reading

Seven Year Itch?

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Six years, eleven months, three weeks and six days. A total of 2556 days of daily blogging.

Tomorrow is the seven year anniversary of writing each and every day. EVERY SINGLE DAY I WRiTE A BLOG ENTRY. I love sharing stories and narratives of my life. Throw in an opinion or two- and my readers have had a chance to learn all about me.

I have had a great time writing all of my tales. I honestly can’t believe that the only thing driving me to write is because I want to. Had I been writing a novel each and every day, I’d probably be published by now or completely heartbroken from rejection. Hence why I just write about my life. I like what has gone on and am proud of my adventures- from menial to epic. Whatever the case may be, I have never felt dejected from my writing. Even if it feels like no one is reading.

I wonder how much more writing I have in me. I wonder if I stopped would I feel regret or would I feel relief? Only time will tell if I end this journey. I mean honestly, have I approached the Seven Year Itch now? Who knows. Even I’m not sure. But if I do stop, I’ll let you know ahead of time as a courtesy to say farewell.

Comic Strip Orange Cats

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Back in the 80’s and early 90’s, I had a book collection of comic strips. It started with the original fat cat- Garfield. This was a good way to get me into reading at a young age.

All through elementary school I obsessed about Garfield. I had all the books that had come out at the time. I also had a dozen or so bookmarks and numerous t-shirts with the cat and some sort of catchphrase on them. Before Garfield had a regular tv show, there was a Halloween special that I had recorded off the tv and watched numerous times, memorizing every word.

Then came a new obsession- Calvin and Hobbes. Some of the greatest adventures and imaginative storytelling ever. Again I bought the books which were filled with a collection of comic strips and Saturday funnies. The relatability of the characters and their escapades were unrivaled to any other comics at the time. At one point in my life, I could relate to the father!

As I grew up, my humor changed and I started to see more of the real world portrayed in the daily newspaper comics. Bloom County had some great satire with slapstick tossed in. Bill the Cat was ridiculous and fun. My binders in high school were filled with doodles of Bill and his infamous THBBFT.

Eventually, my comic strip books were given away. But when I married my wife, her collection of the same Calvin and Hobbes books brought me a renewed joy. I knew I met the right woman for me. I re-read the books at a time when our kids were little and their imaginations were running wild. It helped in my parenting by remembering that fun is an important learning tool.

Thank you to the artists out there who made these comic strip cats a big part of my life.

X-rays And Relaxing

Posted on by Josef Havelka

As I have mentioned I have had some severe back pain as of late. It has been building up for a while now. I finally had a doctor’s appointment and his recommendation was to get X-rays done.

I chose to go to the lab as soon as it opened today. I was the first person there, and was in and out within half an hour. The technician took images of my hip, lower back and upper back. It was extremely uncomfortable to contort on the flat slab for the X-rays to take place. Once it was done I headed to my car and sat there for a bit with my seat warmer on to help the lower back pain. Now I await results.

When I got home, I took the afternoon to myself. I put on my noise canceling headphones and listened to my music while farting around on the computer. The family headed out for the regular Friday night speed skating practice, I chose to run a bath. Listening to some Enya, reading a book, and drinking some wine will help to relax me a bit more.

Welcome to your mid-forties Josef.

The Bedroom: A Comfortable Reading Spot

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I have been enjoying reading once more. Now that we are essentially settled into our new home (almost FIVE months), I am finding comfort zones. Our home is starting to feel more cozy by the day… And not just because of our Christmas decorations.

When I read, generally it’s in bed right before I go to sleep. Right before we moved we had an ENDY mattress delivered. I can’t believe that my sleep has improved so much over these past few months. This was probably the best investment in our health ever made. What ends up happening however, is that I fall asleep very easily about a dozen pages into my book.

