Author Archives: Douglas Blaine

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About Douglas Blaine

Capnpen is a writer who was a newspaper and magazine journalist in a previous life. A college journalism major, he now works as an English teacher, but gets his writing fix by blogging about a variety of topics, including politics, religion, movies and television. When he's not working or blogging, Capnpen spends time with his family, plays a little golf (badly) and loves to learn about virtually anything.

Love Is Still the Only Thing I Can’t Live Without

Posted on November 8, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Possessions can be replaced, and routines can change. But the love I have for my wife, daughter, grandchildren, and God is what makes life meaningful. Eight months later, my answer remains the same. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Sunday, November 8, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: Thank Those Who Compliment You

Posted on November 8, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

After singing a solo at church, I brushed aside a couple’s compliment. Mom quickly taught me that graciously accepting praise is about more than humility. It’s about gratitude. Continue reading →

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The Story Between the Lines: The Clothes Didn’t Make the Man

Posted on November 7, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

As a boy, Chuck knew poverty, humiliation and exhausting work. As a man, he would become one of the most recognizable faces in the world. But his greatest achievement wasn’t what anyone expected. Continue reading →

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The Things We Remember (And the Things We Don’t)

Posted on November 7, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Years ago, an ex-girlfriend made me a special drawing that I promptly lost at a gas station. Decades later, I still remembered her kindness. The surprising part? She didn’t remember the drawing—or even me. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Saturday, November 7, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: God Bless the Bulldogs!

Posted on November 7, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

My mother never gave up hope that her beloved Carthage Bulldogs would win a state championship. They finally did, just 16 months after she passed away. Her faith, love and unwavering hope still inspire me today. Continue reading →

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Southern Sports Stillhouse: Catholics, Convicts, the Holy War and a Whole Lot of SEC Football

Posted on November 6, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

No. 1 Miami visits Notre Dame, Georgia battles Ole Miss, and Alabama heads to Death Valley. We’ve got picks for 10 college football games, a few disagreements, and plenty of bourbon.

Raise a glass. Take a side. Continue reading →

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Success Is What You Leave Behind

Posted on November 6, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

At 60, I’m looking back at what I’ve accomplished and ahead at dreams still unfinished. Maybe success isn’t about achieving everything we want, but about living a life that matters and still having reasons to want another tomorrow. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Friday, November 6, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: Honor Thy Children’s Grandfather

Posted on November 6, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Six months after her divorce, my mother faced an uncomfortable decision when her former father-in-law died. What she did taught me a lasting lesson about honoring grandparents, respecting family relationships and putting children first. Continue reading →

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The Bourbon Cheapskate, Vol. 61: Barrel Key Bourbon — Unlocking a Mystery at a Bargain Price

Posted on November 5, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Two unfamiliar bourbons, one Publix BOGO deal, and a mystery stretching from Indiana to Oklahoma to St. Louis. We investigate Barrel Key’s origins, reveal its mash bills, and find out whether the 6-year or 8-year deserves a spot on your shelf. Continue reading →

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I Know a Lot of Useless Facts. I Just Don’t Have a Favorite.

Posted on November 5, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

My brain is packed with random trivia, but I don’t have a favorite useless fact I’m desperate to share. Sometimes the value of knowledge depends on when and how we use it. Continue reading →

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