*UPDATE* MONDAY APRIL 23/12

                              A NOTE TO MY AUDIENCE:

 Over the past few months, many of you readers have been diligently following my column and it's many topics.  Whether those articles are political reviews or farcical musings, I just want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you.  I have received more viewers on this page than I expected by a long shot. 

 The month of May brings new challenges and opportunities to my life.  I accept them all, and am thrilled to undergo this new phase in my life.  For the past two years, I have committed to working 7 days a week at two jobs.  While I love aspects of both jobs, my term at the Chinook Bowladrome will not be renewed.  My term ends here at the end of April, and I wish to thank all the bowlers there for many fond memories.

  So where to from here?  I have all but forgotten what a social life is, and it will be weird to have some days off again.  I have started this column to rekindle my passion for writing, and it has done just that.
From my early days of writing simple poetry to the book I have had swirling through my mind for the past 10 years, it is safe to say that I belong in the world of words.

  Here is what to expect with the upcoming season: I still plan on writing in this column. Perhaps it will be more check-in based, or maybe I'll feel more apt to write in it frequently, but needless to say, Logan's Letter will still go strong.

  In the meantime, I will have a weekly time reserved for writing.  Apart from this letter, I have three current projects I am working on.
-The "Legacy" series-The book series I have been developing since I was Eleven.
-"Rewind" - A book to follow the Legacy series
-Freelance writing-I write for anyone who wishes to hire me.  Poetry, Formal Writing, Eulogies, Song Lyrics, Reviews, etc.  As with all previous clients, will gladly write for a low price.
*Please Note*  Essays for school purposes will most likely be refused, unless you are giving me a certain percentage of your paycheck when you become successful.


  During this period I will be strictly devoting myself to writing, and I strongly encourage anyone to reach out and not only touch, but actually join in on this adventure.  Certain characters in my stories are characters created through the imagination of others.  If you have an idea, it may be a piece I am looking for.  The mind can both produce wonderful ideas and keep them prisoner.  I will gladly and respectfully discuss any forward progress. Obviously you will be compensated accordingly, especially if the piece of writing takes off.  Also, in "Rewind" I will be touching on a few important pieces of my personal life, in which I will be asking permission from anyone directly involved. 

  Also, apart from the writing, since I now have more free time, I will gladly also free up time for friends, exercise, tennis, poker, street hockey and other wonderful things.  Definitely looking forward to being outside.


  I will leave you with the words to the song  "Maybe" by the Sick Puppies.  I feel this is the perfect song to get your life out of a rut and into the groove.  Hopefully this will get you "Unstuck" as it did for me.  Grab your dreams, people, before they get away.

Maybe I'm a dreamer
Maybe I'm misunderstood
Maybe you're not seeing the side of me you should
Maybe I'm crazy
(Maybe I'm crazy)
Maybe I'm the only one
(Maybe I'm the only one)
Maybe I'm just out of touch
Maybe I've just had enough

Maybe it's time to change
And leave it all behind
I've never been one to walk alone
I've always been scared to try
So why does it feel so wrong
To reach for something more
To wanna live a better life
What am I waiting for?
'Cause nothing stays the same
Maybe it's time to change

Maybe it's hopeless
(Maybe it's hopeless)
Maybe I should just give up
(Maybe I should just give up)
What if I can't trust myself?
What if I just need some help?

Maybe it's time to change
And leave it all behind
I've never been one to walk alone
I've always been scared to try
So why does it feel so wrong
To reach for something more
To wanna live a better life
What am I waiting for?
'Cause nothing stays the same
Maybe it's time to change

And maybe it's time to change
And leave it all behind
I've never been one to walk alone
I've always been scared to try

And maybe it's time to change
And leave it all behind
I've never been one to walk alone
I've always been scared to try
So why does it feel so wrong
To reach for something more
To wanna live a better life
What am I waiting for?
'Cause nothing stays the same
Maybe it's time to change
'Cause nothing stays the same
Maybe it's time to change

                    2012 Stanley Cup Predictions


  Well, another year of Stanley Cup Playoff Hockey is upon us.  Today's post is merely a column finalizing my opinions as to who makes it.  I've played my guesses on www.nhl.com in the bracket challenge, and have now relayed them to you.

Western Conference:
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Canucks vs. Kings

 The Vancouver Canucks boast one of the most formidable offensive lineups of the past few years.  The depth of their scoring ability from all lines really puts heavy pressure on any defense and goaltender duo.  Lately the Canucks have been struggling to close their fantastic successes, the most famous being the fallout of the Stanley cup final last year (which needs no mention).

  The Los Angeles Kings are a new team this year..while they started off cold, adding superstar player Jeff Carter as well as new coach Darryl Sutter, things are looking up for the Kings.  Their goaltender, while young, is maybe the brightest star, as he has already proven to the NHL that he's worthy of donning the pads for this team.

My Pick:  Vancouver in 6.  Vancouver is too well-rounded with a heavy offense, scoring defense and
two talented goaltenders.  While the upset is possible, its unlikely that the Kings will have melded enough to take a run through the gauntlet...especially when it begins with the presidents trophy winners.
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Blues vs. Sharks

  The St. Louis Blues have capped a good year.  Having rebuilt in the last couple seasons and providing a very diverse team, it was no surprise they would make a playoff run this year.  That being said, nobody expected them to lead the league for the duration that they did.  They have stayed at the top for most of the year, getting barely edged out for the western conference title.

  Ah...the Sharks.  My favorite team.  While they do sport a monstrous first two lines for offense, the Sharks have quietly turned into a defensive team.  By adding Burns, Galiardi, Winnik and Havlat to their lineup this year, they have taken their time in reworking their strategy. While their numbers haven't been hot, watching the last few of their games, you can see their hunger has returned.  If they can bring the scoring, prepare for a more dangerous shark game.  Their back end has tightened, so its up to the scorers.

 My Pick:  Sharks in 6.  The Blues have been falling off lately, and have no playoff experience.  With the Sharks heating up, it is once again not safe to go in the water.
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Coyotes vs. Blackhawks

  The Phoenix Coyotes have done it again.  They have pulled a mediocre team into the playoffs despite ownership issues and lack of big names.  Still, it was a collaborated team victory.  Whitney, who is getting too old to play at this level, managed to have the season of his life that culminated with attaining his 1000 point marker this year.  He was assisted by Radim Vrbata, Oliver Ekman-Larrson, and Keith Yandle, all who played a significant role in providing key offense.  Move over Shane Doan...these guys are better than you.

