged, happy and looking forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kudos to Kalahari for having this available!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><strong>Other Stuff</strong></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some other things to be aware of – some that I like some I don’t:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">People squat on seats in a major way at the water park area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early bird gets the worm for sure. Mostly this is due to peeps visiting the water park for the day.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Towels are plenty, but don't really dry as well as one would like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only an issue when trying to wrestle kids!</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Air temp was really cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could be a function of time of year, but cold is cold.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Water chemicals had a way of irritating all eyes – my wife and oldest in particular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>D man looked like he had 2 black eyes at one point from the water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Went away quickly after a good night sleep.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rooms are small, but comfy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They include a microwave and fridge which may be helpful.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Parking is good, but be prepared for a hike.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Really friendly staff overall.</span></li>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The one downer for the day was leaving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's a full on pain-in-the-arse to find a luggage cart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I (and many others) had to literally stalk and pounce on people to get their cart and bring it back to the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like being accosted at the train station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not fun, not pleasant, and something that the hotel should work on to improve their customer satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who wants their last memory to be an unpleasant one?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But in its totality – Kalahari is something I can recommend to families that need a break from normal life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will go back!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As of this writing, the writer has not been compensated for this review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This review is for the purposes of information and experience sharing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The views of the author are his own.</span></i></div><br />
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</div>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-69545371629435617382011-04-21T07:30:00.005-04:002011-04-21T08:23:33.745-04:00Kalahari Water Park and Resort - Review: Part I<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An Oasis in the middle of <state w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Ohio</span></place></state> </span></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our family recently spent three days and two nights (Wed-Fri) at the <placename w:st="on"><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/oh/">Kalahari</placename> <placename w:st="on">Water</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Park</placetype> and Resort in <place w:st="on"><city w:st="on">Sandusky</city>, <state w:st="on">OH</a></state></place>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the third water park in two years that Mommy Stuff and I have taken our two boys (the others being Zehnders in Frankenmuth, MI and Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, OH, too.)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I won't compare the other resorts to Kalahari here, for a couple of important reasons – 1) we spent more time in Kalahari, and 2) the more we've been to water parks, the more we have learned.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let's run through the process and features, and along the way I'll provide our opinion.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Online Booking</u></strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The website is ok to use – not super simple, not overly complex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being the bargain hunter I am, I naturally sought out the deals section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This part can be confusing – for the same dates there are multiple packages available, and it's not always easy to see "value" in the choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Locating the right resort and booking the dates was pretty straight forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You get a quick confirmation of the booking automatically once you complete the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Unloading and Checking in – AKA herding the kids and your stuff</u></strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/amenities/valetparking/header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="107" i8="true" src="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/amenities/valetparking/header.