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 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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Quick Thought – Monday, November 2, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: That’s Somebody’s Baby – A Lesson in Compassion

Posted on November 2, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Of all the things my mother ever said, four words have stayed with me more than any others: “That’s somebody’s baby.” A lesson in compassion I’ve never forgotten. Continue reading →

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The Sunday Pour: The Best Bourbon I Never Bought Again

Posted on November 1, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Some bourbons are excellent but aren’t worth buying twice. From Henry McKenna’s rising price to Old Forester Birthday Bourbon’s astronomical resale value, sometimes reputation costs more than the whiskey is worth. Continue reading →

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Cryptocurrency: Investing in Absolutely Nothing

Posted on November 1, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

A friend turned $1,000 in cryptocurrency into $100,000. I considered following his lead, but fortunately didn’t. A couple of months later, I checked the numbers and thanked God for my remarkable investment strategy: doing absolutely nothing. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Sunday, November 1, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: The Courage to Start Over

Posted on November 1, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

When my mother packed up her two boys, her schnauzer, and everything she could carry, she was starting over. Years later, I understand the courage that took—and the faithfulness of a God whose mercies are new every morning. Continue reading →

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The Story Between the Lines: A Little Competition Never Hurt Anyone

Posted on October 31, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

What happens when a story sounds so convincing that listeners begin questioning reality? One extraordinary night revealed the power of a voice, a microphone, and the human imagination. Continue reading →

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My Life Philosophy Hasn’t Changed in 26 Days

Posted on October 31, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

Just 26 days after asking about my personal philosophy, WordPress wants to know my life philosophy again. The answer hasn’t changed, but my patience with repetitive prompts might have. Continue reading →

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Quick Thought – Saturday, October 31, 2026 – Lessons From Mom: A Child’s First Teacher

Posted on October 31, 2026 by Douglas Blaine

My mother was a music teacher and a children’s television personality before she became my first teacher. Sixty years later, the lessons she taught me about faith, kindness and character remain with me. Continue reading →

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