Monthly Archives: October 2025

The Day That Changed Everything

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

Some moments in history you just read about. Others you live—close enough to smell the air, hear the silence afterward, and never forget where you were when everything changed. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Friday, October 31, 2025– Lessons From Mom: Teach Your Children Well

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

This is the fifth of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Proverbs 22:1-16 Train up a child in the … Continue reading →

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The Bourbon Cheapskate, Vol. 13: Penelope’s Redemption—A Four-Grain Find Worth the Pour

Posted on October 30, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

After a too-sweet first impression with Penelope’s toasted line, I wasn’t sure I’d circle back to the brand. But this four-grain barrel strength changed my mind. Balanced, spicy, and satisfyingly rich, it proves that Penelope still has something to say—and at under $40, it speaks my language. Continue reading →

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The Choice That Defines Us

Posted on October 30, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

My mom used to remind us that our actions are always choices—taking offense, showing grace, being kind, forgiving, telling the truth. She made those choices every day, and in doing so, she changed the world around her. I hope I can live that kind of life—the kind that chooses love, even when it’s hard. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Thursday, October 30, 2025– Lessons From Mom: Enjoy the Special Moments

Posted on October 30, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

This is the fourth of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read 1 Peter 5:1-11 Give all your worries and … Continue reading →

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The Joy We Forget: Being a Kid at Heart

Posted on October 29, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

Watching my grand-nephews, grand-nieces, and especially Sully reminds me what pure joy looks like—play without self-consciousness, laughter without restraint. Somewhere along the way, we trade that freedom for composure, and maybe it’s time we remembered how to play again. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Wednesday, October 29, 2025– Lessons From Mom: Keep Your Chin Down

Posted on October 29, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

This is the third of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Proverbs 13 Whoever spares the rod hates his … Continue reading →

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Tasting Tuesday: The 95-and-under Sweet Sixteen, Part 2

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

If last week’s half of the Sweet Sixteen was a slugfest, this round was more like a master class in contrasts — sweet against spicy, classic profiles versus boundary-pushers. Every pour carried its own story, from the leather-and-vanilla depth of … Continue reading →

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If a Genie Showed Up Tomorrow (and Why I’d Keep My Wishes Simple)

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

If I ever met a genie, I wouldn’t wish for fame or fortune. I’d wish for a fair shot, some peace for my family, and just enough margin to enjoy the life we’ve built. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Tuesday, October 28, 2025– Lessons From Mom: We’re All Special

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Douglas Blaine

This is the second of 25 special reflections based on lessons I learned from my mother. These will run from my birthday on October 27 until her birthday on November 20. Read Ephesians 2:1-10 But God, being rich in mercy, … Continue reading →

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