tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73716596481657906132024-03-06T02:16:57.762-05:00All Bolt, All the Time!This blog covers all things to do with the Bolt Family. We are a large family of 7, soon to be eight with the birth of the new one coming this January!
Strike that! Now we are officially a family of eight!
Strike that! A family of eight and no more!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-83692118941897757532016-07-06T15:20:00.003-04:002016-07-06T15:20:55.183-04:00We Are Moving to Boltbunch.comWe are moving to another platform, but we will leave this blog here for the archives. We are moving to <a href="http://boltbunch.com/">boltbunch.com</a>. We are building the site right now, so it will be live in a few days. In the meantime, check out our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPjYq_BC9vR9Vztbm8B6smQ">YouTube channel</a>. Thanks, talk to you over at <a href="http://boltbunch.com/">boltbunch.com</a> soon!<br />
<br />
<script charset="utf-8" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822/US/largfamifin05-20/8001/082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-63802946108393928792014-02-09T18:55:00.002-05:002014-02-09T21:39:12.605-05:00At 15I am not going to lie, I am proud of my kids...I think they are awesome. They can both infuriate and amaze me every single day. I would not trade them for anything.<br />
<br />
One of my beautiful children has a birthday today. Below is a poem she wrote.<br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>At 15</i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Morning breezes blowing through my </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hair</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Window down with my parents right</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> there</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On my way to prison </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">school</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To meet all the hateful </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">fools</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deciding which ones will</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> play</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deciding which ones will go </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">away</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I try to focus on my hard school </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">work</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But usually can’t because of a</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> jerk</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Off to art and music class with all my </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">friends</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The only classes I wish would never </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">end</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The joy of music flowing through my </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ears</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brings along smiles, laughs, memories and </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cheers</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning a new beautiful </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">song</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trying intently play </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">along</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Challenges with finding new ways to</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> draw</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trying to perfect a painting without a </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">flaw</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The pencil dances along various </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">lines</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creating a masterpiece of brand new </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">kinds</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally packing up and walking </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">home</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Imagining my own world where I can </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">roam</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cars honk, People </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">shout</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sirens wail all </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">about</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even though some people are </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">mean</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It's still a joy to be </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">fifteen</span></i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">--Ellie Bolt 2014</span></i></span></div>
<div class="yj6qo ajU" style="cursor: pointer; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none; padding: 10px 0px; width: 22px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Coybb6WaN8dTersnnqA5PZ9Q9wG9-Nu6i_iOGSDP8YM8gSLm88uH3RGtpoYnY3NwMwLXMKrgvtjwu0rAm6dsOQh5a0AfASIGNAjC_Ii564KBxhtqGH1mMlLrrqQDTGAaoy71xnuiZs0/s1600/20140209_181825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Coybb6WaN8dTersnnqA5PZ9Q9wG9-Nu6i_iOGSDP8YM8gSLm88uH3RGtpoYnY3NwMwLXMKrgvtjwu0rAm6dsOQh5a0AfASIGNAjC_Ii564KBxhtqGH1mMlLrrqQDTGAaoy71xnuiZs0/s1600/20140209_181825.jpg" height="320" width="276" /></a></div>
</div>
What can I say? I love it. I hope she keeps working on it and continues to improve. Happy birthday Ellie....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles.<br />
<br />
Thanks<br />
--Rick<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt">https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a><script charset="utf-8" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-13238257679062675162014-02-02T19:50:00.000-05:002014-02-02T19:50:27.776-05:00Cutting The Cord -- Update January 2014It has been a few months since cutting the cable TV cord. In this post I will update what we have encountered so far.<br />
<br />
If you read the last post (<a href="http://allbolt.blogspot.com/2014/01/cutting-cord-done.html">here</a>), you are probably aware that we got rid of cable TV a few months ago. I really thought the kids were going to have a tough time with it. To my surprise, they have not had any issues at all. They have become much more adjusted to going out and finding their entertainment online and not just mindlessly flipping through channels. They are on YouTube learning how to do new things such as making rubber band bracelets. They are on <a href="http://www.nfl.com/">NFL.COM</a> watching weekly reports. Of course, they continue to watch Netflix and Amazon Prime. With those options, they are not missing their latest shows. I am so proud of them for learning new ways to entertain themselves.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you read the last post about future bandwidth concerns (<a href="http://allbolt.blogspot.com/2014/01/cutting-cord-done.html">here</a>), you would know that we were way over the supposed limit of 250GB. I am happy to say that we have not received any letters or any communication from Comcast about our bandwidth usage. I assume that one day it will be coming, but it has not yet. <br />
<br />
Since my last <a href="http://allbolt.blogspot.com/2014/01/cutting-cord-done.html">post</a>, I made a few adjustments. On my streaming devices, Netflix has two options for login. Everyone can login as me or login as "Kids". Basically this just shows the stuff that is watched most by both users. I noticed on Netflix.com that I could change my streaming settings based on the login. I set the kids login to stream at a slightly lower quality than what it was a month ago. The difference was dramatic!. We have even had several snow days and "freezing" days off of school. Below is our bandwidth usage for January according to Comcast:<br />
<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;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizvLwwuV0qDiFaXhUgQpWMYvN2ZkHVAG2ptmlG3yIyYXY9HaU-R6PuatCN55Mua134VjghqDUYaXpXMFC8UhxBPi4is_gmiVaEZjKtFRCJvqaFqSKaX7lZLhWCBX6PrWfnFmEpK365b28/s1600/comcast-Jan2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizvLwwuV0qDiFaXhUgQpWMYvN2ZkHVAG2ptmlG3yIyYXY9HaU-R6PuatCN55Mua134VjghqDUYaXpXMFC8UhxBPi4is_gmiVaEZjKtFRCJvqaFqSKaX7lZLhWCBX6PrWfnFmEpK365b28/s1600/comcast-Jan2014.jpg" height="96" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comcast January 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