On the other side of our master bedroom is a little sitting nook by the balcony doors. I have sat here numerous times on Zoom calls and to read. My wife has also utilized this spot. It is a perfect setting for relaxing and daydreaming. Getting lost in the fantasy world of a good novel is throughly enjoyed.

Our family members each have spots that they enjoy as well. Obviously the teenagers favor their bedrooms. But I am doing the same. Your bedroom is a place of solitude where you can feel at peace. It’s the great location to read a book.

Do you read in bed? Or do you have a favorite spot that you find comfortable? Let me know in the comments.

Deteriorating Joe

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I know I was complaining yesterday about my joints and pains. Today I realized I have hit another stage of growing older. And it wasn’t my hearing like I thought it was going to be because of the loud music and my work environment. Nope, it’s my eyesight.

I was unable to read the writing on the yellow part of this label. My wife gave me her reading glasses, and voila- clear as crystal. It’s odd because I could read the part above with a bit of strain, but accurately without hesitation.

Naturally, I went on my phone to search up signs of aging and stuff like that. Here’s what I found:

  • Your Heart Works Harder.
  • Your Skin Feels Different.
  • You Find It Harder to See and Hear.
  • Your Teeth and Gums Change.
  • Your Bones Become More Brittle.
  • Going to the Bathroom.
  • It’s Harder Getting Around or Staying Strong.

I stopped consuming alcohol last August because I could feel my heart working harder than ever. By October I felt normal. But the last month or so I have noticed my heartbeats being erratic once more. And with the aches creeping in more, and today’s realization that my eyesight is going to diminish, I’m feeling a bit down.

I always knew that I’d grow old. That’s just what happens. I’ve already been enjoying trimming nose and ear hairs as I watch my hairline recede. Getting a scratch or bruise? Might as well watch it heal at a snails pace. On normal days where I don’t work nights? Bedtime is before nine pm.

So yeah, my body is getting decrepit. Since the day I was born, it was a downhill slope leading to eventual destruction. Just like everyone else. What to do about it? Besides complaining (which I kind of enjoy) or comparing it to other people’s ailments- I think it’s best to IGNORE it.

I meant, work out. Exercise. Read more. Eat healthier. Look after myself. I kind of like my life and friends and family. It’d be nice to see them for a while longer. Or I can hope that technology catches up soon and I can be part robotic.

Anyhow, maybe next time I get my eyesight checked I’ll look at the possibility of getting reading glasses. Until then- I’ll use the technology available to me now. My iPhone can zoom in on the directions for me. Who needs glasses?

Good Omens

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Back in the mid-nineties, my girlfriend’s brother gave me a book- “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. This novel introduced me to the fantastic and humorous imitations of two of my favorite authors. I became a lifelong fan.

I have kept my paperback version of the novel and over the past few months, two of my three children have read the book. Both loved it so much that they have asked me for more book recommendations. I guess dad isn’t out of touch with good writing.

I have decided to pick up the book and read through it again. There are only a handful of novels that I am willing to pick up numerous times- this is one of them. This will be my fourth or fifth time reading it. I’m looking forward to it.

I’m hoping to finish it before Friday. Amazon Prime has created the novel into a six part show. 20 Years ago, a friend of mine and I used to discuss which books we’d love to see made into films- this is one of them. I’m excited to see it finally come to fruition and hope to be satisfied with the results.

With Queen being used as the soundtrack to the ads- how could it possibly be bad?

Good First Day Of 2019

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I had a good start to 2019. I woke up. Always a great way to begin any day.

Then I went to work. Which means I have a job that helps keep my family clothed and fed.

I finished reading a book. I love Felicia Day. She’s like my celebrity crush- sort of. More like a really cool friend crush. The kind where we could hang out and play Munchkin and then not talk for months. Anyways, I digress. I finished her autobiography. I also miss reading. Time to pick up more books.

I also played some old school video games. On a system I wasn’t going to buy. But it was a total impulse purchase just before Christmas. And I had fun playing the Super Nintendo games again.