  The Chicago Blackhawks have been quiet as of late.  Their superstar scores have been lacklustre and it was not helped by Jonathan Toews' recent injury.  He is returning to the lineup, but the main focus for this scoring team should be protecting their less-than-stellar goalie, Corey Crawford.

My Pick:  Blackhawks in 6.  Chicago is simply too strong.  Their scorers will overpower Phoenix and the Coyotes simply do not have too many other strong points.  Good run Coyotes, but Chicago hasn't completely disappeared yet.
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Predators vs. Red Wings

  Definitely a controversial matchup.  The Nashville Predators are nothing like their opponents.  They focus on a supremely defensive mindset, perhaps more than any other team.  Their elite goaltenders and strong defensive core are essential to their winning style.  When you think of winning teams, Nashville is not your likely first thought.  Here's the thing: they quietly place high every year, beating odds in a game that more and more favors the scorers.  They managed to re-sign Rinne, Weber, and Suter to contracts, a feat that David Poile still does not receive credit for.  The hockey market there isn't very large either, but the Predators are worth watching.

  The Detroit Red Wings.  A name that consistently provides a solid hockey experience.  They have made the Playoffs for the last 21 years.  21.  That's sick.  They are always to be feared and constantly have a team worth looking at.  No need to say more.

 My Pick:  Predators in 7.  Not an easy choice, but their shutdown style should be enough this year to take down the struggling Wings.  When you add recently re-acquired Radulov to their list of scorers, and you consider young new talent like Matt Halischuk, Gabriel Bourque and Craig Smith, I think this team will finally start driving their way into people's vision.
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Eastern Conference.

Rangers vs. Senators

  The New York Rangers have been somewhat absent in previous years.  It seems as though they do not want to rise to the level that was set by legends before them, such as Gretzky and Messier.  This year is a different story.  Since signing Brad Richards, the team has clicked. While Gaborik was a flunk last year, both in stats and fantasy pools, he is up among the top scorers for this year, and his team secures the number one seed.

 The Ottawa Senators were not a favorite for the playoffs whatsoever, but this year they are finding things to build on.  Offensive scoring coming from more than just their top line sure helps, but the biggest story worth mentioning perhaps is Erik Karlsson, who dominated the scoring for blueliners.  He  surely will be needed if the Senators have any chance of stopping Gaborik and the Rangers.

My Pick:  Rangers in 5.  It's too much for the Senators...they have done well to get here, but unless they can pull a rabbit out of a top hat, this looks like the Rangers' series to win.   Shut up Trevor.
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Bruins vs. Capitals

  The Boston Bruins return to the playoffs to take a stab at winning back-to-back cups.  While their team is more or less the same, it's been odd watching Thomas as of late.  Something has this guy bugged, but the Bruins' playoffs start and stop with him.

 The Washington Capitals are not who they were before.  Barely making the playoffs, they lack the intensity they had before.  Once a scoring powerhouse, they now make countless mistakes and do not receive too much help from Ovechkin, who's been partying pretty hard this year.

My Pick:  Bruins in 6.  While the Caps may give a bit of a fight, the Bruins are poised for this one.
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Panthers vs. Devils

  The Florida Panthers are quite the surprise team.  While we all figured Buffalo to be among the top of the teams, Florida started performing early on in the season and clinched a division title over Washington. Their team, while playing well, is still untested in the playoffs, and will take some huge rallying if they want to beat the red-hot devils.

  The New Jersey Devils are not at the bottom like last year.  With their scorers clicking, it could well be that we see them in the finals over other teams.  Kovalchuk, Parise and the rest of the Devils are showing good signs of playoff promise, but it's their backend that will be tested the most.

My Pick:  Devils in 5.  Florida can't defensively maintain the Devil's snipers, even though the cat's sure do deserve every bit of success they get.
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Penguins vs. Flyers

 Pittsburgh Penguins would be the team most anticipated for any glory in the next couple years.  With a decent netminder, strong defence, and a grossly deep offensive core, you would be stupid to think they are not contenders.

 The Philadelphia Flyers are maybe the next team anticipated for glory.  We all thought that the team wouldn't be nearly as good as last year when Carter and Gagne parted ways.  But Jagr's return coupled with the younger talent stepping up has led to an equally impressive team, and the two teams' rivalry should be exciting at the very least.

My Pick:  Penguins in 7.  While I really was thinking Philly was going to take this, I don't believe that will be the case upon further scrutiny.  Pittsburgh's lines have some of their top guys on their 3rd and 4th lines.  So when Philly is playing some more defensive forwards, Pittsburgh can just lean on them again. While Philadelphia will get their money's worth, I expect the Penguins to barely edge them out.
As I finish writing this, Philly wins in overtime.  Bets anyone?

*UPDATE* MONDAY MARCH 26/12

                                                               I DECLARE WAR!

  In this issue of the Letter, I declare war upon certain things/factions/idiots that reoccur in my life.  Perhaps (and it is only a slight chance) my eternal complaining could indeed change the said issue and have it cease to come back.  But in the more likely scenario, it will likely change nothing.  I often try to promote truth, peace and awareness with my column.  Today though, I create havoc.  Ready the cannons.


Also in this issue:

"Hunger Games"  Movie Review
"Scions of Shannara" Review
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The Scions of Shannara


  We've covered the quest for the legendary sword, witnessed the rebirth of the magical tree, and destroyed the book that manipulated the world's very face.  Generations later, we find ourselves once again in the Four Lands, with a very different reality.  The History of Shannara is that...History.  We jump into the world many years later, with the Ohmsford family still connected.  The story now is tied not to one, but four members of the Ohmsford bloodline.  Par and Coll, two brothers directly descended from the line, both have very different roles.  Par still has some use of Jair's wishsong ability, and uses it to paint images about his families history as entertainment, while Coll does the narrating.  The story also focuses on Wren Ohmsford, a cousin of Par and Coll, who's prominent Elven features are a mystery, along with her past.  Lastly is Walker Boh, who remains one of my favorite characters from all the books. He is a dark, embattled enigma who would remain shut away from the world.  While each book had it's own story before, the Heritage of Shannara series is one large story comprised of four books.  (These would be the Scions of Shannara, the Druid of Shannara, The Elf Queen of Shannara and the Talismans of Shannara.)

  The story begins as the members of the family are all summoned to the Hadeshorn by the shade of the long-since gone Allanon.  Each are charged with a certain task, each with great importance, which would forever change the Four Lands.  While the evil of the Ildatch was disposed of, remnants of dark magic have manifested themselves into creatures, and these abominations of magic are known as Shadowen.  Par is charged with recovering the Sword of Shannara, while Wren is to find the missing Elves of the Westland, and Walker Boh is to resurrect the Druid's Keep and restore the Druids.  If you've read the book, you'll see the enormity of what is asked. 

