Here is the complete collection of all of the Crazy Dating Stories books in one anthology. If you like reading about true stories about dates from hell, then you’re in for a treat. I dare you not to laugh at these insane tales from my life in the dating world over the last 30 years.
Sometimes funny, sometimes stomach-churning, it’s all here in its uncensored glory for your reading pleasure! You’ve been warned!
In “CRAZY DATING STORIES,” embark on a rollercoaster journey through the unpredictable landscape of modern romance. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of hilarious mishaps, unexpected connections, and jaw-dropping encounters that will leave you laughing, cringing, and nodding in empathetic understanding.
As our intrepid author navigates the wild world of dating, you’ll find yourself immersed in tales of comical misunderstandings, awkward encounters, and heartwarming moments of connection. From disastrous blind dates to unexpected serendipity, these stories will have you questioning the very nature of love and human connection. But “CRAZY DATING STORIES” isn’t just about the misadventures; it’s a journey of self-discovery.
Along the way, you’ll witness our author’s growth, resilience, and the enduring hope that keeps them diving headfirst into the dating pool, no matter how many curveballs life throws their way.
So, prepare to laugh, gasp, and perhaps even shed a tear as you delve into the pages of this candid, entertaining, and ultimately heartwarming collection of dating escapades. “CRAZY DATING STORIES” is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who dare to seek love in the face of chaos.
You can get it here:
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Thanks to the brave souls who bought this hilarious book!
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In the shadows of my past, I once grappled with a vampiric bloodlust, an insatiable craving for the twin elixirs of alcohol and the transient thrill of youthful female company. It was a curse that enveloped my existence, casting a long and haunting shadow over the years. However, as dawn breaks on a new chapter, I find myself liberated from those chains, the vampiric allure fading into insignificance.
For far too long, I danced on the precipice of a hedonistic existence, drawn to the ephemeral euphoria that the pairing of alcohol and youthful exuberance seemed to promise. The allure of the night held me in its tight embrace, and I, like a vampire seeking sustenance, pursued my desires relentlessly.
Yet, a silent battle is waged within the depths of this nocturnal existence. The more I indulged, the more the vampiric cravings grew, gnawing at the edges of my sanity. It was a cycle of self-destruction, a dance with shadows that threatened to consume the very essence of who I was.
Then came a moment of clarity, a realization that the pursuit of ephemeral pleasure was robbing me of lasting peace. I stood at a crossroads, faced with a choice between the intoxicating allure of the night and the serene embrace of inner tranquility. At that moment, I chose peace.
Breaking free from the vampiric bloodlust was not a sudden vanquishing of demons; rather, it was a gradual shedding of layers that no longer served my highest self. The allure of alcohol lost its grip, and the quest for youthful companionship waned as I discovered the richness of solitude and self-reflection.
The curse lifted, and with it, a newfound clarity emerged. Sobriety became my ally, and the pursuit of genuine connections took precedence over the transient thrill of the night. In choosing peace over euphoria, I unearthed a reservoir of strength within myself that I never knew existed.
My life once ensnared in the web of vampiric desires, now unfolds with a simplicity that brings joy to my soul. The cacophony of the night has been replaced by the quietude of self-discovery, and the need for external validations has given way to a profound sense of inner contentment.
As the vampiric cravings fade into the recesses of memory, I find solace in the peace that accompanies this newfound chapter. The journey from bloodlust to tranquility is a personal triumph and a testament to the transformative power of choice.
In sharing this narrative, I hope to inspire others in similar struggles. There is strength in choosing a path aligned with inner peace, and liberation awaits those brave enough to break free from the vampiric chains that bind them. May the dawn of a new day bring with it the promise of healing, self-discovery, and lasting peace.
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In the quest for a long and fulfilling life, we often focus on diet and exercise, and rightly so. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for maintaining good health. However, there’s more to longevity than just what you eat and how much you move. In this blog post, we’ll explore the often-overlooked factors that contribute to a long and vibrant life: human interaction, fulfilling work, and the importance of family and friends as a sense of community.
