tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53835182024-03-07T12:41:09.186-07:00Zaakistan<a href="http://www.zaakistan.com">me and my constitution</a>Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.comBlogger786125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-26354064051786511882015-06-20T14:38:00.000-06:002015-06-20T14:38:04.244-06:00This Blog has MOVED!!Greetings ZAAKISTAN Readers,<br />
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I've decided to migrate my entire website and this blog over to the delightful Wordpress platform. The blog whole blog exists there and you can read my latest posts there now. My website is slowly being rebuilt too and I will focus the site on my Blog, Life Goals, Photographs, and Feature-length Documentaries. Note that I haven't deleted my old site yet as I'm copying page content from it, but you can view the staged new site as it grows.<br />
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Come and See: http://zaakistan.com/wordpress/Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-91819360491529225812015-06-08T03:24:00.000-06:002015-06-08T03:24:14.425-06:00Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/grpp00.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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Just west of Calgary is this very new provincial park. We had never been until last weekend. I can say that I really appreciate the beauty that the prairies and foothills possess. The multitude of grasses. The expansive sky. The trembling aspen. The Rocky Mountain frame.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/grpp13.jpg" height="400" width="400" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-41960441771682366512015-05-22T21:38:00.000-06:002015-05-22T21:38:24.606-06:00Calgary Reads Big Book Sale<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/calgaryreads1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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This is our family's fourth time attending the frenetic <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cimg%20src=%22http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/calgaryreads1.jpg%22%20height=%22400%22%20width=%22400%22%20/%3E">Calgary Reads Big Book Sale</a> in the 7 years living in Calgary and I think it will need to become an annual tradition. I met my family there after work. They spent the day downtown already for the Children's Festival.<br />
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I have to be very careful not to binge purchase as there are so many books I would love to have on my book shelves. I even put 2 selected books back making my count 11. All were $3 each except my collectible Tolstoy volume which was $8.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/calgaryreads2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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For me:<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Something Beautiful for God: The Classic Account of Mother Teresa's Journey into Compassion</b> (Malcolm Muggeridge)</li>
<li><b>Thoughts and Meditations</b> (Kahlil Gibran)</li>
<li><b>Glimpsing the Face of God: The Search for Meaning in the Universe</b> (Alistair McGrath)</li>
<li><b>Reversed Thunder: The Revelation of John & the Praying Imagination </b>(Eugene H Peterson)</li>
<li><b>Can You Hear Me? Tuning in to the God who Speaks </b>(Brad Jersak)</li>
<li><b>Becoming Human</b> (Jean Vanier)</li>
<li><b>The Imitation fo Christ</b> (Thomas À Kempis)</li>
<li><b>Stories and Legends </b>(Leo Tolstoy)</li>
<li><b>The Diving Bell and the Butterfly</b> (Jean-Dominique Bauby)</li>
<li><b>Life After God</b> (Douglas Coupland)</li>
<li><b>I Am America (and So Can You!)</b> (Stephen Colbert)</li>
</ul>
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I'm sure you can discern my penchant for books on Christian Spirituality.<br />
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My family got in on the action too. Blaise was wiped out from the day so he only had the energy to hunt down three books. He is by far the family's most prolific reader. I think he passed me in number of books read before he turned 8. My son carefully picked out 2 books by Jean Little, a reknown Canadian author and one by Gary Paulson, author of a book he recently read and loved called <i>Hatchet</i>.<br />
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Acadia is also careful. She's into Bible stories (like her papa) and dogs (not like her papa or her mama).<br />
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Amber cost us the least. I think she should have gotten more books. She uses the library better than me.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/calgaryreads5.jpg" height="400" width="400" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-83207057575003457022015-05-22T21:06:00.001-06:002015-05-22T21:06:13.262-06:00Brew 10: Chocolate Hazelnut Porter<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew10a.jpg" height="400" width="400" />
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How could I not make a beer called chocolate hazelnut porter? From the <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/brewing-classic-styles-80-winning/9780937381922-item.html">Brewing Classic Styles</a>:<br />
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Grain Bill:<br />
<ul>11.5 lbs Canadian 2-Row (1.5-2.1°L)<br />1.5 lbs Munich (6-10°L)<br />1 lb Crystal Light (40°L)<br />1 lb Crystal Medium (75°L)<br />0.75 lb Chocolate Malt (450-500°L)<br />0.5 lb Black Malt [black patent] (500-600°L)</ul>
Hops:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2 oz East Kent Goldings (3.4%)<br />
2 oz Willamette (4.7%)</blockquote>
Yeast:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
American Ale (Wyeast 1056)</blockquote>
Additives:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
0.5 lb of cocoa powder at end of boil<br />
15 ml Hazelnut Extract at bottling</blockquote>
3 1/2 hours last night after work and I was done in time to watch some TV with Amber. I enjoyed some homebrew witbier during the boil.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew10b.jpg" height="400/" width="400" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-87514829042350763202015-05-13T16:13:00.001-06:002015-05-13T16:13:21.485-06:00Hockey Team Allegiances<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/habs.jpg" />
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The great Edmonton Oiler years in the last half of the 1980s were the milieu in which I developed a keen interest in watching hockey. From grades 5-9, I faithfully memorized the players names, numbers and stats. In junior high, several of us would surround the newspaper in the library and check the scores from the previous night's games - many of which couldn't be published in time as the games finished after the paper's deadline (3 or 4 time zones later). We collected Upper Deck, O Pee Chee, Score, Pro-Set hockey cards and poured over the Beckett price lists to see if we had any valuable cards (we didn't). I got to watch the odd Oilers game when they played the Canadiens or Leafs or Bruins since they were closer to our time zone, but mostly it would be in the morning sports news highlights that I would catch the cool goals.<br />
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My interest in hockey faded though high school and college, just as the skill and success of the Edmonton Oilers faded too. Once I entered the work force, I discovered the Memorial Cup and World Junior Championships and even perked up when Edmonton leapt into the Stanley Cup Finals in 2006.<br />
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The last couple years, I have begun watching the Montreal Canadiens. Their fast style of play, amazing goal tending, and deep heritage have stirred a little bit of that junior high boy that is still left in me. The Habs have shown amazing team work in the regular season and this year finished second overall. Last night they lost their bid for the cup in the quarter final, but last year they made it to the semi-final.<br />
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Last night Blaise stopped watching the game after the second period because he was bored. I can see why - the Habs were losing, not much going on outside the neutral zone, hard to tell who the players are.<br />
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So why was I glued to the screen? I think there is a deep desire for victory, even a proxy victory through tough, hard working, highly skilled men. I think there is a value in elevating the excellent within your tribe and celebrating their highly developed skill. I think it should inspire and encourage others in that same tribe toward excellence in their fields.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-40640978577665873532015-05-11T20:19:00.000-06:002015-06-04T08:25:34.325-06:00Book Review: The Case for the Psalms (NT Wright)<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/psalms.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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I remember hearing in a podcast of Thomas Hopko (<a href="http://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/hopko">Speaking the Truth in Love</a>) about how at one point in history, bishops were expected to have memorized the entire catalog of Psalms (all 150 of them) in order to be ordained as a bishop. In fact it may have been just to enter the priesthood. I have to confess that I have never been into Psalms. I found most of them repetitive, irrelevant, and not as engaging as the gospels, Old Testament narratives, or Paul's letters. So, while I didn't avoid them deliberately, I didn't exactly seek them out. That has now changed.<br />
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Anglican New Testament scholar N. T. Wright makes his case for the Psalms in this small and easy to read book. He accurately points out that the biblical psalms have been drifting out of western Christianity's daily life and church life through the introduction of new choruses and by eliminating the liturgy. I would add that most personal devotional books also don't have you singing Old Testament psalms either. Wright points out that we have become impoverished greatly by this omission from our faith.<br />
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In essence, Wright gives us context as to why Psalms were so elemental to early Christians, to 1st century Jewish culture and to Jesus himself. The primary features of the Psalms <b>time</b>, <b>space</b> and <b>matter</b> as they relate to the Kingdom of God.<br />
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The psalmists and singers of the psalms look forward to the <b>time</b> when God's kingdom would be established on earth, but they also hearken back to the days when God delivered them and often lament the great peril they are suffering now. <b>Time</b> ends up folding, combining the lament with remembrance and promise.<br />
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A major theme in the Psalms is God coming to tabernacle (or set up residence) among His people. This is characterized mostly through the temple in Jerusalem, that Holy Mountain. But then, without a clear understanding of Kingdom theology, one might consider a literal establishment of Israel's kingdom - a real belief among some Evangelicals. All we have to do is refer to God taking up resident in our lives to now see ourselves as that Temple the Psalms celebrate as God's <b>space</b>. God now lives with us.<br />
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Finally, <b>matter</b> matters to God. The earth itself proclaims the glory of God. Jesus mentions something about this when he enters Jerusalem on a donkey on Palm Sunday if you recall. When we read/sing the psalms, we join with all creation in praising God and worship God and looking forward to ultimate redemption.<br />
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I lead my first class of the day in a 10 minute devotion which includes 8-12 verses from a psalm. I have been struck repeatedly since having begun and subsequently finishing this book that the truths Wright outlines leap from the couplets. I am far more aware of how each verse points toward the kingdom of heaven (now and not yet) which is the reign of Jesus.<br />
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I am now challenged to begin the memorizing and singing of the psalms to bring them into a more central part of my life. They point to Jesus, so this will make Jesus even more central too.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-11147310487276239382015-04-30T10:19:00.002-06:002015-05-11T13:05:43.281-06:00"Runnin" Lyrics - Frazey Ford (maybe)<br />
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I just love <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/runnin/id898448485?i=898448505">this song</a> by <a href="http://www.frazeyford.com/">Frazey Ford</a>.<br />
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Are these right? I tried to find the lyrics to this song, but they are nowhere online, so I submitted these to a lyrics site in hopes someone would jump in to correct me.<br />
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<i>Who are the one-eyed?