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance of Kalahari (courtesy of Kalahari)</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Getting the stuff out of our vehicle and into the hotel was pretty quick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The process was simplified by having bell hops pounce on you in the pull up lane(s) of the covered entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They direct you to a place to park temporarily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They start immediately putting your stuff on a baggage cart, and are quite friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This frees you up to get to the front desk, confirm your stuff and get your hotel room keys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They then lead you (and tow your stuff) to your room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tip the helpful, and these guys were very good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Really reduces the stress level and struggle of herding kids and your stuff in a strange, sprawling resort.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u>Food</u></strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kalahari also offers a lot of food choices (and simply amazing baked goods – like a donut the size of a man hole cover!) for those ravenous, to those that are snackers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our package included breakfasts for all of us each day, one sit down dinner and one pizza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our arrival evening we had dinner at The Great Karoo Restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/dining/greatkaroo/header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" i8="true" src="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/dining/greatkaroo/header.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The kids got a buffet, which was affordable and had enough variety for those that can't make up their minds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/pdf/oh/dining/greatkaroo/menu.pdf">My wife and I ordered normal menu items.</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The food was good, and hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only downside was the service time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While our waiter was very kind and friendly – it just appeared that the whole staff was overwhelmed by the volume of people, which must be odd for a Wednesday night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The total experience, while long, was good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I don't recommend the oatmeal, fried ice cream dessert at all, though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was not good, not fun, and not enjoyable. (Mommy Stuff didn't think it was THAT bad <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span> )</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breakfasts for our package were served in <a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/oh/dining/thereserve/menu.htm?KeepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=420&width=700">The Reserve</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/dining/thereserve/title.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i8="true" src="http://www.kalahariresorts.com/images/oh/dining/thereserve/title.gif" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This, too, was a buffet style breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our waiters each time we dined there were much more timely and just as friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The food was quite good, and Momma Stuff and I discovered a secret passion for creme stuffed churros we didn't know we had (similar to what we saw on <u>Food Network Best Things I Ever Ate</u>)!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The kids roundly enjoyed the variety, and the décor kept them entertained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only draw back is the restaurant opens at 8:30am, and the water park at 9.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don't like to dine in swim wear, so that put us into the water park after it opens, when many of the more choice seating locations are taken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be advised. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We also had dinner in the same locale, and that was super for the boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teen music plays, there are contests and activities for the kids to participate in and overall the vibe is fun. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again a buffet choice is available for the kids and that worked well for the little one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The food is average at best, which was fine for the atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We did have an appetizer, to which D man quipped – "It's not Calamari, it Kalahari!"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look out Eddie Murphy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The resort had a one child eats free coupon at this restaurant, which was nice way to save a little, and a kind gesture.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In sum – good to average food, awesome sweets/snacks/desserts, slow wait staff, very friendly wait staff, decent value, and kid-centric fun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Coming next, Review Part II - Attractions and all the rest</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">As of this writing, the writer has not been compensated for this review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This review is for the purposes of information and experience sharing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The views of the author are his own.</span></i></div></div>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-53809855555706694942011-04-12T21:20:00.005-04:002011-05-17T15:53:24.033-04:00Who? Owls, that’s who!