What does this tell us? First, my kids are huge bandwidth hogs!!! I guess I have about 3 times as many kids as a "normal" family, so I should get three times the allotted bandwidth. Come on Comcast, how about raising a large family's bandwidth limit??? Since I have three times the kids, maybe I should be allotted 750 GB? Sounds good to me! What it really tells me is that adjusting the Netflix quality setting for the kids login drastically reduced our bandwidth. It was almost 400 GB the month before and we are under our limit with this test. Is this necessary? Not yet, but I know what I can do if it does become necessary.<br />
<br />
So what lies next? We can build several projects from this cutting the cord subject. I plan on monitoring my own bandwidth stats and comparing them to Comcast. I may use my new <a href="http://www.raspberrypi.org/">Raspberry Pi</a> for this, I am not sure yet. I am also still working on the <a href="http://thegeeksgarage.blogspot.com/">Geek's Garage</a> post about setting up all of this in technical detail, but honestly, that is a lower priority right now unless I get some requests. Maybe I will compile a link list of what I used. I am not sure. There are so many other things we are going to work on. The kids are asking if we can get back into learning <a href="http://ww.python.org/">Python</a>. We are also going to be taking a look at learning HTML5 and using the LAMP system on the Pi. Our nerdery will be taking on new levels! I have also been reading a lot about how kids learn and how schools affect them. I am so fascinated with this subject right now and reading all kinds of things about it. I will post on it at a later date. Of course, we continue to play in our BFL every weekend. #whywelovefootball<br />
<br />
The Big Game is on as I finish typing this....<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/2/2/5371134/peyton-manning-omaha-super-bowl-48">Omaha</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/2/2/5371134/peyton-manning-omaha-super-bowl-48">Omaha</a>....Go Peyton!<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles.<br />
<br />
Thanks<br />
--Rick<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt">https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a><script charset="utf-8" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-38940264558007903852014-01-19T21:56:00.000-05:002014-01-19T21:58:43.085-05:002013 Photo Review and The Famous Nose Picking Gorilla!<br />
I keep forgetting to post some of my photographs that I have been working on over the last year... I do regularly post some on Google+ and Twitter. I need to keep doing it here also. Here are some of my favorites of the last year:<br />
<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;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTvM15-It5ZYwVzZU4BdOdhlH-hyvsLf58KldqhZJs_gMXUeoJq5YYQn49s1gjxWzHTn3IUAVPojnn4W7qkhshyKz_UKnd5O0T5kb4cVvqgd8FX1-HklCXC89xe41Nve6IOxbNMqTJD20/s1600/sher-def-sharp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTvM15-It5ZYwVzZU4BdOdhlH-hyvsLf58KldqhZJs_gMXUeoJq5YYQn49s1gjxWzHTn3IUAVPojnn4W7qkhshyKz_UKnd5O0T5kb4cVvqgd8FX1-HklCXC89xe41Nve6IOxbNMqTJD20/s1600/sher-def-sharp.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sheriff's Residence, Noblesville, IN</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qwfjfv4RDRg/UinlxmghM6I/AAAAAAAAIxI/dWXzAJ2E_Rs/s1600/13+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qwfjfv4RDRg/UinlxmghM6I/AAAAAAAAIxI/dWXzAJ2E_Rs/s1600/13+-+1" height="194" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washington Park Lighthouse, Michigan City, IN</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Along with Photoshop I have been using Photomatix. I really love the tonal contrast touches. <br />
<br />
<br />
And here is my favorite over the last year. I wanted to come up with something creative for Nick's Junior football picture. Here are the results:<br />
<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;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uh4k1gk4jUM/UioouZqpBjI/AAAAAAAAIyg/r-gJshgA85M/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uh4k1gk4jUM/UioouZqpBjI/AAAAAAAAIyg/r-gJshgA85M/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" height="320" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nick Bolt 2013, Noblesville High School</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Get it? Bolt.....Lightning? It was very fun. And who can resist my nose picking gorilla picture captured at the <a href="http://cincinnatizoo.org/">Cincinnati Zoo</a>? I love this zoo. You should visit. Which reminds me, what do you find in a clean nose????? Fingerprints! Next show at eleven!<br />
<br />
<br />
<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;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ul1duNazPAU/UYPqtBLvqAI/AAAAAAAAGOk/rJ-OtmFMIhQ/s1600/13+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ul1duNazPAU/UYPqtBLvqAI/AAAAAAAAGOk/rJ-OtmFMIhQ/s1600/13+-+1" height="320" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nose Picking Gorilla, Cincinnati Zoo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Please, no use of the photos without permission. Also, I am still looking for an editor for my first ebook. Please contact me if you are interested...<br />
<br />
If you are interested in the details of these photographs, you can check out the original posts. Here is a link to the Google+ posts:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/101813403618499617525/posts">https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt/posts</a><br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles.<br />
<br />
Thanks,<br />
<br />
--Rick<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt/">https://plus.google.com/u/0/+RickBolt/</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a><script charset="utf-8" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-1863651874747361852014-01-19T11:54:00.000-05:002014-01-19T11:57:29.699-05:00BFL--2013BFL -- The Bolt Football League. Below is picture of the boys closing out 2013 at Forest Park. I guess the <a href="http://www.nfl.com/">NFL</a> is my second favorite league! This is why we love football. Every weekend, me covering a guy that is 30 years younger than me. Good times! I cannot believe the athletic skills these guys have obtained! Beats sitting on the couch any day...<br />
<br />
<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;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eG_DkWSyeUasHdXUV7EyQLnEtwQSVCRs5YW6-grhB3GwZF4HJxt2Y_H3KcTBdTAI10YwKkvhbr1qj2eCXmVBut0L_dEj0WEr9UOjf-mtE0s8Ab2i8Yn0yBseqg_q48sbJBMTzMRjvb0/s1600/20140112_115326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eG_DkWSyeUasHdXUV7EyQLnEtwQSVCRs5YW6-grhB3GwZF4HJxt2Y_H3KcTBdTAI10YwKkvhbr1qj2eCXmVBut0L_dEj0WEr9UOjf-mtE0s8Ab2i8Yn0yBseqg_q48sbJBMTzMRjvb0/s1600/20140112_115326.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Forest Park 2013 #whywelovefootball </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
#whywelovefootball<br />
<br />
I have been researching saving money on college costs... I will be posting more on that and also some additional information about cutting the cable TV cord. I am also looking for a good editor for my first ebook. If you know someone, please contact me.<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks<br />
<br />
--Rick<br />
<a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt">http://gplus.to/rickbolt</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a><br />
Below is my #1 family choice for the quickest way to cut the cable TV cord....<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-26441884476658712462014-01-07T14:45:00.000-05:002014-01-07T15:33:41.472-05:00Cutting the Cord --- Done!We finally did it!!! We finally cut the cable TV cord. I could not be happier. If my family of eight can do it, you guys can do it too. You know what? The kids do not miss it much either. At least not nearly as much as I thought they would.<br />
<br />
I will attempt to outline all of the details that we did along the way. This will help to show you how our entertainments needs are met without cable TV.<br />
<br />
Let me warn you, this is one of my longer posts. Go get a cup of coffee and have a nice drink while you read this. Also I have some affiliate links to products on Amazon. If you decide to cut the cord and buy some of these products from Amazon, it will help keep these posts going and send my kids to college if you use my referral kinks. :)<br />
<br />
First, we built our entertainment services while we still had cable TV. This is very important. This gave everyone time to adjust and learn how to use the new devices. Most importantly, we got the kids used to using the alternative services before we cut the cord. We purchased a couple of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BGGDVOO/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BGGDVOO&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3ERoku%203%20Streaming%20Media%20Player%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BGGDVOO%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Rokus</a> and the kids already had <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BBU8VFY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BBU8VFY&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EXbox%20360%20250GB%20Spring%20Value%20Bundle%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BBU8VFY%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">XBOX360</a>s. These devices act as our front ends for streaming services. Since I am a nerd, we use <a href="http://xbmc.org/">XBMC</a> on a couple of TVs also, but this would not be a good solution for the non-nerdy person yet. You have to be able to improvise and love to tinker if using <a href="http://xbmc.org/">XBMC</a>. There will be more on XBMC over at the <a href="http://thegeeksgarage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Geek's Garage</a>.<br />