</i>(pretty sure this is wrong)<br />
<i>Aha! For Something else
</i><br />
<i>I know why no one gets out
</i><br />
<i>Cause, you'll find I'll come with you out
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<i>You'll find that you can do it
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<i>All by yourself
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<i>Nothing is just so fine
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<i>All alone to find
</i><br />
<i>Hey yeah </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Cause you're the judge (oh yeah)
</i><br />
<i>I never doubted you
</i><br />
<i>I never doubted you
</i><br />
<i>Cause you're the judge </i><br />
<i>I never doubted you
</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Hey, you have always </i><br />
<i>Paid to testify</i><br />
<i>Hold the world beyond destruction
</i><br />
<i>So nobody asks a question
</i><br />
<i>Cause you're getting tired
</i><br />
<i>Everyday that ends</i><br />
<i>You're alone in your mind
</i><br />
<i>Running in circles in your heart
</i><br />
<i>Hand over hand</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Cause you're the judge (oh yeah) </i><br />
<i>I never doubted you </i><br />
<i>I never doubted you </i><br />
<i>Hey you're the judge </i><br />
<i>I never doubted you </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Cause you're the judge (oh yeah)</i><br />
<i>I never doubted you </i><br />
<i>I never doubted you
</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Cause you're the one holding yourself</i>Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-34563684770338560022015-04-12T20:40:00.001-06:002015-04-12T20:40:15.978-06:00Products of a Static, Literal, Inerrant BibleA few days ago, a childhood friend of mine shared this video to Facebook. He grew up in the same church as I did and about 3 or 4 years ago he abandoned his faith to become an agnostic. Following the video are some comments between him and one of our high school classmates who, as you can tell, is still a Christian.<br />
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Bill Nye The Science Guy says this was the craziest moment from the 2014 creationism debate.<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/businessinsider">Business Insider</a> on Thursday, April 9, 2015</blockquote>
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<b>Agnostic: </b>All very good points. I must admit that the "Noah's Ark" story was one (of many) things that made me realize the bible is largely fictional. Just doesn't make sense for lots of reasons, one of which he articulates very clearly.</blockquote>
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<b>Christian: </b>Never set limits on Jesus...He's fully capable</blockquote>
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<b>Agnostic: </b>So he created all of these new species without anyone noticing? Lol. And that is one of the smallest problems with the Noah story.</blockquote>
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<b>Christian: </b>Are you saying He can't?</blockquote>
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<b>Agnostic: </b>Yep, I am. But, in fiction, anything can happen. My bigger problem is with a God that would destroy his "creation" in such a cruel way. Imagine little children who have done nothing besides being born to "evil" parents being forced through the horror of watching their parents die in such a horrible way and then to die by drowning. If there was such a god...think I'd crucify the SOB myself . But, I draw comfort in the fact that the story is obviously made up...our modern knowledge of geology and archeology really don't leave much doubt anymore. So, if there is a god (and I don't deny it is at least possible), he did not destroy the world with a flood and he (she?) is not what the bible depicts. Anyway, just my thoughts. Hugs</blockquote>
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<b>Christian: </b>There are some things I cannot explain nor understand this side of heaven.....but I choose to place my faith and trust in Jesus....someday I will get the whole story but until then I trust in His plan.</blockquote>
First, let me say how pleased I was at how civil the comments were to one another. There is a rooted respect for the other and any disparaging comments were accompanied with hugs or admitting that this is their choice of belief or opinion. Refreshing, no?<br />
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Here we have two literal understandings of Genesis 6-8, where because of the wickedness on the earth, God sends a yearlong flood to destroy the earth, but saves 8 people and all flood surviving species in an ark. It is a darling story in Sunday Schools and Sabbath Schools because of the prolific images of giraffes, elephants and polar bears poking their heads out of a semi-circle wooden boat. The narrative of global destruction is glossed over for kids (and many adults) with selective reading focused on the saving love of God.<br />
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<b>Agnostic</b>'s understanding is rooted in the dissonance of a loving God who has no problem wiping out almost all life on earth, with the added complication of scientific dissonance (sheer numbers of species, geological evidence, and the way too recent timeline). He has decided that the whole Bible must be false, or in his words, fiction. Of course, he has many other reasons not to believe that the Bible is fiction, this being just one.<br />
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<b>Christian</b>'s understanding comes about since she was taught that the story of the flood must be taken as a literal, factual account. If this is not a factual account, then the Bible can not be accepted as God's word thus falsifying the resurrection of Jesus for instance. She resolves the evident dissonance with childlike faith (a practice endorsed by Jesus) and casually explains away scientific problems as events God could easily orchestrate since He is God.<br />
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But is there another way to understand the story of Noah, and other stories from the Bible?<br />
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I have been impacted by Mark Noll's excellent book on the history of Evangelical Christianity in North America called <i>The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind</i>. As a result I am far better able to approach historical Christianity and ancient Christian doctrine (and understand why all these new churches came to exist in North America). In short the story is this: When the British churches came across the Atlantic, they abandoned church authority and became a deregulated enterprise. Anyone with a fresh look at Scripture or a charismatic preacher could start a new denomination, especially if they filled pews or tents. Preaching on hellfire was pretty popular as were exciting new interpretations of Revelation. Next came the Darwinists and the real possibility that churches were going to lose members so Christians reacted by actively trying to denounce teachings on evolution. (this is far to brief a telling, hopefully readers can extrapolate).<br />
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The result was an almost wholesale rejection of 1800 years of church tradition, which in some ways was important because of corruption. But in the end a great treasure trove of wisdom was lost by the new denominations. One of those treasures is the traditional way the Bible was interpreted. The early church and the churches who preserved these traditions (think Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican) had ways of interpreting everything from end times theology (which is virtually non-existent by the way), who Jesus was, and of course Genesis. The Bible was not viewed as a book of facts - even Jesus words are probably not all quoted verbatim, but rather a book of truth and story helping reveal God's work among his people. Ultimately, God reveals himself through his Creation as well, and most importantly through His son Jesus through the incarnation.<br />
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Back to the flood. If I read the story of Noah as fact I am faced with a dilemma: accept Bible and reject science or reject Bible and accept science.<br />
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What if I read it as a narrative to reveal another prelude to the Gospel: end of sin through a cleansing of water (think baptism), salvation of man and creation. Eastern Orthodoxy calls Mary the ark because she carried salvation in her womb. Noah is called out in the New Testament because by faith he inherited righteousness. The "days of Noah" are referenced a few times in the New Testament too as days of wickedness, times where redemption was needed. Imagery of cleansing water appears throughout the Bible.<br />
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So, do I believe the Bible to be true? Do I believe the story of Noah to be true? Yes.<br />
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Do I believe that all the stories in the Old Testament are factual accounts? Better: Do I <i>have to</i> believe that all the stories in the Old Testament are factual in order to believe that they convey truth and ultimately the truth about Jesus? I don't think so. And I think there are very good reasons not to. The Old Testament is a collection of various authors over many centuries in an ancient world very different from our own. Their use of stories differs greatly from the way we think of stories (think accurate reporting, a team of fact checkers, scholarly review, etc.). The Israelite people conveyed stories to bring identity and meaning and purpose and hope of deliverance and to share what they had come to know about God. They weren't meant to be referenced in geological analysis or as source for speciation in the biology lab. Noah and the Flood teach me that God hates wickedness; God can do incredible things when we are faithful.<br />