 Altogether, this book leads into a fantastic series that is incredibly indepth, and it is well worth the read.  Brooks shows his continual improvement as a writer and creates so many new things in a very old world, providing both beloved familiarity and young fascination with the unexplored.

Read these books, dammit.

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Hunger Games Review

  I found myself in the Imax theatre on Saturday, trying to decide if I'm going to like this movie.  Seems like lately the world has been infatuated with things that confuse me.  I have not read the books, but I have the plotline explained to me.  If you don't want a very vague spoiler...do not read this review. 

 Apparently, and the details are left out, 24 youth are selected each year for a Fight to the Death competition, leaving the victor with prestige, glory, and food for their own division in society. Credit must be given to the writer as it constantly reminded me of Richard Connell's short story, "The Most Dangerous Game".  I found myself picking out similarities between the two quite often.

 Obviously there are some ethics problems.  The concept can be gruesome enough, but having kids from ages 12-18 doing the fighting seems almost ridiculous.  Yet the movie does it relatively tastefully if we can call it that, and it seems apparent that the moviemaking department took great care in the presentation.  At one point, I thought it was weird that the protagonist was not playing a large enough role in taking some of these other competitors out.  It was at that moment I realized my concept of social structure indeed had changed as I was so willing to accept the drastic new changes suggested in the movie.  Survival is natural and takes over social etiquette with this type of anarchy.

  As with many stories, I imagine the book was much better, and I'm sure many of the readers will agree.  There's no way it couldn't be.  Yet for one such as myself who has not read it, I found the movie very intriguing and contemplative.  Definitely worth the watch, but readers beware.

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  War Be Upon Thee...

  Join me as I take up arms against enemies that are not so traditional!  Fight with me, and I will gladly fight alongside you in battles that you deem worthy.  Also, please feel free to leave thoughts/comments/unmentioned enemies either here or on my facebook page, and I will gladly include them in the next column if I get enough response.   Fight well my friends, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor may you be victorious!

I Declare War Upon:

SNOW! - While you have been an enemy only recently, I am fed up with your large quantities and the fact you only come around during winter.  Why don't you come out for Stampede, cool us off on a warm day?  Your annoyance on a cold windy day leads me to assume that you are asking for me to punch every single snowflake in the face.

MCDONALDS - Over the course of my life I have ingested many of your menu items, and now that I'm eating healthier and can say that I do not even crave you is a victory in itself.  However, you must be held accountable for a wrong that you have still to this day not been held accountable for: getting rid of the famous Orange Drink.  WTF were you thinking.  Oh and when you bring that back, bring back the damn pizza.

HAIR - It's bad enough when I got hair that is not located on my head.  Do you really need to leave my cat and find my nice Calvin Klein suit every time I take it off?

CHUCK LORRE - Creator of both Two and a Half Men and Big Bang Theory, among other shows.  Obviously he is a very creative writer so I shall not fault him for that...but I believe writing Big Bang Theory was a personal assault on me.  If you look at his main characters...Leonard, Sheldon, Howard and Rajesh, their flaws are, respectively, thus.   Short, Smartass, Thinks he is funnier than he really is, and can't speak to women.  Thank you so much Mr. Lorre, for pointing out in a TV series everything that I am.

KITTY LITTER - YOU STINK

RISK - While I love the game, I hate how if your attacking you have to use two dice if you have three people.  Yes, I understand the reasoning, no you are still not forgiven.  Also, I do not believe that Greenland should be associated with North America.  It's done nothing for us.

MEN'S HEALTH MAGAZINE - You are a good read with tons of good workout and health advice.  But WHY do you insist on putting fragrance ads with these shirtless guys with mysterious looking backgrounds? No man will ever look at that and think, "Holy crap, if I spray on some Dolce and Gabbana, I'll get ripped so fricken fast!"  Put a fragrance ad that has a good looking girl with the words "If you smell good, you still have to do 200 sit-ups each day to lose that gut, fatty."

SCREAMING LITTLE KIDS - God gave me fists for a reason.

HEADPINS - Not the band.

BILLS - Monthly reminders that life can suck.

HUNGER GAMES - Doesn't have any reference to the true original hunger game, Hungry Hungry Hippos.

PUTTIES FROM POWER RANGERS - Nothing was more ineffective than the bad guys from Power Rangers.  Evil Rita would send in a batch of these clay baddies that she made with her easy bake oven every time before the monster showed up.  Why not just cook a big batch?  Better yet, make them run for congress.

KONY - What the hell is Kony?

REQUESTS - In my lifetime, I have no desire to play Farmville, Castleville, or any other crap people send me on facebook.

AMERICAN IDOL - Give it a rest.

LIKE-LIKES - Stop eating my damn shield...it costs a crapload of rupees to replace it and there is no shop in the middle of the fricken fire temple.

GAME SYSTEMS - Sure the graphics are better and gameplay more intense, but here's something.  Games back then were awesome.  My Xbox 360 just stopped reading my game, so I had to take it to best buy.  They sent it away and it was gone for 2 weeks.  If I didn't have the extended warranty, it would likely have been another large, gross bill.  Now I can play until it craps out again.    Ever have a game not read with a super nintendo?  Just blow on the cartridge and it worked again.  It's magic.

FRODO - No matter how hard I try, I cannot like him.  He's just a big Pansy.

RENTING - Would love to own my OWN place, but at this point in the road I can only afford to rent. If I met a real estate agent, he'd only be able to deal me something with the equivalent of Baltic or Mediterranean from Monopoly.  And then I'd hit luxury tax.


Thanks again for the visit, hope you all have a good week. Remember, if you guys have something to declare war on, let me know and we'll take a look!

Until next week,

Logan

*UPDATE* MONDAY MARCH 19/2012

                                Tune Me Out

  This week, I reflect on a truly amazing moment that I've had the pleasure of witnessing, as well as I review a couple of songs that I'm dangerously close to adding to the "Must Listen" list.  Perhaps the only thing stopping me from adding them is the fact that I haven't created that list yet.  Oh well.

