Tonight we decided to take the kids bowling. We had a blast. Something about the atmosphere in the bowling alley makes the kids so excited. Between every ball heaved, we saw the boys dancing their hearts out, a dance that looked like something between riding a horse and the "walk like an Egyptian" dance from the eighties. they crack me up.
The boys are getting better at bowling too. We used the gutter guards, but they weren't needed near as much as they used to be. Jackson bowled well in game 1 and beat his brother as usual. However in the second game Alex got the best of him and he was so excited about beating Jackson that he repeated that fact over and over....and over. Jackson got fed up with it, but I guess it's a little payback for all of the trash Jackson talks.
Our scores were ok, with the highest being my 155* in the first game. Notice the astrix, due to one of my spares being gutter bumper aided. Anyway, scores aside, it was a lot of fun. And the trash talking, dancing machines had an awesome time. We must go back soon.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
I Love a Rainy Night
I do love a rainy night....and not the Eddie Rabbit Variety. Tonight was another rainy night. A night that I had a planned to run. A night that I did run...in the rain. It felt great; refreshing even. I do love a run in the rain!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Carolina Game
I had intended to watch the South Caroline/North Carolina State Game tonight on ESPN. Then last night my brother called with an extra ticket! Booya!!! So right now, I'm waiting on him to get to town for us to go...he just called. I'm outta here.
Prediction:
USC: 34
NC ST: 17
Go COCKS!!!
Prediction:
USC: 34
NC ST: 17
Go COCKS!!!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The First Tee Time Rocks
Stacy and I teed off early this morning. We were supposed to be the third tee time, but the first two groups cancelled so we were first off. It was a very fun round. Not to mention, being first meant no waiting! I love an early round so that I can finish quickly and have the rest of the day to enjoy. Which, by the way, is what we are doing. We are already in Greenville to pick up the kids from Stacy's parents. We arrived before they even returned from church, and that was only possible due to our early round!
After a ten year respite, Stacy picked her clubs back up and really improved all throughout the round. And best of all, she had fun. I also had a great time, and put up a decent score for myself.
I shot 49, 47, which for me is pretty good. Although I have shot a 90 before, I'm one of those people that have the goal to break 100 every time I go out. I dont always succeed, but today was a good round. The back nine felt really good. I had 2 pars and a birdie. Unfortunately I also let two snowmen creep in. In case you are wondering, snowmen are 8s and they kill a scorecard.
I plan to get out once (and twice if I'm lucky) before an upcoming golf weekend on September 6th and 7th. I need to hone my skills a bit, so I'm not a total donkey on the course.
After a ten year respite, Stacy picked her clubs back up and really improved all throughout the round. And best of all, she had fun. I also had a great time, and put up a decent score for myself.
I shot 49, 47, which for me is pretty good. Although I have shot a 90 before, I'm one of those people that have the goal to break 100 every time I go out. I dont always succeed, but today was a good round. The back nine felt really good. I had 2 pars and a birdie. Unfortunately I also let two snowmen creep in. In case you are wondering, snowmen are 8s and they kill a scorecard.
I plan to get out once (and twice if I'm lucky) before an upcoming golf weekend on September 6th and 7th. I need to hone my skills a bit, so I'm not a total donkey on the course.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
This just In!
The listing of finishing times was wrong at the Flying Saucer 5K. Well, the times were right, but the rankings were wrong. I was in fact 17th over all, however I finished SECOND in my age group. Bang!
I know that fact doesn't change my time, but it was a pleasant surprise to see.
I know that fact doesn't change my time, but it was a pleasant surprise to see.
Flying Saucer 5K Beer Run
We were able to sleep in a little this morning since the race was not until 9:00 AM.
7:30 - we had some coffee and got ready for the race. We did some stretching and got our iPods ready. I had to use my old iPod video because, strangely enough, my new iPod nano (bought it in January) stopped working on Friday. Crazy timing. Anyway, the old iPod video had a problem with shutting off mid-run, which is why I replaced it and retired it to the docking station (since it had no problems staying on if receiving a charge).
8:15 - left home
8:30 - we arrive, ready to run, get our timing chips, and find out the details. It's a hilly course, both starting and finishing uphill. Water, beer and brats afterward. You heard that right...beer and brats. This was is bound to be a good day.
8:45 - We finish the last minute stretches. I hoped that both, I was well stretched and that my iPod would last the race.
9:05 - the race begins. As I tend to do, I started a bit too fast. It was up hill, so I was passing people like crazy. It was a good felling, but shortly thereafter I realized that I had pushed it a bit too hard. Also, 5 minutes into the race my iPod died on me. Great. I messed with for while, but to no avail. It was shot and as usual, it would not recover until it was plugged back up. I guess it was time for some sefl-motivation. I continued on, but by mid race I was dying. Knowing that my goal was a bit lofty, I accepted that I'd probably fall short. I kept up my pace all the way through the end of the race and strangely enough, nobody passed me in the last mile, nor did I pass anyone. I assumed I would cross the finish line in a miserable time considering how I felt and due to the constant rolling hills, but I really had no idea of my time since the course lacked any sort of mile markings.