Afterwards, we enjoyed a cheese fondue dinner as a family. We try and have it every New Year’s Day.

To end the day- I watched some tv with the family before bed. We watched some “Community” and “Parks and Rec” pointing out other shows that we recognize the actors from.

It was a good start to the year. I hope to have many more days like this.

Poetry

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I need to read more poetry in my life.

Well written, upbeat poetry. Not the dark and gloomy style that seems to be prevalent everywhere. I don’t need to have the sense of a storm cloud hovering over me as I read. That being said, I am fond Edgar Allan Poe.

I’m looking for some good poets to be recommended. If you know of any, let me know- I’d love to read some.

But I don’t like picking up books entitled “The Complete Works Of…” That means everything: good and bad. And bad can be bad; or bad poetry can be humorous in its own way.

That can be fun, especially when the author isn’t intending it to be.

Two Years of Daily Musings

Posted on by Josef Havelka

January 18, 2016 I began this blog. I’ve written one post every single day. It’s my baby and I’m proud of myself. Last year I wrote about My One Year Blogaversary. I thought that was special. But today is doubly as good.

Another year of stories with more positive thoughts than negative ones written. More shares, likes and follows from old friends and new ones. A couple of days ago, I surpassed 100 followers on WordPress. (Yay!) The majority of whom are folks I’ve never met in person. None of them trying to trade “A like for a like” which is respectable. If someone new follows me, I will read a few of their stories. Many times I end up following them. I’ve enjoyed the conversation and feedback through these interactions with complete strangers as well.

Twenty years ago, a friend of mine once said “Constant observation of myself has made me what I am today.” That phrase stuck with me as I moved forward in life. I often forgot to look back. Over the past two years of reflection and memories, I have re-discovered who I am:

I’m just a guy Making It Up As I Go.

Read a Book?

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I am adamant about writing my blog every day.  I enjoy it.  It’s an hour or so of just unwinding and clearing my head.  Sometimes it’s an idea that I had months ago and have just come back to it.  Sometimes it’s the experience of the day prior or a long distant memory.  Today, nothing.

Not that I don’t have stuff to write about.  Far from it.  But my internal inspiration is all busted up.  Or rather just uninspired.  And I realized what it is.  Too much screen time.  


Yes I said it.  The same guy who, over thirty years ago, had a tv in his bedroom from age eleven.  The very same guy who had to buy a first generation video iPod but now uses his cellphone for far better videos. The same guy who used to spend countless hours watching YouTube video clips.  That same fellow has realized that I need to cut back on my screen time.

I need to pick up a book and read it.  From cover to cover.  I need to feel the pages on my fingertips.  I need to re-read a paragraph because my mind wandered even though my eyes and brain read what was written. I need to re-read a paragraph because my mind wandered even though my eyes and brain read what was written. Yes, I’m a doofus and that was intentional.


I used to read all the time.  I loved it.  But because of my obsession with technology and shiny things, books have fallen by the wayside.  My wife has pointed out that we tend to go to bed and have Netflix running as a sleep inducer.  That’s not good.  I miss reading.  Goal for this summer is now to finish 4-5 novels.  Perhaps I will open up one of my old Stephen King or Michael Crighton novels to get my going.  Or Neil Gaiman.  Something besides tv.  

With that, I am off to bed now.  Hopefully with a good book & not giving into the temptation of the easy way out.  Oh look! The tv remote is on my side of the bed…

WordPress 200

Posted on by Josef Havelka


I’ve been enjoying using WordPress for a few months now.  It’s fairly easy to use for a beginner such as myself.  Wordpress offers a convenient app that I use 90% of the time.  This is mostly due to the fact that my cellphone is hardly ever out of my reach.  It’s great to be able to pull out my iPhone, jot a quick draft, save it and set it aside.  I like the PC as well when I’m trying to edit a more important (to me) piece.  I am impressed with being able to save on the mobile app and crossover to the PC and vice verse.  The save is almost instant allowing for me to switch over with ease.