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  Golden Moments:
   Ever have a moment where it literally makes you stop dead in your tracks?  It never seems to be a very large moment, just something small that strikes you as incredibly profound.  Well today I experienced a moment that did just that.  I needed to cross a small grassy patch on the way to work, and in this grassy patch was a worn-in path that I've traveled down many times.  So here I am, at 1:00 in the morning, traversing down the usual path, when I notice a small rabbit standing on the path, doing regular rabbit business.  Now, I am not a rabbit-ologist, but I think I get the bare essence of what they do.  They search for food, reproduce like crazy, and run like hell when scared, which is often the case.  Occasionally you can witness two rabbits fight, which is freaking HILARIOUS.  But that is the extent of Rabbithood. They don't do yoga, eat parfaits or fingerpaint. Boring.
    I start thinking about whether or not I should walk down the path, as I do not wish to disturb him.  Perhaps I will take a wide flank so we both can do our thing in peace.  At this moment I realize how pathetic I am being.  I am yielding to a little rodent who is not likely to live for another month.  So as I approach, Bunny does something I've never seen before.  He turns his back to me.  He watched me walking closer, and proceeded to completely ignore me.  He wasn't even pointing his ears back to listen to me.  So I make the decision to test him, we'll see how many meters he can last before giving in to instinct and taking off.   Ten Meters.  Nothing.  Five Meters.  Rabbit is sniffing the ground, bored.  Three Meters.  Rabbit looks around.  Two Meters.  Rabbit looks at me.  WTF.  You should have been long gone.  One Meter.  I am now looking down at the Rabbit.  He is looking up at me.  We have now connected in our moment and gaze at one another.  I look into the rabbit's eyes and see no fear.  After a long moment, I continue onward, marveling at the small timid creature who was so much more than that in this moment.
Kudos to you, Mr. Rabbit.  Bugs has nothing on you. 
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  Siren's Song.

  I have not had my best week.  Coupled with feeling sick the last few days, and just feeling a little low, I was just leaving lots of room for improvement in the coming week.  Some positives have occured though, such as a gentleman coming into the bowling centre who sounded EXACTLY like Davis from Corner Gas.  Down to the laugh.  It was incredible.  

  Also, two songs have worked their way into my life in the last couple days.  The first one is "Purple Sky" by Kid Rock.  Kid Rock? Yes Kid Rock.  Apart from the song "Lonely Road of Faith"  I would not put Kid Rock up on the top of my favorite singers.  Not even close.  Occasionally his songs can fit my mood if I feel like letting the rebel side go, but as that's not my style, normally his music will pass me by without a second look.  Yet, as "Purple Sky" played on the satellite radio at work, it became almost a hit favorite right away.   It's casual honesty was just perfect for my mood, and because it was very easy to listen to, it made me appreciate how Kid Rock is trying to vary in his music a little more. 

The Chorus definitely moved me, enough to bring it here.

"I just want to drink 'til I'm not thirsty,
I just want to sleep 'til I'm not tired,
I just want to drive 'til I run out of highway, into a Purple Sky."


As I write it, I just drift back into awe.  I feel like a message is resonating with me as I connect with the words.  I love how it's not about gaining, achieving, creating or striving.  In my low moment, I do not have to claim anything.  I can simply just be content with what I have right now, until the time of change arrives.  In a weird way, I love how the song is telling us "it's not about being good enough, rather just about having enough"  and I think it's helped me appreciate the fact that I'm doing alright. 




  If "Purple Sky" spoke to me at all this week, then it was nothing compared to this next piece.

 Artist Miranda Lambert is also not one of my favorite artists.  While I do enjoy a lot of country music, her songs usually are a little too raunchy for my liking.  She is very much her own person and that comes through in her music.  Now, I heard a song she released a couple years back for the first time this week, and it takes the messages from "Purple Sky" to an even more extreme level.  I've posted the entire set of lyrics here.


Miranda Lambert
"Heart Like Mine"




I ain’t the kind you take home to mama
I ain’t the kind to wear no ring
Somehow I always get stronger
When I’m on my second drink

Even though I hate to admit it
Sometimes I smoke cigarettes
Christian folks say I should quit it
I just smile and say “God bless”

‘Cause I heard Jesus, He drank wine
And I bet we’d get along just fine
He could calm a storm and heal the blind
And I bet He’d understand a heart like mine

Daddy cried when he saw my tattoo
Said he’d love me anyway
My brother got the brains of the family
So I thought I’d learn to sing

‘Cause I heard Jesus, He drank wine
And I bet we’d get along just fine
He could calm a storm and heal the blind
And I bet He’d understand a heart like mine

I’ll fly away
From it all one day
I’ll fly away

These are the days that I will remember
When my name’s called on the roll
He’ll meet me with two long-stemmed glasses
Make a toast to me coming home

‘Cause I heard Jesus, He drank wine
And I bet we’d get along just fine
He could calm a storm and heal the blind
And I bet He’d understand a heart like mine

Lyrics posted from Cowboylyrics.com


I love how she delivers these already-powerful lyrics.  She brings them with an attitude that suggests she is both content with the person she is, and battling her demons at the same time.  She is resolute in the fact that she is good enough and at the same time, she is addressing the fact that she is yearning for Jesus' acceptance.  While I don't share the same religious views as her, I certainly can empathize with her points.  I live a life that sure is far from the holy pure one I could live, and I'd be lying if I was going to change it anytime soon in some regards.  Yet I too believe that despite my bad habits and the wrongs I've done in the past, while I may not deserve anything, I also could be understood one day at the very least. 




  Anyways that's enough rambling.  Hopefully this week finds you well and the music that accompanies your life is enjoyable and meaningful. 


Logan

*UPDATE* MARCH 12/2012

                           MIND THE GAP!            

  

    Yes you are seeing correctly.  This would be a child's birthday cake today at Chinook.  Cupcakes surround the outside of the cake, while a piece of fondant is sprinkled with colored candy and a few select...go carts.  Creativity has indeed reached a new peak, folks, as I present you the Rainbow Road birthday cake.   "What is rainbow road?"  You need to get out more.  In Mariokart games, Rainbow road is a ridiculously ridiculous course that seems to have too much color and not enough roadblocks, so the player spends too much time falling off the edge and not enough time actually racing.  In the picture above, the carts are indeed flying through the air, while racing around a giant King Boo.  Had I packed my extra large suitcase, it would have been the first time I indeed stole candy from a baby.  Or perhaps more accurately, road candy cupcakes from a six year old who wouldn't appreciate the true beauty of this art piece.  Relax Timmy, stop crying.  You can't have your cake and eat it too.

Also in this issue:

-Mind the Gaptooth-"Goon" featuring Sean William Scott is reviewed.

-Micromillions:  Mastermind or Mook?-Pokerstars' newest tournament attracts my teeny tiny online bankroll.  I unveil my strategy going into the series.

-Let Gord's light shine....I go toe to toe with an unknown adversary, and bestow upon him the Wrath of Gord.   
Hope you enjoy!
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Mind the Gaptooth:  Scott's new movie "Goon" is a surprise smash.  