Once I reached the finish line, I was quite happy with what I saw. I had felt like crap doing it, but finished only about a minute short of my goal. I averaged 7:23 per mile and although was not within my goal time, I was very pleased. I now have a basis for comparison as I approach future 5Ks.
Shortly after that I met up with Stacy and we enjoyed post run refreshments. Water and a brat for her. Water, followed by beers and brat for me. This was a great idea!
We hung around for the results and rewards at 10:00. It was pretty cool.
As it turns out, Stacy demolished her previous best time and finished in 1st place in her age group and only missed a prize by 2 places since she was the 5th placed woman overall. I was very proud of her accomplishment.
I on the other hand, did not fare so well in my age group. I finished in 17th place over all, but 15th in my age group. Ha! I am in a competitive group! Anyway, I was very happy with my time (22:56) and look forward to the next race.
After the fact:
(1) We took some post-race pictures. See below.
(2) I'm now considering another 5K next Saturday in Chapin.
(3) I took my iPod nano to Best Buy today (since it's covered under the warranty). We were in and out in less than 10 minutes with an exchange. My new one will be ready to go for the next race!
7:30 - we had some coffee and got ready for the race. We did some stretching and got our iPods ready. I had to use my old iPod video because, strangely enough, my new iPod nano (bought it in January) stopped working on Friday. Crazy timing. Anyway, the old iPod video had a problem with shutting off mid-run, which is why I replaced it and retired it to the docking station (since it had no problems staying on if receiving a charge).
8:15 - left home
8:30 - we arrive, ready to run, get our timing chips, and find out the details. It's a hilly course, both starting and finishing uphill. Water, beer and brats afterward. You heard that right...beer and brats. This was is bound to be a good day.
8:45 - We finish the last minute stretches. I hoped that both, I was well stretched and that my iPod would last the race.
9:05 - the race begins. As I tend to do, I started a bit too fast. It was up hill, so I was passing people like crazy. It was a good felling, but shortly thereafter I realized that I had pushed it a bit too hard. Also, 5 minutes into the race my iPod died on me. Great. I messed with for while, but to no avail. It was shot and as usual, it would not recover until it was plugged back up. I guess it was time for some sefl-motivation. I continued on, but by mid race I was dying. Knowing that my goal was a bit lofty, I accepted that I'd probably fall short. I kept up my pace all the way through the end of the race and strangely enough, nobody passed me in the last mile, nor did I pass anyone. I assumed I would cross the finish line in a miserable time considering how I felt and due to the constant rolling hills, but I really had no idea of my time since the course lacked any sort of mile markings.
Once I reached the finish line, I was quite happy with what I saw. I had felt like crap doing it, but finished only about a minute short of my goal. I averaged 7:23 per mile and although was not within my goal time, I was very pleased. I now have a basis for comparison as I approach future 5Ks.
Shortly after that I met up with Stacy and we enjoyed post run refreshments. Water and a brat for her. Water, followed by beers and brat for me. This was a great idea!
We hung around for the results and rewards at 10:00. It was pretty cool.
As it turns out, Stacy demolished her previous best time and finished in 1st place in her age group and only missed a prize by 2 places since she was the 5th placed woman overall. I was very proud of her accomplishment.
I on the other hand, did not fare so well in my age group. I finished in 17th place over all, but 15th in my age group. Ha! I am in a competitive group! Anyway, I was very happy with my time (22:56) and look forward to the next race.
After the fact:
(1) We took some post-race pictures. See below.
(2) I'm now considering another 5K next Saturday in Chapin.
(3) I took my iPod nano to Best Buy today (since it's covered under the warranty). We were in and out in less than 10 minutes with an exchange. My new one will be ready to go for the next race!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Weekend Fun
This should be a fun weekend.
First off, we're shipping the kids to Stacy's parents for two nights. Friday afternoon I'll be picking them up from school, then pickup Stacy up and heading to Greenville. We'll hang out for a while, eat some delicious home cooking, then turn around and come back to Columbia. I know; that sounds tiring
Saturday is race day. In our current pursuit of fitness, Stacy and I have devoted ourselves to run a race every few weeks. She did the Hot Summer's Night run a few weeks back (when I was the gimp with the bum hip). Tomorrow we're both doing the Flying Saucer 5K Beer Run. It's a small venue, but it's a race, which means we'll be putting in the miles and we'll be doing it against other runners, which drives you to run harder.
This will actually be the first time I recall running a 5K. I've done a few 10Ks, and even 2 8Ks over the past 5 years. I've never been in shape though. Now I am...at least to a point. It will be nice to start putting some real times together. I believe that to achieve you have to set high goals...so for Saturday I'm shooting for 7:00 mile pace, for a 21:44 over-all. Wish me luck!
Sunday is going to be a fun day too. Stacy and I have an early tee time. I'm not a great golfer, but I love to play. Stacy has not played golf since we played together when we were both learning....over 10 years ago. She bought some clubs months ago and we hit around the yard. Sunday will be the first trip to the course. I'm excited about it, and I think she is too. Wish us both luck!
