Gerald Kennedy
In between writing jobs Gerald designs and builds wood composite kayaks, canoes, and other small boats. His varied experiences and interests give him a rich and unique perspective from which to write.
Gerald has been a licensed general and electrical contractor, a small business owner, and provided commercial and industrial technical services.
Past avocations include motorcycles, custom cars, building and racing stock cars, prospecting, wild foods, designing and building small boats, custom woodwork and crafts, fishing, exploring, traveling, computers, reading, and writing.
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Gerald has been a licensed general and electrical contractor, a small business owner, and provided commercial and industrial technical services.
Past avocations include motorcycles, custom cars, building and racing stock cars, prospecting, wild foods, designing and building small boats, custom woodwork and crafts, fishing, exploring, traveling, computers, reading, and writing.
...
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- 9/30/2011
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Not enough, for no particular reason, for a long time...Interests
Life, money, history, politics, sports, home improvement, remodeling, alternative energy, green, cars, computers, Linux, tech, gardening, fishing, woodworking, metalworking, designing & building boats, marathon paddling, river trips, RVs.Motto
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Displaying Results 1 - 148 (of 148) for All Content
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Waterproofing for Phones, Cameras, and Other Electronic DevicesWaterproof coatings for electronic equipment at work, home and play. -
Concrete Floors for the Smart and Frugal Home OwnerIf you're looking for something to replace the dirty old carpet the answer might be laying beneath the carpet. Stained and dyed concrete can be beautiful and durable. Application is homeowner friendly. -
The How and Why of Rainwater Cisterns for the Progressive HomeownerThe bare basics of how and why you should consider a cistern and rainwater management for your next home project or new home. -
How and Why You Should Upgrade Your Nook Color to AndroidThe hard and easy way to change a Nook Color into an Android tablet. -
Environmentally-Friendly Toilets for Your Next Bathroom RemodelAlternative toilet systems are only for those who care enough to make the effort. Are you one of the special few?
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Everything You Need to Know for a Great Front Door Varnish JobWhen it's time to refinish or replace your front door a good varnish job will make it look great and last longer. This is how you do it. -
What's behind a quality paint jobRegardless of whether you paint your own home or hire someone to do it, this information should help you get a quality job. -
Productive Uses for Tablet ComputersThe tablet computer makes the transition from toy and social media device to a real production device.
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Concrete Projects for the Homeowner: What You Need to KnowThe basics for homeowner concrete projects. Take a little time to think this through. -
Learn How to Capsize Your Kayak or CanoePractice capsizing and your paddling trips will be fun, enjoyable and much safer. -
The Twentieth Ranked Dallas Cowboys Beat the First Ranked New York Giants: Fan ReactionNFL preseason rankings and predictions are written in smoke and mirrors. The Dallas Cowboys are magicians in the 2012 season opener.
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How to Use Hedges for Privacy and Sound ControlNoisy streets and crowded neighborhoods can be changed to mystical retreats with innovative hedges. -
Why Your Home Should Be Wired for AC and DC ElectricityA few thoughts about DC power for all homes. Maybe DC is not just for the alternative energy guys.
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Bitcoins as an Alternative to MoneyBitcoins are traded on the Internet for money, products and service. This article will either confuse you, whet your interest, or send you screaming to the nearest bank.
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A Confused Old Man's Guide to Online Movies, Videos and TVA guide to finding free and legal movies, videos and TV online. Not an exhaustive list but it will get you started.
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How to Change a Tire on a BandsawWhen your bandsaw blade slips or jumps the wheel you may need to change the tire. This is how I do it. -
Why Most People Should Use a Straight Blade Kayak PaddleThe kayak paddle is just as important as the boat you choose. Here are reasons why a straight blade paddle may be best for you. -
A Personal Revolution in Safety Razors: Do We Need All Those Blades?A cantankerous old man explores the razor business and offers advice.
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How Does Your State Compare in Energy Consumption?This great graphic can tell you where your state stands in per capita energy consumption.
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Do 2012 Olympic Referees Favor the United States? Fan ReactionDespite the great job by 2012 Olympic officials claims of favoritism still arise. The Lady Antrade "sucker Punch" is one of the latest controversies.