 So I just return from work last Saturday, thinking I have just a nice quiet evening to chill and relax

and forget the day, when I receive a text from my buddy checking for a hangout.  While I am not really feeling the vibe of going out and partying, he throws the idea of catching a show out (which is different for him) so I change up and head out.  No surprise "Goon" is our target show for the evening as we are both hockey buffs, so tickets are bought, air hockey is played (table was broken so I didn't win.) and seats are now filled.
 

  "Goon" was based on a true life scenario revolving around Enforcer Doug Smith.  Sean William Scott plays Doug Glatt, (inspired from Smith's story) a big softie who can fight, but his skating sucks bigtime.  Here are some of the highlights.

  Actor Jay Baruchel both helped to write and perform in the movie "Goon".  A downside to the story is that a lot of Baruchel's comedy is not intended for a younger audience.  While kids wouldn't necessarily watch this show anyways, it still is unfortunate to have the show slightly dampened by the vulgarity.  On the flipside, Liev Schrieber (Salt) stars opposite Scott as Ross Rhea, a bigtime baddie who was sent down from the NHL in his final years after serving a 20 game suspension for taking a stick and whacking some guy in the back of the head.  This is where "Goon" shines.  The movie is not centered around the sport of hockey so much.  It more focuses on these "Goon" characters, who in the older days were big behemoth players whose sole purpose was to go and physically wear down the stars of the opposing team.  Skating prowess and shooting ability did not matter so much, it was solely about the size and dominance of the enforcer that secured his spot.  While the NHL is currently trying to wean these players out, enforcers are still key parts of the game.  Perhaps my big D-Man Douglas Murray should watch this show, and perhaps he could throw the Sharks back into the Playoff spots.  I'm not saying....I'm just saying.
 

  Liev Schrieber is amazing.  His role in this movie, while fun, was still relayed with such acting professionalism.  He played the role unbelievably.  He has one scene in a diner where he relates his story and woes to Scott's character, Glatt.  The wisdom he portrays is easily accepted as true, and looking at Liev, he seems to have those memories in his eyes.  Another credit to the writers is that they didn't make Schrieber's character a complete heel.  Ross Rhea is the antagonist, but at the same time, he has the feel of a good guy.      

  Allison Pill's performance is smaller, but satisfactory.  Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that she is much better looking in this show than in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.  Hard to say.

  Biggest surprise?  Doug Glatt is actually a nice guy.  It was so odd to see Scott William Scott in a nice role.  It was tough to imagine, but Scott pulls it off.  It was a successful role too, as the smallest things he does will win you over, such as refusing to step on the team logo with his skate.  In amongst the blood and tears, he does a supreme job shedding his former raunchy, rude credits (Stiffler, Wheeler, etc.) and donning a completely new, positive persona. Now, that being said, bring on the American Reunion.

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 Mastermind or Mook?

  I spend a lot of time around poker.  While my job certainly accounts for a lot of that time, I do like to dowse in a bit of reading and play as well.  I try to avoid online play when possible, as it tends to do more harm than good. 

  Poker is a game.  It involves luck.  It involves skill.  Those two factors do not waiver.  So many people believe it is all one way or another, but it is not true.  If I can decipher your actions so indepthly that I can pinpoint your cards down to the suit, I've all but eradicated the luck portion.  That being said, if you can only catch one of two cards to win in a deck of 52, it is not impossible. 
Poker is a river...you can only steer it.  If you try to control it, you will only capsize.  Ride it when it flows well, rest when the waters are still. 

  I have not played much lately.  I am taking more financially responsible steps lately (or trying anyway)  and do not have a bankroll.  Sure, if I wanted I could sit into a game with no bankroll, but that's no good.  So I'm carrying on my usual playless day when an email comes in from Pokerstars.  Apparently starting Friday they have a new series of events that are all micros.  You can buy in for tournaments as low as eleven cents, and the payoffs are going to be much larger than a standard tournament.  At this point, my account is riding on bones.  I have only got around $100 dollars to my name there, so this will provide me many chances of scoring a nice payday.  For instance, the prize pool in the 11 cent tournament is $25,000.  The largest event, price tag is $22, pays over $150,000 to first with a 1,000,000 prize pool!  So this tournament will be seeing a lot of me.

  While the events are soooo juicy, I do not play a ton of hold'em online.  This tournament will draw tons of people, and the straight fact is, most of these players do not know squat about the game.  This actually gives them an advantage.  They make a dumb move that the better players do not anticipate because it is a ludicrous play and it could send the pro to the rail at any moment.  But here's the beauty.  They have some mixed games as well, including my favorite game,  PLO8.  Pot Limit Omaha with an 8 or better split.  Rather than conventional hold'em, Omaha gives you four cards, but you must play two and only two.  In hold'em, if four diamonds land on your board, and you have the ace of diamonds, you got the biggest flush possible.  If you have the ace of diamonds and three black cards in Omaha, and four diamonds come, you do not have the flush.  You MUST use two of your cards.  Not only that, but Eight-Or-Better split adds another weird twist.  You are not only trying to get the best five card hand, but the worst five card hand as well.  So many people avoid this game because of the complexity, and the amateurs that play it are well liked because the theory is so tricky that they often ship money to bigger players faster than Fedex.  Most of my success comes from PLO8, so I will be definitely playing that one. 

 I will be keeping a spreadsheet of how I do, where I place, any potential earnings, etc.  You will find it on here when I include a new post.  Good luck to all my friends playing as well.  Hee haw.

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The Book of Disciples:  Wherein the Gord inspires Logan.

 I posted a story on my facebook page a while ago about an idiot that phoned me at work and his lack of IQ managed to corner me.  I got tons of reviews and feedback about it, and it was received well. 
I received a request just before that from a bowler I've known for years that I should chronicle the idiots I run across in my jobs.  While this a) gives the idiot too much credit and b) is too much work and a potential liability, sometimes it is worth writing about. 

  In my high school days, I got a tip to visit a website in my tech. class.  This tip lead to the usual path of no homework being done, time wasted, and a large amount of unconventional wisdom.  www.actsofgord.com is forever a favorite.  Yes, it is meant as a play of words on "Acts of God".  

No offense meant.

  "The Gord" is a former video game store owner, and has chronicled his stories of idiot customers, weird events, and cherished memories.  By all means, check it out.  It is well worth the read, even more so if you are familiar with Video Games. Here is my story:

  I was at work yet again (a theme in my life) and a group is bowling on friday night. I have not been feeling well that day, and my frustration was at a "Moderate" level, or yellow if you go camping and only know the word moderate through the fire danger signs.   While the Gord is long gone...and missed...I am inspired to this day with his customer service abilities.  His phrase "Door's to your left" awakes me in my sleep.  So there I am, spraying shoes, when I am alerted by the crashing of balls on the lane.  I look up to see two twits throwing multiple balls at a lane that is turned off.  While my cohort begins to type a message to their screen, I have taken action.