<br />
Second, there is no way around it, you have to still have a high speed internet connection. We were paying about $170 per month on the "bundled" Comcast deal. Once I cancelled everything else, my internet connection is about $64 per month. That is well over $100 per month savings on the Comcast bill. Sure, I am spending a little more money on streaming services and possibly higher bandwidth rates or what I like to call the "nerd fee", but we will get to that later. But this is still a significant savings and we get to watch what we want to watch, when we want to watch it. Say that ten times over and over!<br />
<br />
There is third very important item you will need to get used to. The days of picking up the remote and just mindlessly flipping through channels are gone. They are never coming back if you cut the cord (other than over the air broadcasts). You have to do some work now. You must seek out your entertainment and plan a little better. Channel flipping is so Y2K! Streaming services don't have channels. Sure the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BGGDVOO/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BGGDVOO&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3ERoku%203%20Streaming%20Media%20Player%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BGGDVOO%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Roku</a> tries to create channels, but it is not the same. You have to get used to the user interface change of streaming services. The only real way to do this is to experience this yourself. Don't get me wrong, the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BGGDVOO/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BGGDVOO&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3ERoku%203%20Streaming%20Media%20Player%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BGGDVOO%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Roku</a> is very easy to use, after all my lovely little five year old can use it blindfolded!<br />
<br />
So what do we use for entertainment? First, the streaming services.... We use Netflix and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon</a> for the all of the kids shows. Sure, I will buy the latest episodes of their shows from <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">Amazon</a>, it is still massively less expensive than the cable TV bill. So for those keeping a running cost total, we pay $9.00 per month for Netflix, get many free shows because we are <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon Prime </a>members (about $7.00 per month), and then we buy about six episodes per month on average at $2.00 per episode. We also subscribed to Hulu Plus at $8.00 per month, although I am not sure we will keep this, more on that later. So the total streaming services per month are about $36 per month. I have to admit we kind of splurge to get to that amount. You could make this even cheaper if you wanted.<br />
<br />
By the way, a quick plug for <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon Prime</a>. We have been <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon Prime</a> members for a couple of years now. It is one of the best things we have done. We now make many less trips to the store which saves us money in the long run. The convenience is the real selling point of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EW0FYA0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EW0FYA0&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAmazon%20Prime%20(One%20Year%20Membership)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00EW0FYA0%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Amazon Prime</a>. I highly recommend that you look into it.<br />
<br />
We also use offline movie rentals such as Redbox, but we used those while we had Cable TV so I don't think it is fair to add those in the cost. We also had Netflix before cutting the cord too, but I still think it is important to include that as our cable TV like entertainment cost. Honestly with what I am about to describe below, I don't think that Hulu Plus is really worth the $8.00 per month. I can DVR most of that stuff over the air. Your mileage with Hulu Plus may vary. It is nice if you want an easy solution to catch up on the latest TV shows, but I am still not convinced it is worth the cost. Also, it plays advertisements during playback. I am not a fan of that at $8.00 per month!<br />
<br />
We also added an over the air antenna like this one (<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0074H3IU6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0074H3IU6&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EAntennas%20Direct%20DB4E%20Antenna%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0074H3IU6%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">here</a>). It picks up all of our local channels and then some. Just use a site like <a href="http://www.antennaweb.org/">AntennaWeb.org</a> to find out what stations you can pick up. I know our Antenna is very directional, so you have to have it pointed the right way to pick up channels. I also installed an <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HO58SO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004HO58SO&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3ESiliconDust%20HDHomeRun%20DUAL%20High%20Definition%20Digital%20TV%20Tuner%20HDHR3-US%20(Black)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B004HO58SO%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">HDHomeRun</a> in the basement and added it to our local area network. This gives us two HD tuners available for Live TV DVR like functionality. This is where I use Windows 7 Media Center on an older PC along with XBMC to provide the DVR functionality and total media center entertainment. I won't get too technical here, but I will make a post at the <a href="http://thegeeksgarage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Geek's Garage</a> that details the technical setup. Let me tell you, sports look and sound much better over the air than they do through cable TV.<br />
<br />
Let me just say, I don't hate Comcast. I love the internet service that they provide. I do hate all the other services. I can't stand things being forced on me and I felt like the other services were forced on me. I would gladly pay for the channels I want to watch, but the industry is just not there yet, so I will have to do it my way until it comes around. Since I am streaming so much over my Internet connection, I believe the Internet Provider's next move will be to start charging us for bandwidth. Don't believe me? If you have Comcast, log into your account and check. They are tracking your bandwidth usage. Here is a sample of mine:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WftVDifAcAhTBFr81fulgLnczjJ05VK86mB_TzFohh8RIFPmf2OeF5_3WHME1idVbfoNiajFH8a74HTKJZJbsZAsA29Dbh-un0RJdt6pywyhqwrMjNO_yFfmrqVJCgy4k1NY13P1gfo/s1600/comcast-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WftVDifAcAhTBFr81fulgLnczjJ05VK86mB_TzFohh8RIFPmf2OeF5_3WHME1idVbfoNiajFH8a74HTKJZJbsZAsA29Dbh-un0RJdt6pywyhqwrMjNO_yFfmrqVJCgy4k1NY13P1gfo/s1600/comcast-1.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Can you tell we cut the cord in November?!? And that the kids are out of school for part of December? My kids still watched a lot of shows on Netflix before we cut the cord, but they really ramped it up in November. My five year old will play an episode of <i>Kickin' It</i> like it is a radio station in the background. Over and over and over I see Jack, Milton, Jerry, Kim, and Rudy in her favorite episode over and over. Not to mention, my older kids have iPads (provided by their school) and they will sit upstairs in their rooms and stream their favorite TV shows. Now I know I need to watch what she and the rest of the kids are doing. You know I will admit, it is not all my kids, we like to watch an occasional movie now and again and catch up on our shows via online streams. That is the way it is going. <br />
<br />
<br />
Now for the bad news, there is currently a 250 GB limit per month. Mine says my limit has been suspended. That translates to they are not shutting me down, yet. This is where the so called "nerd fee" will come into play. I have read online that they are testing this in the Southern states and right now it looks like the pricing limit is set to 300 GB at default and $10 per month for every 50 GB that you go over. This of course is all rumor, no one nows what they are really going to do until they do it. I will update more when I get notified. Maybe I need to adjust the Netflix quality as a test? We will see...<br />
