It has been a week. Where does the time go?
First, running. Yes, I am making time to sneak in a few runs. Even enough to put a very slight lead over the FAT MAN! I ran Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday last week. Nothing farther than 4 miles but I have now re-established a four day running routine. This week I have run Monday. Did not run Tuesday for assorted reasons, none of which is a good excuse other than Susan and MAC had to run for a while so I was watching E who is 8 years old and not quite at that point where you can trust a child so I stayed in with her. My modified schedule has me running tonight, Friday night and Saturday (or Sunday).
So I've been married for 2 weeks and 4 days. As expected, it has been a trip. A few things done and many more to get accomplished. Finally got the plumbing problems fixed . . . let's just say that the 30" diameter red oak that is invading the drain line will have to go next year. I have finally got "my" room sort of settled though it still needs painting. The baby blue fit what was formerly E's room but tends to make the male gender feel a little . . . unmanly. Gonna paint that sucker over the Christmas holidays. I have moved out a few extraneous things from MY room-the air hockey table is out. The sofa and end table have been rearranged for maximum TV watching. I have moved out the 27 inch console TV and replaced it with my 43 inch Sony HD flat screen from my other house (men, insert grunting sounds here). We have also dumped Charter and I have moved my DirecTV service to Susan's house . . . no charge. Very cool. I have also been fighting with Bellsouth. Sorry if any of the readers work for ATT or Bellsouth but I have to say that I am livid. It seems that my ID cannot be reused when I cancel my internet service and go under Susan's ID. Yes, I can create a second mailbox and account with Susan as primary but I am not allowed to reuse my jhambham@bellsouth. The other choice would be for Susan to cancel and change her ID but then I get stuck with a "relocation" fee. I guess I'll end up just canceling my internet service with Bellsouth and just use a webmail account. I have set up another address . . . jhambham@gmail.com . I will send out a notice to everyone in my address book of the change. Feel free to use either for now but you may as well change over to gmail and get used to using it.
Let's see . . . what else??? Oh yeah, it seems that there has been rash of break-ins in my neighborhood and in Susan's community. The thing about it is that both our communities are very nice communities with traditionally very low crime rates. Don't know if it's the fact that it is Christmas time or that times have gotten hard enough to drive the low life scum of our society into nicer environs. In any case, we have now enabled the security system at Susan's house AND we are installing a safe. As I told the sheriff in my community, if I catch someone in my house and they don't haul ass, somebody is leaving in the horizontal position. He gave me the thumbs up but cautioned me the culprit needs to be in the house and not shot in the back. Cool.
Another thing . . . I need to rename and refurb the "my hot girlfriend" blog. I'm open for suggestions.
a) eliminate that blog altogether and just keeping personal stuff on this blog.
or
b) keep my blog here for runners only and move the personal stuff to the renamed blog.
I will be posting wedding photos by the weekend.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
A brief aside
Yes, those of you anxiously awaiting to hear about the remainder of my first week as a married man must stand to the back of the line.
Running. Relative to the first week of marriage-next to nada. A couple of miles here and there and that was it. However, I did run 2 on Monday afternoon and 3 this afternoon. Have to get back in the groove, you know.
Okay. It seems I've been tagged by Amy (http://www.amysrunninglife.com/) to list SIX (6) things that make me happy. I've been thinking about it for a while and this is actually tougher than it sounds. I guess I am a simpleton because there are lots of things that make me happy. However, if you're talking about deep, deep down inside, the things that I wouldn't trade, I think I can narrow it down somewhat. I am also taking Amy's advice as well (you'll have to read her blog to see what she said to me). Thanks Amy . . . I never would have thought of that!!!!!
1. My new life with Susan. She is a nurturer by nature so she's always ready to serve. That is not why I am here. I am also a serving person and I guess that sort of makes up disgusting in the fact that we are trying to do things for each other. I cannot imagine her not being in my life. I love her.
2. My new life with Susan's girls. I know, I know . . . that is two things that technically fall in the same category but it is somewhat different. Mind you, I was in my mid 40s before I even got exposed to being around kids for longer than a few minutes. I never really had the paternal instinct . . . until now. I find myself being stepdad to two daughters-12 and 8. Lovely girls and each has certain attributes from their mom-some good and some, well, not quite so good but all in all great girls. I never realized how meaningful a hug, a kiss, or holding hands with a child could be. Wouldn't trade it for the world.
3. Like my tagger, Amy, I am a little bit anal retentive. That being said, I am very happy when a plan falls into place. There is nothing better than thinking through an objective, plotting and planning (and maybe doing a spreadsheet as well!), and executing a plan. Doesn't matter the objective . . . just achieve something that you created. Of course, we runners love to schedule and plan our runs, whether a 10k or a marathon. Nothing like knowing your splits before you run them!!!
4. Hard work. I know, sounds stupid but it does make me happy. I'll have to give my parents the credit for this one. They were not slave drivers but they led by example. I learned so much from them both and I find myself applying lessons from my childhood into everyday things. I am always so shocked when I hear guys talking about sleeping until lunch, sitting around watching ballgames all day, just goofing off on the weekends. HERESY!!!! I realize that there are times for playing and fun but I am so happy when I have a weekend of work planned (#3 above) and can get up early on a Saturday morning and work until dinner time. Very satisfying.
5. Friends. I don't mean aquiantances. I mean REAL friends. The kind that will do anything for you and you'll do anything for them. The kind of folks you can call up at a moments notice and have them meet you at the hospital or invite them to dinner and you know that they'll be there. Priceless.
6. Breakfast at my parents. Yep, simple. Of course you haven't been there so don't be so quick to blow this one off. I promise that if you ever come to visit me, I'll include you on an excursion to my parents' house for the MONSTER BRUNCH. How many ways can you eat pork???? just ask my parents. Nothing better than sitting around the table for a couple of hours, eating and sharing stories. Hmmmmm . . . maybe it's the company and not the breakfast?
There you have it. Six things that make me happy.
Running. Relative to the first week of marriage-next to nada. A couple of miles here and there and that was it. However, I did run 2 on Monday afternoon and 3 this afternoon. Have to get back in the groove, you know.
Okay. It seems I've been tagged by Amy (http://www.amysrunninglife.com/) to list SIX (6) things that make me happy. I've been thinking about it for a while and this is actually tougher than it sounds. I guess I am a simpleton because there are lots of things that make me happy. However, if you're talking about deep, deep down inside, the things that I wouldn't trade, I think I can narrow it down somewhat. I am also taking Amy's advice as well (you'll have to read her blog to see what she said to me). Thanks Amy . . . I never would have thought of that!!!!!
1. My new life with Susan. She is a nurturer by nature so she's always ready to serve. That is not why I am here. I am also a serving person and I guess that sort of makes up disgusting in the fact that we are trying to do things for each other. I cannot imagine her not being in my life. I love her.
2. My new life with Susan's girls. I know, I know . . . that is two things that technically fall in the same category but it is somewhat different. Mind you, I was in my mid 40s before I even got exposed to being around kids for longer than a few minutes. I never really had the paternal instinct . . . until now. I find myself being stepdad to two daughters-12 and 8. Lovely girls and each has certain attributes from their mom-some good and some, well, not quite so good but all in all great girls. I never realized how meaningful a hug, a kiss, or holding hands with a child could be. Wouldn't trade it for the world.
3. Like my tagger, Amy, I am a little bit anal retentive. That being said, I am very happy when a plan falls into place. There is nothing better than thinking through an objective, plotting and planning (and maybe doing a spreadsheet as well!), and executing a plan. Doesn't matter the objective . . . just achieve something that you created. Of course, we runners love to schedule and plan our runs, whether a 10k or a marathon. Nothing like knowing your splits before you run them!!!
4. Hard work. I know, sounds stupid but it does make me happy. I'll have to give my parents the credit for this one. They were not slave drivers but they led by example. I learned so much from them both and I find myself applying lessons from my childhood into everyday things. I am always so shocked when I hear guys talking about sleeping until lunch, sitting around watching ballgames all day, just goofing off on the weekends. HERESY!!!! I realize that there are times for playing and fun but I am so happy when I have a weekend of work planned (#3 above) and can get up early on a Saturday morning and work until dinner time. Very satisfying.
5. Friends. I don't mean aquiantances. I mean REAL friends. The kind that will do anything for you and you'll do anything for them. The kind of folks you can call up at a moments notice and have them meet you at the hospital or invite them to dinner and you know that they'll be there. Priceless.
6. Breakfast at my parents. Yep, simple. Of course you haven't been there so don't be so quick to blow this one off. I promise that if you ever come to visit me, I'll include you on an excursion to my parents' house for the MONSTER BRUNCH. How many ways can you eat pork???? just ask my parents. Nothing better than sitting around the table for a couple of hours, eating and sharing stories. Hmmmmm . . . maybe it's the company and not the breakfast?
There you have it. Six things that make me happy.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Part II - if I were a toilet
Okay . . . didn't mean to leave you hanging.
I'll see if I can quickly recap the remainder of my first week as a married man.
Sunday, after having breakfast at Embassay Suites with Susan's sister's family, we headed home. Well, we headed to Susan's home which is now my surrogate home. We spent the remainder of the day just chilling out. MAC had to go to the church that afternoon to help deliver food but other than that, we just hung around.