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The Dynamics of Watching Olympic Whitewater PaddlingOlympic whitewater paddling from the perspective of an interested fan.
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Eight Reasons to Prune Trees Around the HomeHere are eight good reasons why homeowners should prune trees around the home. -
Computer Monitors and TV Hardware: Where We've Been, Where We’re GoingA basic flight of fancy through the evolution of TV and computer monitor hardware and possible futures of the journey.
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Dry Bags and Boxes for Kayaks and CanoesReal world methods to keep stuff dry in your kayak or canoe. -
Riding a Bike for Exercise by an Old NeophyteThis is what happens when an older guy renews a relationship with a bicycle for exercise and fun. -
Stand Back! the Dallas Mavericks Make a Move: Fan ReactionThis is what the Dallas Mavericks have done on July 11.
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How to Choose the Right CanoeThis may help if you wonder how to choose a canoe, kayak or other small boat. -
Oscar Pistorious to Run in the 2012 Olympics: Fan ReactionDoes allowing Oscar Pistorious to run in the Olympics set precedence for future mechanically assisted Olympians?Also published on:
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First Thoughts About the New Microsoft Surface TabletI want a tablet, but haven’t found one that fits my needs. How does the Microsoft Surface stack up?
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Key Players in the 2012 Miami Heat Championship Win: Fan ReactionThe 2012 Miami Heat Win. The Thunder don’t. Teamwork is the reason.
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What You Need to Know to Install Drapes and CurtainsHere are a few things to know if you want a solid, trouble free curtain or drape installation.
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2012 Olympic Canoe Slalom: Rules and FormatOlympic rules are quite involved. This may help you understand a little bit more or at least point you in a direction where you can find more.
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2012 Olympic Canoe Slalom Ten Terms to KnowEven though we may not participate in a particular sport it's always nice to know what a few of the specialized terms mean. This should help out.Also published on:
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Tackle Boxes for Kayaks and CanoesIf you’ve ever wondered what kind of tackle box to use in a kayak or canoe this should help.
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How to Carve a Sculptured Foam Seat for Your Kayak or CanoeSculptured foam seats are the most comfortable you can have in a kayak or canoe. This is how you do it.
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Adventures in Trolling from a KayakThe hardest part of trolling from a kayak is understanding how effective it can be. This information should help you get started.
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What You Should Look for in a Kayak Seat and How You Can Improve ItSeats are one of the most important parts of a kayak and one of the most difficult to make comfortable. This is what you should expect from a seat and how you can make it better.
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How to Dry Lay Retaining Walls for Terraces and LandscapingDry laid retaining walls add beauty and utility at low cost. Here’s how you can do it yourself.
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How to Backup or Transfer Files from a Broken Laptop to a New OneIf you have a broken computer or loose hard drives this is how you can access data on them.
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Helmet Hats for Bicycle RidersWearing a bicycle helmet is not the only question. What do you want out of the helmet and where can you find one that fits your needs?
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Five Bicycle Touring Questions for the NewcomerBicycle touring or expedential travel is something I've been thinking about for awhile. I know nothing about it. I have questions and I'm loooking for answers.Also published on:
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Reasons for and Against a Kayak RudderWhen should you have a rudder on your kayak? Maybe this will help you decide.
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Use a Fast Retrieve for Reluctant Black BassMany good bass fishing techniques happen through perseverance and pure accident. This is how I learned a fast retrieve may work when nothing else does.
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Are Electronic Eyeglasses in Your Future?A single set of electronic eyeglasses that focus automatically should be a boon for millions of people wearing glasses.
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How and Why to Build Your Own ComputerThe biggest reason to build a computer today is the experience and satisfaction you get from such a project. You can meet special needs at reasonable costs. Here are the basics.
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Why is the Jobs Report Crucial to the Presidential Outcome?There are reasons why it doesn’t matter who is President. Congress and the Supreme Court are just two of them.
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A Tattoo that Continuously Monitors Blood Sugar for DiabeticsAn continuous blood sugar monitoring tattoo for people with diabetes is just around the corner. It’s as easy as watching the tattoo color change.