<br />
Tired of paying the high cost of pay TV? Do your part to change an industry. Develop your cord cutting strategy and get moving!<br />
<br />
<br />
More updates to come as things develop.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks<br />
<br />
--Rick<br />
<a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt">http://gplus.to/rickbolt</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-32000140851966774482014-01-06T16:57:00.001-05:002014-01-06T16:58:33.063-05:00Where Have We Been??Where have I been? Well, I have been having fun at work being an early adopter of network fabric technology. I even get a nice trip to Avaya Technology Forum and to Interop this year to sit on a panel....but you guys don't care about that. Although, you guys may care about our new family adventures. <br />
<br />
We have also been embarking on learning the Python Language. I found out after many trials and errors that the younger kids just were not interested in this yet. I am not completely giving up yet, I will revisit this in the near future when I have some more creative ideas. Here is a picture from our Python Class....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_jPRdH0AAg/Um1TQemuRoI/AAAAAAAAJf4/P2qtE-szlbU/s1600/2013-10-27+13.50.38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_jPRdH0AAg/Um1TQemuRoI/AAAAAAAAJf4/P2qtE-szlbU/s1600/2013-10-27+13.50.38.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Notice my lovely little Ellie with her hat on and her head down. She did not want to participate. She does not want to be labeled as a nerd. I keep trying to tell her that it is not a bad thing, but you know teenagers. I wish I could put her into contact with some female role model coders, but I can't force her to like it. I think if she gave it a chance she could see the creative side of it and may like it better. Good news is Nick is really good at it. He has such great attention to detail, it fascinates me. I will bring up tech savvy kids, not matter what!<br />
<br />
<br />
Also the boys and I have created a new venture....<br />
<br />
<br />
Introducing the BFL!!!!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
That stands for Bolt Football League for those of you people that are not football fans. <br />
<br />
Almost everyday that I have a day off, we head to our local wonderfully beautiful park called Forest Park and play some very intense touch football. Right now it is just me and my four boys. (My youngest son Sammy is all time offense to make teams even) I have to say it is crazy fun and is doing wonders in making me feel better physically.<br />
<br />
Yesterday we were heading out to play a game during the recent snowpocalypse. When we drove into the park I was so taken aback by the beauty of the scene, the photographer in me had to stop and take a few shots. Below is what we saw when we pulled in....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9HYyhlM4g0/UsoqtEKaaCI/AAAAAAAAJ8k/bxoDBGvnMPM/s1600/1388944734331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9HYyhlM4g0/UsoqtEKaaCI/AAAAAAAAJ8k/bxoDBGvnMPM/s1600/1388944734331.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I knew the day was going to be great when this scene greeted us. We had a great game in the snow. I only ended up on the ground a half dozen or so times and was still able to walk off the field. The boys did a great job and Sammy (my 2nd grader) caught yet another touchdown pass. I am proud of the way these kids are developing their athletic skills while we are all having fun. I could not ask for more...Well, except for more time with them, but you can't have it all!<br />
<br />
When it gets a little warmer outside, I am going to ask Ellie to come and take some pictures to document this for us. I will post when I have more...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks<br />
<br />
--Rick<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt%C2%A0" target="_blank">http://gplus.to/rickbolt </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-86657763878894871062013-04-04T20:37:00.002-04:002013-04-04T20:37:27.698-04:00Yeah, that's right.... Our spring break vacation is better than yours. We went to space!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5BrLVRqFPCwTGmTjhInr9HbgqZ8JCc6Q7QQ6mINx38uaq1E7G0qyY9owJ9GQuiQLqXhEZ08tL1LbKCaOAp7U4jSMorsczpJHIhiUw_hLzGCsiwGBaT07_fT4o_l1tAp56MLJSQS64Ek/s1600/space.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5BrLVRqFPCwTGmTjhInr9HbgqZ8JCc6Q7QQ6mINx38uaq1E7G0qyY9owJ9GQuiQLqXhEZ08tL1LbKCaOAp7U4jSMorsczpJHIhiUw_hLzGCsiwGBaT07_fT4o_l1tAp56MLJSQS64Ek/s400/space.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles.<br />
Thanks<br />
--Rick
http://gplus.to/rickbolt<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-43599315568397211522012-11-20T12:33:00.000-05:002012-11-20T12:33:14.461-05:005 Tips For Black FridayI admit it, I think Black Friday shopping is kind of fun, up to a point. Here are some tips to help you get through it. Remember, whatever you do, don't fight with some knucklehead, it is not worth it. Especially old lady knuckleheads...don't ask how I know. <br />
<br />
<br />
1) Have an overall detailed plan<br />
<br />
This is the biggest key to success. Make a list of items wanted at each store. Then make a route plan of each store you will go to. Prioritize and stick to your plan, if they don't have the item you came for, move on. This is not the day to come up with an alternative gift. You can sometimes go a few days before and see where the items are to get the plan together. <br />
<br />
2) Take a partner<br />
<br />
A partner is great for scouting and retrieving priority items. You can split the store in half and cover the area in much less time. Take your cell phones and look out for each other.<br />
<br />
3) Don't overspend<br />
<br />
Keep your wits, don't get caught up in all of the hype. That is exactly what retailers are hoping you do. They will get you used to spending and hope you open your wallet to them. Stay focused! If you need financial tips, checkout my other site....<a href="http://largefamilyfinances.blogspot.com/">largefamilyfinances.blogspot.co</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7371659648165790613">m</a><br />
<br />
4) Save the unfamilar for last<br />
<br />
This is not the day to window shop. If you are going to a new store, save that one for last, or go with someone that already knows the ropes. Save these stores for last. Treat it as a learning experience for next year.<br />
<br />
5) Shop Online <br />
<br />
Do it the easy way. Stay at home and skip the crowds and the stress, but stick to your plan. Many retailers are giving codes for extra savings online. Check out the Kohl's ad below:<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000613802495058&pubid=21000000000572172&lsrc=17"><img alt="18022_BF Code: Everyone saves an extra 15% off w/ Code: BLACKFRI + Free Shipping on $50 (11/21-11/23)" border="0" src="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_impression?lid=41000613802495058&pubid=21000000000572172&lsrc=17" /></a>
<br />
<br />
May the force be with you...<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles.<br />
<br />
Thanks
--Rick<br />
<br />
http://gplus.to/rickbolt<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-11232457514334643482012-11-06T00:20:00.001-05:002012-11-06T00:20:22.040-05:00Organization time! With six kids and an extremely hot wife, I am easily distracted and struggle keeping things organized. It is probably one our biggest downfalls as a family. This weekend we came together and started to change things for the better.<br />
<br />
Our first step in this process is to organize the entry or "foyer" in our home. After all this is the first thing that everyone sees when they walk into our house. With so many kids and our busy lifestyle, our foyer is a mess! There were shoes, coats, jackets, umbrellas, sweatshirts from all of the kids that would get strewn everywhere.<br />
<br />
The entry of our house is way to small to keep all eight of our "going out" things together. We had to come up with a better solution.<br />
<br />
<br />
We have a space in our house that is completely wasted. Realtors like to call it a "sun porch". I like to call it a dumpy area that we never go into that stores some of our remodeling remnants. This place was bad!! It had green '80s astro turf and the roof leaked badly. I patched up the roof several months ago thinking it could eventually be a useful space. Don't get me wrong, there is still so much more we have to do to get it ready for prime time, but now that it is dry, it will make an excellent mud room.<br />
<br />
Here is a picture of the rough plan.<br />
<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;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQa51uu5wf6BPDaB7AJ6LVXZtGDLX605MnvtonLF535w222f20G0SckQjImJwI1g-DkB_a1B_lbySevyN_NHVTw9TogYlqt2a3MezpJCrsbcoaPqPc0beVvRguFe1Tw3BP346nEx3P58/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQa51uu5wf6BPDaB7AJ6LVXZtGDLX605MnvtonLF535w222f20G0SckQjImJwI1g-DkB_a1B_lbySevyN_NHVTw9TogYlqt2a3MezpJCrsbcoaPqPc0beVvRguFe1Tw3BP346nEx3P58/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a very bad picture of the plan we have sketched out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