Monday. First day back at work. Everyone was surprised to see me. They all assumed that we were honeymooning. Incorrecto, fish face! We decided to hit the ground running. We are going to Disney (the Orlando flavor) for 4 days the week before Christmas . . . we're calling that the "kid honeymoon". Our actual honeymoon is going to be spring break. Susan and I are heading to Vegas and plan on going to all the local sights, including Grand Canyon. We'll be in touch with Phil to discuss hiking opportunities later!
I'll see if I can quickly recap the remainder of my first week as a married man.
Sunday, after having breakfast at Embassay Suites with Susan's sister's family, we headed home. Well, we headed to Susan's home which is now my surrogate home. We spent the remainder of the day just chilling out. MAC had to go to the church that afternoon to help deliver food but other than that, we just hung around.
Monday. First day back at work. Everyone was surprised to see me. They all assumed that we were honeymooning. Incorrecto, fish face! We decided to hit the ground running. We are going to Disney (the Orlando flavor) for 4 days the week before Christmas . . . we're calling that the "kid honeymoon". Our actual honeymoon is going to be spring break. Susan and I are heading to Vegas and plan on going to all the local sights, including Grand Canyon. We'll be in touch with Phil to discuss hiking opportunities later!
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were fairly uneventful with the exception of suspicious behavior exhibited by the toilets. Hmmmmmm . . . wonder what that bubbling is all about. Monday afternoon the toilets decided to rebel. I mean think about it . . . if you were a toilet would you let people put their butts all over you without kicking up some kind of fuss? Anyway, they weren't exactly backing up; they just weren't draining. Being handy, I decided that this fell within my realm of "do-ability". All toilets slow to drain. Tubs and showers slow to drain. Has to be one of several things-clogged main line going to the septic tank (yes, the kingdom, for all it's glory, does not have a sewer system), or a blocked vent (possible bird nest, wasp nest, skunk . . . whatever decided to get down in there). Or it could be more serious . . . like a full septic tank or damaged field lines.
Okay, let's think it through. Susan said the tank was last pumped in spring of 2006, so it is highly unlikely that is the problem. I've seen field line problems before. Usually, this kind of problem is evidenced by soggy ground with the putrid odor of sewage (poopy for the commoner out there reading this). Again, the field line area is dry as a bone so I moved that possibility down the list. Okay . . . vent or drain to the septic tank. Easy to eliminate the vent-climb up on the roof with a flash light and do a visual exam. DANG!!! Vents were clear so that meant it was highly likely that there is something in the line between the house and the tank. Since the problem started rather quickly, my guess was that is was some kind of clog and not necessarily tree roots. Maybe one of the girls flushed a doll or a toothbrush or some other inanimate object that couldn't quite find it's way all the way down to the tank. Not a problem!!! I can handle this!
Tuesday at lunch I ran to (cheap, unsolicited plug) Home Depot to rent a power snake. Yes . . . A POWER TOOL (men can insert loud grunting sound here. Maybe even open a beer). I didn't really need the super duper one . . . one hundred feet of 5/8" cable with SIX (count them) cutting heads. No . . . . not that tough a job. I'll take the 75 foot of 1/2" cable with four cutting heads and slightly smaller motor. That should get the job done! Nothing makes you feel more manly than loading a POWER TOOL on the truck and grunting all the way home watching all the jealous men driving past my truck knowing that I was about to . . . . . . play in poop with a POWER TOOL!!!!!
I have been under Susan's house many times doing assorted manly things and in my ventures in the itty bitty crawl space I had noticed that there were no cleanouts in the waste lines. For those of you who do not know what I am talking about, most homes, as required by plumbing code, have to have a pipe that connects to the main drain with a removable plug so you can do what I was wanting to do . . . run an ELECTRICALLY POWERED TOOL INTO THE MUCK AND FILTH of the sewer the line. However, Susan's house ain't got no stinking cleanout. CRAP!!! No pun intended. I could try to snake it from the vent on the roof but that would shorten my snake (again, no pun intended) and I didn't want to get the tool on the roof. An alternate path of entry is easily achievable-take up a toilet and snake through the closet hub (the pipe where the toilet sends all the goody through the floor). No problem. This is still within my realm of my manlihood.
Turn off water. Flush. Try to dip out any reaming water in the bowl. Loosen up the closet (another name for toilet) bolts. Disconnet the water supply. Give it bump and a yank and up she comes! I put an old towel in the tub and lifted the toilet over into the tub. Okay . . . I have a hole in which to now put my snake (more grunting and beer sips by the manly readers here). Move the POWER TOOL into position adjacent to the hole, plug it up, bump the foot pedal to make sure it's working. Yep . . . . good to go! I put a smaller head on the snake for exploratory purposes and started feeding the cable into the pipe. The first couple of feet are no problem-straight pipe with no obstructions . . . . at least that's two feet of pipe that is not the problem. Okay fist bend and the snake makes the turn with no problem. I continue pushing the cable down, down into the darkness of the 4 inch sewer line. Okay another bump and some resistance . . . . another fitting. A slight turn and twist and the snake is free and I continue pushing. Another 18 inches or so of cable and then it stops. Hmmm . . . must be a 90 degree sweep and the snake is having trouble turning it. Back it up and jam it again. Still, dead end. Okay . . . I know the problem-I don't LOOK like a plumber. I pull my pants down slightly so there is some butt crack showing. I also wipe some of the dirty toilet wax on my arms for effect.
Okay, let's think it through. Susan said the tank was last pumped in spring of 2006, so it is highly unlikely that is the problem. I've seen field line problems before. Usually, this kind of problem is evidenced by soggy ground with the putrid odor of sewage (poopy for the commoner out there reading this). Again, the field line area is dry as a bone so I moved that possibility down the list. Okay . . . vent or drain to the septic tank. Easy to eliminate the vent-climb up on the roof with a flash light and do a visual exam. DANG!!! Vents were clear so that meant it was highly likely that there is something in the line between the house and the tank. Since the problem started rather quickly, my guess was that is was some kind of clog and not necessarily tree roots. Maybe one of the girls flushed a doll or a toothbrush or some other inanimate object that couldn't quite find it's way all the way down to the tank. Not a problem!!! I can handle this!
Tuesday at lunch I ran to (cheap, unsolicited plug) Home Depot to rent a power snake. Yes . . . A POWER TOOL (men can insert loud grunting sound here. Maybe even open a beer). I didn't really need the super duper one . . . one hundred feet of 5/8" cable with SIX (count them) cutting heads. No . . . . not that tough a job. I'll take the 75 foot of 1/2" cable with four cutting heads and slightly smaller motor. That should get the job done! Nothing makes you feel more manly than loading a POWER TOOL on the truck and grunting all the way home watching all the jealous men driving past my truck knowing that I was about to . . . . . . play in poop with a POWER TOOL!!!!!
I have been under Susan's house many times doing assorted manly things and in my ventures in the itty bitty crawl space I had noticed that there were no cleanouts in the waste lines. For those of you who do not know what I am talking about, most homes, as required by plumbing code, have to have a pipe that connects to the main drain with a removable plug so you can do what I was wanting to do . . . run an ELECTRICALLY POWERED TOOL INTO THE MUCK AND FILTH of the sewer the line. However, Susan's house ain't got no stinking cleanout. CRAP!!! No pun intended. I could try to snake it from the vent on the roof but that would shorten my snake (again, no pun intended) and I didn't want to get the tool on the roof. An alternate path of entry is easily achievable-take up a toilet and snake through the closet hub (the pipe where the toilet sends all the goody through the floor). No problem. This is still within my realm of my manlihood.
Turn off water. Flush. Try to dip out any reaming water in the bowl. Loosen up the closet (another name for toilet) bolts. Disconnet the water supply. Give it bump and a yank and up she comes! I put an old towel in the tub and lifted the toilet over into the tub. Okay . . . I have a hole in which to now put my snake (more grunting and beer sips by the manly readers here). Move the POWER TOOL into position adjacent to the hole, plug it up, bump the foot pedal to make sure it's working. Yep . . . . good to go! I put a smaller head on the snake for exploratory purposes and started feeding the cable into the pipe. The first couple of feet are no problem-straight pipe with no obstructions . . . . at least that's two feet of pipe that is not the problem. Okay fist bend and the snake makes the turn with no problem. I continue pushing the cable down, down into the darkness of the 4 inch sewer line. Okay another bump and some resistance . . . . another fitting. A slight turn and twist and the snake is free and I continue pushing. Another 18 inches or so of cable and then it stops. Hmmm . . . must be a 90 degree sweep and the snake is having trouble turning it. Back it up and jam it again. Still, dead end. Okay . . . I know the problem-I don't LOOK like a plumber. I pull my pants down slightly so there is some butt crack showing. I also wipe some of the dirty toilet wax on my arms for effect.
Now the snake and pipe will think I belong and we will all become one. Give it another quick hard jam. CRAP . . . . no luck. Back it up and go again. I twist and turn the snake and give it some POWER. It's just banging and not moving. I know I am not into the main line yet. I only have about 6 or 7 feet of cable fed off the reel. I spend the next 30 minutes trying to get the snake to move further down the line but it won't budge.