First off, we're shipping the kids to Stacy's parents for two nights. Friday afternoon I'll be picking them up from school, then pickup Stacy up and heading to Greenville. We'll hang out for a while, eat some delicious home cooking, then turn around and come back to Columbia. I know; that sounds tiring
Saturday is race day. In our current pursuit of fitness, Stacy and I have devoted ourselves to run a race every few weeks. She did the Hot Summer's Night run a few weeks back (when I was the gimp with the bum hip). Tomorrow we're both doing the Flying Saucer 5K Beer Run. It's a small venue, but it's a race, which means we'll be putting in the miles and we'll be doing it against other runners, which drives you to run harder.
This will actually be the first time I recall running a 5K. I've done a few 10Ks, and even 2 8Ks over the past 5 years. I've never been in shape though. Now I am...at least to a point. It will be nice to start putting some real times together. I believe that to achieve you have to set high goals...so for Saturday I'm shooting for 7:00 mile pace, for a 21:44 over-all. Wish me luck!
Sunday is going to be a fun day too. Stacy and I have an early tee time. I'm not a great golfer, but I love to play. Stacy has not played golf since we played together when we were both learning....over 10 years ago. She bought some clubs months ago and we hit around the yard. Sunday will be the first trip to the course. I'm excited about it, and I think she is too. Wish us both luck!
How many miles from home am I?
What feels better than getting up to go for an early morning run? Dont answer that, and shame on you for thinking what you just did.
This morning, after having stayed up late watching the Olympics, I got up early and hit the pavement for a nice morning run. I had planned to put in my 4.2 mile route. In retrospect, I should have chosen a shorter path.
All went well for about the first 3 miles, but then I got that feeling. Have you ever been out and felt the need to get home ASAP? Yeah; that was me. I think you know what I mean.
A quick look at the road informed me that I had over a mile to go. Meanwhile my body was in disagreement. My mind was telling me that I had better have the speed of the Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt, yet my stomach was cordially warned me that I'd better keep this to a snails pace or it would be filing a protest. That, I must say, is an awful feeling.
Anyway, I buckled down and did my best Usain impression. Somehow I dont think I made it look as easy as he does, but I think I would have given him a run for his money in China!
The satisfaction of having actually gotten up early for a run was only outweighed by the satisfaction of having made it back!
PS: If you're totally lost on this on, I was never so excited to see my house, having prairie dogged it all the way home. Dont know what that means? Watch the 2001 remake of Rat Race and wait for Jon Lovitz's character to have Prairie dogging explained to him. Very funny stuff. Although it's only a few seconds long, it's probably one of the funnier parts of the movie. Strangely enough, it's not funny when the jokes on you!
Follow-up: My mind and stomach have worked out an agreement to settle any disputes pre-run from now on. That should keep any mid-run disagreements to a minimum.
This morning, after having stayed up late watching the Olympics, I got up early and hit the pavement for a nice morning run. I had planned to put in my 4.2 mile route. In retrospect, I should have chosen a shorter path.
All went well for about the first 3 miles, but then I got that feeling. Have you ever been out and felt the need to get home ASAP? Yeah; that was me. I think you know what I mean.
A quick look at the road informed me that I had over a mile to go. Meanwhile my body was in disagreement. My mind was telling me that I had better have the speed of the Jamaican sprinter, Usain Bolt, yet my stomach was cordially warned me that I'd better keep this to a snails pace or it would be filing a protest. That, I must say, is an awful feeling.
Anyway, I buckled down and did my best Usain impression. Somehow I dont think I made it look as easy as he does, but I think I would have given him a run for his money in China!
The satisfaction of having actually gotten up early for a run was only outweighed by the satisfaction of having made it back!
PS: If you're totally lost on this on, I was never so excited to see my house, having prairie dogged it all the way home. Dont know what that means? Watch the 2001 remake of Rat Race and wait for Jon Lovitz's character to have Prairie dogging explained to him. Very funny stuff. Although it's only a few seconds long, it's probably one of the funnier parts of the movie. Strangely enough, it's not funny when the jokes on you!
Follow-up: My mind and stomach have worked out an agreement to settle any disputes pre-run from now on. That should keep any mid-run disagreements to a minimum.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
I Love Fantasy Football
I am in three leagues this year. That is in addition to two pick'em leagues and one eliminator league... What can I say? I love football. If you aren't a football person, you can stop reading now.