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I do believe a guy named Noah who was faithful to God existed. I also believe that there was a destructive flood, an ark, saved animals, etc. It isn't important to me whether or not he was one of only 8 living people on the planet after a worldwide, cataclysmic flood. It is important that his story tells a truth about who God is and who we are.<br />
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I would certainly appreciate Bill Nye's response to this latter understanding of Noah and a smaller scale flood.<br />
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---<br />
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At one point in the comments, God's righteousness is questioned since he would have killed innocent children along with the wicked. This is a much deeper problem that Christians ought to wrestle with. This along with the wiping out of entire tribes in Canaan (genocide?) or certain Psalms where the one sings for the destruction of their enemies in some pretty violent ways (reference as the imprecatory psalms or the cursing psalms). How do we resolve this perceived picture of God with the ultimate and most accurate revelation of God through Jesus? Jesus calls on his followers to love and pray for their enemies - not curse them. Instead of calling down fiery sulphur onto the wicked Romans, he allows them to crucify him. Dissonance anyone? I won't get into how I resolve these in this post, but it is certainly worth discussing at some point. Randal Rauser does a fine job in his book which I just reviewed last week (<a href="http://zaakistan.blogspot.ca/2015/04/book-review-swedish.html">The Swedish Atheist, the Scuba Diver, and Other Apologetic Rabbit Trails</a>) and at <a href="http://randalrauser.com/?s=imprecatory">his blog</a>. I'm also keen to read the upcoming <i>A More Christlike God </i>by <a href="http://www.bradjersak.com/">Brad Jersak</a> as he tackles these very legitimate concerns.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-11500535508030140092015-04-09T08:15:00.001-06:002015-04-09T08:15:25.542-06:00Travelling to Northern BC<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc7.jpg" /><br />
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Every year. Every year since I've met my wife*, I have made the trek north to Smithers, Hazelton, Kispiox, etc., BC to visit her mom, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, friends.<br />
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It's a very long drive. Interestingly, it's essentially the same distance from Edmonton as it currently is from Calgary: 1,150 kms. While it would only take light under 0.004 seconds to travel that distance, it takes us 12 hours.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc8.jpg" /><br />
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12 hours in our little Toyota Matrix. The kids sleep, eat, read, eat, play on the iPad, ask for snacks, tell me to turn down the music, and eat.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc1.jpg" /><br />
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The first 4 hours take us through world class national parks Banff and Jasper. I never tire of driving Highway 93 through the Columbia Ice Fields.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc4.jpg" /><br />
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Everytime I've driven Highway 93 at this time of year it has been covered in a thick pack of snow. This year it was bone dry allowing us to make good time. And it didn't muck up our undercarriage.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc2.jpg" /><br />
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Amber reserved us rooms at the Hostels International in Jasper, which is just outside of Jasper. The common area is beautiful and peaceful. I played card games with three guys I met after Amber and the kids went to bed. During that time however, there was a group of 8 guys who were very loud and very rude.<br />
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We had a private room. My kids were tickled to sleep in a bunk bed. I had a hard time getting to sleep with all the comings and goings and loud conversations and dance music (?!).<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc5.jpg" /><br />
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The next morning, I drove to McBride, BC where we stop to pee. We pass Mount Robson, the highest mountain in British Columbia, on this leg. Amber drove the next 2 hours to Prince George. She got to drive through the blizzard. The weather can be different every 2 hours as you cross through different mountain ranges.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc6.jpg" /><br />
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We stopped to stretch our legs less than an hour from Smithers at the little highwayside park in Houston. They boast the largest fly fishing pole.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc9.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/nbc3.jpg" /><br />
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Then we enjoy the warm hospitality of our hosts and the cool mountain air and bits and pieces of northern life.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Almost every year. Every year minus 3, so just 15 times.</span>Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-1907766450053814472015-04-07T21:47:00.001-06:002015-04-07T21:47:36.123-06:00Brew 9: Scottish Heavy, Stout, India Amber Ale, Oktoberfest<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9e.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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This is my first real collaboration with another brewer. I was contacted by my brewing mentor a week ago to see if I would like to come brew 4 batches of beer to help use up 50 lbs of left over grain and some aging hops. I supplied the yeast and my brewing equipment so we could brew 2 batches at a time.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9c.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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I borrowed Alex's equipment for my first five all grain brews and ultimately modelled my nano brewery after his, so we've been in touch a fair bit over the last year. He put together recipes to match his load of munich and vienna malts. We looked at the hops he had left from competition wins and agreed on some combos.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9f.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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Here are our recipe outlines:<br />
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<u><b>India Amber Ale</b></u><br />
<b>Grain Bill</b>: 4.5 lb 2-Row, 4.5 lb Light Munich, 1 lb Crystal 60º, 0.67 lb Victory, 0.25 lb Chocolate, 0.125 lb Melanoiden<br />
<b>Hops</b>: 2.5 oz Experimental P09-2 (60 min), 2 oz Falconer's Flight (5 min), 2 oz Falconer's Flight (0 min)<br />
<b>Yeast</b>: Wyeast 1203 Burton IPA<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9a.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<u><b>Oktoberfest</b></u><br />
<b>Grain Bill</b>: 7.7 lb Light Munich, 4.5 lb Vienna, 1 lb Crystal 60º, 0.1 lb Melanoiden<br />
<b>Hops</b>: 0.5 oz Aramis (60 min), 0.5 oz Aramis (30 min), 1 oz Aramis (15 min)<br />
<b>Yeast</b>: Wyeast 2206 Bavarian Lager<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9b.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<u><b>Stout (Foreign Extra)</b></u><br />
<b>Grain Bill</b>: 7 lb Vienna, 3.75 lb Light Munich, 0.7 lb Black Patent, 0.5 lb Victory, 0.5 lb Chocolate, 0.44 lb Melanoiden, 0.14 Peated Malt<br />
<b>Hops</b>: 1 oz Experimental P09-2 (60 min), 2 oz Experimental P09-2 (30 min), 1 oz Experimental P09-2 (15 min)<br />
<b>Yeast</b>: Wyeast 1469 West Yorkshire Ale<br />
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<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Scottish Heavy 70</u></b><br />
<b>Grain Bill</b>: 4.75 lb Munich, 4.7 lb Light Munich, 1.7 lb Vienna, 0.3 lb Black Patent, 0.25 lb Chocolate, 0.25 lb Peated Malt, 0.125 lb Melanoiden<br />
<b>Hops</b>: 1.5 oz Triskel (60 min)<br />
<b>Yeast</b>: Wyeast 1728 Scottish Ale<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew9d.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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We brewed from 10 am through to about 4 pm and Alex was going strong when I left with a fifth brew of his own. We plan on sharing our beer with our church's Man Scouts.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-12278476565798495232015-04-07T20:57:00.002-06:002015-04-07T20:59:46.480-06:00Book Review: The Swedish Atheist, the Scuba Diver and Other Apologetic Rabbit Trails (Randal Rauser)<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/swedish.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><br />
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The debate between those who believe in God and those who do not has often devolved into shouting matches or insults. What I have always appreciated about <a href="http://randalrauser.com/">Randal Rauser</a> is that he is as interested in listening as he is at being understood.<br />
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I was introduced to Dr. Rauser has been a regular fixture at the ACSI teacher conferences I attend annually and I invariable attend his sessions even though they have nothing to do with my subject. I experience him as a philosopher first and theologian second so the guy can think. His presentations typically deal with controversial subjects like the imprecatory psalms or brainwashing or biblical genocide. What I really like, besides the controversial topics, is that he is able to present thoughtful alternative positions on a topic without mocking or belittling any of the sides.<br />