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been biding my time, as our family awaits our new home completion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this down time (10 months of it!), I have been an avid reader of some DIY blogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've book marked more than my fair share of sites, and while my dreams and mental capacity are infinite, my actual time and space are the polar opposite.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was during the most recent stretch of crappy weather, that I came across some cool (and inexpensive) inspiration from a fellow blogger </span><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2011/03/jumping-on-bandwagon-painted-owls.html"><span style="color: #606420; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Peas and Crayons</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why owls?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, in our new house we are going to have these on our mantle –</span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What else is in a forest with Gnomes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me thinks owls!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been itching to re-connect with my graffiti roots and start using spray paint again, but more grown-uply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And owls were the target for the first shot.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On a dad and sons day, we took off in the King (our grabber blue Mustang Vert!) and hit the local Target.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I searched high and low for the owls to no avail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, having 2 diminutive helpers really came in handy, and D man found the owl bin at his level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some other shopping later – which included an Easter Rabbit cookie jar, and Oreo Spring cookies! – we had 5 of these critters of our own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok that isn't my before picture (its from Peas and Crayons).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And our mix was two of the blackish and whitish, and three of the grey mottled color flecked ones, but still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kinda cheeky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would be white, soon enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bought 5, because I promised the boys that after I painted them – they could paint 2 of them with their paint markers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I called it the treaty of Target.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hey, it worked, and it gave them something to look forward to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, this past weekend, after our spring break trip – to be written about soon – the transformation began.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Step One - Prime</u></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHx4KzG13p-VTk-M9ACmdqvQWEChnii_KdEBI_0yKIymMUyPYg5C_rg1gBimrQA6P7pMxLpYtAZMB9WLS-xfkCYXJJHIzNficv4AanxytoyH-JKzCgZv0oZ2oXYEqexhUcHx-CzwjEiSw/s1600/DSC_0087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHx4KzG13p-VTk-M9ACmdqvQWEChnii_KdEBI_0yKIymMUyPYg5C_rg1gBimrQA6P7pMxLpYtAZMB9WLS-xfkCYXJJHIzNficv4AanxytoyH-JKzCgZv0oZ2oXYEqexhUcHx-CzwjEiSw/s320/DSC_0087.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First mistake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Windy</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Second mistake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did not hang them.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Third mistake – did I mention it was windy?</span></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqTD7pXy2GjcEdG6Rz8U-c5whibUlHY4Np-AcDU2p_BY-5_MvAo7jLlRiftlh8gkEldfC91WOa3zfYEy1aE-sdodzu3sbL9EggZBbVLidf8QKGp94hBMvv4CV5fC2Vo2xZlsXvxvQP_k/s1600/DSC_0086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqTD7pXy2GjcEdG6Rz8U-c5whibUlHY4Np-AcDU2p_BY-5_MvAo7jLlRiftlh8gkEldfC91WOa3zfYEy1aE-sdodzu3sbL9EggZBbVLidf8QKGp94hBMvv4CV5fC2Vo2xZlsXvxvQP_k/s320/DSC_0086.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Un-deterred, I waited patiently while the primer dried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids were eager to get their hands on the wet paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we left the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Step Two – Prime again</u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Because of mistakes one, two and three, the coverage was un equal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I was having fun with my spray can pistol grip, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGCj03jwBQ7BIH9kUe84yuqBeXchnVQndUwPDGBW6w-r41ijsSMLPsrAnKvdPIAgtlYzZmgbhO0n1-72XP-3g8ZOq3azQzEVEsBnpgJ64gMX6XD9JGzFaGMl_lhjOpJ6zqR6DEIlBfzo/s1600/DSC_0089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGCj03jwBQ7BIH9kUe84yuqBeXchnVQndUwPDGBW6w-r41ijsSMLPsrAnKvdPIAgtlYzZmgbhO0n1-72XP-3g8ZOq3azQzEVEsBnpgJ64gMX6XD9JGzFaGMl_lhjOpJ6zqR6DEIlBfzo/s320/DSC_0089.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the primer dried (over night) and after church on Sunday, the kids had their chance to beautify their owls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEj8n0y5bO_vIMIG81YyujG8yO_xge5V-7CBtQCtLDOk_RnsvYv09YbNbec7HtkCpFzyUfR8q03mvi2oQrWChTrlczONeWfLoqM6nw07mdxYGtzaquIpRyxt5z7NbZGjFQPOAY5Cykq0M/s1600/DSC_0105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEj8n0y5bO_vIMIG81YyujG8yO_xge5V-7CBtQCtLDOk_RnsvYv09YbNbec7HtkCpFzyUfR8q03mvi2oQrWChTrlczONeWfLoqM6nw07mdxYGtzaquIpRyxt5z7NbZGjFQPOAY5Cykq0M/s320/DSC_0105.