Tonight I had my first draft. It was just short of 3 hours long. 12 teams. 15 starts. 10 bench spots. That is the most players I've ever seen used in a league. Anyway, my team is listed below. If you're a fantasy football guy, take notes... this is team that is put together with a late pick. I missed some of the talent at the skill positions, but hopefully made up for it with my plethora of talent at DL. Without further adieu, here is my team:
1 QB - Peyton Manning (bench: Tarvaris Jackson)
3 WR - Marvin Harrison, Roddy White, Chris Chambers (bench: DJ Hacket, Devin Hester)
2 RB - Frank Gore, Willie Parker (bench: Kevin Jones, Warrick Dunn)
1 TE - Todd Heap (bench: Donald Lee)
1 W/R- Javon Walker
1 K - Adam Vinatieri (bench: Phil Dawson)
2 D - Demarcus Ware, Aaron Kampman
2 DL - Mario Williams, Trent Cole (bench: Osi Umenyiora)
2 DB - Champ Bailey, DeAngelo Hall (bench: Antoine Bethea, Leon Hall)
I'm pretty excited. I missed out on a few guys I thought I'd be able to pick up (Michael Turner, Plaxico Buress, even Matt Schaub late in the draft), but I think it will be a good season. Wish me luck!
The Olympics have been fun, but I AM READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!
Tonight I had my first draft. It was just short of 3 hours long. 12 teams. 15 starts. 10 bench spots. That is the most players I've ever seen used in a league. Anyway, my team is listed below. If you're a fantasy football guy, take notes... this is team that is put together with a late pick. I missed some of the talent at the skill positions, but hopefully made up for it with my plethora of talent at DL. Without further adieu, here is my team:
1 QB - Peyton Manning (bench: Tarvaris Jackson)
3 WR - Marvin Harrison, Roddy White, Chris Chambers (bench: DJ Hacket, Devin Hester)
2 RB - Frank Gore, Willie Parker (bench: Kevin Jones, Warrick Dunn)
1 TE - Todd Heap (bench: Donald Lee)
1 W/R- Javon Walker
1 K - Adam Vinatieri (bench: Phil Dawson)
2 D - Demarcus Ware, Aaron Kampman
2 DL - Mario Williams, Trent Cole (bench: Osi Umenyiora)
2 DB - Champ Bailey, DeAngelo Hall (bench: Antoine Bethea, Leon Hall)
I'm pretty excited. I missed out on a few guys I thought I'd be able to pick up (Michael Turner, Plaxico Buress, even Matt Schaub late in the draft), but I think it will be a good season. Wish me luck!
The Olympics have been fun, but I AM READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
I want more!
I try to enjoy life. I can actually have a good time just hanging out. However, sometimes you just want more. We've considered possible future pursuits of fun, which include the possibility of getting a boat or pool. They are not in the cards right now, but possibly soon.
We were lucky enough to have been invited out to the lake with some friends this weekend and spent the day on the water. It was a blast and reminded me of how much I'd love a boat. I grew up on the water and really miss it. However, in that category I'm already pretty lucky because my parents still live on a lake less than 2 hours from my house, so I dont think I'd make that jump any time soon. Due to that fact, I think a pool is more up our alley. When? I have no idea. I want it early enough so that the boys can enjoy it while they're young, but not too soon...well, because they're dang expensive!
For now I'll have to enjoy trips to the lake at my parents house and enjoy our visits to JCC (our gym) to enjoy that pool. But that wont keep me from dreaming of having my own!
We were lucky enough to have been invited out to the lake with some friends this weekend and spent the day on the water. It was a blast and reminded me of how much I'd love a boat. I grew up on the water and really miss it. However, in that category I'm already pretty lucky because my parents still live on a lake less than 2 hours from my house, so I dont think I'd make that jump any time soon. Due to that fact, I think a pool is more up our alley. When? I have no idea. I want it early enough so that the boys can enjoy it while they're young, but not too soon...well, because they're dang expensive!
For now I'll have to enjoy trips to the lake at my parents house and enjoy our visits to JCC (our gym) to enjoy that pool. But that wont keep me from dreaming of having my own!
Jackson is a First Grader
School resumed on Monday. Jackson is in a new class, with a new teacher, and new class-mates. He was disappointed that his crew from kindergarten was not in his class. They are all in different classes, which is disappointing for him, but possible the best scenario for his education! Anyway, after day one was over I asked him about it and he was excited. I think he is going to like it. The funniest part though, was his response to my question about what he learned. Of course the first day is more orientation that anything, but I still asked the question, "Jackson, what did you learn at school today". With a total straight face and true excitement, he responded, "I learned that in first grade you dont have to raise your hand to go to the bathroom or to get water. You can just go." I had to laugh.
Alex also went back to daycare. More of the same for him, but now he is the big fish in the little pond. I'm sure he'll love it!
Alex also went back to daycare. More of the same for him, but now he is the big fish in the little pond. I'm sure he'll love it!
Athletics
A few new things:
(1) I went for a run Monday at lunch. I've adopted the stretch after running approach and it's doing me well. However pre-run, I still spend a few quick seconds making sure I am somewhat loose, with no major tightness. I did a standing hurdle stretch on my left leg and it felt good. Then I moved to my right leg. I lifted my foot, pulled back and felt a snap, crackle and pop! Oh crap. It felt as if I pulled my outer area of my hip-flexor. I was scared I had torn it...stretch of all things. Anyway, it was definitely pulled, but the crackle was somehow good, as if the hip issues I've been experiencing were a displacement of the hit and that crackling was (perhaps) everythig slipping back into place. I tried to run and although I felt the pull, I felt better running than I have in months. It was a bitter-sweet moment. The hip is better, but the muscle is pulled. How weird is that?!