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He brings this generosity to this book on apologetics. The book presents philosophical and theological arguments for and against belief in God and then specifically for and against the Christian God. What is most unique is the setting and characters: it is held entirely in the Beatnik Bean, a coffee shop where he, a fictional atheist character named Sheridan and we the reader sip americanos and discuss flawed arguments and flawed theology. It reminded me of the little I read of Sophie's World - the philosophy best seller of the 90s which was set as a conversation between a teenage girl and a philosophy prof, but <i>The Swedish Atheist</i> is far more engaging.<br />
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Rauser initially tackles the more or less weak arguments that the new atheists have used to attempt to debunk belief in God in their assertion that they believe in reason and therefore put them beyond reproach in their epistomology. He then faces some of the more difficult questions specific to YWHY in relation to the ordered mass killings in the Old Testament and the western doctrines of eternal conscious torment in hell. Ultimately, no one has really changed the other's mind, but there is mutual understanding that the other isn't crazy - and that's saying something.<br />
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The book is playful, funny, and profound. I'm glad I picked it up and I look forward to reading more of Rausers many books.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-43606183080484456492015-03-22T21:06:00.001-06:002015-03-22T21:06:10.279-06:00Brew 8: Imperial IPA<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7c.jpg" />
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When I read that Russian River brewmaster had shared his recipe for <a href="http://russianriverbrewing.com/brews/pliny-the-elder/">Pliny the Elder</a>, I had to try! Pliny is consistently a top rated beer (currently #7 overall at <a href="http://www.beeradvocate.com/lists/top/">BeerAdvocate</a>). Picked up the recipe from <a href="http://www.brewerspublications.com/books/brewing-classic-styles-80-winning-recipes-anyone-can-brew/">Brewing Classic Styles</a>, a must for home brewers.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7f.jpg" />
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It becomes readily apparent that this is a robust brew considering that it cost me nearly $90 in ingredients (and yes, I know I could have save money had I ordered stuff online).<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
$25 in malted grains<br />
$10 in yeast<br />
$55 in hops</blockquote>
To give a sense of how many more hops this recipe calls for, a typical non-hoppy 5-gallon batch of beer would likely call for 2 ounces of hops. This one uses 16 ounces.<br />
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As far as home brewing for economic reasons, this one still makes sense since the typical imperial IPA costs double other beer. Still pricy though.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7a.jpg" /><br />
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6 ounces of hops in the boil for bittering:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2 oz Columbus (15% alpha acids) 90 min<br />
2 oz Chinook (12%) 90 min<br />
1 oz Simcoe (12%) 45 min<br />
1 oz Columbus (15%) 30 min</blockquote>
This gives the beer a ridiculous measure of International Bitterness Units: 336 IBU. Alexander Keiths India Pale Ale has a 28 IBU. Lagunitas Maximus Imperial India Pale Ale is 78 IBU. Nelson's Full Nelson Imperial IPA is 90 IBU. I found a few beer with 100+ IBU, but that's all they state: 100+ IBU. Bushwakker Trephination Double IPA 100+ IBU and Alley Kat Dragon Series Green Dragon Double IPA 100+ IBU.<br />
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Then some hops are added at knockout, the moment the boil ends in order to take advantage of the aromatic oils that are released when hops are added. If they are added any earlier, the oils (which add aroma and flavour) are boiled away and only the acids remain (which only bitter as they are boiled - alpha and beta acids play different roles).<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2.25 oz Centennial (strong citrus tones)<br />
1.5 oz Simcoe (passion fruit, pine, earthy, and citrus tones)</blockquote>
<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7b.jpg" />
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Fermentation emitted the most amazing aromas and the initial froth seemed cleaner than all my other brews despite a hop bag bursting in the boil and a bunch of grain getting out of the mash tun.<br />
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Then, after the initial fermentation is over, more hops are added. This process is called dry hopping. This process continues to compound the aromatic and flavour profile of the ale. The first dry hopping will last 13 days until bottling. The second will be added 5 days before the end.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2.75 oz Columbus (citrusy and slightly woody)<br />
1.5 oz Centennial<br />
1.25 oz Simcoe</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
0.25 oz Columbus<br />
0.25 oz Centennial<br />
0.25 oz Simcoe</blockquote>
<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7d.jpg" />
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Hopefully the end result will vaguely resemble its Russian River inspiration. All about hops and balance.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew7e.jpg" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-56137095819633274902015-03-18T16:53:00.000-06:002015-03-18T16:53:00.799-06:00ISU World Allround Speed Skating Championships 2015<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate9.jpg" /><br />
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A couple weekends ago, Calgary hosted an international speed skating tournament. World class competitors - I think all of them were at Sochi 2014 - competed in 4 different races each and scored points. The champions were the ones with the least points. You can find the <a href="http://live.isuresults.eu/2014-2015/calgary/index.htm">results here</a>.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate1.jpg" /><br />
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Blaise and I decided to attend to see what the sport was all about. It was hosted at the Olympic Oval on the University of Calgary campus where the 1988 Winter Games speed skating events were held. The facility still looks wonderful and there is a nice torch reminding visitors of the site's heritage.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate8.jpg" /><br />
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We were late arriving, so we missed the opening women and men's races of 500 m. I heard from a coworker who was also there that these were the most exciting races. In fact, the Canadian athletes performed best in these. So we ended up watching all the long 3000 m women's races and the 5000 m men's races. While it was certainly fun to cheer on the athletes, see how they paced their various laps, and witness a couple athletes catch up to their single opponent - it wasn't too gripping to see people skate round and round in ovals.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate4.jpg" /><br />
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I was particularly impressed with two things: skill and power.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate5.jpg" /><br />
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Generally, we cheered. I took photos. We had a snack. Blaise and I sat in three different locations as there were lots of empty seats. Blaise remarked that we got to sit in some really good seats and that if it were the olympics we would have had to pay way more money! He's right. We only paid $25 total - olympic tickets could have been in the hundreds of dollars to see the same skaters skate.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate6.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate7.jpg" /><br />
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The fans were often more interesting than the races. Not surprisingly the majority of the crowd was identifiably Dutch because of the blinding orange jackets, hats, scarves, dresses, pants, and jumpsuits. They were loud, but the old Norwegian men were way louder. These guys sported lovely traditionl knitted sweaters and funny caps covered in pins.<br />
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The one cultural group I thought was a bit odd were the quiet Russians. I thought how odd it was to be waving a Russian flag despite the current Russian aggression in Ukraine. But hey, there were a couple Americans there too. With flags.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate3.jpg" /><br />
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24 men and 24 women raced in pairs in 4 rounds over 2 days.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate2.jpg" /><br />
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We cheered on Canadians Denny Morrison (7th), Ted-Jan Bloemen (16th), Ivanie Blondin (6th), and Kali Crist (8th).<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/skate11.jpg" /><br />
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This guy won for the men: Dutch skater Sven Kramer. I guess he has some serious cred.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-20996530721113812592015-03-17T16:41:00.000-06:002015-03-23T10:32:35.600-06:00K-12 Integer Sequences<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is2.jpg" /><br />