The Power of Human Interaction
1. Staying Socially Connected: Human beings are social creatures, and our well-being is intricately linked to our interactions with others. Strong social connections can lead to a longer and healthier life. Whether it’s spending time with friends and family, participating in group activities, or volunteering in your community, maintaining relationships and connections is a key factor in longevity.
2. A Sense of Community: Beyond individual relationships, a sense of community can provide a network of support and belonging. Knowing that you are part of something larger, whether it’s your neighborhood, a shared interest group, or a close-knit community, can offer a profound sense of unity and purpose.
The Importance of Family and Friends
1. Lifelong Bonds: The bonds we share with our family and friends are often some of the most enduring relationships in our lives. These connections offer emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Nurturing these bonds can contribute to a happier and longer life.
2. Shared Experiences: Family and friends provide opportunities to share experiences, both the joys and the challenges. These shared moments create lasting memories and strengthen the sense of community. Whether celebrating achievements or offering a shoulder to lean on during tough times, these shared experiences enhance our well-being.
The Role of Fulfilling Work
1. Mental Stimulation: Staying mentally active is crucial as we age. Engaging in work that challenges your mind and creativity keeps your cognitive functions sharp. Whether it’s pursuing a career, engaging in a hobby, or working on a personal project, stimulating your brain is an essential component of a long and healthy life.
2. Feeling Needed: Knowing that your work or contributions are valued and needed can provide a strong sense of purpose. Feeling needed is a powerful motivator, and it encourages individuals to stay active, both physically and mentally. The satisfaction of being essential to a group, project, or cause can have a profound impact on longevity.
Living in the Present
Staying present in the moment and appreciating the here and now is another key element in the quest for a long life. Engage in mindfulness practices, and meditation, or simply take a moment each day to savor the beauty and experiences around you. Stress reduction and a positive outlook on life have been linked to increased longevity.
A Glass of Wine, in Moderation
It’s no secret that enjoying a glass of wine can be a delightful and relaxing experience. In moderation, wine may even offer some health benefits, such as heart health and stress reduction. While it’s essential to be mindful of alcohol consumption, a little indulgence can indeed add to the quality of life.
Conclusion
In the pursuit of a long and fulfilling life, remember that diet and exercise are just part of the equation. Embrace human interaction, cultivate a sense of purpose, and stay mentally and emotionally engaged with the world around you. By living in the present, feeling needed, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures within a community of family and friends, you can unlock the secrets to a healthier and more joyful journey on this remarkable planet. And yes, a glass of wine in good company can be the perfect finishing touch to a life well-lived.
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In the grand theater of life, there seem to be two distinct roles: the survivors of the wild and the inhabitants of the zoo. For much of my existence, I found myself trapped in the latter category, living a life confined within the boundaries of routine and predictability. Day in and day out, I roamed the well-trodden paths of the zoo, following the same patterns, performing the same tasks, and interacting with the same characters. It was comfortable, it was familiar, but deep down, I knew I was meant for something more.
Like a caged bird yearning for the open sky, I harbored an innate desire to break free from the confines of my surroundings and explore the untamed wilderness beyond. The call of the wild beckoned to me, urging me to venture into uncharted territory, to test my mettle against the forces of nature, and to discover the true extent of my capabilities.
Several years ago, fueled by a burning desire for change and a thirst for adventure, I made the daring decision to leave behind the safety and security of the zoo and embark on a journey into the unknown. It was a leap of faith, a leap into the great unknown, but it was a leap that I knew I had to take.
As I stepped out into the vast expanse of the wild, I felt a surge of exhilaration coursing through my veins. Every step I took, every breath I drew, was a testament to my newfound freedom and resilience. In the wild, there were no safety nets, no rules to follow, and no limits to what I could achieve. It was a place where survival depended not on conformity, but on adaptability, resourcefulness, and sheer determination.
Today, as I look back on my journey from the confines of the zoo to the boundless expanse of the wild, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and accomplishment. I may have started as an inhabitant of the zoo, but I have emerged as a survivor of the wild – a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each and every one of us.