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoUY3REFIhMWVcHMaRTVycUWjAMxb3XkmzdUx44TK7d8KNWxVCu4U_05JxCYy56orGu0G_HjTs0MMdX61I4_aWV2uZcCc50-RE4G-7yGkpTQNAbb1DXoPKFfMmcza3ehf_HCFKBNhvbY/s1600/DSC_0112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoUY3REFIhMWVcHMaRTVycUWjAMxb3XkmzdUx44TK7d8KNWxVCu4U_05JxCYy56orGu0G_HjTs0MMdX61I4_aWV2uZcCc50-RE4G-7yGkpTQNAbb1DXoPKFfMmcza3ehf_HCFKBNhvbY/s320/DSC_0112.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_edk9LrZNyGAYBmjFuUwlexfCSqfQQjJbOxkVlFUkcitqSzfddkT0eqbNKsSKmu4ab3yDiRy94RV4MlNZ6ha7dshyphenhyphenA9I_DU8eX9V0RD9TuNi2GDZAau6aOyNk25CRyUTDlskIwni6uIE/s1600/DSC_0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_edk9LrZNyGAYBmjFuUwlexfCSqfQQjJbOxkVlFUkcitqSzfddkT0eqbNKsSKmu4ab3yDiRy94RV4MlNZ6ha7dshyphenhyphenA9I_DU8eX9V0RD9TuNi2GDZAau6aOyNk25CRyUTDlskIwni6uIE/s320/DSC_0123.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnawByQQotTKWqjK3eKVVQzkVm5u1wbyMgjG3OdoCuVUC48P6UG9rkYU9anUQYCpotdwm1_39r_MhfK5gOcU6BEdbGlOdPgTNjREXIofEEI4wIlkVvghaW0GxAt20VISwHV8xMy2ECVE/s1600/DSC_0134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnawByQQotTKWqjK3eKVVQzkVm5u1wbyMgjG3OdoCuVUC48P6UG9rkYU9anUQYCpotdwm1_39r_MhfK5gOcU6BEdbGlOdPgTNjREXIofEEI4wIlkVvghaW0GxAt20VISwHV8xMy2ECVE/s320/DSC_0134.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pretty cool job, only having 5 colors to start with! G man of course decided to paint his neck, too, since he ran out of white owl.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the kids played, I put the first of 2 coats of bright white semi gloss on.</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgJGsgh53ObCZip24xA0zBfIA0-jKTJpzCHgPjnBpXbXsU-2A-14DpNp_C_EFOPwY7hfQlRm3k6C2peysx3aVniesc3BtydDzc4b1WgzV9qMLdhSta9pHaJUGRn8RbpTxjgzy-z9yTJg/s1600/DSC_0102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgJGsgh53ObCZip24xA0zBfIA0-jKTJpzCHgPjnBpXbXsU-2A-14DpNp_C_EFOPwY7hfQlRm3k6C2peysx3aVniesc3BtydDzc4b1WgzV9qMLdhSta9pHaJUGRn8RbpTxjgzy-z9yTJg/s320/DSC_0102.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Conclusions</u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, this was fun for me and the kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And a bonus kick of Mommy Stuff liking the finished product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Second, it is harder than I thought to paint evenly and completely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have new appreciation for those of you that can do this in your sleep.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Third, the pistol grip thing rocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, a total of $25 bucks in material and an hour of my time was not poorly spent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got new stuff to play with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids had a craft and enjoyed the process of going from the before to the after.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I have some personalized owls for the house.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will they make the mantle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not sure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scale might be too small for the gnomes, and, while waiting for a warm enough day to do the task, I found these for 8 bucks at Urban Outfitters (in grey and teal):</span></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_G2ZXKwEDotl0MIFVeyFow_Taj7k-9cj-DC4mEDRWJbyOG4hg8Ro250PU3_M2YrKOwIszhrofieMHUW96bEJ8ph5TL_49396Zpbu8vXK_psRyUW7C_6ulFA54F-YHfi9kNwgFyB5jr40/s1600/owl+bank+urban+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_G2ZXKwEDotl0MIFVeyFow_Taj7k-9cj-DC4mEDRWJbyOG4hg8Ro250PU3_M2YrKOwIszhrofieMHUW96bEJ8ph5TL_49396Zpbu8vXK_psRyUW7C_6ulFA54F-YHfi9kNwgFyB5jr40/s320/owl+bank+urban+out.jpg" width="216" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But the kids want theirs in their new rooms, to which I say, you bet'cha!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All in all – wait for it – a Hoot of a project!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What kinds of hands on stuff do you do with your kids?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">(Thanks to <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/spray-paint-party.html">Thrifty Decor Chick for the Link up!)</a></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_vswDWGRlsPw/TdHa8DuEZdI/AAAAAAAANWo/7x56MPTkr-g/s1600-h/image%5B7%5D.png"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSMg6mecACw4NbpK43BQjCejZKIjH6kGV9XiLtsw5A2pYXccP1o-FfWLNeb6hvTfX76vlXhU4MqF1jYZFSDMfXocRSzE3DNMqJnTBZMr4ENASkeVenkXYAp8k8_93mSQ6W2TPUhPOhzA/s1600/image%255B7%255D.png" /></a></div></div>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-30688239677661840532011-03-09T09:26:00.001-05:002011-05-03T08:51:37.994-04:00Helping a childs self-esteemToday, I'm going to tackle a topic that has recently added some salt to a fresh wound.<br />
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Bullying. But more than physical. Verbal bullying.<br />
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My oldest son is the youngest (by far) in his all day K class. As he was turning 5, the bulk of his peer group was turning 6. I'm sure many of you parents have been faced with a tough decision on whether to send your child to school early, or wait. Our decision to send early was affirmed by our son's teacher. D has no problem with the material, the mastery of it, or any of the needed skills.<br />
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But - and there is always a but - I'm not kidding myself. A year less of maturity, intra personal problem solving and just physical growth, does put D in a difficult position.<br />
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D is short for his age, which is amplified when he's around kids older than him. He is gregarious, and often quite loud, which I suspect is his defense mechanism to stress. Let me be nice to everyone, so no one will try to hurt me.<br />