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How I installed a new metal roofNot your normal do-it-yourself home project. This is how and why I installed a metal roof.Also published on:
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Air Conditioning System Maintenance for the HomeownerA few low cost things homeowners can do to keep their air conditioning system working efficiently.
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The 2012 Texas Water SafariWhat does it take to be the world’s toughest boat race? You can find out at the Texas Water Safari.
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The Secret to Paddling a Kayak in the WindNew kayak paddlers often have trouble paddling in the wind. This is how an old paddler does it.Also published on:
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Why 75 Ultra Books Will Fail and Why They Are Still ImportantElectronic devices must serve a purpose or they fall by the wayside. This is why I think Ultrabooks and the MacBook Air will join netbooks and the old Commodore 64 as niche toys.
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Six Reasons Why a Kayak or Canoe May Be Right for YouHere are some positives and negatives about owning a kayak or canoe?Also published on:
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2012 Olympics Rowing Shell Competition FeaturesSome things you and I don’t know about Olympic rowing. We’re just scratching the surface.
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Maverick Studs and Duds in Narrow Escape at Portland: Fan ReactionCan we really tell which Mavericks players play well for a full game or does that flashy dunk or 3-pointer give us amnesia? Here's how I rate my studs and duds.
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Fan Reaction: Who Played Well in Mavericks Win Over the Warriors?Big plays can overshadow poor performance. Who played well in the Mavericks versus Warriors game?
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Dallas Mavericks Skip First Quarter Against Grizzlies: Fan ReactionRandom musings by a Mavericks fan after another loss. The “play three quarters” game plan is not working. Changes are needed.
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Dallas Mavericks Take a Quarter Off, Trail Blazers Don’t: Fan ReactionOnce again the Mavericks fail to show up in a crucial quarter. This time it bites’em. I hope somebody besides me is searching for a solution...
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A Kayak or Canoe Comparison for New PaddlersKayak paddling and fishing is so popular today that you may be faced with hundreds of choices. This should give you a little information on how to choose a kayak or canoe.
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Add Insulation to Your Attic or FloorWhat, why, and how does an old professional insulation installer do when he adds insulation to his own home? I’ll tell you.
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Basic Home Improvements that Can Save You MoneyHere’s a list of ways to save money with easy and efficient home improvements.
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Five Reasons for Remodeling or Adding on to Your HomeHere are a few good reasons for adding on or remodeling your home. As a bonus I add the real reason...
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How Do US Kayak and Canoe Paddlers Qualify for the 2012 Olympics?We sit back on a soft couch and watch Olympic paddlers bask in glory, but how did they qualify to be in the Olympics? I’m sure someone understands, but I’m still confused...
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What You Need to Know About Kayak Paddle Blade Shapes and SizesIf you ever wonder about kayak paddle shape and size this may help you.
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Roddy Beaubois Turns Part Pit Bull for Dallas Mavericks: Fan ReactionBeaubois shows his best effort in a win against the Washington Wizards. But he doesn’t play alone.
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A Fan Calls Out the Dallas MavericksA fan’s rant of frustration with the Dallas Mavericks play to date . Will they get it turned around?
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A 3D Printed Titanium Jawbone TransplantMetal Bone transplants of the future using a 3D printer are here today.
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3D Printers for the Home, Shop and HospitalWill 3D printers become as common as microwaves? Will they revolutionize the world?
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Where to Recycle Old TVs and ComputersThe proliferation of more advanced computers and TVs means we have to do something with the old ones. Recycle, reuse, or donate. Here are a few options.
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Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom BoatsWhat about slalom boats used by Olympic whitewater paddlers? How do they compare with a recreational boat?
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Buffalo Bayou Regatta in Houston, TexasThe fortieth annual running of the Buffalo Bayou Regatta is March 10, 2012. Here’s how you can participate.
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How to Choose the Right Length Kayak PaddleThere are a lot of methods used to choose the right length kayak paddle. I’ll tell you the only way I know that works.
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How to Add a Mantel to a FireplaceHere’s how to add character and beauty to an old fireplace with a simple box mantel.