It started slowly, but I am receiving more badges for my accomplishments and that’s very encouraging.  I’ve also been receiving feedback and compliments from other blog writers.  These strangers, out of the kindness of their hearts, take the time to read and respond to my musings.  It’s a wonderful feeling to be welcomed into this online universe of creativity.  After a “Like” or comment by a fellow blogger, I usually take the time to read what they have written on their blogs.  This has drawn me to many subjects and ideas that I otherwise would have overlooked in my daily life.  Making my internet browsing a more fun adventure these days.  Like getting sucked down the rabbit hole…


Wordpress has many more features available that I can utilize.  I have only really used the basics- write a post add an image or two and maybe a website link.  This week, I am going to try a few more features and hope that they work in my favor.  If not at least I can write movie quotes and post pictures for my own enjoyment.  


Thanks again to all who follow me and have left me feedback.  I feel like I don’t say that enough.  I even have a Facebook page all to myself where I share these blog posts and the occasional image or link to other bloggers.  Feel free to “Like” that page as well for up to date musings: Josef A. Havelka

Reading because of writing

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I began writing again about three weeks ago.  It brought back a flurry of emotions and ideas which I wanted to share with the world.  It also renewed in me a love for reading.  A couple of days ago I picked up a new book, opened it up, cracked the spine, and began indulging in its filling.  It’s delicious to be reading again- it feels like it’s been far too long.

 


I enjoy reading sci-fi (not pronounced skif-fee as I remember hearing it at a writer’s conference from a person who had no idea what Science Fiction was.  WTF?) and I recently started a novel titled: “Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline.  We received this book from Lootcrate (use promo code SAVE10 for 10% off if you want to join).  We’ve been Looters since it began a few years ago, trust me- it’s awesome.  So much good geeky merchandise now fill my home and bring me joy.  Anyhow, this book is well written and I don’t want it to end.  It has a perfect blend of futuristic ideas and retro pop culture references.

However, my favorite genre has to be biographies/autobiographies.  I enjoy reading about the lives of people and the stories they wish to share.  It brings them to a down-to-earth level that we can relate to.  The struggles, the hurdles, & the obstacles they overcame to get where they are today (or were in past tense, as the case may be).  It all started when I read Mankind: Have A Nice Day! Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks back in 1999.  I was really into WWE at the time, and it was a fun way to become a part of the fandom.  I’ve also had an opportunity last year to see Mick Foley at Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo do a panel where he shared more about his life.  He is a very humorous man and quite the story teller.

 

There’s actually books on these bookshelves!

 
Besides reading “Ready Player One“, I am also in the middle of reading NPH’s “Choose Your Own Autobiography“.  It’s written in a way that you can read it from cover to cover or by choosing the next path in his life, as the title indicates.  It’s an interesting idea with a throwback to the 80’s books of the same style.  Choose Your Own Adventure was one of my favorite series growing up.  It was like a mix of reading and role playing games rolled into one.  As a child, it felt like I had control of what happened next to the characters.  These books had excellent re-reading ability that I haven’t seen since.

The biography about Steve Jobs simply entitled “Steve Jobs” is a fantastic look into the life of one of the world’s most influential men of our time.  Most people know who he is, so I won’t go into any depth or detail about it.  I read it a couple years back and will probably pick it up again some day and re-read it.

Another great biography that I’d recommend is Steve Martin’s Born Standing Up.  Not only is he a great comedian, but he also plays a mean banjo, so pick up his album “The Crow”.  It’s not a comedy album, but rather a bluegrass style in collaboration with some other great country artists.

Perhaps it’s my enjoyment of these biographies that has inspired my writing style as of late.  Most of my posts are about me and my thoughts.  This allows me to share with the world who I am in a way that makes the most sense to me.

The old adage is “write what you know”.

I know about me- now you can too.