 Grabbing the microphone, which instantly elevates my voice louder than theirs, I ask them to stop throwing balls because their lane is turned off.  True, it was turned off BECAUSE they were idiots, but seeing as how they have had a couple of boozies, no need to get technical.  I omitted the information about how they could blow the sensor, or damage something else equally as expensive. 

  Thing 1 and Thing 2 decide I was not talking to them, and proceed to return firing at the dead lane. 
I have had enough.  Normally, I am slightly more patient, but I'm sick, they are stupid, and enough is enough.  Back to the microphone!
"HEY! DON'T MAKE ME PHYSICALLY REMOVE YOU!"

Now I've got the attention of everybody.  Seems like I've embarrassed these two.

Success!  The renegade bowling has stopped.  They are now silent as they rejoin their group and take off the bowling shoes.  My coworker has not said anything, but I figure if I'm to be disciplined, I'd gladly receive it for a win, not a loss. 
Things 1 and 2 come to the counter with their shoes, put them on the counter.  Then, to my disbelief, formed words start coming from their mouths.
Thing 1:  "Yo man, what wuzzat?  You got sumthin to say?"
Oh the window of opportunity.  I wish we weren't inside so the clouds could part for this one.
"Yes, as a matter of fact.  Doors to your left."
Thing 1: "What choo say???."

Logan:  "I made it as clear as possible.  Get lost."

"Yo man, you can't say that to me.  You know who I am? You wanna find out?."
"New plan, get the hell out. Now."

Thing 2 comes up now. 
Thing 1: "Come on, you gonna throw me out?"
Logan: "I would love to, but I already told security they could."
Thing 2: "Go ahead, call security."
*Blink Blink*
Logan: "Uhh...if you want me to I gladly will.  Or you could get the hell out of my bowling centre. Your call."

At this point, Thing 2 starts telling my cohort about how I should "watch it." 
While my cohort is indeed my superior, he has been silent until now. 
Cohort: "Well, he did tell you to stop nicely, we ..."

Thing 2: "I don't care..He still better watch himself."

Thing 1-to Me: "Bring it on."

Ever see a dog's ears perk up when food is poured into it's bowl?  That was similar to my reaction.
Apparently skinny dweeb wasn't expecting me to rise to the challenge. 
Thing 1 and Thing 2 leave, still telling me to watch it. 

 Apparently the alcohol has created something that I cannot see, because I'm evidently still failing to watch what I'm supposed to be watching.
They leave the center, still pointing at me through the glass door, mouthing words which I assume were either "watch it" (creative) or crotch-itch.  Either way, I figure now that they are gone and the powder keg has failed to ignite, time to resume being professional from my momentary lapse.
Or maybe not.  I was never good with temptation. 
The last thing they saw as they left was me at the counter, with the biggest smile I could possibly muster on my face.  Good riddance, buttheads.
Now...where was the rest of the group? Oh yeah, handing in their shoes, all untied, apologizing for their friends, who were in danger of not getting a ride home.  I love happy endings.
Still no word from dillholes...if anyone has figured out what I'm supposed to be watching, please inform me at once.

Dear Gord....I love you.  

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That is all for today guys.  Have a great week, sleep well, and watch it.

Logan

*UPDATE* Monday, February 20/2012

Schrodinger's Cat: Obtaining Power Through Choice

  Up until two hours ago, I really had no clue what today's topics would be based on.  The usual routine consists of this during a Sunday Evening/Monday:
-Get up around Midnight after a 5 hour or so nap from working my First Job
-Shower, Eat, Prepare for Work at my Second Job.
-Get to work for 1:30 AM
-Proceed to work.  Or at the very least...Pretend to work.  (In case my boss reads this, I actually did do work..honest...)
-Wage war against my eyelids, which become heavier by the minute.
-Go home when game dies.


Today was a little different.  Having the unexpected day off from Job #1, I got to sleep a little earlier in the afternoon.  I awoke around 11:30 in the evening, and could not return to sleep.  So I got ready, and in the last half our before taking the usual trip to work, I popped in a DVD from the first season of Big Bang Theory. 

 "But Logan, you told me you hated that show."

  Alas, it's true.  While I did find the show somewhat annoying at the beginning, I would like to try and be open-minded in my approach to things.  Therefor, I have given the show until the end of the first season.  While it is humorous at times, and surprisingly witty, it had yet to inspire me.  Here we are, just a couple episodes from the end of the first season, when this scene happens.  (If you haven't seen it, here's the fastest rundown ever.  4 nerds and a hot chick are main show stars.  Main Nerd has crush on Hot Chick, who like most scenarios, keeps falling for bad boys and gets heart broken, while nerd hopelessly tries to get girl.  Throw in other nerds with their own peculiar personalities, and some humor that the viewer doesn't understand due to the use of really big words, and you have a show.)

  In this scene, we finally get to the point where Nerd #1 (Leonard) is on the couch talking to Hot Chick (Penny).
She starts going on with the usual "Where can I find a nice guy...yada yada..."  and Leonard, in a very awkward and cheesy way, asks "what about me".  Sure enough, the two of them begin to go out at the end of the series, which is good in a way, since it opens up room for comedy and it will be nice to finally have Leonard stop pining after Penny.

 In the final episode of the season, which was the episode that I watched at 11:30 this evening, Penny is trying to make a choice between staying friends with Leonard, or risking her friendship and dating him.  She resorts to asking Sheldon for help, and he brings up a theory that I haven't thought of since high school days. 

  Schrodinger's cat is an example of Superposition, which is pretty much useless unless you like to play around with Quantum Theories for fun.  But I digress... Superposition (dumbed down) states that if we cannot see the state of something, it exists in all possible states so long as we do not confirm it.  While this obviously can be argued, it is shown in the crude experiment of "Shrodinger's Cat."  A cat is placed in a box along with a container of hydrocyanic acid.  If an atom of the hydrocyanic acid decays, a device will break the container and thus, sadly, kill the cat.  We cannot tell from the outside of the box whether or not the cat is alive or dead, so we would be forced to open the box in order to see.  Since we cannot know the state of the cat at that moment, the cat is said to be in Superposition of states, existing in both possibilities.   Unless it is observed, there is no outcome. 

  Stupid? Definitely.

  Regardless, this can be tied into useful situations.  How many of us have moments in our lives where we take neutrality and indecision, and allow those moments to remain untouched?  Perhaps there is a cute someone in your biology class and you have yet to say hello.  Or maybe you are deciding whether or not to venture out and get a new job.  Whatever the case, this experiment has got me thinking about just how important it actually is.