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It recently stopped working. And stopped my heart cold.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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D has been more physical recently than in the past. That's him telling us something. But we couldn't figure it out. Yesterday, he was as crystal clear as any toddler could be - not about a tormentor, but about what the tormentor has made him feel.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="311" src="http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/videogames/detail-page/CTMTT_mater4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mater the Tormentor - Disney.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
We love the song <a href="javascript:amz_js_PopWin('/gp/recsradio/radio/B002N2XYBU/ref=pd_krex_dp_001_009?ie=UTF8&track=009&disc=001',winName,winArgs);void(0);">"Love's the Only Rule" by Bon Jovi</a>. And I use that title instructively. Just one rule to remember - love everyone. That way there's no hitting, etc. D shocked me.<br />
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Sad D voice - "Dad, I don't<strong> HAVE A HEART</strong>." <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/aha-soft/dating/256/broken-heart-icon.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtesy of Iconarchive.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
He reiterated it a couple of times. Each more melancholy than the first. He wouldn't rat anyone out (and I'm ok with that) but it was quite clear that this has been said to him, by someone he either values or respects (in a K kinda way.)<br />
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The echo through my brain of those words continues to reverberate. I can do something though.<br />
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First, I am thankful that he could tell me something that isn't couched in a lie. What do I mean by that? Kids lie from time to time, usually when questioned directly. But here I take credence in this words, because they were unsolicited and unprompted. That adds up to truth, per my invisible <em>Daddy Stuff</em> manual.<br />
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Second, this gives me a clear teaching path to improve his self-esteem. What can and will I do?<br />
<br />
1. Reinforce the positive and "love" behaviors more consistently and more often. <br />
2. Practice, Practice, Practice the right intra personal behaviors for him to fall back on.<br />
3. Reward failure by rewarding effort. This does NOT mean to give a trophy to a kid for just showing up. D understands quite well that we expect him to do his best if he tries something. It may not always lead to him being the star at something, but he is a star to us and himself if he gives it his all.<br />
4. Be clear that no matter what, <em>Mommy and Daddy Stuff</em> love him.<br />
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So readers (all six of you!) - what have you done to help your childs self esteem? Let me know in the comment section!Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-39515310599626423372011-02-04T10:38:00.002-05:002011-05-03T08:52:15.621-04:00Superhero- Part 2Building on my previous post, there is some new Captain America toy news.<br />
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Hasbro will be making the toys for the upcoming movie, and the news release at the link shows what many may look like...<br />
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<img border="0" height="640" hspace="4" id="vimage_3839333" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.comicsalliance.com/media/2011/02/capfirstavengercomictoyshasbro.jpg" vspace="4" width="143" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.comicsalliance.com/2011/02/02/captain-america-the-first-avenger-thor-toys-revealed-hasbro/">http://www.comicsalliance.com/2011/02/02/captain-america-the-first-avenger-thor-toys-revealed-hasbro/</a><br />
<br />
This will be a great chance for many dads (and moms, and other peeps) to rekindle some memories, and have some serious play time.<br />
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I wonder if Momma K would prefer me in the mask...Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-27626324515341426412011-01-27T15:17:00.001-05:002011-01-27T19:39:04.491-05:00What Superhero are you?I admit it. I was a comic book junkie during my formative years as a pre-teen.<br />
<br />
I remember spending a lot of the money I earned working at the Rochester, NY Public Market on Saturday mornings, on comics. My brother Joe and I were (and I still am) <a href="http://marvel.com/">Marvel Comics</a> fans.<br />
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Being the younger brother, I got second choice on titles. Joe got X-Men, I got Avengers, and so on. It worked well - and we ended up usually reading each others comics anyway.<br />
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But my favorite then, and still now, is <a href="http://marvel.com/characters/bio/1009220/captain_america_steve_rogers">Captain America</a>. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSu4RsH9LfEzuidJ9FA88-IydrrY68a2jKEzAgoGZ_UrRNiVXbamyKcnNftpNwaVFdYUyxUT3d8GY9xtyOsLZ2FI44WEbAE2gXrxnVRUcRjhpA8UQQVcxnTFpLjO-CV19Mr_eYbJ_x1Q/s1600/Cap_From_Marvel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSu4RsH9LfEzuidJ9FA88-IydrrY68a2jKEzAgoGZ_UrRNiVXbamyKcnNftpNwaVFdYUyxUT3d8GY9xtyOsLZ2FI44WEbAE2gXrxnVRUcRjhpA8UQQVcxnTFpLjO-CV19Mr_eYbJ_x1Q/s320/Cap_From_Marvel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Image from Marvel.com</div><br />
He didn't have mutant super powers. He didn't have X-Ray vision. He was soldier given Super Serum, with a tough as nails shield. He was stronger than most, muscular like few, and of single minded purpose. And that's what I found most compelling.<br />
