Barmaids can be interesting people. Typically they have deep histories and disturbing tattoos. Their presence can be both intoxicating and disquieting, depending on one’s sense of vulnerability at the time. When they don’t speak… or choose not to speak… English things become even a bit more mysterious. A few years ago I found myself on...
This has been “a week”. A good “week”... but a “week” nonetheless. Actually, more appropriately, I should say it’s been a “two and a half years”... and technically we are not done yet, but the Sword of Damocles has been removed. (Thank God.) For those of you who are not aware, the Law Offices of...
Today I held a One-Day CCW class. One of the students, a younger one, was attentive throughout the class. He maintained a professional air; he was poised, appeared confident, and was extremely polite when addressing the class. He performed very well while at the range, and shot as I sort of assumed he would shoot:...
People often ask me what inspires me to write on a certain subject. Sometimes it is pure interest on my part, sometimes it is prodding by my wife, oftentimes it is driven by current events. Occasionally I receive inspiration from a little nugget of knowledge I was not expecting. Such is the case with this...
Professional”ism” at Arms If you have taken any classes with me, or listened to my missives, you may have heard me refer to the concept of Master-at-Skill-at-Arms. A number of people have commented on this term and the vaguely archaic nature of the way it sounds. Master-of-Skill-at-Arms is indeed an old concept, predating the invention of...
Enough of politics… This season has created division, disparagement, and indigestion. For today’s blog, let’s talk about something noncontroversial: religion. A couple of disclaimers just to know where I am coming from: Some intellectuals detest religion. They feel it is medieval, codified superstition, coercive and, in the final analysis, just kinda silly. Other intellectuals are extremely...
Sigh… Last week we received a new Yelp review… not a particularly good one. In fact, after we wrote our response to her she actually lowered our review even more; she did not like our response evidently. She also left us a similar review on Facebook. I want to take this opportunity to discuss this… A little...
It’s funny how going back to basics can be a humbling experience. At Artemis we have launched a new program for members. Newness can be a double-edged sword though. Coined the “Levels Program”, this structured training format allows for measured progression and recognition as a member proves demonstrable proficiency at each level. Participation in this program...
I enjoy cool Southern California nights with the windows open to the canyon and the sounds of coyotes barking as they defend their den or a kill. I drink whiskey with strangers in hotel lounges, in places I have long forgotten, or at the very least have tried to forget. I hate travel. I am home...