(2) Basketball is over. First round of play-offs. I make opening score of the game with a drive and finger roll...then my scoring stopped. I finished 1 for 4 for the game. Once again, we played well except for scoring...which happens to be the most important part. So it was a fun season, but it's over. Thank God!
(3) Now that basketball is finished, it's time to focus on other things. Those things:
Golf - I want to improve my game. I recently purchased a new set of clubs. I love them. Now I need a game to go along with them!
Softball - I'm coaching the company softball team again this year for our yearly tournament. Practice will start in the next week or two.
Running - I've been a on again, off again runner for a while. I'm ready for a long lasting on again phase, focusing on not only fitness, but lowering my times. The first test is Saturday. Stacy and I are running in the Flying Saucer 5K in Columbia. That will be the race where I set the bar, in hopes to raise it shortly thereafter and often.
Also on the agenda for the near future are the Mud Run in September and a Triathlon....probably early in 2009.
Lots of fun ahead!
(1) I went for a run Monday at lunch. I've adopted the stretch after running approach and it's doing me well. However pre-run, I still spend a few quick seconds making sure I am somewhat loose, with no major tightness. I did a standing hurdle stretch on my left leg and it felt good. Then I moved to my right leg. I lifted my foot, pulled back and felt a snap, crackle and pop! Oh crap. It felt as if I pulled my outer area of my hip-flexor. I was scared I had torn it...stretch of all things. Anyway, it was definitely pulled, but the crackle was somehow good, as if the hip issues I've been experiencing were a displacement of the hit and that crackling was (perhaps) everythig slipping back into place. I tried to run and although I felt the pull, I felt better running than I have in months. It was a bitter-sweet moment. The hip is better, but the muscle is pulled. How weird is that?!
(2) Basketball is over. First round of play-offs. I make opening score of the game with a drive and finger roll...then my scoring stopped. I finished 1 for 4 for the game. Once again, we played well except for scoring...which happens to be the most important part. So it was a fun season, but it's over. Thank God!
(3) Now that basketball is finished, it's time to focus on other things. Those things:
Golf - I want to improve my game. I recently purchased a new set of clubs. I love them. Now I need a game to go along with them!
Softball - I'm coaching the company softball team again this year for our yearly tournament. Practice will start in the next week or two.
Running - I've been a on again, off again runner for a while. I'm ready for a long lasting on again phase, focusing on not only fitness, but lowering my times. The first test is Saturday. Stacy and I are running in the Flying Saucer 5K in Columbia. That will be the race where I set the bar, in hopes to raise it shortly thereafter and often.
Also on the agenda for the near future are the Mud Run in September and a Triathlon....probably early in 2009.
Lots of fun ahead!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Dedication or Stupidity?
This afternoon I decided to go for a run. Usually that is not a big deal. However today it looked as if it was about to rain. I could have gone for a short run to avoid getting wet, but of course I didn't take the easy route. I chose to my route that is just short of 4 miles. Well, about 1.5 miles into the run it began sprinkling. I thought to myself, "now this is dedication. I'm not allowing the weather to effect my drive to run!". That sentiment continued...as did the rain. Just before I began the last mile, the sprinkles turned into rain, and seconds later the rain turned into a deluge. It was invigorating, yet annoying (because my shoes were absolutely soaked). Shortly thereafter, the thunder and lightening began chiming in and it became a race to get home. Some places had a little water flowing over the sidewalk. Other places had puddles over my ankles. The feeling of dedication was leaving and a feeling of stupidity was creeping in. Why did I push it to a 4 mile run and chance to storm? Anyway, it was over soon enough, but as I made the last turn toward my house (about a tenth of a mile left) I saw a car pull up to the stop sign. It was Stacy and the boys. The weather was so bad that they had come to pick me up! With the end of the run in site, I only waved and ran to the house. I didn't want to get the interior of the car soaked. I got home and they arrived right after I did. They were all pretty wet too, having run through the downpour to pick me up.
So 2 wet kids, a wet wife, and a drenched self. I felt good having run, but wondered weather it was the best choice to have run that far. Dedication or stupidity? You tell me. My own opinion is that dedication can lead us to do things that are sometimes stupid! It's funny to think of that way, but so true.
So 2 wet kids, a wet wife, and a drenched self. I felt good having run, but wondered weather it was the best choice to have run that far. Dedication or stupidity? You tell me. My own opinion is that dedication can lead us to do things that are sometimes stupid! It's funny to think of that way, but so true.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
more basketball
Last night we continued our scoring drought. We were awful.
I had planned to be very aggressive, for better or worse. I assumed that would lead to either more scoring or my fouling out. I'd have accepted either scenario. In fact, neither was the case. I ended up with quite a few rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 turnovers, and 2 points in what had to be around 1 for 10 from the field. Ugh. If a player has a bad night like that, and is surrounded by other players having good games, then they can absorb the bad play of the one player and still win. The problem is that I think everyone had a bad game...again. Our two scorers and a few other random baskets tallied up 27 total points for us, as compared to the other teams low score of 52. That is not sarcasm. 52 was a low score. Needless to say 27 is not even enough to be deemed a "low score".