So, to all those who find themselves trapped in the cages of conformity and routine, I urge you to listen to the call of the wild echoing deep within your soul. Break free from the shackles of the familiar, embrace the unknown, and discover the untapped potential that lies dormant within you. For in the wilderness of life, it is not the zoo dwellers who thrive, but the brave souls who dare to roam free.
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In the vast tapestry of beliefs and speculation about the return of Jesus Christ, what if the much-anticipated moment has already transpired, and we simply failed to recognize it? What if the embodiment of divine love and compassion walked among us, not in grandiosity, but in the gentle demeanor of Mr. Rogers from the beloved children’s program, “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood”?
It’s an intriguing thought, one that invites us to consider the possibility that the Second Coming might not have been the grand spectacle we imagined. Instead, it unfolded quietly, with a soft-spoken man who invited us into his neighborhood, adorned in a cardigan and always ready to offer words of wisdom and comfort.
Fred Rogers, the creator and host of “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood,” left an indelible mark on generations of viewers. His teachings transcended the television screen, imparting invaluable life lessons that extended far beyond the realm of make-believe. Could it be that his gentle presence was a divine incarnation, a modern-day manifestation of love and kindness?
In the timeless teachings of Jesus Christ, messages of love, forgiveness, and compassion resonated. Similarly, Mr. Rogers’ philosophy centered around the importance of empathy, understanding, and embracing the inherent value of every individual. His simple acts of kindness and his commitment to fostering a sense of community mirrored the teachings attributed to the Messiah.
Consider the parallels: both figures embraced children, recognizing their purity and potential. Both encouraged us to be kind to our neighbors and to cultivate a sense of understanding. Both sought to create a space where everyone felt valued and loved. If we contemplate this notion, the divine essence of Jesus could have seamlessly intertwined with the essence of Mr. Rogers, leaving a legacy of love that continues to reverberate in the hearts of those who encountered his teachings.
The thought that the Second Coming was a gentle arrival, wrapped in the persona of a mild-mannered television host, challenges our preconceived notions of grandiosity. It nudges us to reflect on the true essence of divine love—simple, accessible, and present in the everyday moments of life.
So, the next time you revisit the neighborhood, remember that the divine might have been walking among us all along, imparting lessons of love, compassion, and the importance of being a good neighbor. After all, in the quiet wisdom of Mr. Rogers, we might find echoes of a timeless message that transcends the boundaries of space and time.
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Happy Easter
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In the celestial realm of space exploration, certain names resonate as unsung heroes who paved the way for groundbreaking achievements. Among these luminaries is Margaret Hamilton, a trailblazing figure whose contributions as NASA’s lead software engineer played a pivotal role in shaping the course of human spaceflight.
Early Years and the Dawn of the Digital Age
Margaret Hamilton, born on August 17, 1936, entered the world at a time when the digital frontier was just beginning to reveal its vast potential. Her early fascination with mathematics and logic laid the foundation for a career that would see her become a driving force behind some of NASA’s most iconic missions.
Apollo Software Engineering: A Giant Leap
Hamilton’s journey into the space arena began in the 1960s when she joined the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Instrumentation Laboratory, which later became part of Draper. Her role was instrumental in developing the software for the Apollo missions, including the historic Apollo 11 that landed the first humans on the moon.
The Apollo Guidance Computer: A Marvel of Innovation
One of Hamilton’s crowning achievements was her work on the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC). As the lead software engineer, she and her team designed the software that controlled the spacecraft’s guidance and navigation systems. The AGC’s flawless performance during critical moments, including the lunar descent, showcased the precision and ingenuity of Hamilton’s groundbreaking work.
Coining the Term “Software Engineering”
Margaret Hamilton’s visionary approach to software development led her to coin the term “software engineering.” She recognized the need for a disciplined and systematic approach to software design, setting a standard that continues to influence the field today. Her emphasis on reliability and error prevention became a hallmark of software engineering practices.
