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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: Epoch Ch4 Good vs Evil

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Tuesday, April 15, 2014. Epoch Ch4 Good vs Evil. Among all the millions of inhabitants sharing planet earth, humans are the only species capable of spirituality. Even those who proclaim themselves agnostic exercise a measure of spirituality. Spirituality is not falling on your knees and praying to a supernatural deity whose existence you accept on faith alone. Sharks, lions, and eagles do not pray. As I previously pointed out, their existence revolves around food and procreation. Allow me to better illus...

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: March 2014

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Friday, March 28, 2014. Happy Birthday My Two Flags. When an athlete reaches the home stretch, the blood pumps harder, the heart beats faster, and every fiber pushes to the limit in order to cross that goal line. In one of the chapters, the first line reads "What a difference a year makes." Glancing at the clock on the lower right corner of my screen, I caught sight of the date. One year has passed since publishing a novel that took me over two decades to write. My Two Flags. Several 100 page composition...

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: 9/11 Tribute from THE GAZE

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Monday, September 10, 2012. 9/11 Tribute from THE GAZE. Here's that tribute, in the words of Samantha Reddick during a conversation with Tony Amaya. 8220;Tuesday, September 11th,” Tony said slowly, looking up from his notes. 8220;September 11th.” I echoed, vividly remembering entering the appointment into my planner. I even drew a smiley face next to the date. A lump formed in my throat. 8220;I’m sorry, Sam.”. 8220;I’m not sure,” he said, his brow furrowed in thought. 8220;Would you like to tell me more?

homeandhearhtcornerbypaul.blogspot.com

The Home and Hearth Corner: Flue Season

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Tuesday, September 17, 2013. If you own a wood stove or a fireplace, as soon as August's warmth vanishes in favor of September's cool winds, you know it's time to get that wood pile ready for the burning season. Nothing is better than a roaring fire on a cold autumn night as the background for family game night or to curl up with a good book. Something else is just around the corner, not nearly as pleasant as wood fires. You see the signs everywhere, particularly at pharmacies: Flu Shots Available. Think...

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: September 2014

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Tuesday, September 16, 2014. At 5am I started the engine, took a deep breath, and drove to my new life. Without the usual rush on I-95, I set the cruise control and thought back on long gone days when I made my way to my old job in Pennsylvania. Not in the least. Neither was the thought of breathing billowing clouds of dust and smoke or enduring headaches from the ungodly roar of the electric furnace and the flashes of light that rendered me unable to face a sunny day without the protection of sunglasses.

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: Gwen (an Interview)

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012. Western Pennsylvania offers a serene setting in the fall. Mild temperatures and brisk winds bring with them shorter, but cooler days. The small town of New Engburgh is picturesque enough to bespeak of the Pennsylvania of old, yet sprinkled with enough modern touches thanks to the evolution of the local college. I'm on my way to talk to the one and only Gwen Amaya, one of the memorable characters from my two novels, THE GAZE. And THE NEXT CHAPTER. Well, I guess you'd like to ...

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: D DAY

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Thursday, June 7, 2012. June 6, 1944. I had to date this letter a day later because it may be the last time I can write to you. I already gave Mom the 'don't worry' letter, but man to man, Dad, I've never been more scared in my life. Remember when that old owl chased me in the barn at night? I was seven, and you ran in there, shotgun in hand, and saved me from its talons. I always wanted to know what that felt like. What did it feel like to be a hero? Sarge kept asking us, what would we do if this was ha...

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Out of the Mind of Javier A. Robayo: In Honor of Flag Day

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Thursday, June 14, 2012. In Honor of Flag Day. Author's note: I thought it appropriate to share this excerpt from the upcoming. In honor of our Star Spangled Banner. We land in JFK at midnight. Two hours later, our visas are checked and signed. 8220;Welcome to America, Mrs. Amaya,” the lady behind the counter says, handing over our documents. 8220; Muchas gracias. 8221; Mom’s eyes turn liquid as she thanks her. 8220;Today is your dad’s birthday,” she reminds us. 8220;Why is it so hot? Ahead of us, on the...

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The Home and Hearth Corner: The power went out but...is it safe to use the fireplace?

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Saturday, March 7, 2015. The power went out but.is it safe to use the fireplace? During a heavy snow storm, the power went out. Our furnace went silent and the temperature immediately dropped. Like everything else, our winters are evolving. Whether it's climate change or something cyclical, winter has become colder and snowier. This year in particular not only have the temperatures dropped so drastically, but many of us have been stunned by consecutive snow storms that make life less than fun. The other ...

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The Home and Hearth Corner: Chimney Safety FAQs

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Friday, January 31, 2014. How often should chimneys be serviced? According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”. Any presence of glazed creosote requires immediate evaluation and servicing in order to prevent chimney fires, which are capable of damaging the chimney, spreading to the home. Stay away fro...