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This May Be Why Your Fireplace Smokes in the HomeNobody needs to put up with smoke in the home from a fireplace. Here are a few things to look for.
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Does a Kayak or Paddle Come First?This is why a kayak comes first and what to consider when choosing your paddle.
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2012 Summer Olympics U.S. Rowing and Paddling Training FacilitiesIf you wonder where Olympic paddlers and rowers train for the 2012 Olympics this should help you out. Some of these facilities may be close enough for you to visit and get a first hand view.
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When Does Solar Energy Become Economically Feasible for You?When does solar energy make sense for you?
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Five Things to Do Before Summer Kayak SeasonGet the kayak or canoe ready for summer. Here’s a list of things you can do.Also published on:
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A Carbon Fiber Polymer Composite Car Fender as a BatteryImagine the roof of your car or the case of a tablet computer as the battery that powers the device. Kind of boggles the mind...
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What You Might Not Know About Pitching HorseshoesHorseshoe pitching from the barnyard to the World Championships.Also published on:
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The 2012 Summer Olympics Kayak, Canoe and Rowing Competition VenuesThe 2012 Summer Olympic paddling and rowing competition looks to be wide open with a few individual favorites but no clear cut national advantage. Here are the venues to keep your eye on.Also published on:
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Super Bowl XLVI Fan Perspective: The Game, Halftime, CommercialsA commercial extravaganza with a bit of sports and entertainment sprinkled in...Also published on:
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Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder Game Three Regular Season: Fan ReactionWith the 2012 regular season series between the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder series knotted at one and one the Mavericks come up short at home.Also published on:
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An Amazon River Paddling Expedition: The Amazon ExpressThis is the story of one man’s goal to paddle 4,225 miles from source to sea on the Amazon River.Also published on:
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Fan Reaction: Dallas Mavericks Win 101-100 in OT Against the San Antonio SpursLooking for the Dallas Mavericks to avenge the blow out on Jan. 5. We get anything but...Also published on:
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The Five Best Lures for Catching White BassWe all have favorite fishing lures. Here are my five favorite white bass lures.Also published on:
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Can Flexible Solar Cells Save the Bankrupt Kodak Company?Can Kodak stay in the big picture with thin film flexible solar panels? They are working with other companies to do just that. Will it work?
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Five Internet Connected Devices You Really NeedComputers and the Internet are changing the world. Which connected devices do you really need? Read on to find out.
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Spring is a Great Time for Exterior House PaintingThis is how to paint the exterior of your home or what you should expect if you hire a professional house painter.
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Fan Reaction: Dallas Mavericks Win at New Orleans with Nowitzki on the BenchWith Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks out due to "physical and conditioning issues" who stepped up in the game against the Hornets?Also published on:
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Now that Smart TVs Are Here What Do We Do with the Dumb Old TV?TV technology is advancing faster than we can buy it. How do we keep the old TV up to snuff?
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Products and Tech that Catch My Eye at CES 20122012 is shaping up to be an exciting year for technology. A few things in the news at CES are TVs, phones, tablets, and ultrabooks.
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Fan Reaction: Dallas Mavericks 5-5 After Win at Detroit PistonsThis is how the Dallas Mavericks have faired in the last week the Hornets and Pistons. A team coming together or do we still need parts to the puzzle?
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Rattlesnake in Your Bed: What Do You Do?Camping out and a rattlesnake crawls in bed with you. What do you do?
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The Raspberry Pi: Are We Ready for a $25 Computer?Take a look at a computer smaller than a deck of cards. Can credit card size computers be far behind?
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Ubuntu Linux New 'Concept Design' Coming Out at 2012 CESSomething new from Canonical. A tease, or reality? We’ll see a "new concept design" at CES in Las Vegas.
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Fan Perspective: the Dallas Mavericks Feel the San Antonio SpursThis is my fan perspective on the 1/5/12 Mavericks versus Spurs game. It’s not as pretty as I’d like. You can comment with your perspective.Also published on:
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Winter is the Time for Great CatfishingPeople who hang up the catfishing rod in the winter may be missing out on some fine fishing. This can help you catch winter catfish.Also published on:
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Five Businesses You Can Start With Little MoneyThere are endless small business opportunities that don’t cost a lot of money. Here is a basic list that should get you started in the right direction.