Ok, enough negative comments. The good news was that we played really good defense, moved the ball around more than before, and hustled really well. If we can keep that up and actually score a point or two, we may be able to compete next week in the first round of the playoffs....but that bucket or two is a necessity!
I had planned to be very aggressive, for better or worse. I assumed that would lead to either more scoring or my fouling out. I'd have accepted either scenario. In fact, neither was the case. I ended up with quite a few rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 turnovers, and 2 points in what had to be around 1 for 10 from the field. Ugh. If a player has a bad night like that, and is surrounded by other players having good games, then they can absorb the bad play of the one player and still win. The problem is that I think everyone had a bad game...again. Our two scorers and a few other random baskets tallied up 27 total points for us, as compared to the other teams low score of 52. That is not sarcasm. 52 was a low score. Needless to say 27 is not even enough to be deemed a "low score".
Ok, enough negative comments. The good news was that we played really good defense, moved the ball around more than before, and hustled really well. If we can keep that up and actually score a point or two, we may be able to compete next week in the first round of the playoffs....but that bucket or two is a necessity!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Olympics
I love the Olympics. It really doesn’t matter what sport or event is on.
Back in the day, I played basketball, was a multi-event participant in track and field, and even tried my skills at some beach volleyball, so of course I know what is going on when I watch these sports. The other sports….not so much. That, however, does not take away my enjoyment from watching. After all, I have become quite the critic after hearing the comments made by the know-it-all commentators. By watching, and more so by listening, I feel like an apprentice taken under their wings and I’ve absorbed all the knowledge needed to fully critique any and all sports during the Olympics. For instance, when the women (or for the Chinese, the 12 year old girls) are on the uneven bars, I’m the guy that keenly notices the mistake on that stutter step on their dismount. I’m also the guy that knows when they are tumbling, if one foot ends up out of bounds it’s a .1 point deduction, but if both feet end up out of bounds it’s a 0.3 point deduction. Likewise, I can tell you when synchronized divers are ever so slightly out-of-sync, or when they are just shy of parallel upon entry into the water that will cause a lower score. Paying total attention during every second of coverage has turned me into a know-it-all, thus I am the perfect judge! Dont laugh to hard, because you know you feel the same?!
To be honest, I’ve really enjoyed the coverage thus far. My only complaint is that gymnastics gets a little too much attention in prime time. I’d really like to see a more diverse coverage. It seems that gymnastics and swimming tend to be front and center, while everything else plays second fiddle. At least with swimming, there are different races; a few preliminary races, but that is about all. In gymnastics, you may get see one event…but after you see it 15 times in a row when the
I cant wait to see
I’m most excited to see some track coverage. The showdown between Wariner and Merritt, 2
Oh, and don’t forget, listen to the commentators. Learn the rules. Become a critic. Maybe one day you’ll understand these sports as well as I do!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
House Projects
As I posted earlier we are redoing our dining room. We ripped the heat registers out of the walls. We ripped the existing floor molding out. We taped and painted a base coat of yellow (3 coats), with the intent of rag rolling a light color over it. Well, we didn't plan well. After starting the rag roll, we realized that the light color is supposed to be first, and that was evident by the result. So after getting that coat on with some yellow showing through the champagne fizz (off white), we realize that we have to treat that color as the base and re-rag it with yellow. So we do that and it turned out really well. Now we have to clear coat it to seal it up, so that we dont inadvertently wipe off the color when we inevitably spill something on the wall. Anyway, that is where we stand on the dining room progress. 5 coats of paint on, and one to go! Then we will put down the new floor molding and repaint all of the molding along the floor, ceiling, doorways and windows.
In other rooms we made some good progress as well. We decided to get a desk for our laptop to sit on in the living room. We looked at 6 different stores before finding the perfect desk today, and we order it. In a month or so it will be in. Also, we purchased 2 very nice rugs. We were looking for a rug for the living room and were considering a regular rug from Lowe's or Home Depot. On a whim we decided to check a few of the nicer places, assuming that they would be very expensive, but hoping to catch some sort of deal. Much to our surprise we stumbled on to one heck of a deal at Cogdill. They have a special sale going on all discontinued rugs, clearing out space for the new stuff. We ended up not buying 1 rug for the living room, but buying 2 rugs; one for the living room and one for our middle room. It was an incredible deal and we're lucky to have outfitted our house so "cheaply". By cheaply, I mean that we paid about 25% of the retail price. More than we'd have paid at Lowe's, but much, much better quality. I'm very happy about it. If you're in the market for a new rug, talk to me and I'll give you more details.
A house is always a work in progress. Right now ours is improving by leaps and bounds and it's a good feeling. It is really coming along. Although I'm sure we'll never be "done" with house projects, I'm very happy with the progress as of late and hope that it continues to go so well.