Beyond Apollo: Legacy and Recognition
Hamilton’s contributions extended beyond the Apollo missions. Her pioneering work laid the groundwork for advancements in software engineering across various industries. In 2016, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, recognizing her exceptional contributions to science and technology.
Empowering Future Generations
Margaret Hamilton’s legacy transcends her specific contributions to NASA. As an advocate for women in STEM fields, she continues to inspire future generations to pursue careers in technology and engineering. Her journey serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for those who dare to explore the frontiers of science and technology.
The Digital Architect of Space Exploration
In the vast cosmos of technological achievement, Margaret Hamilton stands as a digital architect who helped humanity take its first steps beyond Earth. Her ingenuity, leadership, and commitment to excellence set a standard that reverberates through the corridors of space history. As we marvel at the wonders of space exploration, we owe a debt of gratitude to Margaret Hamilton, the lead software engineer who propelled us to new heights in the digital age.
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In the ebb and flow of life, there are days when we ponder our place in the world, our emotions, and the question, “How do I feel today?” It’s a question that often leads to introspection and self-discovery. In this blog post, I explore the profound idea that staying busy, being useful, and remaining needed can provide a powerful sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives.
The Importance of Staying Busy
Staying busy doesn’t necessarily mean constantly rushing through tasks or overwhelming ourselves with a never-ending to-do list. It’s about having a sense of direction and engagement. Keeping our minds and bodies occupied with activities that align with our interests and goals can bring a deep sense of satisfaction. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, working on a project, or simply being present at the moment, staying busy can infuse our lives with meaning.
The Fulfillment of Being Useful
One of the most profound sources of joy comes from feeling useful and making a positive impact on others. Helping someone in need, sharing our knowledge, or contributing to a cause greater than ourselves is a path to fulfillment. Being useful not only benefits those around us but also boosts our self-esteem and creates a sense of purpose that transcends personal desires.
Serving the Community
Serving the community is a noble endeavor that can provide a strong sense of purpose. Volunteering, engaging in acts of kindness, or participating in community projects can be incredibly rewarding. These actions foster a sense of belonging, and they demonstrate that we’re interconnected with the world around us. Our contributions, no matter how small, make a difference in the lives of others.
The Power of Having a Mission
Having a mission is like having a guiding star in the vast sky of life. It gives us a clear sense of direction and a compelling reason to wake up each day. Our mission may involve personal growth, career goals, or a dedication to a cause. It provides focus, motivation, and a profound sense of purpose that transcends the ordinary.
The Ongoing Quest for Meaning
Life’s journey is an ongoing quest for meaning, and our feelings can often serve as compasses to guide us. While introspection about how we feel is essential, it’s equally crucial to recognize that staying busy, being useful, and staying needed can be a fundamental source of meaning and fulfillment.
Conclusion
In the tapestry of life, the threads of staying busy, being useful, and staying needed weave a profound sense of purpose. While our emotions may fluctuate, the commitment to these principles can provide a lasting foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling life. It’s a reminder that our existence holds the potential to make a difference, no matter how big or small, and to leave a positive mark on the world. So, today and every day, let us stay busy, stay useful, and stay needed because we are alive, and that, in itself, is a gift to be cherished.
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As I sit here reflecting on the past few years of my life, I can’t help but feel a sense of unease creeping in. Everything seems fine on the surface—work is going well, life is good—but there’s a nagging feeling that something is missing, that I should be doing more, creating more. It wasn’t until recently that I realized what was causing this disquiet within me.
In 2020, I threw myself into the world of fiction, crafting the intricate plotlines and compelling characters of my thriller novel, “Angel with a Broken Wing.” The following year, I delved into another mystery with “Below the Wheel,” all while weaving tales about Lawndale and Wildwood in my blog. By 2022, I had completed and published my book “LAWNDALE,” followed by “Down the Shore” in 2023. It was a whirlwind of creativity, a constant stream of ideas and projects to bring to life.