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If you look over ----> you'll see a little about me in my Bio. Being a first generation American, I feel a special bond with those that love the country like Cap. This land gave my family opportunity, and the values that the US of A stands for are those that I hold most dear.<br />
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They are the same values that I try (and sometimes succeed) in teaching my 2 boys.<br />
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So, Cap has become a mascot of mine. I get shirts, have a little figurine, even a print somewhere in the bowels of our storage unit. <br />
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And the kids think HE <em>is</em> ME! It doesn't get ANY better than that.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXPHT2hyyQnqsbbBO9Mry6P5X7_maI7XmDtbkhhxuMkFnkmeRmLyDT5DhNJq7UHJuUVThxKiLMKZBuhXJlAQIBVxCRWCX6jWbcxlJRC7X_x2aq8b-SjLrdag-Mw7sRKQ7CPbv7BLGwOk/s1600/cap_detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXPHT2hyyQnqsbbBO9Mry6P5X7_maI7XmDtbkhhxuMkFnkmeRmLyDT5DhNJq7UHJuUVThxKiLMKZBuhXJlAQIBVxCRWCX6jWbcxlJRC7X_x2aq8b-SjLrdag-Mw7sRKQ7CPbv7BLGwOk/s320/cap_detail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">Image from Marvel.com</div><br />
So, tell me. What Supehero are you?<br />
<div align="center"></div>Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-78303088954820302302011-01-26T16:03:00.000-05:002011-01-26T16:03:04.962-05:00Talk about a delay between postings....Translating desire and ideas into action is sometimes really easy. Sometimes it just flows. Sometimes things just fall into place, as if an invisible hand is guiding it.<br />
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And then there is this attempted blog. Fail.<br />
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Despite my best intentions, life gets in the way. How so?<br />
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1. Huge ramp in work load<br />
2. Ginormous change in living conditions (you'll see in a moment...)<br />
3. Demands on personal time change drastically<br />
4. Desire to be a good dad, hubba and friend<br />
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Number 2 is the biggest issue, by far. We moved out of our home in July, and planned to be in a new home by September.<br />
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It's now January. No home. Living in a nice (albeit cramped) condo - Thanks Marie! - but not LIVING, if you know the difference. And with 2 wonderful, trying, active (think coiled springs) boys - home is where the hoarse is.<br />
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So evenings are spent trying to entertain, enrich, contain, and teach our boys what's good and bad, right and wrong, up and down, without squelching their curiosity or boyness. <br />
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And, we fail at that, too, sometimes.<br />
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I think there is light at the end of the tunnel, because recently, at the new crib - Walls are up. Wiring is in. Roof is on. Windows are in. A home is taking shape:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZSe3k8h74D_uNANRmBcGLxc-Dbg2sDPMijOczi4CVRWFzdg_y0YK-VRZDor81gXBVCTQp6zcxuhLWhKzz8Lja13j-j2gAsqRa1Hc6ZeXu09C_U0WOmlKcJrqwG4-UieCeQfh05Q351E/s1600/Picture1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZSe3k8h74D_uNANRmBcGLxc-Dbg2sDPMijOczi4CVRWFzdg_y0YK-VRZDor81gXBVCTQp6zcxuhLWhKzz8Lja13j-j2gAsqRa1Hc6ZeXu09C_U0WOmlKcJrqwG4-UieCeQfh05Q351E/s320/Picture1.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
OK, so it's not the <em>REAL</em> house. I'll get those up soon. :) <br />
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But over the next couple of weeks (knock, knock) I plan on putting some guys stuff down here. For instance:<br />
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1. An article on investments (and I highly recommend reading <a href="http://www.fool.com/">The Motley Fool</a> website), what is good to look at before you commit money, and what as dads we can do to ensure our kids will have enough to go to college.<br />
2. Some info on The Do's and Don'ts in building a home (this is our second, so of course, we're experts!)<br />
3. And ramblings on Speakers, Cars (I'm biased, and I'll let you know why), Watches, Stereo Equipment, Blogs I read... a whole lot of stuff.<br />
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So bear with me, and join me. I think this could be fun. I sure hope it will be interesting!Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3488301195312203130.post-28574046609056874792010-09-02T11:31:00.000-04:002010-09-02T11:31:23.741-04:00Welcome to my Blog!Being a dad is a low paying, but highly benefited job. With two super active, precocious, and sometimes well disciplined boys (all due to the lovely Momma K), I've had to seek out advice and escape from family, friends, the interwebs and faith. <br />
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My goal for the blog is pretty simple: Share stuff with dads (and moms) that I find interesting, helpful, cool, preposterous and zany. It may be about kids, it may be about the lawn, it may be about watches, or it may be about cooking. I really won't know until I know!<br />
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This blog won't be a just a photo album of my life, my kids life, or a ginormous tweet. Well, I hope not!<br />
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If you find the stuff here cool, or if you find it crappy, send me feedback. And tell your friends!Chuck Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17434215863426733684noreply@blogger.com0