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The K-12 Integer Sequences Conference was organized by my good friend Dr. Gordon Hamilton (Dr. Pickle) of <a href="http://mathpickle.com/">MathPickle.com</a> and Dr. Neil J. A. Sloane, the founder of the <a href="http://oeis.org/" target="_blank">On-line Encyclopedia of Integer Sequences</a> (OEIS). I was fortunate enough to attend as a math educator among other educators, math professors, and curriculum developers.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is9.jpg" /><br />
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The goal of the conference was to identify 13 integer sequences that could be promoted for use in classrooms from K-12. The sequences would help students practice or learn level appropriate curricular goals, but they would also introduce the students to the wonderful world of mystery found in integer sequences. You can watch our large group sessions in <a href="http://www.birs.ca/events/2015/2-day-workshops/15w2178/videos">these videos</a>. Three sessions were spent in smaller groups - mine sought to identify sequences for grades 10-12.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is4.jpg" /><br />
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The event was hosted by the Banff International Research Station (BIRS) at the Banff Centre which means they provided the hi-tech and comfortable conference facility (pictured behind me) and the lodging for the attendees. BIRS is dedicated to math research and collaboration.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is7.jpg" /><br />
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Naturally, if you are still reading this, you are keen to learn which sequences will be promoted as a result. As with many collaborative conferences, there are still some **loose ends to tie up. I will feature a few here though.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is8.jpg" /><br />
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<b>Kindergarten: </b>1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 1, 2, ...<br />
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<a href="https://oeis.org/A034326">A034326</a> This is the clock sequence. I think it's brilliant. You can have kids do some skip counting on it where they will be exposed to factors of 12 (when you skip by 4s, you will always land on the same 4 numbers, when you skip by 5s, you don't!). There is of course the excellent recursive nature of this sequence which mimics time.<br />
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<b>Grade 3: </b>14, 7, 5, 3, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 22, 11, 9, 18, 16, 32, 30, 15, ...<br />
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<a href="http://oeis.org/A254873">A254873</a> This sequence is a modified Recamán sequence developed by a 15-year old student. Starting at the seed number (14) the sequence continues by dividing, subtracting, adding or multiplying by the step number (2). Division gets precedence over subtraction which gets precedence over addition which gets precedence over multiplication. The new number must be a positive integer and not previously listed. The sequence terminates if this is impossible.
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/K12is1.jpg" /><br />
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<b>Grade 5: </b>4, 9, 7, 20, 6, 33, 13, 23, 16, ...<br />
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Starting with 1, on the first step add 1/n, and on subsequent steps either add 1/n or take the reciprocal. What is the smallest number of steps needed to return to 1? This number of steps is the nth term of the sequence. (Note: the n=0 and n=1 terms are not defined, so the sequence actually starts with the 2nd term.)
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
eg. let n=2: 1, 3/2, 2, 1/2, 1 therefore the number generated is 4 because it took 4 steps<br />
eg. let n=3: 1, 4/3, 5/3, 2, 7/3, 8/3, 3, 1/3, 2/3, 1 took 9 steps<br />
eg. let n=4: 1, 5/4, 3/2, 7/4, 2, 1/2, 3/4, 1 took 7 steps</blockquote>
This one is a lot of work, but I think it works to help students see that just because you work with increasing fractions, it doesn't necessarily mean it will require more steps. It really depends on the factors of n.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is3.jpg" /><br />
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This time, I brought Amber along since I knew she would enjoy the tranquility, beauty and opportunity to relax in such surroundings.<br />
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My mom took the kids for most of the weekend, then Jasen for the last bit - we are very grateful.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is5.jpg" /><br />
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Getting away to Banff now means being able to chow down and drink at the <a href="http://www.banffavebrewingco.ca/">Banff Ave Brewing Company</a>. Their beers are notable - especially their recent addition of an imperial IPA. Their food portions are ridiculously huge. I ate one burger for two meals.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/k12is6.jpg" /><br />
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The sequences have been determined in full! <a href="https://oeis.org/wiki/Integer_Sequence_K-12_(Banff,_2015)">Here they are at the OEIS.org</a>.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-58108585224919071722015-03-14T09:40:00.003-06:002015-03-14T18:59:32.093-06:00Hi-Pi3.1415.. = π<br />
3.14.15 = todayZaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-65243129121177660072015-03-08T19:00:00.001-06:002015-03-08T20:08:07.029-06:00Bow Building (night)<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow1.jpg" /><br />
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A couple nights ago we ascended Calgary's tallest building, the Bow. It is situated on Centre Street and on the 5-6 Avenue block East. A friend of ours works there and he got us access passes so we could enjoy the privileged view.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow5.jpg" /><br />
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What struck me most aside from the views is the Bow's commitment to design. As you enter from the south, a massive mesh sculpture of a head invites you to wonder. Each of the three floors we visited had remarkable interior design, grand staircases, plants, and of course massive windows and the criss-cross lattice for which the building is recognized.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow4.jpg" /><br />
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The Bow was completed just over 2 years ago. It stands 58 stories tall and was considered one of the top ten design architectural projects of 2012 by <a href="http://www.azuremagazine.com/article/2012-in-review-top-10-projects/" target="_blank">Azure Magazine</a>. In fact Calgary got 2 nods that year, the other being the lovely Peace Bridge. The wonder of the Bow is that it is shaped like a celery stalk prism.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow3.jpg" /><br />
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Due South we look down on the Calgary Tower.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow2.jpg" /><br />
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Looking NorthEast.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow6.jpg" /><br />
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We would see the Rocky Mountains if it were day time.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow7.jpg" /><br />
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Blaise's Teddy sports a guest badge.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bow8.jpg" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-58900629747326614362015-02-24T16:27:00.000-07:002015-02-24T16:27:00.307-07:00Cellulitis and Me<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell6.jpg" /><br />
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I have been brought low by bacteria again. This time it's a little pathogen genus called staphylococcus. It erupted from a little cut in my ear. I woke up suddenly at 2:30 AM to striking pain on my right ear and neck. Because of where the infection set in, it is called cellulitis. Don't google images of cellulitis.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell1.jpg" /><br />
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Foolishly, I went into school that morning (it's always easier to go in than call a sub). I was then sent home at noon as I was green, had the chills, was nauseous, and the right side of my head was bright red. I saw a doctor who prescribed some strong antibiotics (Cephalexin 500 mg) to take 4 times daily. I stayed home for the next two days.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell3.jpg" /><br />
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When I went for my return visit to a doctor 48 hours later, she noted that things had not improved, so I was abruptly sent to emergency.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell5.jpg" /><br />
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The infection had spread to a greater portion of my face and my ear became more chimplike and stiff, stiff, stiff. In the night I would completely drench my sheets and clothes with sweat. During the day, I was weak. I couldn't chew because of the pain in my jaw and I could only open my mouth about 1.5 cm.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell7.jpg" /><br />