  As a human, I believe it is so important to not become a victim of circumstance.  Life is a pitcher who loves to throw curveballs. In my leadership training that I've done in the past few years, I have learned the tools to change crisis into opportunity.  While events occur in my life, it is not these events that shape me, it is how I react that shapes me.  Therefor, I take responsibility for the path I've walked, knowing that I have the ability for walking a proper path in the future.  I can see my choices clearer and I am not bound by the weight that others carry.

  For example, when I was a younger boy, I had a small mole on my shoulder that was changing.  While I'm not familiar with medical terminology, the mole had something called "Melanocytes", and skin cancer often grows in them.  After a surgical procedure to remove the mole, I was informed they did not succeed in getting all of them.  I went back for a second procedure, where they took a large chunk from my shoulder.  I didn't know much about cancer at that time, other than the fact that it has a habit of taking people I care very much about.

 I grew up thinking I was flawed, carrying the disease that would one day kill me.  I was scared to talk about it, like I already had the cancer and it was waiting to surface.  I made choices based on my views of the disease, and for some time feared it.

  I now realize something.  By allowing myself to fear this disease, I have unknowingly given it power.  I have based my life in response to it, and have robbed myself of certain joys because of it (like skipping out on going to the beach because I didn't want to go out in the sun).

  Bottom line, we choose to live the way we do.  Rather than giving power to the things we believe control us, we instead should focus on creating the results we desire. If you yearn for contact with someone you lost it with years ago, reach out. If you are unsure as to whether or not you want to go back to school, ask yourself what it is you really want.  Sitting on the fence serves No Purpose.  By not acting, we are choosing that course of action.  In the Big Bang Theory predicament, Penny must decide what she wants her relationship with Leonard to be. She must choose to look in the box.

  I have been slowly working on my first novel series, and have serious commitment issues with finishing it. I feel that because it represents my own life, I am not ready to finish it.  Yet in it's own way, that too is the same thing.  I am not fulfilling anything by letting the ideas sit on the shelf.  So my choice is to begin seriously writing it.  If it flops due to inexperience, than I shall find the opportunity within that.  I hate looking back and seeing that I haven't achieved anything after all this waiting.

   So, regardless of who you are, look at the situations in your life that need addressing.  The possibilities are all there, and they all await your decision.  One thing is clear, by not choosing, you gain nothing more than you already have.

  Until next week,
                Logan


P.S.   "Logan's Letter" has reached 200 views.  Thank you to everyone who reads loyally, your support is highly appreciated. You can always become a member, or choose to send me a message on my facebook page if you wish.  Thanks again!

*UPDATE* MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13TH, 2012

                           Iconic Female Vocalist Whitney Houston Passes Away

  The nation was mourning today for the loss of another larger-than-life superstar.  Whitney Houston passes away suddenly and unexpectedly, and the cause at this time is unknown.  Houston did have known incidents with drug use, but it is unclear if that is indeed the case.  She holds the record for the largest streak of number one hits on "Billboard Hot 100" (she had seven number ones in a row) and the only female artist to obtain 2 "Billboard 200" Album awards.  She also did some small movie work as well.


Included in the Letter this week:
-We continue the Shannara Series with the next edition, "The Wishsong of Shannara".
-We celebrate the Birthday of a Great Man (includes a review of "Two and Two-Thirds Men".)
-I lose my mind as I compare two songs that are haunting my life.  Neil Young's classic song, "Old Man" is under the microscope along with a cover version of the same song by Redlight King. 
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 Jet-Setting  (yes it's a Winnipeg Jets pun)

  At this point I'd like to wish my grandfather a very happy 80th birthday.  Grandpa is one of those guys who does and does for others without wanting anything in return. Every time I see him truly happy, he is enjoying the company of friends and family.  So that's what he received for his birthday this year (along with a lot of Rum.)
Typically I'm not a good birthday present, myself, but he was at a loss for words when we all rolled up, so I guess it was worth it! Happy Birthday Grandpa, you deserve it!
*******REMEMBER THIS RANDOM INTERJECTION LATER!!!***************
How it happened,
-This weekend was rather different for me, who's life has gotten a tad redundant and cyclical lately.  Saturday morning was spent boarding a plane along with members of my family.  We were headed to Winnipeg, where unlike Weird Al Yankovic's song, "Albuquerque" the towels are not fluffy whatsoever.  If you do not understand this joke, and you have nine minutes to burn, click www.youtube.com/watch?v=1765UzjAQxI

 The flight is short, and we arrived with no problems, apart from playing the most annoying scrabble game in my life.  First of all, it gives you three to four "best word" scenarios where it will show you the most lucrative place to put your letters.  That's not true scrabble.  I win because I play opponents who are not nearly as word-based as I am.  Gah! Also, they gave me a rack with 7 letters such as E E I I A O U.  What words can you make with this?  Not too friggin' much. Even Ol' Macdonald who had a farm didn't have this many damn vowels.

 We arrived in Winnipeg.  Our mission was to surprise our grandfather, who (hopefully) had no idea we were coming.  A giant surprise party was planned, and we pulled it off successfully. It was truly a gift to see my family again, as most of them do not live near Calgary whatsoever and some of them are pretty frickin' cool.  (Such as my great-aunt, with whom I talked hockey with a for a decent stretch.  While we disagree on Tim Thomas, we bonded over a love of watching Zdeno Chara primitively force his way through everyone. "CHARA SMASH!"

  Part of the surprise was a dinner theatre show that took place in the hotel that we stayed at.  The theatre group "Celebrations" had a unique show that mirrored "Two and a Half Men".  The food was decent and the show was satisfactory, and on the whole, enjoyable.  The servers all had personalities, different outfits and looks, and some of them were rather eccentric.  One awkward moment was created when my buttocks were pinched by a certain man with a cross-dressing persona.  I don't like females with more chest hair than I have.  On the flipside, he sounded like Vinny from Disney's "Atlantis", who is definitely my favorite character. A certain mermaid came and we briefly planned to discuss romantic matters after the show, but I'm still waiting.... Actually she turned out to be the girl playing "Rosie" (who was a mock of Rose) and she turned out to be quite the surprise.  Though she was a lot younger than her fellow cast, her voice and dance technique were highly trained and easy to listen to.  Apparently she is an Edmontonian who does musical work, according to her bio.  Not too bad for a mermaid these days...