In other rooms we made some good progress as well. We decided to get a desk for our laptop to sit on in the living room. We looked at 6 different stores before finding the perfect desk today, and we order it. In a month or so it will be in. Also, we purchased 2 very nice rugs. We were looking for a rug for the living room and were considering a regular rug from Lowe's or Home Depot. On a whim we decided to check a few of the nicer places, assuming that they would be very expensive, but hoping to catch some sort of deal. Much to our surprise we stumbled on to one heck of a deal at Cogdill. They have a special sale going on all discontinued rugs, clearing out space for the new stuff. We ended up not buying 1 rug for the living room, but buying 2 rugs; one for the living room and one for our middle room. It was an incredible deal and we're lucky to have outfitted our house so "cheaply". By cheaply, I mean that we paid about 25% of the retail price. More than we'd have paid at Lowe's, but much, much better quality. I'm very happy about it. If you're in the market for a new rug, talk to me and I'll give you more details.
A house is always a work in progress. Right now ours is improving by leaps and bounds and it's a good feeling. It is really coming along. Although I'm sure we'll never be "done" with house projects, I'm very happy with the progress as of late and hope that it continues to go so well.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Basketball Update
We are not good.
We hustled well last night. I actually felt a little better handling the ball, rebounding, and even blocking shots....but my shooting was atrocious. In fact, the entire team shot poorly. I dont think we possess enough money to buy a bucket.
Let me tell you a short story of how the game ended. We're down by 2 with 18 seconds left. I get the ball and dribble down the court (which I dont do very often). Keep in mind that I'm 0 for 5 for the game. I see an opening so I drive to the basket only to be cut off by decent defense. What do I do? Of course I force the shot, driving beneath the goal to attempt a reverse layup.
If this were a fairy tale, I'd have made the shot, been fouled, and made the free throw for the win. This was not a fairytale. In reality, I actually did get fouled. Thank God, because I totally missed the shot anyway. I had two free throws to follow. The first was....well...my first air ball of the season.... not pretty. My partial saving grace was that I made the second one. The other team, or the "bad guys" as I like to call them, inbound the ball and we foul. Their shooter makes 1 of 2. We get the ball back. Somehow I end up handling the ball again...down by 2 again.... I find an open man (who happens to be one of our two good shooters). He pulls up for a 3 and is fouled. So much for being one of our good shooters. He misses all 3 and the final 0.9 ticks off the clock. We lose yet another one.
As I said, we are not good.
We hustled well last night. I actually felt a little better handling the ball, rebounding, and even blocking shots....but my shooting was atrocious. In fact, the entire team shot poorly. I dont think we possess enough money to buy a bucket.
Let me tell you a short story of how the game ended. We're down by 2 with 18 seconds left. I get the ball and dribble down the court (which I dont do very often). Keep in mind that I'm 0 for 5 for the game. I see an opening so I drive to the basket only to be cut off by decent defense. What do I do? Of course I force the shot, driving beneath the goal to attempt a reverse layup.
If this were a fairy tale, I'd have made the shot, been fouled, and made the free throw for the win. This was not a fairytale. In reality, I actually did get fouled. Thank God, because I totally missed the shot anyway. I had two free throws to follow. The first was....well...my first air ball of the season.... not pretty. My partial saving grace was that I made the second one. The other team, or the "bad guys" as I like to call them, inbound the ball and we foul. Their shooter makes 1 of 2. We get the ball back. Somehow I end up handling the ball again...down by 2 again.... I find an open man (who happens to be one of our two good shooters). He pulls up for a 3 and is fouled. So much for being one of our good shooters. He misses all 3 and the final 0.9 ticks off the clock. We lose yet another one.
As I said, we are not good.
Obesity - part 2
I had my health assessment. I was very disappointed. Not in my BMI, but in the fact that they decided not to check BMI this year. I was actually quite annoyed. That was the lone reason I signed up to the the assessment. As it stood, they only checked out blood pressure and drew some blood for testing. I was happy that my blood pressure was down, but that did not alleviate my annoyance with the change in procedures. In the past we also had someone running a station that used the electrostatic method (I think that is what the device is called) to give a read out on BMI and body fat.
Upon asking why they were not checking BMI this year, I was told that that was another test that we had to sign up for separately and my company did not sign up for it. What?! So I pursued further and found out that I was one of numerous people that were not happy about this test being left off. I was assured that we'd have it next year.
I have to ask myself why they would have dropped it from our testing.
(1) Was it just an honest mistake? Did they assume that we did not really care about those tests?
(2) Were they looking out for peoples feelings? Not wanting people to feel bad about their weight???
(3) Is it a matter of health care? Is it possible that after 90+ percent (this is a guess) of the people that took the test last year were fell into the category of obese? and that they were somehow required to provide these numbers to our insurance carrier? (Actually we're self-insured so I doubt this.)
To tell you the truth, I think that we often turn our head when confronted with weight issues. If we do not acknowledge the problem, then it must not exists. Or at least that is how I think the issue is perceived.
The truth is that our society has a major issue with weight (and body fat). If we can acknowledge that on an individual basis, then perhaps we can do something about it.