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At the hospital, I was given an IV (my first ever!) of the same antibiotic and referred to a clinic at the hospital which deals specifically in infectious diseases. I visited the clinic the next morning and was given a second IV, assessed and told that my improvement was imminent if I continued with the oral pills I was originally given.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/cell4.jpg" />
Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-8394005574456847732015-02-22T14:47:00.003-07:002015-03-14T18:59:20.478-06:00 Movie Season: Winter 2014-15<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/flicks15a.jpg" /><br />
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My favourite time of the year for films is the winter beginning just before Christmas and ending in March. Most of the Oscar hopefuls are released and I typically have time and Cineplex gift cards to go see them. So, with the big awards night coming on tonight, I had better comment on some films before the moment passes. Plus, my movie blog has stagnated.<br />
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<b>BIRDMAN OR (THE UNEXPECTED VIRTUE OF IGNORANCE)</b>: Easily the most enjoyable and unique film I've seen in a very long time. Cinematically. The unyielding dialogue. The twitchy acting. The incessant rhythm of the soundtrack. The tremendous grand theme of being loved vs. receiving recognition.<br />
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<b>SELMA</b>: The risk with portraying historical events is romanticizing one side and demonizing the other and I'm not sure this film accomplishes that, but I also think it is very difficult to do in this case. Dr. & Mrs. King, President Johnson, and the marchers all demonstrated hesitancy to varying degrees. The murderers, police wielding batons and releasing dogs are not the focus. What we get is a powerful display of the Gospel.<br />
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<b>WHIPLASH</b>: Character twists and turns and invigorating music simply clothe the majesty of this essentially 2 person play. Brilliant performances by both leads. You can't help leaving the film saturated with multisyllabic beats and questions about genius.<br />
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<b>THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL</b>: Wes Anderson delivers another raucous cacophony of characters and milieus for a look at legacy, friendship, and eccentricity. I had no choice but to enjoy this.<br />
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<b>WILD</b>: Based on the book by the main character played by Reese Witherspoon. Witherspoon drives the entire film with her both her strength and fragility. While it's not very plot driven, it does provide time into understanding the ache of loss and the Search.<br />
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<b>FOXCATCHER</b>: This is one of the most uncomfortable films I've watched in recent years. It is so rich in pathos and cringe factor. Steve Carrell plays a magnificent tyrant.<br />
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<b>BOYHOOD</b>: Yes, I appreciate that the film was shot over 12 years, but it would have been a great film if Richard Linklater had actually crafted a plot, dialogue, and more complex character development into his project. Amber and I were quite bored through most of the 2h45m film and did not find it inspiring, enlightening, or challenging.<br />
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<b>GONE GIRL</b>: I don't watch many movies of this genre anymore. The 90s were shock full of thrillers and I saw my fill back then. This one is original because it is very self-aware. David Fincher leaves the end open-ended enough to cause perpetual tension for the viewer.<br />
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<b>IMITATION GAME</b>: The heartbreaking and harrowing story of a mathematical genius. Much of the film - especially the role of Alan Turing - I loved, but some seemed forced and poorly written. Some lines we hear too many times to take seriously.<br />
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<b>INTERSTELLAR</b>: It's a fun ride and spectacular visually. The plot holes are huge and would take far too much energy to articulate, but they are irrelevant since the film is really there for entertainment.<br />
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Yet to be seen: Why I plan on seeing it?<br />
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<b>TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT</b>: This is directed by the brothers who made <i>L'enfant</i> which won the Cannes prize 10 years ago. I think <i>L'enfant</i> is one of the greatest films I've seen, so I'm very keen to see what they are able to do with Marion Cotillard in focus.<br />
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<b>MR. TURNER</b>: Directed by one of my favourite directors: Mike Leigh (<i>Happy-Go-Lucky</i>, <i>Secrets & Lies</i>).<br />
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<b>INHERENT VICE</b>: Directed by on of my favourite directors: Paul Thomas Anderson (<i>There Will Be Blood</i>, <i>The Master, Magnolia, Punch-Drunk Love</i>).<br />
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<b>THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING</b>: It's nominated for a lot so I should probably take a look.<br />
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Also quite keen to see:<br />
<b>FORCE MAJEURE</b>, <b>UNBROKEN</b>, <b>BIG</b> <b>EYES</b>, <b>TIMBUKTU</b>, & <b>LEVIATHAN</b>. And all the documentary features which I never get to see before the Oscars.<br />
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I'm not really interested in seeing the last of the best picture nominees, <i>American Sniper</i>. Just seems like a flag waver and since it's done so well at the box office, I'm even less inclined judging by who is likely going to see it. Plus, Clint Eastwood dropped several notches in my estimation when he did his little interview with Obama. I'll probably see it anyway though.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-10333070628818956082015-02-22T11:41:00.000-07:002015-02-22T11:41:09.800-07:00Book Review: Her Gates Will Never Be Shut (Brad Jersak)<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/gates.jpg" /><br />
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I shall add this book to the small list of books* that has powerfully shaken my grip on my perceived reality only to give me a far greater appreciation for the love of God and His holding together all things.<br />
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<i>Her Gates Will Never Be Shut: Hope, Hell and the New Jerusalem</i> by <a href="http://www.bradjersak.com/" target="_blank">Bradley Jersak</a> is an exhaustive study into the origins of the western doctrine of hell, the biblical understandings of hell, careful analysis of punishment vs. judgement, and finally an inspiring contemplative work on what the New Earth will look like.<br />
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Jersak does not only approach the topic of hell theologically. In the opening chapters of the book, he exhausts the historical understandings and uses of the Gehenna (Valley of Hinnom) by comparing Jesus and Jeremiah's prophetic use of the valley laying outside Jerusalem's walls to the presence of Gehenna in the writings in the Book of Enoch - an inter-testamental book of prophecy and history that is not included in either the Jewish or Christian canon. Bringing such light on a word that is often understood as referring to hell where the damned will suffer for eternity is vital - and in fact redeeming to the gospel.<br />
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There is also a great element of pastoral concern for Christians. Jersak writes as an evangelical to evangelicals knowing that any challenge to a deeply rooted doctrine concerning the character of God is going to raise some ire. What is remarkable is Jersak's gentleness and caution when drawing conclusions. From my perspective, with God's love in your heart and the call of Jesus to "love your enemies," it would be near impossible to reject the hopefulness, beauty, and life spring that is proclaimed in the final chapters of this book. It is also reckless to not heed the warnings associated with hating your brother or sister as the gaze of Christ is inevitable.<br />
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*<span style="font-size: x-small;">The other four books are:</span>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>A New Kind of Christian</i> (Brian McLaren)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Walking with the Poor</i> (Bryant Myers)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Surprised by Hope (NT Wright)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind (Mark Noll)</span></li>
</ul>
Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-48163094659897457862015-02-20T11:46:00.001-07:002015-03-22T17:44:47.212-06:00Brew 7: Bock & Witbier<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew6G.jpg" /><br />
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As a beer aficionado, so far I have tended towards the British, Belgian and American ales (india pale ales, abbey ales, stouts, browns, etc.). The only German exceptions to this has really been the hefeweizen which is very pleasant in the summer and the bock (or doppelbock) which I rarely buy, but always enjoy.<br />
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So, in order to expand my skills and taste, I attempt the witbier - a lighter, more floral ale and my first lager style - a traditional bock. Lagers are trickier because they require 4 weeks and a 10ºC atmosphere to ferment. Fortunately, I have such an atmosphere wherein to ferment: an empty, unused fridge in the laundry/furnace/brewing room. Alex has lent me his temperature controller:<br />