But now, as I find myself in a rare moment of stillness, I realize that I’ve been living in a perpetual state of motion, always chasing the next deadline, the next project. And suddenly, with no looming deadlines or new projects on the horizon, I’m faced with a void—a pause in the creative flow that has sustained me for so long.
At first, this realization brought about a sense of panic. What was I supposed to do with this newfound free time? Shouldn’t I be working on something, writing something, creating something? But as I allowed myself to sit with this discomfort, I began to see it in a different light.
This pause, this moment of stillness, is not a sign of stagnation or failure. Instead, it’s an opportunity to rest, to recharge, to simply be. For the first time in years, I have the freedom to enjoy my days off without the weight of self-imposed deadlines looming over me. It’s a chance to reconnect with myself, to rediscover the joy in simple pleasures, and to find peace in the present moment. (and play guitar!)
So, I’ve made a conscious decision to embrace this pause—to let go of the pressure to constantly produce and instead, to allow myself the space to breathe, to relax, to simply be. And you know what? It feels liberating. There’s a sense of freedom in relinquishing control, in surrendering to the ebb and flow of creativity, knowing that the muse will return in its own time.
Of course, I still look forward to the day when inspiration strikes anew and the creative juices begin to flow once more. But until then, I’m content to savor this moment of stillness, to revel in the beauty of doing nothing at all. After all, sometimes the most profound moments of growth and clarity come not amid busyness, but in the quiet spaces in between.
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Like the Beatles said: “Oh, that magic feeling. Nowhere to go. Nowhere to go.”
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Back in December of last year, I was having dinner with a friend of mine from my days at Philly Weekly. She said I should reach out to the Northeast Times to see if they were interested in writing about my book about Lawndale.
I inquired with the editor and he was receptive. So I sent him a copy to read. Here we are, 3 months later and he’s been kind enough to publish a story about Lawndale.
Charles Wiedenmann has written a blog, Phicklephilly, since 2016, but content ideas became limited at the outset of the coronavirus.
The Lawndale native had an idea.
“I’ll just start writing stories about my childhood,” he said.
Wiedenmann put these stories on Facebook group pages to a positive response.
“People went wild over these things. People were coming out of the woodwork,” he said.
That led to another idea.
“I should write a book about this and do a Wildwood book after that,” he said.
Wiedenmann’s coming-of-age Lawndale, Stories from my Youth: Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in the ‘60s and ‘70s, was published on his 60th birthday in 2022. He described it as a “labor of love,” and received multiple 5-star reviews on Amazon.
“I’m glad people in the neighborhood embraced the book,” he said.
Wiedenmann grew up at 312 Magee Ave., a block with lots of kids. “Nobody was wealthy, but we were rich in our experiences,” he wrote in the book.
He and his sisters, Jane, Nancy, and Gail, were the children of loving parents Horace and Helen. He attended Lawndale School and Fels Junior High, enjoying neither, then went to Frankford High School, where he had a good experience until his family moved to North Wildwood and he spent his senior year at Wildwood High (class of 1980). Down the Shore, Stories from my summers in Wildwood, NJ in the ‘70s, was published last June.
Horace Wiedenmann, who died in 2016, loved to read and would be pleasantly surprised that his son, who did not like school, became a published author.
Wiedenmann, known to friends as Chaz, worked in banking, finance, and advertising. Today, he lives in Rittenhouse Square and has an adult daughter, Kathryn, a musician whose stage name is Kat Seventeen.
Lawndale, which includes a Philadelphia glossary in the back, recalls a time when there were no cell phones, internet, or social media. There were few TV channels – 3, 6, 10, 12, 17, 29 and 48 – and no remote controls. Phone numbers were written on matchbooks and included the first two letters of the exchange. The Wiedenmanns’ number was RA8-7275.
Local youths tuned in to KYW News Radio 1060 AM on snow days hoping to hear the following announcement: “All public and parochial schools are closed.” That meant Wiedenmann and other Lawndale-area kids could grab their Flexible Flyer to go sledding at Melrose Country Club.