That is exactly what our kids need. A MUD room! Four boys and one little girl that could beat up any boy make a big mess! So we are converting our sun porch to a mud room From sun to mud, sounds glamorous doesn't it? No, no, no, this is my wonderful life, you can't have it! :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So, first the clean out. That was a Waste Management Bagster and a Saturday afternoon. There was a lot of help from my hot wife and little girly. It was not fun, but we accomplished fairly quickly. We can now walk in the mud room! Next, cut out the 80's astro turf. I felt like Nolan Ryan walking on that stuff, that is the only reason I will miss it.<br />
<br />
Next, we purchased some shelves much like <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MHD1K/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0007MHD1K&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EWhitmor%206060-322%20Supreme%204-Tier%20Shelving%20Unit,%20Chrome%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0007MHD1K%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">these</a> and some <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006WW8TQ2/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B006WW8TQ2&linkCode=as2&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3ESterilite%20Storage%20Crate,%206-Pack%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B006WW8TQ2%22%20width=%221%22" target="_blank">crates</a> to stack on the shelves. Every child has their own crate to store their shoes. We also have crates for hats and gloves and other winter type clothes. We have another bin for shoes to grow into, the hand me downs that we are saving for the smaller kids. Another crate for jackets that are not in use. Yet another crate for our wonderful pet cat Moe. It is not big enough to store his attitude, but that is another story. We also added several <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=largfamifin05-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0033AHK4I&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=FFFFFF&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr%22%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20frameborder=%220%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">hooks</a> for coats and backpacks for everyday kid living. <br />
<br />
We are planning a small bench for the kids to sit on while tending to their shoes. We plan for the bench to have even more storage. We are still working on what else we can organize out there. Comments/suggestions are appreciated.<br />
<br />
Here is a picture of the work in progress...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2YBYM6hh7MP-eH0HLGESbIH-ryBNx3k5mRfJM5710jFLjJ8pHBxnRYeltxBcEGFip8yNyVkSoQgPnLGn-JOeRiFUmzexnXR0Sd9mDfN7j7QkVRFKN-FMpvlUHk3ZV9qRx9axVQsrVko/s1600/IMAG0232" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2YBYM6hh7MP-eH0HLGESbIH-ryBNx3k5mRfJM5710jFLjJ8pHBxnRYeltxBcEGFip8yNyVkSoQgPnLGn-JOeRiFUmzexnXR0Sd9mDfN7j7QkVRFKN-FMpvlUHk3ZV9qRx9axVQsrVko/s320/IMAG0232" width="191" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Next (in the future) we have to scrub and paint the concrete floor and replace the entry door and lock with one of the combination deadbolts the older kids can use. Then long term, we need to replace the siding and the windows. One project leads to another! It feels great, we are making progress and simplifying our lives. Do you have some organization projects in your future? Please support our blog and check out my favorite place to shop and get ideas for storage and organization <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/b?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=ur2&node=3610841&site-redirect=&tag=largfamifin05-20%22%3EOrganization%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=largfamifin05-20&l=ur2&o=1%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks
--Rick
<a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt">http://gplus.to/rickbolt</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-90413570731316014252012-10-29T13:56:00.000-04:002012-11-05T10:36:04.042-05:00This Is Why I Will Never Be Able to Retire! The family October 28, 2012....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAvkJtfugkK5UizCHttuDpNm7SO6M9USx0PXkY8QYMiwoL0JXN2OTF-ZYW_nT3GI96h36VmCsFQQUEasgDr2Uxl9trEEhtpVD6X5PJWJjxjuonCCIUgqVvKEKeJHF3lNMnk1qu_3qr4Nc/s1600/Edit-DSC_0918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAvkJtfugkK5UizCHttuDpNm7SO6M9USx0PXkY8QYMiwoL0JXN2OTF-ZYW_nT3GI96h36VmCsFQQUEasgDr2Uxl9trEEhtpVD6X5PJWJjxjuonCCIUgqVvKEKeJHF3lNMnk1qu_3qr4Nc/s320/Edit-DSC_0918.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks
--Rick <a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt" target="_blank">http://gplus.to/rickbolt</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-51652106571871198642012-10-19T16:31:00.000-04:002012-10-19T16:31:50.636-04:00The Reds Missed This Year...Every year we try to go watch a Cincinnati Reds game. It is usually me and my dad and a few of the boys that are still into baseball. Three generations at the ballgame. We always try to sit on the top row to catch the breeze. It is a good time.<br />
<br />
This year was Sammy's first year at the ball park. He was fired up! You notice he has his T-ball medal on too? It was even free Joey Votto batting gloves day. This is one of my favorite pictures. It makes me chuckle every time I see it. Joey Votto even hit an exciting homer in the eighth that day. The post season ended too early. Maybe next year Reds...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFnAhpfp8unthw6Zmem2WFRa_uVHXhEHrt3qAh7l1GbOpmC9JMUe2LqqDNdEsnVCwet_cN4-HGCjyxCA0XiCJ0oYrkndzkt-cYGqhXJ3GBHNNaesxk_-OUNmDaq2UlDWza8Z6_BS5jAY/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFnAhpfp8unthw6Zmem2WFRa_uVHXhEHrt3qAh7l1GbOpmC9JMUe2LqqDNdEsnVCwet_cN4-HGCjyxCA0XiCJ0oYrkndzkt-cYGqhXJ3GBHNNaesxk_-OUNmDaq2UlDWza8Z6_BS5jAY/s400/%255BUNSET%255D" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks
--Rick
http://gplus.to/rickbolt
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000027915549&pubid=21000000000572172">Roku.com - The Affordable On Demand Player! Click here! - 30-day Money Back Guarantee</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-820652511098916132012-10-18T14:05:00.000-04:002012-10-18T14:52:42.644-04:00Top 5 Questions A Father of a Large Family Gets AskedTop 5 questions I get asked because I have six kids:<br />
<br />
1) Are you Catholic?<br />
2) Have you had a vasectomy yet?<br />
3) How many mothers go with those kids?<br />
4) Don't you know how that happens?!?!?<br />
5) Are you done having kids?<br />
<br />
It is true I get asked questions all of the time when people find out I have six kids. These are the most frequent. It does not really bother me. I get all the jokes to...."Don't get within three feet of him, you will get pregnant." Really people, I enjoy a good conversation starter, but maybe try something other than the list above. :) <br />
<br />
Maybe I will make a list of my most common answers next....<br />
<br />
<a href="http://allbolt.blogspot.com/2012/08/2011-kids-eden-park-picture.html" target="_blank">Here</a> is the gang....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>If you like this post and think it would be valuable
to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your
choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons
below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks</b></span> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-65950168155387827572012-09-21T13:25:00.000-04:002012-09-21T13:25:34.061-04:00Tech Punishment For Kids??Is this the new Millennium punishment? Maybe.... <br />
<br />
I
will admit, I am a pretty geeky guy. After all, my day job that pays
the bills is as a Network Engineer. You can't survive in that world
without embracing your inner geekiness! I am also a parent of
"digital kids". I am amazed at how quickly my kids can pick this
technology stuff up and use it so naturally. My youngest, who is four,
is known for stealing the older kids devices to play games on and watch
videos...<br />
<br />
I found an article on Mashable that discusses
what I like to call "tech punishment". Basically it discussing setting
the boundaries and consequences up front, before the inappropriate
behavior happens. Then the kids know they are going to be punished by
having their tech time taken away. I know that with my older kids, this
would work like a charm. They are constantly connected to their
devices!<br />
<br />
The article I reference is here;<br />
<br />
<a href="http://mashable.com/2012/09/14/parents-using-tech-as-consequence">http://mashable.com/2012/09/14/parents-using-tech-as-consequence</a>/<br />
<br />
This
is a breakdown of the article is in Proactive Consequences and Reactive
Consequences. Proactive of course being predetermined punishments.
Reactive being an immediate reaction when you have had enough. I have to