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Fan Reaction: Dallas Mavericks Against Oklahoman City Thunder Game TwoMost of us are fans of some team or the other. We vicariously experience the highs and lows of our teams throughout the season. Highs are best. This is what I though about game two between the Mavericks and Thunder.Also published on:
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Fan Reaction: Dallas Mavericks 0-3 After Loss to Oklahoma City ThunderTeam fans endure negative comments when their team has a bad run. Are the Dallas Mavericks really the worst champions since 1961? I don't think so...Also published on:
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After Two Blowouts Can the Dallas Mavericks Repeat as Champions?Dallas Mavericks fans need to take a deep breath and let the coaches and team work it out. They have the experience to get it done.Also published on:
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Texas Winter Freshwater Trout FishingTexas maintains an excellent winter trout stocking program. Here’s all you need to know to find those great Texas winter trout fishing spots.Also published on:
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Homeowner Options for Saving Money on Energy CostsHome energy costs are becoming like an elephant in the room. Hard to miss and very inconvenient. Here is a brief overview of options for any homeowner.
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New Mexico Ski Resorts for TexansWith no skiing in the great state of Texas residents must enjoy winter hospitality from neighboring states. Here are three great areas in New Mexico that offer skiing and more.Also published on:
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10 Indoor Sports or Activities for Those Who Don’t like the Winter ColdI love to hunt and fish and play in the snow as much as anyone, but sometimes I don’t want to get cold. Here are 10 activities that can keep you out of the cold.Also published on:
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Solar Heating With Aluminum Soda CansThere are many ways to use solar energy. Here is how one man does it with aluminum cans. A variation of this application may be just what you are looking for.
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Five Great Paddles for the Kayak PaddlerUnless you have a lot of experience paddling kayaks you may not know how to choose a good paddle. Here are five suggestions that should get you started.Also published on:
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A Fan Reaction to Albert Pujols’ $250 Million ContractThe median income in the US is $26 thousand a year. The national average wage index as used by Social Security is $41 thousand. Albert Pujols signed a new contract to play baseball for $254 million. What is your reaction to this? This is mine.Also published on:
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Winter Time Kayak or Canoe PaddlingIf you store paddles and kayak during the winter you’re missing half the paddling experience. Here are a things to consider before that grand winter water journey.
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Why My Tablet Is a Nook Color -- and What I’ll Buy NextWith the tablet market in a state of flux the best plan is to search for a tablet that fills a specific need. Such a purchasing plan serves me well. I’m satisfied with my tablet and have time to watch for the perfect upgrade.
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Personal Choices in the 2012 Presidential Race and WhyThe American people have never let facts and figures get in the way of making good, informed decisions. I’m not sure I’m any different. This is where I stand today on the presidential election.
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Top 10 Gifts for CampersCamping in style and comfort isn’t hard with the right equipment. Here are 10 great gifts for campers.
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Top 10 Gifts for FishermanAvid fishermen are very particular about the equipment they use. Here’s a list of 10 great options, but don’t let the list limit your possibilities.
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Top 10 Gifts for HikersHikers aren’t hard to buy for. Here is a list of 10 great hiking gifts to get you started.
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Five Great Christmas Gifts for the Kayak PaddlerHere’s a shopping list for those who don’t know what to buy a kayak paddler.
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Hot Trends in Mobile Technology TodayNothing affects our lives more than small, personal, portable devices like smart phones and tablets. Here’s what’s happening today in mobile wireless technology.
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Five Great Kayak Fishing Spots in Central TexasThe only way to catch fish is to go fishing. Here are five great central Texas kayak fishing spots.Also published on:
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Politics Around the Thanksgiving TableA family tradition of politics at the Thanksgiving table. This is how it goes.
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How I Started a Boat Design and Sales BusinessIf you’ve ever thought about starting a small business and being your own boss, some of my experiences may help. This is how I did it. It can work for you.