I gave up. Yes, I gave up. I pulled the snake out of the hole and back onto the reel. I pulled up my pants and I drug the stinking thing outside, pulled out about 10 feet of cable and chloroxed it and hosed it off and loaded it back on my truck. My manlihood has been tested and I have failed. I go back to the bathroom and reset the toilet, hook it up, test it out and everything is operating as before. I run to Susan's bathroom to take a quick shower but first I have to exercise what is left of my manlihood. I flush the toilet and WHOOSH!!!! Water is running everywhere. What the heck is going on? I look behind the toilet and there is a big hunk of china laying on the floor with water running out of it. I quickly turn off the water and realize what happened. My POWER SNAKE ended up making a wrong turn. There must have been a cross in the main line where the back to back toilets are instead of sanitary fittings and the snake went into the other bathroom and up the toilet where it seems all my banging ended up breaking the toilet. Lovely.
After dinner, I ran the snake back to Home Depot, my problem unresolved and my manhood greatly damaged. However, now I get to buy a new toilet. A middle of the line toilet with elongated bowl (every man likes the elongated bowls ladies . . . . you may want to consider buying one for your man for Christmas) and 2 inches taller. awwwwww . . . nice high seat with elongated bowl. Almost worth all the trouble for comfort. I haul it home and it's 9 ish by now so I put it off until Wednesday afternoon.
The office generally empties out Wed afternoon around 1:00 the day before Thanksgiving so I have plenty of time to get home and replace the broken one. The lines are draining slow and are somewhat functional but I still have a plumbing problem. I replace the toilet with no problem and we eat a Thanksgiving eve meal with the girls since their dad gets them over Thanksgiving. Susan and I decide to go to my de facto home in Eagle Point where the toilets flush.
Out of time. Now you'll have to wait for Part III . . . . .
I gave up. Yes, I gave up. I pulled the snake out of the hole and back onto the reel. I pulled up my pants and I drug the stinking thing outside, pulled out about 10 feet of cable and chloroxed it and hosed it off and loaded it back on my truck. My manlihood has been tested and I have failed. I go back to the bathroom and reset the toilet, hook it up, test it out and everything is operating as before. I run to Susan's bathroom to take a quick shower but first I have to exercise what is left of my manlihood. I flush the toilet and WHOOSH!!!! Water is running everywhere. What the heck is going on? I look behind the toilet and there is a big hunk of china laying on the floor with water running out of it. I quickly turn off the water and realize what happened. My POWER SNAKE ended up making a wrong turn. There must have been a cross in the main line where the back to back toilets are instead of sanitary fittings and the snake went into the other bathroom and up the toilet where it seems all my banging ended up breaking the toilet. Lovely.
After dinner, I ran the snake back to Home Depot, my problem unresolved and my manhood greatly damaged. However, now I get to buy a new toilet. A middle of the line toilet with elongated bowl (every man likes the elongated bowls ladies . . . . you may want to consider buying one for your man for Christmas) and 2 inches taller. awwwwww . . . nice high seat with elongated bowl. Almost worth all the trouble for comfort. I haul it home and it's 9 ish by now so I put it off until Wednesday afternoon.
The office generally empties out Wed afternoon around 1:00 the day before Thanksgiving so I have plenty of time to get home and replace the broken one. The lines are draining slow and are somewhat functional but I still have a plumbing problem. I replace the toilet with no problem and we eat a Thanksgiving eve meal with the girls since their dad gets them over Thanksgiving. Susan and I decide to go to my de facto home in Eagle Point where the toilets flush.
Out of time. Now you'll have to wait for Part III . . . . .
Friday, November 28, 2008
My first week as a married man . . . Part 1
Well, almost a week. It will be a week tomorrow but I am taking some liberty with clock.
As you know, Susan and I decided to tie the knot on November 22. That's last Saturday for the calendar challenged amongst you. The week leading up to the big event was a whirlwind and full of activity and work. No time for running. Besides, my back has been bothering me a bit and though I know I need to be out there, my back is grateful for the respite.
Not sure how much detail you want to know-Last Saturday started with a bang. I had planned on sleeping in a little. Now mind you, sleeping in for me is 7:30 . . . maybe 8:00 tops. I even took a couple of Tylenol PM when I went to bed and had sat up and watched a movie just so I could sleep in. No such luck. I was wide awake by 6 and my mind was racing with all the stuff that needed to be done. So I got up, stripped the bed and started the first of four loads of laundry I was to do that morning. I did manage to get in 3 1/2 miles while the first load was running and the coffee was making. Perfect time to get my thoughts together for the upcoming day.
Man! Did I have a lot to do before getting married or what? I still had not brought any clothes to Susan's house yet. In fact, I had little idea of what to bring with me. After choking down a bagel and doing another load of clothes, I started organizing my clothes. Not all of them. Just essentials . . . things that I know that I will wear and can still fit my big old fat katucus (sp?) into. Let's see . . . underwear. Check. Socks . . . . colored and white. Check. Shoes . . . dress shoes, work shoes, Merrills, Keens. Check. Wait . . . I almost forgot-RUNNING SHOES. Big Check! Okay . . . shoes, socks, underwear. Essentials. If the house were to burn down or if someone started chasing me, I could get away with minimal embarrassment.
Real clothes next. Let's see . . . it's almost winter time so I'll need long sleeve shirts for daily wear at work. I'll grab maybe 7 or 8 of my favorites. Check. This is Alabama and we do end up with a few warm days during the winter . . . maybe 8 or so golf shirts. Check. Tee shirts. OH YEAH, have to have them. All my favorites. Wait . . . all my tee shirts are my favorites. CRAP. Closet isn't that big. Okay, don't panic. All my Life Is Good tees have to make the journey. A couple of my favorite race tees need to go too. Oh yeah, some of my odd shirts that make people laugh or mad . . . have to have them. You know the ones . . . . Three fingered Franks fireworks, PETA (People for the eating of tasty animals), Bite Me Live Bait (because size matters). Okay. Shirts squared away. WAIT!!!!! Dress shirts for eating out and church. Okay-whites, blues, yellow, stripes. Check. Not really cold natured but I'll also throw in a sweater and a couple of sweat shirts.
Pants. Wow, this is going to be tough. Dammit, think Jim!!! Okay calm down. Just think through you're normal week. Work clothes-Dockers. Khakis, green, blue, black, clay. Check, I'm covered for Monday thru Friday. Slacks . . . only four or five pair I can get into so that is no problem. Check. Jeans. Need 'em. Good old 505s. Check. Several belts. Check.
Another load of clothes in the laundry. Sweating profusely as the clock is running and the morning is getting away from me. Susan and the girls are out so I'll make a run to her house and stick my stuff in the closet and chest of drawers.
One hour later-another load of laundry. Okay . . . now I need to gather up "bathroom stuff". I know men should be able to get by on a toothbrush and razor but I need more than that. Deordorant, foot powder, gold bond medicated lotion, contact stuff, medicine and assorted other goodies that I use throughout the week. I think I've got most of the stuff I need to start my new life. Throw it in the car. Last load of laundry is done, bed is changed and made. Tux is at Susan's house. I'll run back to her house to drop off a few more items I've grabbed from around the house. I hustle out to the Tiny Kingdom (http://www.mytinykingdom.com/) and finish setting up shop.
Done at Susan's house for now . . . lunchtime. Go get a burger bomb at Mickie D's and run through Wal-Mart for a few items. I am supposed to be meeting my former neighbor, good friend and photographer for the wedding after lunch. He and his family came into town for the wedding and we decided to have a cigar and an adult beverage on the back porch of my house. His timing is perfect and he calls as I'm leaving wallie world. I go and pick Todd up and we hit the cigar shop where he proceeds to take one of their wooden indians. Yes, just pick it up and walk out with it. Of course, this is where Todd always did business and everyone in there knew him. He said something along the lines of "I always wanted one of these and you sorry SOBs never gave me a going away present . . . I'm taking this back to Atlanta with me!" Nobody stopped him so off we went with some good smokes and a wooden indian. I'm looking at the clock and time is running out. Gosh . . . we only have maybe an hour or hour and a half to bond and then I have to hit the road. Back to my house, light 'em up, have a scotch. Wow, LIFE IS GOOD. I'm on my back deck with two of my very best friends (Larry joined us), the sun is shining, the temperature is perfect and I'm marrying the greatest girl in about 4 hours. I regret that I had to leave Todd and Larry at my house but it was getting close to 2:30 and I still had lot's to do!!!
Back to Susan's house. Hoofing it. Quick shower. Feels good. I shaved in the morning so I don't have to deal with that. Should I take the tux to the church or go ahead and wear it??? I'll minimize the chance for screw ups and put it on now. 3:15 . . . tick tock tick tock. Yikes, I have to get going. I pack an overnight bag. We're planning on spending our first night together at Embassay Suites. I grab Susan's overnight bag that she had ready to go and throw it in the car along with mine. I grab all the other stuff that I'm supposed to take with me and I'm off to the races.