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I decided that since I plan to brew semi-regularly for the next few years, it is probably time I gathered my own equipment. There is something responsible about sharing equipment, but it's quite a hassle to drive across the city and borrow gear when Alex isn't using it. Amber and I went out one night last week and we picked up a 28.5L turkey fryer at Canadian Tire, copper tubing at RONA, and a 45L cooler at Target (which is liquidating their inventory - first time I ever went in there actually!). I picked up some incidental parts at RONA as I assembled things.<br />
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As a result I have a mash tun made of a cooler with a 1/2" hole cut at the base of one end where a copper pipe manifold fits into it from the outside and where a plastic hose fits on the outside. I couldn't manage to find the proper fittings for a valve, so I just use gravity to ensure I don't spill my wort. It barely leaks. ;)<br />
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My new turkey fryer serves as the kettle where I boil the sweet wort collected from my mash tun. I use a copper pipe coil as my wort chiller at the end of the boil to bring the temperature down quickly. One end connects to the garden hose tap outside and the other end drains into a bucket.<br />
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My chiller is pretty wimpy, but it still cools at a rate of 4-5ºC/min which is way better than filling the bathtub with ice and cold water and waiting 2-3 hours. Beyond that, I already had 1 primary fermenter, 2 carboys, and all the tubing, manual pump, bottling gear, stoppers, and airlocks.<br />
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Wyeast provides a great out for last minute / lazy brewers like me. I don't have time or spare wort to get a little yeast culture going the night before a brew.<br />
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My recipes came from <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/brewing-classic-styles-80-winning/9780937381922-item.html" target="_blank">Brewing Classic Styles: 80 Winning Recipes Anyone Can Brew</a>. Each brew session (I did one Sunday afternoon and another on Monday morning) takes about 4 hours, the most intensive parts are the cleaning before and after.<br />
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I wake up in the night after brewing and I just have to check to see if it has begun fermenting. My one primary fermenter holds my witbier which has a strong citrus aroma. I have an airlock (tube running to a bottle with water so the CO2 can escape without letting unsavory elements in) on my bock, so I have no idea how it smells. But it's doing the bloop bloop thing very nicely in the refrigerator.<br />
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I should be able to sample these in about 6 weeks - unlike my previous November brew which will not be ready until May.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/brew6K.jpg" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-61884679702802498352015-02-12T21:30:00.000-07:002015-02-13T09:30:31.575-07:00vapors<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/timespace.jpg" /><br />
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276 years ago a certain François "le jeune" Robichaud (my 6th great grandfather or 8 generations back) marries Marie LeBorgne de Belleisle, a woman of noble French lineage, but also the great-grand-daughter of the Madokawondo, Chief of the Penobscot Tribe. François and Marie escaped the Great Dispersion of Acadians in 1755 with 5 young children. Their son settled on the east coast of New Brunswick where the Robichaud family remains today.<br />
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15 generations earlier, one of Marie's ancestors is Louis IX, a Capetian King of France who ruled France for half of the 13th century. Louis IX led the 7th and 8th Crusades. During the 7th, he was taken prisoner by the Egyptians but was ransomed for 1/3 of France's annual income. He died of dysentry in Carthage after landing their to begin the 8th Crusade. He's <i>the</i> St. Louis by the way.<br />
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7 generations of French Kings earlier, Robert "The Pious" II marries Constance of Arles (my 30th generation ancestor) in 1001, his third wife. Their marriage is stormy and Robert is urged by friends to repudiate her. Robert even tries to get a third divorce so he can go back to his second wife, a first cousin - this is refused by the pope. Constance continually encourages her 3 sons to challenge their father for more power which caused a lot of family strife. Eventually they challenged her and she yielded.
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Constance's great-grand-father, Louis "The Blind" King of Provence and for a short time the Holy Roman Emperor (901-905) is betrothed to Anna, the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Leo VI "The Wise." This is a diplomatic move made to consolidate power in southern Italy. It didn't work very well as Louis is blinded in a battle trying to maintain control over Italy who wasn't keen on serving him because he couldn't stem Magyar attacks.
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Anna's mother is of noble Armenian descent. Leo VI, Anna's father, was the son of Eudokia Ingerina and either one of two different men: Michael III who had Eudokia as a mistress or Basil I who married her afterwards and had Michael killed. And thus ends this particular line due to the uncertain lineage. We do know that Eudokia's family was iconoclastic and therefore hated by Michael's mother. Her parents were Ingr, a Varangian guard, and Martiniake.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-14578538152015497312015-01-14T20:05:00.000-07:002015-01-14T20:05:00.306-07:00Tolkien on Screen<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/lotr12.jpg" /><br />
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When Peter Jackson's <i>The Lord of the Rings</i> were released in theatre, I attended each installation multiple times. I knew I wouldn't regret seeing the retelling of Tolkien's magnificent myth of redemption, loss, heroism, immortality, reclamation and friendship on the big screen as many times as I could. When <i>The Return of the King</i> was released, Amber and I called in subs for the afternoon and watched the entire trilogy (extended editions for parts 1 and 2) in the theatre. Every attendee, hardcore fans each one, received a figurine complete with one film frame of each movie in it.<br />
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When <i>The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies</i> was released last month, I attended the IMAX 3D trilogy of <i>The Hobbit </i>realizing about halfway through how fit one must be to endure a 9 hour film. No souvenir this time though.<br />
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The battles, dialogues, locations, and myriad of characters draw me in without fail. I become a child again each time I see the circle door at Bag End. I am smitten by the elven architecture at Rivendell. I'm terrified along with the hobbits at the Dark Riders and along with the Riders of Rohan as they face the oliphants. I'm heartbroken with Pippin as Denethor sends Faramir to sure death. I'm stirred by Theoden's speech to the Rohirrim before sending them into battle and Aragorn's final words at the Black Gate. I giggle at Gollum's jabs at Sam and Gimli's reaction to almost everything. I slow down in Lothlorien and Fangorn Forest. I get excited as the camera plunges into the mountain to find Gandalf facing off with the Balrog again in the opening scene of <i>The Two Towers</i>. I can barely hold it together when Sam laments on the side of Mount Doom "Rosie Cotton dancing. She had ribbons in her hair. If ever I were to marry someone, it would have been her. It would have been her." I could go on and on.<br />
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I am watching <i>The Hobbit</i> again this week, this time with the extended scenes. I am thoroughly enjoying everything that is added. There is far more context with the dwarves and their quest and even with the necromancer. I particularly enjoyed seeing a child Bilbo at a party of Old Took's meeting Gandalf for the first time and the added scenes with Beorn, the Goblin King, Bombur sleeping from the enchanted waters of Mirkwood, and the flashback of the burial of the witch king of Angmar are just gems! I found it fascinating how they completely left out the Dwarf rings in the theatrical version and included discussion of them in both extended editions.<br />
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I am still disappointed that they never included Gandalf tracking down Gollum and interviewing him. The absence of Old Man Willow and Tom Bombadil or the substitution of Arwen for Glorfindel didn't bother me very much as it would have compromised the film narrative, but having rangers catching Gollum and Gandalf prying info out of him would have been dramatic delight.<br />
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The complaints I've heard and what I've read in the poor reviews of <i>The Hobbit</i> do not ring true for me. It's an adaptation of a children's book and it's made for fans of <i>The Lord of the Rings</i>. I think of that lovely scene in <i>Finding Neverland</i> at the opening of the play <i>Peter Pan</i> and they have added children to the audience among all the adults. I think that you must have a child's heart to enjoy Peter Jackson's <i>The Hobbit</i>. The one recommendation I would have made would have been to make the fighting a little more believable. Bilbo knocking over a 7 foot, fully armoured Gundabad orc by throwing a rock... That said, I did enjoy all of Legolas's activities for the pure unbelievability of it.<br />
