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The Next Half Century

The Next Half Century

Reflections on more than a half century of living.

  • About This Blog

Author: Chris G Thelen

I’ve been a writer all my life. Growing up on a farm, I dreamed up all kinds of stories as I spent hours in the fields and the barn. When I graduated from high school, I studied journalism in college and began my career as a writer in advertising. Eventually I made my way into corporate communications before retiring a few years ago. Now I am writing for myself—dabbling in blogging and working on self-publishing that novel that’s been in my head for quite a few years. Through it all, I have thoroughly enjoyed the creative process and using words to create stories.
Perspective

When Dreams Take Flight

July 14, 2022July 6, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

When I was a kid, I was fascinated with the Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet. In December 1988, my flight on one turned into a sobering experience that reminded me of the value of life and the need to cherish each moment.

The Last Half Century · The Work World

The Non-Linear Career Path

July 1, 2022June 28, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

I’ve always liked cars. I remember when I was a kid I used to like looking at the Hot Rod magazines my brothers had stacked in their room. In my teenage years I subscribed to Motor Trend. Every month I read each issue cover to cover. It fueled my interest in being a car designer… Continue reading The Non-Linear Career Path

Perspective

The Lost Art of Map Folding

June 17, 2022June 4, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

When you look back from the vantage point of a half century, you start to wonder why some skills learned at a young age are no longer needed. Take the fine art of folding a map. Now be honest, when was the last time you folded a map back into its compact stowed position? Okay,… Continue reading The Lost Art of Map Folding

Down on the Farm · The Last Half Century

You Call That a Truck?

June 3, 2022May 20, 2022 Chris G Thelen2 Comments

I recently read a review of a truck in a newspaper. When I looked at a picture of the cab interior I felt like I was looking at a living room in Architectural Digest complete with leather recliners, end tables with cup holders and a big screen television. This wasn’t even close to the trucks… Continue reading You Call That a Truck?

Uncategorized

No More Righters Needed

May 26, 2022May 5, 2022 Chris G Thelen2 Comments

How long before blog posts will write and edit themselves? This post explores this brave new world.

Current Musings

Craving Human Contact

May 20, 2022May 20, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

Then perhaps this craving to talk to someone, to meet with someone face-to-face, is a legacy of the pandemic. A computer screen or a voice over a phone just isn’t the same as human contact. To see someone’s full face, to see them smile and greet you, seems so precious now....

Perspective

Fleeting Moments With Mom

May 6, 2022May 5, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

So many things complicate life, but as the first Mother's Day without my mom approaches, I am reminded that simple moments like a walk with someone are fleeting moments that may never come again.

Poems

Opened Present

December 22, 2021April 6, 2022 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

Laughter and joy Around the table…

Poems

A Gentle Touch

December 1, 2021July 30, 2021 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

I gaze upward At the dreary sky Silent and cloudy In barren branches

Uncategorized

Refreshing Waters

August 12, 2021July 30, 2021 Chris G ThelenLeave a comment

Many waters call to me Amid the dry hot desert Hot sun beats down Longing for waves To wash away weariness . The dusty road ahead I trek over hardened rock Burdens weigh me down Pressing against gravel Grit against my soul . Tired body presses forth Distant shore in view Cool breeze welcomes me… Continue reading Refreshing Waters

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