admit, I have been a very reactive type parent. I am the type of parent
that can take quite a bit and then fly off the handle when I have had
enough. Usually taking all privileges away from the kids when they
misbehave. That is something I really need to improve upon. Don't get
me wrong, my kids are usually very well behaved and I am
thankful for that. At the same time, they are kids and they will still
push the limit at times. I am going to work on being a more proactive
parent by setting up some guidelines ahead of time so the kids know what
will happen before the inappropriate behavior happens. Taking away
tech devices is the perfect start. I will continue to write update
posts on this subject in the future to let you know how it goes. <br />
<br />
<br />
I
post this hoping it helps other parents that may not be as "geeky" as
me. It is hard enough for me to keep up with the kids, so I feel for
you. I regularly share stuff like this on Google+ take the dive and
add me to your circles. If you need more info on Google+, I wrote about
that <a href="http://largefamilyfinances.blogspot.com/2012/09/google.html" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>If you like this post and think it would be valuable
to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your
choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons
below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks</b></span> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-63290087832680435322012-09-12T10:33:00.000-04:002012-09-12T10:33:07.600-04:00More Google+ Tips<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/101813403618499617525" target="_blank"><img alt="google plus" src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-32.png" style="border: 0px none; height: 32px; width: 32px;" title="" /></a></div>
<br />
This Google+ thing is awesome! I am meeting so many interesting people. It is so much better than Facebook or Twitter. It is so easy to connect with people with similar interest. I think it is a much better way to develop more professional relationships to enhance your business or personal growth opportunities.<br />
<br />
I will admit, it is sometimes difficult to weed through all of the Google+ people searches. Never fear, there is a site out there to make it much easier. It is really a well designed search engine for G+ users. It is called <a href="http://findpeopleonplus.com/">findpeopleonplus.com</a>. <br />
<br />
The site has a very simple Google like layout. It is not to busy and easy to navigate. When you go to the website, you are presented with the top Google Plusers and a menu down the left side. If you look down the left side, you can see how you can narrow down to certain aspects you are seeking. Let's say you are looking for photographers, go to the left menu and find the occupation option. Look down the occupation list to find photographers. Click photographers and the website will then give you a list of photographers to the right. You can scroll through and find the ones you like and add them to your circles.<br />
<br />
<br />
You can also narrow it down further. Let's say that all male photographers creep you out (except for me of course). Via the menus on the left, under gender click female. Under occupation, click photographers. There you will see a list of female photographers on Google+. <br />
<br />
<br />
Findpeopleonplus.com is a great search engine for G+ users. I highly recommend it. If your profile has changed, be sure to go to findpeopleonplus.com and update it. As I learn more about Google+ I will post more tips. In the meantime, <a href="http://findpeopleonplus.com/Rick-Bolt-7525.html" target="_blank">here</a> is my findpeopleonplus link. Be sure to add me to your circles.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-48601873863922781212012-09-05T16:59:00.000-04:002012-09-05T16:59:07.518-04:00Google+I have been playing around a lot with Google+ lately. I know, I know, you are saying "You are just now getting into Google+, you are such a technological visionary.......not" Be nice! I am a busy guy. OK, OK, no more excuses. On to the Google+ post.....<br />
<br />
I guess it is touted as the perfect mix between Twitter and Facebook. I have to admit that I don't know either one of those very well, but I have been learning Google+ over the last several days. I must say, I really like it!<br />
<br />
First, if you are not familiar with Google+, it is a social networking application that is based on groups called circles. You can create all kinds of circles to follow people. For example, I have some circles called Family, Friends, Photographers, Photoshop, and Bloggers. I can add different people to each of these circles and follow their work. If they feel like they want to see my posts, they can add me to one of their circles. <br />
<br />
The main reasons why I like Google+ are because you can add people to your circles that have similar interests. In other words, you can follow people that you don't even know, but may be an authority on something you are really passionate about. For example, I love photography, so I have added several photographers to my photography circle so I can follow their work. There are some amazing photographs on Google+. The beauty of the circle concept is that I can send only my photography related content to my photography circle, or only my jokes to my friends circle, or even send a note to all people (public setting).<br />
<br />
I am still building my circles. Once I have them close to finished, I can then share a circle. This will allow people to "subscribe" to the same people that I have built in my circles. This is an awesome concept that allows people to connect and share easily. This is where I think Google+ is better than Facebook, although I do admit, I am not a Facebook expert. What do you guys think about the comparisons of Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.<br />
<br />
I would love to have you guys add me to one of your circles. Even if it is your "dorks" circle. I am OK with that. This blog is integrated with Google+, so if you add me, you will see all of my blog posts as a Google+ post. So please get to adding!<br />
<br />
Here is my profile: <br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/101813403618499617525/posts" target="_blank">https://plus.google.com/101813403618499617525/posts </a><br />
<br />
Or you can click the add to your circles button on the upper right area of this blog...<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-32934679093099513822012-08-31T12:14:00.001-04:002012-10-18T14:03:39.773-04:002011 Kids Eden Park PictureEvery year now for a few years we always take the kids to Eden Park for an annual picture. Since we are former Cincinnatians, we feel obligated. I absolutely love Eden Park and the Mt. Adams area. I hope to retire there one day, if I ever get to retire!<br />
<br />
This is the picture from 2011. We found this spot where they have these rocks laid out in this awesome arrangement that fits the group well. I put everyone in there places and started snapping away. This is one of those moments that just make me chuckle. (click the picture to get the full view)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nu7b5fPLOV2UrhfXKhn0qgY6eEmJNMQNQUaA-Ixq0ifpDFEA8hFvfHUJHhEdM_Pi-_k2CLTYps53ZLWY-XZur_9YLT1vjL7HEFp-yhghvAngfZSd1A9CQcCYGaVodt14cy_JvrWv73w/s1600/kids-rock-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nu7b5fPLOV2UrhfXKhn0qgY6eEmJNMQNQUaA-Ixq0ifpDFEA8hFvfHUJHhEdM_Pi-_k2CLTYps53ZLWY-XZur_9YLT1vjL7HEFp-yhghvAngfZSd1A9CQcCYGaVodt14cy_JvrWv73w/s640/kids-rock-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You can see that they are all smiling nicely and looking good. Sammy decide to go into a Buddha moment and put his hand up. I guess it matched him having his hood up. And let's not mention the trash in the photo on the bottom step to the left. This is why I am not a professional photographer!<br />
<br />
Despite all of that, this is probably one of my favorite pictures of the kids. It is one of my favorite places on Earth with all of my kids there. No professional photographer in the world could have captured the fun personalities of them all like I did here... so there!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/101813403618499617525" target="_blank">Add me on Google+ </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-58994984668353025172012-08-26T12:13:00.000-04:002012-08-26T21:20:25.675-04:00Flashback---The Peyton Manning AutographIf you are a regular reader you know that we are all diehard Indianapolis Colts fans. It was very devastating this year when they released Peyton Manning. He was great to watch and we will miss him.<br />
<br />
All of this got me thinking back. I remembered a funny story about our oldest son who is the biggest Peyton Manning fan in the entire universe. That is not an exaggeration either. He even knows his birthday, shoe size, and kids names. He has always been kind of a shy and quiet kid. Nicolas was trying for several years to get Manning's autograph and was never successful. We were at training camp right after it moved back to Anderson University. Practice was over and everyone was leaving. He was standing there telling me about how he wished he could just get Peyton's autograph. There was a guy standing next to us that spoke up and said "Hey kid, he is over there signing on the other side of the field, you better run over and get it NOW!". Up to that point, I have never seen him run that fast!<br />