Modes of transportation were the N bus and bicycles. Wiedenmann loved the freedom his bike gave him. Safety be damned in those days, as no kids wore bike helmets, and nobody used seat belts or sunscreen.
The author recalls loving to trick or treat and every Christmas. Kids played games on the street such as Red Light – Green Light, hide and seek, Mother May I, hockey, and wiffle ball.
Off Magee, he became friends with kids who were bused to Lawndale School and loved hanging out “back the tracks,” near a railroad line.
Wiedenmann met his first girlfriend, Clare, a St. Hubert student, on a telephone “loop line.” As he got older, he liked music and art, sang in a band called Renegade, and played a Sears Silvertone guitar.
The author has the gift of recalling all these years later.
“These are things I remembered, moments in the city,” he said. “I have that vivid memory of detail. Everything burns into me deeply.”
To buy Lawndale, go to amazon.com and type in the author’s name.
Lawndale was like a lot of other Northeast neighborhoods.
“It was a great place to grow up,” Wiedenmann said. “You knew everybody’s name on the street. You felt safer. None of us can ever forget it.”
Wiedenmann is glad to be a product of the ‘60s and ‘70s.
“I wouldn’t want to live any other time,” he said. “Just being out in the world, exploring it. I had some magical moments. I wouldn’t give any of that back.” ••
In the intricate dance of life, as the years gracefully weave their tapestry, we often find ourselves caught in the paradox of time—both its fleeting nature and its remarkable ability to enrich our existence. Contrary to the common lamentations about time slipping away, there’s a compelling perspective that getting older is, indeed, a good thing.
The Acceleration of Time: A Surprising Gift
In the grand symphony of our lives, time takes on different tempos. Strangely, as we accumulate moments, experiences, and wisdom, time seems to quicken its pace. An 8-hour work shift, once a seemingly endless stretch, transforms into what feels like a brisk 6 hours. A 5-hour engagement condenses into a fleeting 3. Far from being a cause for lament, this acceleration becomes a surprising gift.
The Perception of Time: A Shifting Landscape
The subjective nature of time becomes evident as we navigate the various stages of our lives. While the ticking of the clock remains constant, our perception of time undergoes a transformative journey. What once crawled at a leisurely pace gains momentum, and as it accelerates, it propels us into a realm where each passing moment is a testament to a life well-lived.
Enriching Experiences: The Essence of Time Well-Spent
As time accelerates, our lives become repositories of rich experiences, layered memories, and profound encounters. The acceleration of time is not a thief stealing moments; rather, it’s a guide urging us to make the most of the present. An 8-hour workday may feel shorter, but its brevity serves as a reminder to infuse each hour with purpose, productivity, and passion.
Appreciation for the Finite: Embracing the Sands of Time
The acceleration of time, far from instigating anxiety about its passage, fosters an appreciation for the finite nature of our journey. With the sands of time slipping through our fingers, there emerges a profound understanding of the value of each day. This awareness prompts a conscious effort to fill our remaining time with endeavors that bring joy, fulfillment, and meaning.
The Ever-Present Now: Living in the Moment
In a world that often rushes forward, the acceleration of time directs our focus to the ever-present now. It encourages us to savor the intricacies of the moment, relish the beauty in the mundane, and find solace in the simple pleasures of life. The accelerated pace becomes a gentle nudge to live fully in the present, to appreciate the mosaic of experiences that shape our days.
A Celebration of Aging: Wisdom, Resilience, and Growth
Getting older becomes a celebration of the wisdom acquired, the resilience forged through challenges, and the continual growth that accompanies the passage of time. The acceleration of time is not a harbinger of an ending but a herald of a life richly lived and a future embraced with open arms.
In Conclusion: Time, a Companion in the Journey
So, here’s to the acceleration of time—a companion in the intricate journey of life. As the tempo quickens, may we find solace in the richness of our experiences, gratitude for the moments lived, and an unwavering embrace of the ever-evolving masterpiece that is our existence? Getting older, it seems, is not a march toward the end but a dance with the profound beauty of time.
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