Go by The Club. We're having our guests to The Club for dinner and dancing. However, we know that it would be best to not let everyone sit where they want so we have a seating arrangement. We don't trust the wait staff to get it right so I run up there and set out the place cards and make sure everything is in order. Yep . . . spot on. Cool
Next, swing by the hotel and check in and unload the bags. Done with minimal hassle and on to the church! Arrive just smidge past 4:00. Getting hitched at 5:30. Susan's dad is there. Todd is there. No Susan. Where is Susan? WHERE IS SUSAN?????!!!!!! I'm pretty sure she isn't ducking out on me. I just know that she is not the first one to look at a clock. I text and she texts back. Okay. Whew, on her way. Her dad keeps wandering around in a circle saying "she's not coming". Great for the confidence booster there dad!
Susan, girls and the enterouge arrive and we jump through all the hoops getting pictures done. Thanks Todd. Very nice job. I'll be posting some pictures later.
Guess what???? It's 5:20 and in walks the minister. Way cool. I think we're going to pull this off! After taking a couple of deep breaths and relaxing, we are all ready. Though small and simple, it was something that will be remembered. E came down the aisle first. Then MAC came down and went to the piano and played Ode to Joy. Susan and her dad came down while MAC was playing. VERY VERY COOL. MAC finished playing and came and stood by me . . . she was my Best Man. After some some scripture, vows, "I do's", prayers, we were married. Just like that.
Afterwards, everyone came up to talk to us and then we all headed to The Club. We had a cocktail hour and dinner (filet and grilled shrimp). We had a great time visiting with our family and friends and dancing. Afterwards, we retired to the hotel, pooped but smiling. Little did I know what the week held for us . . . . . .
As you know, Susan and I decided to tie the knot on November 22. That's last Saturday for the calendar challenged amongst you. The week leading up to the big event was a whirlwind and full of activity and work. No time for running. Besides, my back has been bothering me a bit and though I know I need to be out there, my back is grateful for the respite.
Not sure how much detail you want to know-Last Saturday started with a bang. I had planned on sleeping in a little. Now mind you, sleeping in for me is 7:30 . . . maybe 8:00 tops. I even took a couple of Tylenol PM when I went to bed and had sat up and watched a movie just so I could sleep in. No such luck. I was wide awake by 6 and my mind was racing with all the stuff that needed to be done. So I got up, stripped the bed and started the first of four loads of laundry I was to do that morning. I did manage to get in 3 1/2 miles while the first load was running and the coffee was making. Perfect time to get my thoughts together for the upcoming day.
Man! Did I have a lot to do before getting married or what? I still had not brought any clothes to Susan's house yet. In fact, I had little idea of what to bring with me. After choking down a bagel and doing another load of clothes, I started organizing my clothes. Not all of them. Just essentials . . . things that I know that I will wear and can still fit my big old fat katucus (sp?) into. Let's see . . . underwear. Check. Socks . . . . colored and white. Check. Shoes . . . dress shoes, work shoes, Merrills, Keens. Check. Wait . . . I almost forgot-RUNNING SHOES. Big Check! Okay . . . shoes, socks, underwear. Essentials. If the house were to burn down or if someone started chasing me, I could get away with minimal embarrassment.
Real clothes next. Let's see . . . it's almost winter time so I'll need long sleeve shirts for daily wear at work. I'll grab maybe 7 or 8 of my favorites. Check. This is Alabama and we do end up with a few warm days during the winter . . . maybe 8 or so golf shirts. Check. Tee shirts. OH YEAH, have to have them. All my favorites. Wait . . . all my tee shirts are my favorites. CRAP. Closet isn't that big. Okay, don't panic. All my Life Is Good tees have to make the journey. A couple of my favorite race tees need to go too. Oh yeah, some of my odd shirts that make people laugh or mad . . . have to have them. You know the ones . . . . Three fingered Franks fireworks, PETA (People for the eating of tasty animals), Bite Me Live Bait (because size matters). Okay. Shirts squared away. WAIT!!!!! Dress shirts for eating out and church. Okay-whites, blues, yellow, stripes. Check. Not really cold natured but I'll also throw in a sweater and a couple of sweat shirts.
Pants. Wow, this is going to be tough. Dammit, think Jim!!! Okay calm down. Just think through you're normal week. Work clothes-Dockers. Khakis, green, blue, black, clay. Check, I'm covered for Monday thru Friday. Slacks . . . only four or five pair I can get into so that is no problem. Check. Jeans. Need 'em. Good old 505s. Check. Several belts. Check.
Another load of clothes in the laundry. Sweating profusely as the clock is running and the morning is getting away from me. Susan and the girls are out so I'll make a run to her house and stick my stuff in the closet and chest of drawers.
One hour later-another load of laundry. Okay . . . now I need to gather up "bathroom stuff". I know men should be able to get by on a toothbrush and razor but I need more than that. Deordorant, foot powder, gold bond medicated lotion, contact stuff, medicine and assorted other goodies that I use throughout the week. I think I've got most of the stuff I need to start my new life. Throw it in the car. Last load of laundry is done, bed is changed and made. Tux is at Susan's house. I'll run back to her house to drop off a few more items I've grabbed from around the house. I hustle out to the Tiny Kingdom (http://www.mytinykingdom.com/) and finish setting up shop.
Done at Susan's house for now . . . lunchtime. Go get a burger bomb at Mickie D's and run through Wal-Mart for a few items. I am supposed to be meeting my former neighbor, good friend and photographer for the wedding after lunch. He and his family came into town for the wedding and we decided to have a cigar and an adult beverage on the back porch of my house. His timing is perfect and he calls as I'm leaving wallie world. I go and pick Todd up and we hit the cigar shop where he proceeds to take one of their wooden indians. Yes, just pick it up and walk out with it. Of course, this is where Todd always did business and everyone in there knew him. He said something along the lines of "I always wanted one of these and you sorry SOBs never gave me a going away present . . . I'm taking this back to Atlanta with me!" Nobody stopped him so off we went with some good smokes and a wooden indian. I'm looking at the clock and time is running out. Gosh . . . we only have maybe an hour or hour and a half to bond and then I have to hit the road. Back to my house, light 'em up, have a scotch. Wow, LIFE IS GOOD. I'm on my back deck with two of my very best friends (Larry joined us), the sun is shining, the temperature is perfect and I'm marrying the greatest girl in about 4 hours. I regret that I had to leave Todd and Larry at my house but it was getting close to 2:30 and I still had lot's to do!!!
Back to Susan's house. Hoofing it. Quick shower. Feels good. I shaved in the morning so I don't have to deal with that. Should I take the tux to the church or go ahead and wear it??? I'll minimize the chance for screw ups and put it on now. 3:15 . . . tick tock tick tock. Yikes, I have to get going. I pack an overnight bag. We're planning on spending our first night together at Embassay Suites. I grab Susan's overnight bag that she had ready to go and throw it in the car along with mine. I grab all the other stuff that I'm supposed to take with me and I'm off to the races.
Go by The Club. We're having our guests to The Club for dinner and dancing. However, we know that it would be best to not let everyone sit where they want so we have a seating arrangement. We don't trust the wait staff to get it right so I run up there and set out the place cards and make sure everything is in order. Yep . . . spot on. Cool
Next, swing by the hotel and check in and unload the bags. Done with minimal hassle and on to the church! Arrive just smidge past 4:00. Getting hitched at 5:30. Susan's dad is there. Todd is there. No Susan. Where is Susan? WHERE IS SUSAN?????!!!!!! I'm pretty sure she isn't ducking out on me. I just know that she is not the first one to look at a clock. I text and she texts back. Okay. Whew, on her way. Her dad keeps wandering around in a circle saying "she's not coming". Great for the confidence booster there dad!
Susan, girls and the enterouge arrive and we jump through all the hoops getting pictures done. Thanks Todd. Very nice job. I'll be posting some pictures later.
Guess what???? It's 5:20 and in walks the minister. Way cool. I think we're going to pull this off! After taking a couple of deep breaths and relaxing, we are all ready. Though small and simple, it was something that will be remembered. E came down the aisle first. Then MAC came down and went to the piano and played Ode to Joy. Susan and her dad came down while MAC was playing. VERY VERY COOL. MAC finished playing and came and stood by me . . . she was my Best Man. After some some scripture, vows, "I do's", prayers, we were married. Just like that.
Afterwards, everyone came up to talk to us and then we all headed to The Club. We had a cocktail hour and dinner (filet and grilled shrimp). We had a great time visiting with our family and friends and dancing. Afterwards, we retired to the hotel, pooped but smiling. Little did I know what the week held for us . . . . . .
Friday, November 21, 2008
tick tock
It's Friday lunch time. 29 hours to go. Wow. Almost feels like a countdown to a marathon. Getting nervous, excited, worried about little details. I'm very AR but thank goodness I'm not as AR as Amy! and she pulled off her wedding even with the bad weather. I'm sure everything will be fine with ours.
I will be a husband in 29 hours. What more can I say? I'm happy and look forward to all the excitement that lies ahead. I'm excited and scared at the same time. A new page in the storybook of my life. I just hope that I can make her as happy as she has and will make me.
I will be a father (of sorts) in 29 hours. Two daughters. YIKES! I guess I had better clean my guns to keep the boys away. That's the scary part-I was a teenaged boy at one point. It gives me an advantage in knowing what they are thinking but it scares me silly!