  The biggest thrill from the show would have to be the lady that was cast as Berta.  (Or in this show's case, Bertha-real creative huh?)  What an excellent fit. While definitely slimmer than Berta, and with a voice that can both sing beautifully and at the same time create flashbacks of Roseanne Barr, she stole the show for me.  In character the whole time, she thrived in her role.  The marquis sign is here...take a wild guess at which one plays Berta. Just Incredible.  Would gladly see a show with her again. 

 
 A big highlight was they got all the birthday people onstage and got them all to admit their age.  Much to his credit, my grandfather admitted that he was turning 80.  They rewarded him by making the entire birthday entourage dance to a Rendition of Sweet's "Ballroom Blitz"  (Aptly named the Birthday blitz).  Now I will try to keep this mature, but watching 30 or so people do pelvic thrusts to the lyric "She thinks she's the passionate one!" would make you piss yourself laughing. So yeah, fairly successful. 

  We departed the hotel next day, and spent time at the museum before the return trip home.  While most of it was fairly museum-like, I did walk away with some new information that I cannot decide what to do with.  Apparently, if you gaze up at the stars and look at them, (I would recommend trying this at night) you are actually looking at what they looked like thousands of years ago. Because light, even though it is super fast, still takes so long to travel through space, by the time the light reaches us, it's not in real-time.  So remember when that supernova happened a month or two ago, and you could see the fuzzy star as it died? Well it actually happened thousands of years ago.  Even radio signals to Saturn and back take well over an hour to travel.  While it's neat to look so far into the past, it makes me wonder if some of those stars actually do not exist anymore?  

  The trip home was good, albeit delayed.  I would have thoroughly enjoyed it, apart from playing scrabble.  What the hell do I do with E E E I Y O W??!?!!
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 Wish For It, Sing For It

 That's the premise of the magic behind Terry Brooks' next book, for those who have been following the Shannara Reviews.  "The Wishsong of Shannara" is a great story, like all the rest.  What stands out for me in the last story was the creation of fear and danger that Brooks' invoked into the story.  It felt like a race against time.  In this story, it is the characters that bring forward the entire book.  The enemies are very dynamic, not just an assorted bunch of demons with a special few that are more developed.  He builds on the legend he's created, while once again creating new entities to thrill readers. 

 The book has two main characters, which is very uniquely done.  It is the two children of Wil and Eretria (Characters of the Elfstones of Shannara).  Allanon has once again returned, and adventure resumes.  What's interesting though, is that both Ohmsford children play two very different roles.  Both have remnants of the Elfstone magic, which has been turned innate due to the use.  Jair, the younger brother, can sing and create images with his use of the magic known as the Wishsong.  It works differently for his sister Brin, who can physically change the reality of the world she lives in with the Wishsong.

 While some familiar essences still remain to help reassure the reader they will not be disappointed, Brooks' succeeds in creating lovable characters that help pave the way for the next books.  The Grimpond, Garet Jax, Kimber Boh, Cogline, Rone Leah and Stythys, among others, are so versatile as far as their contrasts, and each represent a part of us.  He creates new and exciting fear, whether it's facing an Unstoppable enemy in the Jachyra, or walking through caves where the floor is filled with Procks (stone that will open and close, it preys on people who can't see in the dark caves.) The procks will open and close upon the victim, who has no chance of escape.

 To explain the plot for this story would diminish it, so read this one for yourself.  It's full of literary surprises, and it concludes the history of Shannara.  From here on in, things change.
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Track Attack!   Neil Young vs. Redlight King

 While music is full of different styles and types, and each of us like certain pieces better than others, we can all agree on one thing.  When bands do a cover, it often sucks....bigtime.  It's rare that a cover is even remotely close to as good, and if it is, the original probably sucks.  Even a live version from the same band can often be horrible.

 There are a select few cases where the band is as good live as it is on the album (Pink Floyd, Rammstein, 3 Doors Down, Matchbox 20, etc.)  but music that is good live will never be covered.  If it is covered, then the Court of Logan will deem the group unworthy and their cover shall be burnt in the fire of hell.

  Lately, I have been cursed.  While dealing cards back in the summer, especially during the graveyard shift when the satellite radio can actually be heard, often the same songs come on as the playlist is not very large.  While it's opened my eyes to some new songs that I like, it also played "Old Man" from Redlight King.  At least once a day I would continue to hear it, every time I dealt.

  After it successfully pissed me off, Neil Young's original version was found in the depths of my Ipod.  Suddenly realizing that this was a cover that I heard daily at work, it disgusted me even more.  It had rap-like verse lyrics, and the chorus was a little different.  Still, I proceeded to hear it every day.

  I turned to people for help.  I was driving in the car with my mother and I mentioned my predicament.  THE VERY NEXT SONG on the radio after we discussed it was Neil Young's version of "Old Man".  While she laughed, I entertained the thought of ripping her radio out and throwing it across Glenmore.  What are the chances that the song I am hearing every day is the next song on?  Especially when it's so old...until that point it was probably at least ten years since Mom heard it...

  Whether I've gone officially crazy (which is a likely theory) or because that is how this song works, I've started to actually enjoy the new cover version, probably even more than Neil Young's.  I actually got to listen to the lyrics from Redlight King, and the main theme of the song is that point of realization when you discover you are more like a male figure (for example, your father) than you once thought (often a scary point in life).  The key phrase in Neil Young's song is "Old Man, look at my life, I'm a lot like you were..."  He is fairly soft-voiced and with simple lyrics, it is a sadder song to listen to.  Redlight King's song's rap/light-rock sound gave it more edge, but not enough to fall in love with it.  If you want Neil Young's lyrics, go search.

  I took a look through the lyrics of Redlight King's version, and posted a video of them here.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Ruo8yzu0w

  The song is still dark, but this is where I started to appreciate how good this new version is.  While Redlight King is definitely newer-age, and some old-fashioned people may be turned off instantly by the sound difference, the lyrics are definitely very real.  They trade in Young's lyrical symbols for hard truths, and they tell the story of tough love well.

  Initially I did not like the change of the actual chorus structure.  When you cover a song, it should showcase the original artist.  The more change, the worse it gets.  However, the band must of had a clear vision of how they wanted it to be, as it definitely has grown on me.  I feel that since the key phrase is "Take a Look at my Life, I'm a Lot Like You"  the new chorus type delivers that with a more emphatic finish.  It is solely designed to make you absorb that piece.  They got rid of the word "were" at the end, which adds to that striking finish.  Songs become good with Power.  There's a reason this never became Neil Young's trademark song.  Redlight King has surprisingly provided a new, unique and creative cover.

Remember the interjection above?  That's where I heard it while I was writing.  Son of a b**ch. 



That's All For The Letter this week!
Thanks again for Reading,
Logan.