Upon asking why they were not checking BMI this year, I was told that that was another test that we had to sign up for separately and my company did not sign up for it. What?! So I pursued further and found out that I was one of numerous people that were not happy about this test being left off. I was assured that we'd have it next year.
I have to ask myself why they would have dropped it from our testing.
(1) Was it just an honest mistake? Did they assume that we did not really care about those tests?
(2) Were they looking out for peoples feelings? Not wanting people to feel bad about their weight???
(3) Is it a matter of health care? Is it possible that after 90+ percent (this is a guess) of the people that took the test last year were fell into the category of obese? and that they were somehow required to provide these numbers to our insurance carrier? (Actually we're self-insured so I doubt this.)
To tell you the truth, I think that we often turn our head when confronted with weight issues. If we do not acknowledge the problem, then it must not exists. Or at least that is how I think the issue is perceived.
The truth is that our society has a major issue with weight (and body fat). If we can acknowledge that on an individual basis, then perhaps we can do something about it.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Obesity
America's downfall - obesity. We eat too much and exercise too little. That's right. I'm pointing the finger at the people that dont try to control their weight. Guess what? I'm one of them. In fact, I have proof. Once per year my office offers a free health assessment offered through Lexington Medical Center. It's one of many great services offered through my employer. At last year's assessment I was in less than stellar shape. I assumed going in that I'd have a somewhat high body fat percentage. Little did I know that I'd get a huge slap in the face. Not only was my body fat percentage over 27%, but my body mass index (BMI) was over 30. Whoa! In case you're not up to date on BMI classifications, anything over 30 is considered clinically obese!
Looking in the mirror I did not see an obese person. I saw someone carrying a little extra weight, a few extra pounds here and there. Let me tell you that these extra pounds add up. Looking in the mirror, you see what you want to see. I made a decision to exercise more. A few months later a slightly modified diet followed. I say slightly modified because I refuse to be a hard core dieter. Crash diets work while you're on them, then stop working when you go off of them (as they should). I choose to make slight diet modifications and combining that with working out and running. I can see a difference in my fitness. I'm not sure how much quantifiable change has occurred. but I'll find out soon enough. Tomorrow is the follow-up. At 8:15 I have my appointment. Regardless of the results, I'll post how it went. Keep your fingers crossed.
PS: It's worth noting that a friend of mine (who will remain nameless) was also deemed obese and we made a competitive wager to urge our fitness progress. Of course, since we're such fat bodies, the wager was one of grease! Whomever loses the most body fat gets a free fatty Mexican meal, paid for by the fatter guy. We also added a disclaimer that if both of us failed so miserably that we were both still obese after a year, that we'd each buy ourselves a 2 pound burger at Fuddruckers to celebrate our fatness.
Luckily, we both appear to have left the ranks of the obese. I guess we find out for sure in the morning.
Looking in the mirror I did not see an obese person. I saw someone carrying a little extra weight, a few extra pounds here and there. Let me tell you that these extra pounds add up. Looking in the mirror, you see what you want to see. I made a decision to exercise more. A few months later a slightly modified diet followed. I say slightly modified because I refuse to be a hard core dieter. Crash diets work while you're on them, then stop working when you go off of them (as they should). I choose to make slight diet modifications and combining that with working out and running. I can see a difference in my fitness. I'm not sure how much quantifiable change has occurred. but I'll find out soon enough. Tomorrow is the follow-up. At 8:15 I have my appointment. Regardless of the results, I'll post how it went. Keep your fingers crossed.
PS: It's worth noting that a friend of mine (who will remain nameless) was also deemed obese and we made a competitive wager to urge our fitness progress. Of course, since we're such fat bodies, the wager was one of grease! Whomever loses the most body fat gets a free fatty Mexican meal, paid for by the fatter guy. We also added a disclaimer that if both of us failed so miserably that we were both still obese after a year, that we'd each buy ourselves a 2 pound burger at Fuddruckers to celebrate our fatness.
Luckily, we both appear to have left the ranks of the obese. I guess we find out for sure in the morning.
I'm back
Last week I returned to basketball. Not much to tell really. I had the opening lay-up of the game, but no other points besides a banked-in free throw. That's right...banked in. Dont laugh, you're just jealous of my brick laying ability.
I also made my return to running. Saturday I went for a light 1 mile jog. Actually it was more of a slog (slow jog). Anyway, after my hip held up I decided to go for a real run this morning. I put in 4 miles and felt great. Tonight I'm sticking to my orthopedist designated stretches to keep my body from falling apart! Tomorrow I retest the hip with another basketball game. Hopefully it will hold up. It did get sore last week, but did not stay that way for long.
I also made my return to running. Saturday I went for a light 1 mile jog. Actually it was more of a slog (slow jog). Anyway, after my hip held up I decided to go for a real run this morning. I put in 4 miles and felt great. Tonight I'm sticking to my orthopedist designated stretches to keep my body from falling apart! Tomorrow I retest the hip with another basketball game. Hopefully it will hold up. It did get sore last week, but did not stay that way for long.
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