A plus about all of this is that after the wedding, I'll be able to get back into a more steady routine. I really have not been doing much running over the last several weeks, working on getting our act together. No more trying to run between houses. I can now go home, strap them on, and get my big old hooha outside and start putting in some miles.
I will be a husband in 29 hours. What more can I say? I'm happy and look forward to all the excitement that lies ahead. I'm excited and scared at the same time. A new page in the storybook of my life. I just hope that I can make her as happy as she has and will make me.
I will be a father (of sorts) in 29 hours. Two daughters. YIKES! I guess I had better clean my guns to keep the boys away. That's the scary part-I was a teenaged boy at one point. It gives me an advantage in knowing what they are thinking but it scares me silly!
A plus about all of this is that after the wedding, I'll be able to get back into a more steady routine. I really have not been doing much running over the last several weeks, working on getting our act together. No more trying to run between houses. I can now go home, strap them on, and get my big old hooha outside and start putting in some miles.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Wednesday. This seems to be the best day for me to catch up on things including my blog. Many things to talk about but I really don't want to bore you too much.
Running-
Yes, I've been running. After getting over my cold and back pains, I have crawled back out onto the pavement and re-started dragging my sorry butt around the 'hood and Susan's 'hood.
I ran 4 miles Saturday morning before cutting the grass and heading to Macon for Amy's wedding. More about that later and go check out her site.
I did a quick two miler at Susan's house on Monday. Wanted to do more but was pressed for time.
I did a three miler at Susan's house on Tuesday. It felt nice to be out there though it was a tad bit warm-low 80s.
Off today but will run Thursday and Saturday.
Okay. Other things-
We finally got around to getting started on painting MAC's new bedroom. She picked out the color. Dill pickle. Does that describe it well enough? Of course the girls wanted to help Monday. I was cutting in around the trim and ceiling and told them that they could roll the walls after I was finished cutting in. They wouldn't take no for an answer so I gave them a couple of brushes and told them to paint the corners. They also wanted to try their hand at painting UP TO the trim. Can you guess what happened? Yep, door trim now has some dill pickle on it. Oh well, we were going to repaint the trim anyway. Obviously, I'll do that!
Last Saturday I went to Macon for Amy and Troy's wedding. The weather was nice on the drive from Birmingham to about 20 miles north of Macon. I was in the convertible enjoying my ride when all of a sudden on the horizon I saw this big gray wall of water. Yep-rain. Pulled over in time and put up the top and plunged into the weather for the final 20 minutes to Macon. All along the way I kept hoping it would stop since the wedding was scheduled to be outdoors. No such luck. Poor Amy. Of course being AR type, she had plans for the rain and everything pretty much went without a hitch. In fact, it probably made things easier. Her alternate location was the Red Cross House in Macon where her reception was to be so we didn't have to drive from the wedding site to the reception. Lot's of folks I didn't know. Actually, the only ones I knew was Amy and Troy. Thanks guys for inviting me. I truly feel honored to have been there. Very handsome couple and Amy looked beautiful and happy.
I spent the night in Macon and Sunday I drove to Atlanta and spent the afternoon and night with my friends Todd and Kathy who recently moved to Kennesaw. Beautiful home off the beaten path. Thanks for the invite! Todd is going to be the photographer for Susan and my wedding.
That's about it for now.
Have a super day!
Running-
Yes, I've been running. After getting over my cold and back pains, I have crawled back out onto the pavement and re-started dragging my sorry butt around the 'hood and Susan's 'hood.
I ran 4 miles Saturday morning before cutting the grass and heading to Macon for Amy's wedding. More about that later and go check out her site.
I did a quick two miler at Susan's house on Monday. Wanted to do more but was pressed for time.
I did a three miler at Susan's house on Tuesday. It felt nice to be out there though it was a tad bit warm-low 80s.
Off today but will run Thursday and Saturday.
Okay. Other things-
We finally got around to getting started on painting MAC's new bedroom. She picked out the color. Dill pickle. Does that describe it well enough? Of course the girls wanted to help Monday. I was cutting in around the trim and ceiling and told them that they could roll the walls after I was finished cutting in. They wouldn't take no for an answer so I gave them a couple of brushes and told them to paint the corners. They also wanted to try their hand at painting UP TO the trim. Can you guess what happened? Yep, door trim now has some dill pickle on it. Oh well, we were going to repaint the trim anyway. Obviously, I'll do that!
Last Saturday I went to Macon for Amy and Troy's wedding. The weather was nice on the drive from Birmingham to about 20 miles north of Macon. I was in the convertible enjoying my ride when all of a sudden on the horizon I saw this big gray wall of water. Yep-rain. Pulled over in time and put up the top and plunged into the weather for the final 20 minutes to Macon. All along the way I kept hoping it would stop since the wedding was scheduled to be outdoors. No such luck. Poor Amy. Of course being AR type, she had plans for the rain and everything pretty much went without a hitch. In fact, it probably made things easier. Her alternate location was the Red Cross House in Macon where her reception was to be so we didn't have to drive from the wedding site to the reception. Lot's of folks I didn't know. Actually, the only ones I knew was Amy and Troy. Thanks guys for inviting me. I truly feel honored to have been there. Very handsome couple and Amy looked beautiful and happy.
I spent the night in Macon and Sunday I drove to Atlanta and spent the afternoon and night with my friends Todd and Kathy who recently moved to Kennesaw. Beautiful home off the beaten path. Thanks for the invite! Todd is going to be the photographer for Susan and my wedding.
That's about it for now.
Have a super day!
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
awwwwwwww . . . .
finally. RAIN. Glorious rain. It has been almost a month since we've had any appreciable rain.
Wednesday lunchtime. Chewing on a salad and about to get back to work but thought I'd just chat for a minute.
I ran a mile Saturday and about 2 miles on Sunday. Did those with Susan so they were easy jogs. I ran 2.5 miles on Monday afternoon and it felt pretty good to get out there. No blazing speed by any stretch of the imagination but good to get back out there after what ended up being several weeks layoff. It felt good to just run relaxed with no real expectations.
My back is feeling better and the cold is gone. Pretty much all systems are go . . . just need to get off the lazy keaster and get to it!
I'm getting fired up about my trip to Macon for Troy and Amy's wedding. I'm also going to swing thru Hot Lanta on the way home and visit with friends. Should be a great weekend.
finally. RAIN. Glorious rain. It has been almost a month since we've had any appreciable rain.
Wednesday lunchtime. Chewing on a salad and about to get back to work but thought I'd just chat for a minute.
I ran a mile Saturday and about 2 miles on Sunday. Did those with Susan so they were easy jogs. I ran 2.5 miles on Monday afternoon and it felt pretty good to get out there. No blazing speed by any stretch of the imagination but good to get back out there after what ended up being several weeks layoff. It felt good to just run relaxed with no real expectations.
My back is feeling better and the cold is gone. Pretty much all systems are go . . . just need to get off the lazy keaster and get to it!
I'm getting fired up about my trip to Macon for Troy and Amy's wedding. I'm also going to swing thru Hot Lanta on the way home and visit with friends. Should be a great weekend.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Hello?
Hello?
Is there anybody in there?
Just nod if you can hear me.
Is there anyone at home?
There is no pain you are receding.
A distant ship's smoke on the horizon.
You are only coming through in waves.
Your lips move but I can't hear what you're saying.
When I was a child I caught a fleeting glimpse
Out of the corner of my eye.
I turned to look but it was gone
I cannot put my finger on it now
The child is grown, The dream is gone.
But I have become comfortably numb.
I am here. I would like to say something neat like "I've been on sabbatical" or "I spent the month in Tuscanny". No such luck. Truth be known, I have been lazy. Well, I won't blame my absence entirely on sloth. I'll also let a series of aches and pains take some of the blame. Let's see . . . since we last spoke I managed to screw up my back, run just little, screw up my back again, run just little, go to a conference in Biloxi, have my GI problems arise (accompanied by a trip to hospital and again found out that there is NOTHING wrong with my heart . . . just my esophagus), and now I am battling a head cold that Susan and E tried to give me earlier this week. That's about all the excitement you have missed over the last 6 weeks.
On a more upbeat note . . .
We have decided that Nov. 22 is going to be the big day (you can read more about that on the other blog). I have been losing weight but how can I help but not lose weight when I am back on a somewhat restricted diet. The really neat thing is that I've been losing WITHOUT running. Once the cold is over and I can breathe again, I plan on hitting the pavement with a vengeance. I know, I know-don't over do it. The plan is to ease back into my routine . . . I'll run 2-3 miles 4 days a week for a few weeks and then start building back up.
Also, I am enjoying Autumn. Though we still have the occassional day in the high 80s, we are getting into the 70s regularly with cool nights. Perfect from riding around in my 99 'Stang GT convertible. I must admit that I miss my Miata. Or as Dom calls it- Me Otter. I saw Dom last week behind me at a redlight. We both had our tops down and both looked like middle aged men going through mid-life crises!