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And I have to say, I love these figurines from <a href="https://www.wetanz.com/lotr/" target="_blank">Weta Workshop</a>. If I had lots of money... and lots of shelf space...<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/lotr13.jpg" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-80524481135401750202015-01-13T16:31:00.000-07:002015-01-13T16:31:00.080-07:00Doll Bed for a Little Mama<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bed1.jpg" /><br />
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My daughter Acadia drew her cousin's name in the Christmas gift draw. We decided that we (I) would build her a little bed for a doll and we could paint it together. I bought and cut the wood necessary for two little cribs and kept one set for Acadia as a gift. We assembled the first one for my niece and immediately Acadia began using it with her doll, Emma. We found her one afternoon curled up next to her doll with just the lights from the Christmas tree.<br />
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Acadia chose pink to paint her cousin's bed and she did a great job painting it. We painted some purple stars on the head and foot boards.<br />
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Christmas morning, my niece put her doll right into the new bed. Acadia got 5 pieces of cut wood tied together with a bow. I could see she was glad to have her own now that she was giving up the one she used most of December.<br />
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Together we assembled, puttied, sanded, then painted hers pink too. Acadia chose a font for the word LOVE and requested a couple hearts for the footboard. I painted the words and hearts with a tiny paintbrush.<br />
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This project/gift reminded me of a Christmas gift my father made for me when I was 5 or 6. He made a couple wooden trucks. Sadly, these burned in a house fire a year or two later. They were really quite nice as he is a real craftsman.<br />
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<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/bed4.jpg" />Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-75609260322963697192015-01-11T16:47:00.001-07:002015-01-19T09:43:00.734-07:00Book Review: God and the Gay Christian (Vines)<img src="http://zaakistan.com/photos/blog8/godandgay.jpg" /><br />
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This is the second book I've read on gay theology, along with countless blog posts and articles. The issue of homosexuality within the Christian sphere has been so hyper-politicized that it is difficult for anyone to have a thoughtful conversation on the topic when it challenges the most conservative prevailing view that homosexuality is explicitly condemned in the Bible and that being gay is a choice (and if it isn't a choice, then gays still don't have a choice as they must remain celibate). This book by Matthew Vines is meant to introduce Christians to alternate readings of Scripture and promote an affirming view of gay marriage and homosexuals in general within the Church.<br />
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Vines discusses the mandatory 6 biblical references to homosexuality (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+19%3A5-8&version=KJV" target="_blank">Genesis 19:5</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=leviticus+18%3A22-18%3A22&version=KJV" target="_blank">Leviticus 18:22</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=leviticus+20%3A13-20%3A13&version=KJV" target="_blank">Leviticus 20:13</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%201:26-1:27&version=KJV" target="_blank">Romans 1:26-27</a>, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+corinthians+6%3A9-6%3A11&version=KJV" target="_blank">I Corinthians 6:9</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+timothy+1%3A9-10&version=KJV" target="_blank">I Timothy 1:10</a>) and attempts to place each passage in its historical context - a highly patriarchal society where women had very legal recourse and where the Greeks thought of women as deformed men. Vines also focuses on the relevant issues of mandatory celibacy for gay Christians, how homosexuals have been treated within the Church (a demonstration of the fruit of the spirit?), homosexuals being made in the image of God, marriage as a covenant and grace.<br />
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All the statements are footnoted with sources and it is clear that Vines has done his research. What is disappointing is that he does not grant any points to his opposition. The issue from my perspective is very grey and both sides of the debate are able to defend their position either through a literal interpretation of the English Bible and church tradition or through a reinterpretation of the Bible through the lens of modern science, historical context, progressive revelation, and a desire to extend communion to a hurting community of believers.<br />
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From my perspective, the way Christians have dealt with homosexuals in their midst has been tragic and indefensible. A conversation is necessary and it must be framed with respect and love for the other - not fear and loathing.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5383518.post-83350163096436085172015-01-11T14:27:00.000-07:002015-01-11T14:27:00.192-07:00Anger; Control; Pride; Humility; Peace.Anger is an area of my life where I have always struggled and sensed the Holy Spirit continually with Her finger twisting in my side. As a child I would become enraged at my unfair sisters. As a teacher I have directed my anger at disrespectful students. As a commuter I have fumed at ungracious drivers. As a father I have unleashed my wrath towards my slothful children. As a husband I have been cross with my indifferent wife. As a professional I have expressed my outrage when my coworkers are unprofessional. Etc. . .<br />
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I have had many occasions to reflect on this emotion and I have come to several conclusions:</div>
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When I was in Guatemala I led the distribution of efficient wood cooking stoves that were donated by some Canadians. These stoves reduced the amount of wood you would need and remove the smoke from homes where people were cooking over open fires. The first distribution was to about 30 families and these families were selected by another member of our team, a Guatemalan. I ensured that the recipients attended the training, I helped with the installation, I collected the money the families contributed to the stoves, and finally I sent thank you notes and photos to the donors. Through out this process I was struck by the fact that half of the recipients were close friends of the person selecting the families and that many of these families were not going to be using the stoves as their primary stove, but rather as an outdoor bbq - in other words, they were families with enough means to have gas stoves in their homes. I was incensed that we were dishonouring the donors and preventing people who really needed a stove from getting one. Unfortunately, once my dismay was expressed, I was told that I was being insubordinate. I wonder if I would have been labelled that if I had been able to contain my anger.</blockquote>
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I remember becoming quite enraged at a couple grade 8 boys during my first year teaching. It was one of the last days of class and I was showing a fun movie during a multi-media options class. These boys weren't interested in the movie so they were talking to each other quite loudly making it difficult for their classmates to even hear the film. I asked the nicely several times to stop talking and finally yelled at them and kicked them out of the class... prompting a meeting with their parents where I was the one apologizing.</blockquote>
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My children are wonderful, patient, kindhearted and sometimes absentminded kids. When they are sent to bed, they know what to do: brush their teeth, go to the bathroom, get their PJs on and then they are tucked in with a prayer. My daughter has a really hard time focusing on getting her PJs on sometimes. She will go to her room and just sit on her bed for five minutes. This can cast a cloud of ire over me and I have a very hard time asking her pick up the pace, especially when she denies that she isn't going at a fair pace. </blockquote>
I get angry when I don't have control over a situation or over people. The problem is that in many instances, I don't really have the <i>right</i> to have control over those people. One of <a href="http://www.newhopechurch.ca/page.php?pgid=search&id=searchbrowse&movieid=611" target="_blank">my favourite sermons </a>is one by my current pastor on the very subject of anger. He related a story from the previous week where he became very impatient with his wife while he was writing his sermon on anger. Of course he was immediately convicted by the arrogance the he was demonstrating towards his wife - what right did he have to cast judgement on the actions of his wife? This stuck with me.<br />
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When I consider how Christ has dealt with our ineptitudes through humility, patience and sacrifice, I am convicted at how slow I am to be humble, patient and inconvenienced by others ineptitudes.<br />
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Oh, and my principal's name is Mr. Anger. An ever present reminder of possibility.Zaakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00503666938286479556noreply@blogger.com2