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How to Sharpen a Wood ChiselEverybody knows a sharp chisel is a safe chisel, but more importantly a sharp chisel does the job and cuts the frustration factor way down. Here’s a quick and easy way to sharpen a wood chisel.
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How to Have an Environmentally Friendly Christmas TreeThis is a novel way you can have a real green Christmas tree and enjoy it for many years after.
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A Weight Loss Program that WorksThis is a really simple, painless way to lose weight and keep it off.
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Dallas Cowboys’ Demarco Murray Showing Traits Shared by Great Running BacksDemarco Murray is showing us a few traits that you see only from many great running backs. Should this give Cowboy fans hope?
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Tim Tebow: The Case for an Unconventional NFL QuarterbackBronco fans clamor for Tim Tebow. Is he the quarterback of the future or will they regret riding this Bronco to the goal line? Can the Denver Broncos coaches meet the challenge?
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For the Home Tool Box: Wood ChiselsThis is what every homeowner needs to know about chisels for their home tool box.
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Fall Harvest Theme with Autumn Colors to Highlight Your Thanksgiving DayFall color schemes and a harvest theme that will enhance your Thanksgiving day of food and festivities. Give these a thought, or come up with your own.
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The Biggest Difference Between Windows and LinuxAfter seventeen years with Windows and twelve with Linux I will tell you what I've found to be the single biggest difference between the two operating systems.
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Clear 4G WiMAX Home Internet Service ReviewThe search for better internet service never ends. I’ll tell you how Clear rates with me after nearly a year.
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Five Adventurous Alternatives to Turkey for ThanksgivingTired of the same old turkey for Thanksgiving every year? Here are five great main dishes you can serve the family.
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The God and the InsectGods, struggles, and insects. Gotta be a moral there somewhere...
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Mountain LawA young orphan traveling with an old trapper in the Rocky Mountains of the 1800s learns his lessons well.
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How Many Commercials in an NFL Football Game?If you’ve ever wondered how many commercials there are in an NFL Football game this will be an eye opener.
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The Problems with Wind PowerWind power problems. What we can change and what we can’t.
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Who is Rick Perry?What do we know about the man, Rick Perry, who may be our next president?
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Does Viagra Work?This is very simple. If you have ED you want to know if Viagra will work. I can tell you enough so you'll know if it is an option you would like to explore.
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Texas Kayak Paddling TrailsIf you’re new to kayaks and river paddling you’re in for a treat in Texas. Live here, or just traveling through, it’s hard to beat the kayak paddling trips available. The Texas Paddling Trails are great day trips for paddling, exploring, and fishing.
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The Dallas Cowboys Top Five Game-winning PlaysThe Dallas Cowboys have had more than their share of thrilling game winning plays.
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Choosing Your First KayakPurchasing your first kayak can be an exciting and enjoyable experience. Choose the right kayak and you’ll have a nice boat you can use for years. Here are a few things that will help you make a better choice.
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Color Nook One Year User ReviewThis is what I can tell you after using the Color Nook for one year.
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Dallas Cowboys Demarco Murray Runs Through a Perfect StormMurray’s 253 yard romp is a Dallas Cowboy’s franchise record
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The Five Worst Moments in Dallas Cowboy HistoryFive worst moments in Dallas Cowboy history that stick in my mind.
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New Rods and ReelsThe spinning reel guy gives bait casting reels another try--after more than 50 years. An easy transition--or not? You be the judge.
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Computer Power Protection with a UPSThe difference between surge suppression and an uninterruptible power supply and the reasons why you should consider the UPS.
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Homemade Prickly Pear JellyDelicious jelly made from prickly pear cactus fruit
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Home Energy AlternativesA general article on alternative energy production for the inquisitive do it yourself homeowner.
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MirageMaybe the reason most of us don't see aliens is because they can manipulate our minds. Maybe the illusion doesn't work so well with some people. Maybe when you stay out in the sun too long you will also see sand dunes fly. Don't ask me. I saw nothing!
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Fix the Falling Towel BarBasic reasons a towel bar can fall, or pull away from the wall, and a few cures.