This month is going to be busy for me. Next weekend I am heading to Macon for Troy and Amy's wedding. I am also going to swing back through Hot Lanta to visit my friends and former neighbors, Todd and Kathy. The original plan was to take Susan with me but the girls' schedule would not allow it. The following Friday I am going to Lafayette, GA to see my best friend's football team play. My buddy Perry retired from the Alabama School system as the third most winning active football coach. However, he couldn't stand it so he took a job with the Georgia school system in the NW corner of Georgia. He's doing well and mid-way through the season they have more wins than any the've had for entire seasons the last several years.
One more note . . . .
Today I turn 49.
OUCH!
Is there anybody in there?
Just nod if you can hear me.
Is there anyone at home?
There is no pain you are receding.
A distant ship's smoke on the horizon.
You are only coming through in waves.
Your lips move but I can't hear what you're saying.
When I was a child I caught a fleeting glimpse
Out of the corner of my eye.
I turned to look but it was gone
I cannot put my finger on it now
The child is grown, The dream is gone.
But I have become comfortably numb.
I am here. I would like to say something neat like "I've been on sabbatical" or "I spent the month in Tuscanny". No such luck. Truth be known, I have been lazy. Well, I won't blame my absence entirely on sloth. I'll also let a series of aches and pains take some of the blame. Let's see . . . since we last spoke I managed to screw up my back, run just little, screw up my back again, run just little, go to a conference in Biloxi, have my GI problems arise (accompanied by a trip to hospital and again found out that there is NOTHING wrong with my heart . . . just my esophagus), and now I am battling a head cold that Susan and E tried to give me earlier this week. That's about all the excitement you have missed over the last 6 weeks.
On a more upbeat note . . .
We have decided that Nov. 22 is going to be the big day (you can read more about that on the other blog). I have been losing weight but how can I help but not lose weight when I am back on a somewhat restricted diet. The really neat thing is that I've been losing WITHOUT running. Once the cold is over and I can breathe again, I plan on hitting the pavement with a vengeance. I know, I know-don't over do it. The plan is to ease back into my routine . . . I'll run 2-3 miles 4 days a week for a few weeks and then start building back up.
Also, I am enjoying Autumn. Though we still have the occassional day in the high 80s, we are getting into the 70s regularly with cool nights. Perfect from riding around in my 99 'Stang GT convertible. I must admit that I miss my Miata. Or as Dom calls it- Me Otter. I saw Dom last week behind me at a redlight. We both had our tops down and both looked like middle aged men going through mid-life crises!
This month is going to be busy for me. Next weekend I am heading to Macon for Troy and Amy's wedding. I am also going to swing back through Hot Lanta to visit my friends and former neighbors, Todd and Kathy. The original plan was to take Susan with me but the girls' schedule would not allow it. The following Friday I am going to Lafayette, GA to see my best friend's football team play. My buddy Perry retired from the Alabama School system as the third most winning active football coach. However, he couldn't stand it so he took a job with the Georgia school system in the NW corner of Georgia. He's doing well and mid-way through the season they have more wins than any the've had for entire seasons the last several years.
One more note . . . .
Today I turn 49.
OUCH!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Just a quick break from lunch in order to update.
So far, it's been a great week. I've been on a downward trend with my weight, albeit slow. But the experts say that's the way to do it-no big crash diets . . . slow and steady. Sort of applying WW methods. Eat what I want, to a point, just watch portion size.
Monday was warm and humid. I did a 3 1/2 miler and the legs and joints are improving. I guess a new, second rate shoe (Asics Foundation are better than worn out top shelf Brooks Beast. Anyway, the run was good and believe it or not, I actually chased down and passed a runner in our 'hood. Boy, did that feel good!
Tuesday was warmer . . . low 90s. I did a 3 miler over at Susan's house. I wanted to do 4 but I know I need to build/recover slowly. I'd rather walk away wanting more than regretting it the next day. Afterwards, I got to play sitter/dad . . . . Susan had an open house at school she had to attend so I stayed with the girls. Guess what-I survived!
So far, it's been a great week. I've been on a downward trend with my weight, albeit slow. But the experts say that's the way to do it-no big crash diets . . . slow and steady. Sort of applying WW methods. Eat what I want, to a point, just watch portion size.
Monday was warm and humid. I did a 3 1/2 miler and the legs and joints are improving. I guess a new, second rate shoe (Asics Foundation are better than worn out top shelf Brooks Beast. Anyway, the run was good and believe it or not, I actually chased down and passed a runner in our 'hood. Boy, did that feel good!
Tuesday was warmer . . . low 90s. I did a 3 miler over at Susan's house. I wanted to do 4 but I know I need to build/recover slowly. I'd rather walk away wanting more than regretting it the next day. Afterwards, I got to play sitter/dad . . . . Susan had an open house at school she had to attend so I stayed with the girls. Guess what-I survived!
Monday, August 18, 2008
It's Monday lunch time and I'm catching up.
I think I may have figured out why I've been having trouble focusing. You'll need to go to My Hot Girlfriend to follow that train of thought ;-)
I ran 3 miles last Thursday and then played 9 holes of golf. The new shoes felt pretty good and the legs are coming around. The golf was okay . . . shot 44 (bogey golf).
I ran 4 miles Saturday morning. It was fairly cool but humid. New shoes are feeling better and legs aren't gimpy..
Did I mention that you need to go to the other website??????
I think I may have figured out why I've been having trouble focusing. You'll need to go to My Hot Girlfriend to follow that train of thought ;-)
I ran 3 miles last Thursday and then played 9 holes of golf. The new shoes felt pretty good and the legs are coming around. The golf was okay . . . shot 44 (bogey golf).
I ran 4 miles Saturday morning. It was fairly cool but humid. New shoes are feeling better and legs aren't gimpy..
Did I mention that you need to go to the other website??????
Thursday, August 14, 2008
wow. Time flys. Period. I need to catch up.
Last week was not a good running week. Really couldn't figure it out until the weekend when I started backtracking. The shoes. Yep. The shoes.
I had been noticing the last several weeks that the knees, ankles, thighs were hurting. Not normal for me. Even when I'm at my fattest, joint pain has never really been a big issue. Saturday, I actually had to stop and walk because my legs were hurting so bad. Being the engineering type, I try to keep track of miles run on each pair (yes I run in multiple pairs-it's better on the shoes). The shoes I've been slogging around in were bought in April of 07. Wow-that's pretty old. The mileage was the killer-400+ miles in each pair. No wonder my legs were killing me.
I've been in Brooks Beast 9 for awhile and I recently read where Brooks is discontinuing the 9 and bumping it up to the 10. However, I need shoes NOW. I went in the local running store, TrakShak, just to see what they had. I love Saucony . . . they feel good but wear out quickly. Same for Mizuno. Love the feel and my marathon PR was run in Mizuno Wave Renegades. However, I felt like a change. How about Asics Foundation 8. Let's give 'em a try.
I ran Monday in my old Beasts and barely finished 3 miles. Ran to TrakShak on Tuesday and bought the Foundations. Ran 3 miles in them on Wednesday. Initially, the legs were hurting but felt better by the end of the run. I'm planning on 3 or 4 miles this afternoon and then walking 9 holes. We'll let you know how it goes.
On a side note, I went to the Dr. last week. My neck and left shoulder have been killing me. No, not heart attack kind of pain. This is that stiff, hard to roll the head, feels like something is tearing kind of pain. My Doc took a series of neck and skull x-rays. I was concerned that I may have done some damage from a nasty spill I took about a year ago. Don't ask. Anyway . . . Tim called today and said that there are no signs of cracks, leissions, or disc damage. However, he did see signs of progressing cervical arthritis between 3, 4, 5 discs. Not much to do in way of treatment. He has put me on Robaxin (muscle relaxer) for a while. He has also said that anti-inflammatories would help. However, with GERD, I am not supposed to take anti-inflammatories. It sucks getting older. I think I'll call my GI and ask him about taking Motrin for a while. the main thing is to come up with a long term plan to limit the pain. Anybody out there ever done accupuncture?
Last week was not a good running week. Really couldn't figure it out until the weekend when I started backtracking. The shoes. Yep. The shoes.
I had been noticing the last several weeks that the knees, ankles, thighs were hurting. Not normal for me. Even when I'm at my fattest, joint pain has never really been a big issue. Saturday, I actually had to stop and walk because my legs were hurting so bad. Being the engineering type, I try to keep track of miles run on each pair (yes I run in multiple pairs-it's better on the shoes). The shoes I've been slogging around in were bought in April of 07. Wow-that's pretty old. The mileage was the killer-400+ miles in each pair. No wonder my legs were killing me.
I've been in Brooks Beast 9 for awhile and I recently read where Brooks is discontinuing the 9 and bumping it up to the 10. However, I need shoes NOW. I went in the local running store, TrakShak, just to see what they had. I love Saucony . . . they feel good but wear out quickly. Same for Mizuno. Love the feel and my marathon PR was run in Mizuno Wave Renegades. However, I felt like a change. How about Asics Foundation 8. Let's give 'em a try.
I ran Monday in my old Beasts and barely finished 3 miles. Ran to TrakShak on Tuesday and bought the Foundations. Ran 3 miles in them on Wednesday. Initially, the legs were hurting but felt better by the end of the run. I'm planning on 3 or 4 miles this afternoon and then walking 9 holes. We'll let you know how it goes.
