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.

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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Quick Thought – Thursday, November 5, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: Honor Thy Children’s Father

Posted on November 5, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

After my parents divorced, Mom never spoke badly of my father or stepmother. Her example taught me that forgiveness doesn’t require a restored marriage, but it does require grace. Continue reading →

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The Final Cut: Guarding Tess (1994) — An Unexpected Little Treasure

Posted on November 4, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

I didn’t expect much when I saw Guarding Tess in theaters in 1994. More than 30 years and countless repeat viewings later, this charming comedy remains one of my unexpected favorites. Continue reading →

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The Night Charles Manson Came to Georgia

Posted on November 4, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

A secluded house, an empty bedroom, and a late-night showing of Helter Skelter. When I heard voices outside my window, I became convinced that Charles Manson had come to Georgia. The truth was considerably less terrifying—and much more embarrassing. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Wednesday, November 4, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: You Can Do Better Than Straight Bs

Posted on November 4, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

I thought a report card filled with Bs would finally earn Mom’s praise. Instead, she taught me a lesson about effort, accountability, and doing my best that I still carry with me today. Continue reading →

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Tasting Tuesday: Penelope Project X Armagnac Finished Bourbon — An Experiment Worth Trying?

Posted on November 3, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Penelope’s 2026 Project X Armagnac-finished bourbon brings crème brûlée, buttery toffee, custard and cinnamon to the glass. But is it worth $70–$80? I found a bottle at Costco for $59.99 and put barrel 2525-2 to the test. Continue reading →

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The Fine Print on a Free Ticket

Posted on November 3, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

If someone offered me a free round-trip ticket anywhere in the world, I’d have a few questions before packing my bags. Paris, Japan, Korea, or a bourbon-cation? The answer depends on who’s coming along. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: One Big Happy Family

Posted on November 3, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

When Mom remarried, four children became a blended family, whether we liked it or not. Years later, we’ve experienced marriages, divorces, births, and loss. But one lesson remains: We’re still family. Continue reading →

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A Song That Changed My Life (Again)

Posted on November 2, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Apparently, 97 days is long enough for WordPress to forget a life-changing song. Fortunately, my memory is a little better. Continue reading →

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