<br />
I was walking around to the other side to wait for him. The crowd was huge and I thought we would be there for a while. I wondered over to the bleachers and climbed up far enough to see if I could spot him in the crowd. I could not see him but I could hear the big security guy by Manning yelling at someone, "KID!!!! Calm down!!! Take a step back! KID!!!! KID!!!" He kept saying it more forcefully "KID!!! TAKE A STEP BACK! YOU NEED TO CALM DOWN!" I wondered what all the trouble was down there, but I didn't think much of it. And then the guy continued on ""KID!!! TAKE A STEP BACK! CALM DOWN!!!" I am starting to think to myself...what kind of knucklehead kid is causing trouble down there? I snapped a quick shot of the commotion with my camera. I could not see the kid causing trouble. The guy in the large floppy Colt's hat to the right of Peyton is the guy that was yelling at the kid.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMsDS81945v4az0pf9NV9HqsSSw02I3RCPgoPaO71RJeIV72BXmJ4gPRTGau9iydAMWl9G5OocPQ34ZCxcq8m28ltRbnTwI4sxJIpdUv-uF8LKktGNdkjCxKLmhc8wDG25hyphenhyphens9frBX-M/s1600/DSC_0143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMsDS81945v4az0pf9NV9HqsSSw02I3RCPgoPaO71RJeIV72BXmJ4gPRTGau9iydAMWl9G5OocPQ34ZCxcq8m28ltRbnTwI4sxJIpdUv-uF8LKktGNdkjCxKLmhc8wDG25hyphenhyphens9frBX-M/s640/DSC_0143.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Then just after a couple of minutes I see Nicolas walking back towards me staring at his autograph Superbowl ball with a huge smile on his face. After a moment Nicolas asked me "Did you hear that security guy yelling at me? There is no way I was walking away without an autograph this time." I have to admit, I laughed.... Then we promptly left! Here is the autograph:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFNWph3s9QKafX5awLGHl2uBqHqIMu6y4GVhtl94OwfjfRmjljEqVI-XlVihe1h6qsOZEC0jhs3EQx-4_7QSpiIzxzFQ3k6o1-nWe284f6_NDUXLKK_HaCxiRTCKiOJ-WQ4yN6zIKW-8/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFNWph3s9QKafX5awLGHl2uBqHqIMu6y4GVhtl94OwfjfRmjljEqVI-XlVihe1h6qsOZEC0jhs3EQx-4_7QSpiIzxzFQ3k6o1-nWe284f6_NDUXLKK_HaCxiRTCKiOJ-WQ4yN6zIKW-8/s320/%255BUNSET%255D" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This I believe was at the 2010 Training Camp. He never did get Peyton Manning's autograph again. It sits encased in a plastic container (heavily guarded with lasers and motion detectors) and is forever cherished by my goofy kid, This is a memory I don't think I will ever forget.<br />
<br />
<br />
How we did hate to see Manning go. Now Nicolas keeps asking me to take him to Denver.....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-62073798244338622532012-08-25T21:09:00.000-04:002012-08-25T22:34:24.980-04:00Noblesville Football 2012Noblesville 2012 football is getting off to a slow start this year, but I have still enjoyed watching Nicolas play. He has come a long way since the days of <a href="http://www.allbolt.blogspot.com/2008/08/end-of-era-or-maybe-just-season.html" target="_blank">sixth grade when he broke his arm</a> playing in the elementary league. He has grown up a lot and worked very hard. The amount of effort he has put in is phenomenal. Most of all, he is finally gaining confidence and can see what he is capable of doing. I am very proud of him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0gcCGvuoUh2tGqcw9bABZQt95VJd9Udxp_5NCClczcRkm0sYZbjh_9ivLcLazQTf8J53eyww_skHI6tb-AqGVeb-uxLMH9fZBUWF4cSaM0k-JiV8MX4D4YSyxKhBjMcGKLUrxNx8v54/s1600/nic-bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0gcCGvuoUh2tGqcw9bABZQt95VJd9Udxp_5NCClczcRkm0sYZbjh_9ivLcLazQTf8J53eyww_skHI6tb-AqGVeb-uxLMH9fZBUWF4cSaM0k-JiV8MX4D4YSyxKhBjMcGKLUrxNx8v54/s320/nic-bb.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
Now he is a sophomore and a big bad defensive end. He is listed on the program as only 156 lbs and regularly takes on guys that are 250 lbs plus. Although they have played two games and not won one yet (today was close 13-7), I still look forward to every game, if nothing else, I enjoy watching him develop as a player. <br />
<br />
I have added him as an author to this blog. He is officially now the resident expert in this family for all things football. He knows more about the Indianapolis Colts than anyone I know. Since he just visited training camp with his camera and autograph book, I am pretty sure his first post will be about the Colts and the new QB Andrew Luck. By the way, he did get Luck's autograph....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-27648281994464675942012-08-24T09:08:00.002-04:002012-08-24T11:11:43.415-04:00It's me, Ellie!<i>This is a guest post by my lovely little girl Ellie. She is an eighth grader and a wonderful babysitter. We will be seeing more posts from her in the future.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
Well... hello there! I'm Ellie! The second child of this interesting family! <br />
<br />
Most people tell me, "Wow Ellie! How do you deal with all these brothers and little sister?!" and most of the time, I dont know what to say. But truth is, I don't handle them well. When they drive me crazy, I either sit on them, yell at them, or make them cry. Great sister, right? But when it's my older brother driving me crazy, I actually don't do anything to him because he's stronger than me... But no matter how much they drive me insane, my life would be SO boring without them. I love our family. :)<br />
<br />
Oh...And Just to make this clear, we don't ALWAYS fight. We laugh and do a lot of stupid and fun things together too! :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDhA89JgJ9dxGBi7h8ejiKXvk2cxVpgzZ3bAypg_xlNca3-uIHrigXNcb0emUsugPidwII1hJobQGdFKV1hlsSnvx4JrqFLa5_odoaqia7O1QSZgTTSEflVplqLJhgzvEnGlJgOQuz64n/s640/blogger-image-182099288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDhA89JgJ9dxGBi7h8ejiKXvk2cxVpgzZ3bAypg_xlNca3-uIHrigXNcb0emUsugPidwII1hJobQGdFKV1hlsSnvx4JrqFLa5_odoaqia7O1QSZgTTSEflVplqLJhgzvEnGlJgOQuz64n/s640/blogger-image-182099288.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikQ0Tu9_tg0MRwx0iDZ8GECpba_5m8KZZHKOvPdjoJLBqUgd4dh-qraqIkEJEF2FveaofUKG3a2VafQVa-61iSOnHV-ZuN75b2DmgLYOmrRFAfpNB8wQ5Y-6_0M7Ht-EOh3hXuz9Wg9dul/s640/blogger-image--1412618540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikQ0Tu9_tg0MRwx0iDZ8GECpba_5m8KZZHKOvPdjoJLBqUgd4dh-qraqIkEJEF2FveaofUKG3a2VafQVa-61iSOnHV-ZuN75b2DmgLYOmrRFAfpNB8wQ5Y-6_0M7Ht-EOh3hXuz9Wg9dul/s640/blogger-image--1412618540.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeNQVdqI395MSgcr-cnKOOX7H5LcaIHa92ilCP6jrWr3jwB7KnO2tQ_my1WC1Wc9etOMLDqszJA38Jiwpt_Iehsk_Hiu4UvqhRrhpqcU2Y_SkDEFxuwuMSqPGJt5HSBBOJHkT8ER_BVAJ/s640/blogger-image--2104474216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeNQVdqI395MSgcr-cnKOOX7H5LcaIHa92ilCP6jrWr3jwB7KnO2tQ_my1WC1Wc9etOMLDqszJA38Jiwpt_Iehsk_Hiu4UvqhRrhpqcU2Y_SkDEFxuwuMSqPGJt5HSBBOJHkT8ER_BVAJ/s640/blogger-image--2104474216.jpg" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04245911989087504537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-89205826466669491282012-08-24T09:05:00.000-04:002014-01-19T20:59:44.373-05:00Roku, It is so easy....One thing I am always trying to accomplish in our house is to reduce some expenses. Hey after all, we do have six kids! One expense that I can't stand every month is cable TV. If it were up to me, this would be gone. Fortunately for the cable company, it is not all up to me. The rest of the family seems to have embraced them as a member of the family. I don't get it.<br />
<br />
I have introduced a couple of things in our house to try to persuade the family that the cable guy is a crook. One of these is the Roku. I have to say that I love this little device! It is so easy to use a four year old could run it. Go ahead, ask me how I know? Because my little Maddie is using thing to stream her shows constantly. Now there are a few things that you will need when you get your Roku. You will still need your high speed internet connection and a subscription to Netflix. You probably already have your high speed internet connection. Netflix is only $9/month for unlimited streaming. This is worth every penny. There are so many movies and shows available. Even the most entrenched coach potato will be entertained for hours and hours...<br />
<br />
Some recent movies I have viewed on Netflix...<i>From the Terrace, The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo, Scary Movie, Cat on a Hot Tin, Roof, The Three Stooges, Lucy, A Hard Days Night</i>, etc....<br />
<br />
Some recent shows that my four year old watches on Netflix... <i>Dora the Exploer, Kickin it, Pink Panther, Good Luck Charlie, Dora the Exploer, Kickin it, Pink Panther, Good Luck Charlie, Dora the Exploer, Kickin it, Pink Panther, Good Luck Charlie</i>....Over and over and over and over....you get the point! But she does love it.<br />