On a side note, I went to the Dr. last week. My neck and left shoulder have been killing me. No, not heart attack kind of pain. This is that stiff, hard to roll the head, feels like something is tearing kind of pain. My Doc took a series of neck and skull x-rays. I was concerned that I may have done some damage from a nasty spill I took about a year ago. Don't ask. Anyway . . . Tim called today and said that there are no signs of cracks, leissions, or disc damage. However, he did see signs of progressing cervical arthritis between 3, 4, 5 discs. Not much to do in way of treatment. He has put me on Robaxin (muscle relaxer) for a while. He has also said that anti-inflammatories would help. However, with GERD, I am not supposed to take anti-inflammatories. It sucks getting older. I think I'll call my GI and ask him about taking Motrin for a while. the main thing is to come up with a long term plan to limit the pain. Anybody out there ever done accupuncture?
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Monday, August 04, 2008
What doesn't kill you . . . .
will make you stronger? Not too sure about that one but I do know it will make you sweaty!
Very tough afternoon. Got home around 4:15 and was mowing the lawn by 4:30. According to my thermometer it was 96 degrees. I didn't even want to know the heat index. After mowing, it drank about 1 pint of water, laced up my shoes and started off on my 4 miler. I took a wet rag and turned on sprinkler. Very much needed. I completed the 4 miler and checked . . . still 96 degrees. YUCK.
The important thing is that I did it!
Very tough afternoon. Got home around 4:15 and was mowing the lawn by 4:30. According to my thermometer it was 96 degrees. I didn't even want to know the heat index. After mowing, it drank about 1 pint of water, laced up my shoes and started off on my 4 miler. I took a wet rag and turned on sprinkler. Very much needed. I completed the 4 miler and checked . . . still 96 degrees. YUCK.
The important thing is that I did it!
Hope everyone had a great weekend. Way too short for me.
Down to business-
I ran 4 miles Thursday afternoon. Temperature wasn't too bad (low 90s) but the humidity was high and it just "felt" like hell. Wet rag and sprinkler time!
I was bad, bad, bad. I did not run this weekend. I normally try to get a run in on Saturday but passed in hopes of running on Sunday. Susan and I went to my parents for the "BIG BREAKFAST" on Saturday morning. Needless to say, we didn't have to eat the rest of the day. Seriously. I ended up going to bed without feeling hungry or eating lunch or dinner or even a snack.
Sunday, we went to church and worked in Susan's yard. It was so hot and after about 3 hours of digging, raking, etc. I just didn't feel like running.
I am planning on going for a run this afternoon. It should be interesting. Temps are in the high 90s with indices between 105-110. Definitely a damp rag and sprinkler day. I deserve the punishment for skipping my weekend run. I'll post results . . . if I survive!
Down to business-
I ran 4 miles Thursday afternoon. Temperature wasn't too bad (low 90s) but the humidity was high and it just "felt" like hell. Wet rag and sprinkler time!
I was bad, bad, bad. I did not run this weekend. I normally try to get a run in on Saturday but passed in hopes of running on Sunday. Susan and I went to my parents for the "BIG BREAKFAST" on Saturday morning. Needless to say, we didn't have to eat the rest of the day. Seriously. I ended up going to bed without feeling hungry or eating lunch or dinner or even a snack.
Sunday, we went to church and worked in Susan's yard. It was so hot and after about 3 hours of digging, raking, etc. I just didn't feel like running.
I am planning on going for a run this afternoon. It should be interesting. Temps are in the high 90s with indices between 105-110. Definitely a damp rag and sprinkler day. I deserve the punishment for skipping my weekend run. I'll post results . . . if I survive!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
It's Wednesday lunchtime and I'm sitting here glad that today is an "off" day for me. My legs and butt are stiff and sore. I really haven't kicked up my running so it's tough to figure out why the soreness . . . maybe the fact that I bowled at lunch AND last night. Not that bowling is a demanding game but it does bring into play different muscles. Anyway, all I have planned today is to help Susan cut her grass, if it doesn't rain.
okay-let's talk running.
Monday was a hot, humid day. Duh. It's Alabama and the end of July. Of course it's hot you big dummy! I went home straight after work and cut grass. I figured that would let me acclimate a little bit to the heat and maybe let it cool down a couple of degrees. No such luck. Regardless, I did a 4 miler and felt pretty dang good about. It did take me about an hour to cool off afterwards. Susan came over and we went to one of our favorite local Italian eateries for dinner.
Tuesday was oppressive. Fortunately, there were lots of clouds and thunderstorms popping up afterwork which meant shade and wind. The downside is that these storms pop up quickly and you can get caught in lightning if you're not paying attention. I started out wanting to get in 4 miles but it was thundering and the temp was dropping . . . sure signs a storm was coming. I made it about 2 1/2 miles before the lightning got close enough to chase me home. So be it . . . 2 1/2 miles and survive to run another day.
okay-let's talk running.
Monday was a hot, humid day. Duh. It's Alabama and the end of July. Of course it's hot you big dummy! I went home straight after work and cut grass. I figured that would let me acclimate a little bit to the heat and maybe let it cool down a couple of degrees. No such luck. Regardless, I did a 4 miler and felt pretty dang good about. It did take me about an hour to cool off afterwards. Susan came over and we went to one of our favorite local Italian eateries for dinner.
Tuesday was oppressive. Fortunately, there were lots of clouds and thunderstorms popping up afterwork which meant shade and wind. The downside is that these storms pop up quickly and you can get caught in lightning if you're not paying attention. I started out wanting to get in 4 miles but it was thundering and the temp was dropping . . . sure signs a storm was coming. I made it about 2 1/2 miles before the lightning got close enough to chase me home. So be it . . . 2 1/2 miles and survive to run another day.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Hey all. Monday lunch and just catching up on the blogging. I was out of town on vacation at the beach since last Wednesday. The vacation is detailed on MY HOT GIRLFRIEND site.
I am proud that I kept up with my running while at the beach. Thus I have completed three weeks of 4 days a week running! woohoo! an accomplishment!
I ran 2 1/2 on Tuesday afternoon prior to going to the beach on Wednesday.
I ran about 4 1/2 miles Thurday morning. 1 mile with Susan and then 3 1/2 at my pace. While at Seaside, I normally run to Grayton beach and back but decided to go in search of a loop through Water Colors. Since my last visit Water Colors resort has opened up the road between 1st and 2nd sector which means there is a very nice loop with lots of scenery. There is also a good water stop at the tennis complex in Water Color about half-way which is also very good since it was HOT!
I repeated Thursdays run on Saturday morning though it was much hotter and I ran a little slower. However, I was very happy with the outcome.
Also, while at the beach, Susan and I did some recreational biking.
I am now back in town and ready for another week of running and plan on adding a mile or two total for the week.
I am proud that I kept up with my running while at the beach. Thus I have completed three weeks of 4 days a week running! woohoo! an accomplishment!
I ran 2 1/2 on Tuesday afternoon prior to going to the beach on Wednesday.
I ran about 4 1/2 miles Thurday morning. 1 mile with Susan and then 3 1/2 at my pace. While at Seaside, I normally run to Grayton beach and back but decided to go in search of a loop through Water Colors. Since my last visit Water Colors resort has opened up the road between 1st and 2nd sector which means there is a very nice loop with lots of scenery. There is also a good water stop at the tennis complex in Water Color about half-way which is also very good since it was HOT!
I repeated Thursdays run on Saturday morning though it was much hotter and I ran a little slower. However, I was very happy with the outcome.
Also, while at the beach, Susan and I did some recreational biking.
I am now back in town and ready for another week of running and plan on adding a mile or two total for the week.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Scorcher
Oh yeah. It's July in Alabama and it's only going to get hotter. Summer has finally settled in on B'ham and we really got to see what is in store for the next 4-6 weeks. It was hot this weekend but we decided to kick it up a notch today. Depending on sources, we were either at 98, 99, or 100 and that is air temp. I think I saw an index of 104 and 105 late this afternoon. My handy dandy atomic clock/thermometer told me it was 99.6 in the shade right before I went out for my run. For the fun of it, I put an oven thermometer on the road in front of my house (asphalt) and by the end of my run it was over 115 degrees on the pavement. Beautiful time to go for a run, don't you think?
God is truly merciful . . . he takes care of children and morons. I think I fall in the second category. Of course, so does Dom "the Dominator" and Marc "the Animal" because all three of us were running around 5:30 this afternoon in this heat. I never had to call 911 and never heard an ambulances which means we all survived . . . I think.
Yep. Another notch in my belt-4 miles in some very hostile conditions. I turned on a small sprinkler on my dying flowers and ran through it each time I passed my house and unashamedly stood in it when finished. For the first time this year, I also carried a washcloth soaked in cold water which I rewet each time through the sprinkler. I know it sounds sort of wimpy but I'm glad I had the wet rag to squeeze over my very hot skull this afternoon. I ran about 1 1/2 miles with Animal and finally told him to go on . . . I could not hold his pace. I do not have a problem with that! I was strictly in survival mode and I won.
It's almost 9:30 and at last glance the temp was still well over 90 degrees. Maybe this means it will be another great, hot run tomorrow!
God is truly merciful . . . he takes care of children and morons. I think I fall in the second category. Of course, so does Dom "the Dominator" and Marc "the Animal" because all three of us were running around 5:30 this afternoon in this heat. I never had to call 911 and never heard an ambulances which means we all survived . . . I think.
Yep. Another notch in my belt-4 miles in some very hostile conditions. I turned on a small sprinkler on my dying flowers and ran through it each time I passed my house and unashamedly stood in it when finished. For the first time this year, I also carried a washcloth soaked in cold water which I rewet each time through the sprinkler. I know it sounds sort of wimpy but I'm glad I had the wet rag to squeeze over my very hot skull this afternoon. I ran about 1 1/2 miles with Animal and finally told him to go on . . . I could not hold his pace. I do not have a problem with that! I was strictly in survival mode and I won.
It's almost 9:30 and at last glance the temp was still well over 90 degrees. Maybe this means it will be another great, hot run tomorrow!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Horrible
Horrible. That's how it felt to me watching Greg Norman once again self-destruct. How can a man who was once the greatest player in golf let the demons inside his head banish him again to the realm of perennial losers? I have watched golf for many years and I have always admired his game and his swashbuckler style but today that played against him. And what about his caddie? Gosh, these guys are supposed to help keep their players head screwed on straight! It appears that Greg is an older version of Phil Mickelson . . . a basket case when the game depends on steadfastness. Congrats to Padraig Harrington for being repeat winner of the Open Championship.
Okay . . . running.
I competed my second week of 4 days a week. My mileage wasn't important but the pattern is once again being set. I ran 4 miles Saturday around lunchtime. Yes, when the temp was really soring into the low-mid 90s. Afterwards I cut the grass and worked around in the yard. I got WAY TOO hot and should have known better. I was drinking lots of water and even had a Gatorade but couldn't keep it down. Yuck . . . nothing like warm Gatorade coming from the wrong direction. However, I kept sipping water and took it easy for a bit and ended up feeling okay. Went bowling with Susan and the girls late in the afternoon.
I am looking forward to my third week of full schedule running.
My buddy Dom noticed the absence of the NYC Marathon countdown timer. Yes, I am going to bail for several reasons- I am not in shape enough to even begin a 16-20 week program, I am really reluctant to travel with the economy being the way it is, I am trying to save vacation days because I've been using them too loosely and I like to make sure I keep a few extra free, just in case.
Everyone have a great week!
Okay . . . running.
I competed my second week of 4 days a week. My mileage wasn't important but the pattern is once again being set. I ran 4 miles Saturday around lunchtime. Yes, when the temp was really soring into the low-mid 90s. Afterwards I cut the grass and worked around in the yard. I got WAY TOO hot and should have known better. I was drinking lots of water and even had a Gatorade but couldn't keep it down. Yuck . . . nothing like warm Gatorade coming from the wrong direction. However, I kept sipping water and took it easy for a bit and ended up feeling okay. Went bowling with Susan and the girls late in the afternoon.
I am looking forward to my third week of full schedule running.
My buddy Dom noticed the absence of the NYC Marathon countdown timer. Yes, I am going to bail for several reasons- I am not in shape enough to even begin a 16-20 week program, I am really reluctant to travel with the economy being the way it is, I am trying to save vacation days because I've been using them too loosely and I like to make sure I keep a few extra free, just in case.
Everyone have a great week!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Friday lunch. Not too much longer to go until another brief weekend rolls by. I was in early today (5:45 am) so I'm blowing this joint by 3. That will let me run by Wally world to pick up dog food, trash bags, and other miscelaneous items.
I am starting to establish a pattern in my running once again. Since vacation I've managed to get four days in last week and should be able to get four days in this week. I ran a 4 miler on Monday and it felt pretty good. Wednesday was a quick 2 1/2 miler to avoid rain and to have dinner with Susan. Thursday I did another 2 1/2 miler and then walked 9 holes so my legs got a good workout. Until I get stronger, my two days in a row will be comprised of shorter runs just to get the body used to it. Don't worry . . . I'll be bumping the mileage up in another couple of weeks. My plan is to do at least 5 miles sometime tomorrow. I'd prefer to do it in the morning but I promised that I'd go with Susan to pick MAC up from camp in the morning. Either I'll have to do it EARLY or later in the day when it is hot. We'll figure something out.
Random thoughts-
The Open Championship is this weekend (the British Open for those of us in the US). Very fun to watch since this is more what God intended golf to be. It's fun to watch the primadonna country club boys get frustrated with the wind, rain, and chilly temperatures.
Speaking of the Open, at 52 years young, Greg "the shark" Norman is atop the leaderboard after two rounds. Some of my friends are goofy and do not like international players. Personally, I am glad to see the shark doing well and playing as if he were 20 years younger. I figure the golf gods owe him this once since he's been robbed by the fates on so many other occasions. 52 years old-goes to show that we should never give up.
Susan has gotten orthotics. Now all she has to do is get back to running! Maybe I can get her out this weekend.
Everyone have a great weekend!
I am starting to establish a pattern in my running once again. Since vacation I've managed to get four days in last week and should be able to get four days in this week. I ran a 4 miler on Monday and it felt pretty good. Wednesday was a quick 2 1/2 miler to avoid rain and to have dinner with Susan. Thursday I did another 2 1/2 miler and then walked 9 holes so my legs got a good workout. Until I get stronger, my two days in a row will be comprised of shorter runs just to get the body used to it. Don't worry . . . I'll be bumping the mileage up in another couple of weeks. My plan is to do at least 5 miles sometime tomorrow. I'd prefer to do it in the morning but I promised that I'd go with Susan to pick MAC up from camp in the morning. Either I'll have to do it EARLY or later in the day when it is hot. We'll figure something out.
Random thoughts-
The Open Championship is this weekend (the British Open for those of us in the US). Very fun to watch since this is more what God intended golf to be. It's fun to watch the primadonna country club boys get frustrated with the wind, rain, and chilly temperatures.
Speaking of the Open, at 52 years young, Greg "the shark" Norman is atop the leaderboard after two rounds. Some of my friends are goofy and do not like international players. Personally, I am glad to see the shark doing well and playing as if he were 20 years younger. I figure the golf gods owe him this once since he's been robbed by the fates on so many other occasions. 52 years old-goes to show that we should never give up.
Susan has gotten orthotics. Now all she has to do is get back to running! Maybe I can get her out this weekend.
Everyone have a great weekend!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Weekend is almost over
and I have not accomplished a whole lot. Let's see- I ran3 miles Wednesday afternoon at Susan's house. It was a hot and humid afternoon. Nothing spectacular, just a easy, sweaty run. It took me an hour to cool off before we went out for dinner. Another one of those summers where I just stand in the shower and sweat. I hate that.
Thursday my legs were killing me and I wanted to can the run. However, I toughed it out and did 2 1/2 miles before the thunderstorms hit. 3 days in a row . . . quite an feat for the fatman but I was definitely feeling it.
Friday was a rest day, thank goodness.
Saturday morning ran 4 mile and Susan biked the same. We're both struggling to get back into it and it's helpful to have someone who will hold you accountable. After the run, we worked in Susan's yard most of the day-cutting grass, cleaning out flower beds. The big feat of the day was digging out an old stump of a tree in one of her flower beds. Not a small one either. Fortunately, it was half rotten and once I got dug down around the base, the roots chopped rather easily. After much grunting, prying, cussing, sweating, we got the stump out of the ground and rolled it down to the road.
Sunday was a rest day. My back was feeling the yard work and was grateful for a good night's sleep. We went to church and then I headed home to work in my yard. I cut grass, cleaned flower beds, pulled weeds, etc. A pretty good days work until the rain set in. It was nice to have an excuse to shower up and sit down in front of the idiot box for a little while. Susan is coming over later with her youngest, E. She's bringing some s'ghetti and I'm ready for it! All I've had to day is a bowl of cereal and I am HUNGRY.
I know that I have to finish up posting about our trip to Williamsburg and hope to complete that tomorrow during lunch.
Hope you've had a great weekend!
Thursday my legs were killing me and I wanted to can the run. However, I toughed it out and did 2 1/2 miles before the thunderstorms hit. 3 days in a row . . . quite an feat for the fatman but I was definitely feeling it.
Friday was a rest day, thank goodness.
Saturday morning ran 4 mile and Susan biked the same. We're both struggling to get back into it and it's helpful to have someone who will hold you accountable. After the run, we worked in Susan's yard most of the day-cutting grass, cleaning out flower beds. The big feat of the day was digging out an old stump of a tree in one of her flower beds. Not a small one either. Fortunately, it was half rotten and once I got dug down around the base, the roots chopped rather easily. After much grunting, prying, cussing, sweating, we got the stump out of the ground and rolled it down to the road.
Sunday was a rest day. My back was feeling the yard work and was grateful for a good night's sleep. We went to church and then I headed home to work in my yard. I cut grass, cleaned flower beds, pulled weeds, etc. A pretty good days work until the rain set in. It was nice to have an excuse to shower up and sit down in front of the idiot box for a little while. Susan is coming over later with her youngest, E. She's bringing some s'ghetti and I'm ready for it! All I've had to day is a bowl of cereal and I am HUNGRY.
I know that I have to finish up posting about our trip to Williamsburg and hope to complete that tomorrow during lunch.
Hope you've had a great weekend!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