<br />
The Roku has several other options besides Netflix. For example, you can get Amazon Video on Demand, which is a video streaming rental. If you are an Amazon prime member, you can get quite a bit of streaming free. You can also add other channels such as Crackle, BlipTv, Classic TV, etc. Check out the Nowhereman's link to see some awesome channels you can add to your Roku.<br />
<br />
I have not been able to persuade the family to dump cable tv yet, but I will continue to work on it....After football season. Support us and check out the Roku here:<br />
<br />
<script charset="utf-8" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=qf_sp_asin_mfw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Flargfamifin05-20%2F8001%2F082bcd88-71d8-46e1-af7f-9a3d16bb77f4&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you like this post and think it would be valuable to someone you know, please share it on the social network of your choice for me, okay? All you have to do is click one of the buttons below. Then add me to your Google+ circles. Thanks<br />
--Rick <br />
<a href="http://gplus.to/rickbolt">http://gplus.to/rickbolt</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/rick_bolt">https://twitter.com/rick_bolt</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-16488597427277724842012-08-22T09:09:00.000-04:002012-08-22T09:09:24.073-04:00OK...It is time to relax.. I am getting my top wisdom teeth out in a few minutes. I am sure it won't be an issue. It is not like I have six kids running around the house while I am in pain and trying to heal! Time to get out some favorite CDs from my favorite local singer. <a href="http://www.jenniedevoe.com/" target="_blank">Jennie DeVoe</a>. I absolutely love her music. Awesome! I have been to several of her shows now. I had my camera with me at the Superbowl show she did when the big game was in Indy earlier this year. It was freezing out that night, but worth every minute out in the cold. This was the first show that I was able to take Nicolas and Ellie with me. It was an awesome night! Here is a picture I took that night and obviously did a little Photoshop work to. This displays proudly on my bookshelves here at the house.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp00u15KXh2DZ2c6WX-r3d5uTipQBsoaH0WN9MEVwzPfSRvrehbWPG13Q4i8HBEQnx2RTa-lm-2s1jKYb4RMCKlB1ERMWR2yuIhhWQ2cULTaUPvC5NwqqcPymFCeZ8W4pVtG-nKoqVpvU/s1600/Jennie_0110LAseSculpt-inter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp00u15KXh2DZ2c6WX-r3d5uTipQBsoaH0WN9MEVwzPfSRvrehbWPG13Q4i8HBEQnx2RTa-lm-2s1jKYb4RMCKlB1ERMWR2yuIhhWQ2cULTaUPvC5NwqqcPymFCeZ8W4pVtG-nKoqVpvU/s320/Jennie_0110LAseSculpt-inter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I am thinking future album cover! How could it not be?<br />
<br />
<br />
Seeing her show is a great outing with friends and some great music. I am going to see one of her shows again on September 7th. I hope to see you there. Now to relax and make this pain go away....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-44574778967386178342012-08-21T14:08:00.001-04:002012-08-21T16:05:45.026-04:00I Can't Believe It!I can't believe it. My little neice Tana is engaged. Of course she is not the tiny little girl I still see her as...She is in her last year of college before she goes on to be a teacher. Congratulations to you and Adam, kid! Tana asked me to take her "save the date" pictures. Of course I was happy to do it. I think they turned out wonderful...Congratulations guys!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTOwVb0rlyiGzfdbQr03DPycggr-cXeYaMgCuLDTlzSEGJKb36DpDta4TZnDns_8Xq-iTleyIWyM8yS8qLEVmfI29avxICgLdEvrUwZKAJGXVviMISlWco82XFOzDk-tU_T3pdW9Q4M0/s1600/TA-BW-GG-0188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTOwVb0rlyiGzfdbQr03DPycggr-cXeYaMgCuLDTlzSEGJKb36DpDta4TZnDns_8Xq-iTleyIWyM8yS8qLEVmfI29avxICgLdEvrUwZKAJGXVviMISlWco82XFOzDk-tU_T3pdW9Q4M0/s320/TA-BW-GG-0188.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSCPERv8trW7-hCRJj1GUmxP_irxhkrpH6QAW8Ou1OAH5UlfLpknHCbkkk8YzQUvh4LW_TdoRMcjFjc7Xg3zJPchCh0LWxA2QpA5xhjXH2bKTR7sdGz6rrJgqxkdX2dSdAtGoGHN_LxA/s1600/TA-DL-0188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSCPERv8trW7-hCRJj1GUmxP_irxhkrpH6QAW8Ou1OAH5UlfLpknHCbkkk8YzQUvh4LW_TdoRMcjFjc7Xg3zJPchCh0LWxA2QpA5xhjXH2bKTR7sdGz6rrJgqxkdX2dSdAtGoGHN_LxA/s320/TA-DL-0188.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYVOQErEeoGd2vdwz8vBrYGSIjB8aifOlT2bBwHtn-VpS4ZNBqjXEjBGA9dPIUg1sLXHeYM6cKtHq9LQJ9J7zRmj1G8A8tN6C8MWXCWNJws77eiayHy90kr0dlJlVqW9igrof45XhdVGI/s1600/TA-bw-pc-0206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYVOQErEeoGd2vdwz8vBrYGSIjB8aifOlT2bBwHtn-VpS4ZNBqjXEjBGA9dPIUg1sLXHeYM6cKtHq9LQJ9J7zRmj1G8A8tN6C8MWXCWNJws77eiayHy90kr0dlJlVqW9igrof45XhdVGI/s320/TA-bw-pc-0206.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDdolR6TgUdaO6IBn91IKkQ7SFTtcEMyHG15LDGZ0lODTnsoRFW_sS_Cvf-C-qMzNfRat2epdK6FLMlzSnq928aYp1Gn8ADgjOEKvW7Oo7E9x_Z3zTr5wefrWEPQK0gBG0SVztqHZRS8/s1600/TA-dlx2-0230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDdolR6TgUdaO6IBn91IKkQ7SFTtcEMyHG15LDGZ0lODTnsoRFW_sS_Cvf-C-qMzNfRat2epdK6FLMlzSnq928aYp1Gn8ADgjOEKvW7Oo7E9x_Z3zTr5wefrWEPQK0gBG0SVztqHZRS8/s320/TA-dlx2-0230.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomMv29P3CqApbexAc9D9ln8Z-k1ZOKm5FPFDGfpIE39O53udIEYeWaqP9wkOKfWU9xVR1IKXcb-YoI826Irl9S1CmBnfKw2J3-HI22YeuSKCGZxcPcWvlK-9j0taYoy90t22FVoz8e9c/s1600/TA-duplex-0272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomMv29P3CqApbexAc9D9ln8Z-k1ZOKm5FPFDGfpIE39O53udIEYeWaqP9wkOKfWU9xVR1IKXcb-YoI826Irl9S1CmBnfKw2J3-HI22YeuSKCGZxcPcWvlK-9j0taYoy90t22FVoz8e9c/s320/TA-duplex-0272.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0sHcsHUI0qwM36Vd4LEQHqjxoisAQ6r1XdiY_1YCVxDwRxfocV3FcnVj_dq43rPVMh_p7dC2cxm6rE1hTCJ81Of1GRfmenS3rB4l1hc1U1JidoCe1Cx62wXqp6x6dbKc_PV1oO0qqu-U/s1600/TA-bleach-0272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0sHcsHUI0qwM36Vd4LEQHqjxoisAQ6r1XdiY_1YCVxDwRxfocV3FcnVj_dq43rPVMh_p7dC2cxm6rE1hTCJ81Of1GRfmenS3rB4l1hc1U1JidoCe1Cx62wXqp6x6dbKc_PV1oO0qqu-U/s320/TA-bleach-0272.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBOFv2P9SdQ8tPpZtowr9ZIB1_FR75XR29zSIadclLp-ucZ-zixRVWfKlyXaUShzif9Dln85Yg9P69eGRmaZ_fvZ16IZgykA9LIdRO6kHr1e-WByaJKwPCC5YkunV2iYpL9irIgeEh2Y/s1600/ta-lasculpt-0288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBOFv2P9SdQ8tPpZtowr9ZIB1_FR75XR29zSIadclLp-ucZ-zixRVWfKlyXaUShzif9Dln85Yg9P69eGRmaZ_fvZ16IZgykA9LIdRO6kHr1e-WByaJKwPCC5YkunV2iYpL9irIgeEh2Y/s320/ta-lasculpt-0288.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-14188380704297011042012-08-21T12:02:00.002-04:002012-08-21T12:46:33.376-04:00Has it really been.....Has it really been three years since I posted here? I need to add an updated picture of the family, ASAP!<br />
<br />
<br />
I guess when you buy an old house to renovate, especially one that is in as bad as shape as ours was, you lose track of things. Well, we are slowly coming back! I just did a quick run through some "recent" posts and I can't believe how much everyone has changed! They are growing up fast! The baby is not a baby anymore. She is four! Also, I really had no idea how hard it is to teach someone to drive! Thank you my dearest for taking that over so I don't die of an early heart attack...Let's see, what else? Changing jobs, parental stress, etc we all have them....Anyway, those are my excuses. Time to get back to it!<br />
<br />
Plans for the future of this blog. I want to make this a complete family blog. Since they are all growing up, they will all take a part. I am going to have guest posters. These guest posters will be all of my family members. They will be able to pick a topic of choice and discuss it here. Of course, me being "Editor in Chief", I will keep watch and approve the topics (can you say teenagers?!?!?!) We will do experiments with monetizing without taking over the general character of the blog. The monetization efforts will go directly to an account that will service only the college fund of the kids. We need all of the help we can get there!<br />
<br />
I have taken on a couple of other projects also. I am on a mission to help fund all of the kids college expenses. So, I plan to be here at times, some other things will take over. Luckily, this is fun....<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7371659648165790613.post-32465298727248097432009-08-06T16:09:00.002-04:002009-08-06T16:11:49.441-04:00Training Camp!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sKFi-9TI1jEYj577Lps-VfUyYRoXnP-T3we04ML6Pa89oRVgHIXkt0ZGZsD_1ajjArZDOOEL5_moG5yq8-2prTS_61-p5qanOjzxMlIDFu043TvShxyU2xthKQJGBLnWG7FwZ1nJX7I/s1600-h/Res1_0109.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sKFi-9TI1jEYj577Lps-VfUyYRoXnP-T3we04ML6Pa89oRVgHIXkt0ZGZsD_1ajjArZDOOEL5_moG5yq8-2prTS_61-p5qanOjzxMlIDFu043TvShxyU2xthKQJGBLnWG7FwZ1nJX7I/s320/Res1_0109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366946007641485906" border="0" /></a><br />Nicolas and I had a great time at the evening practice last night. There was a huge crowd. Here is on of the shots from last night....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16397095710685611446noreply@blogger.com0