Since I stopped playing football, (I know, not another post about football, but just hang tight for a few more words) my goal was to reduce my weight and body fat. Over the last 2 years, I have tried many things to accomplish this goal. I have never dieted, but I have tried to motivate myself to workout; lifting weights (too much like weight training for football), running (puts way too much stress on my joints, bones and muscles), riding my bike (I enjoy riding and I can tell a slight difference from where I started), and a body weight workout program (sit-ups, push-ups, and body weight squats).
Out of these workouts, the only one that I can get myself to do on the regular is my bike time. So, I am putting it out there to the entire world via the world wide web; my New Me Resolution. I will allow myself a minimum of 30 minutes in the saddle no less than 4 days a week.
I started today, getting 30 minutes and 38 seconds of trainer time. Day one.
I am setting no weight loss goals, no numbers of what I will lose to make myself lose. I will set a time limit to workout. Whatever happens, happens.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Well, one season ends. One amazing streak ends and it all happened in the cold
Well, My beloved Apps lost in incredible fashion Saturday. It was amazing weather in Boone for the game, Mid 40s and sunny at kickoff. We drew a very tough team in the Villanova Wildcats. They are the defending national champions and extremely talented. They came into a hostile (yet rather empty) ROCK and kicked our asses. It was a sad day for everyone in Black and Gold. This senior class is extremely talented and will be missed next year. They accomplished so much and as a student and a fan, I would just like to say Thank you for all the hard work and sacrifice.
The other amazing thing to happen this weekend was the end of Brett Farve's 297 regular season start streak. It began in 1992 (September 27th to be exact) with the Green Bay Packers and included starts with the Jets and the Vikings. Farve is the Iron man of football. No one can ever argue the toughness of the man. Through four teams (Falcons, Packers, Jets and Vikings) and 20 years, Farve has been a constant. I can remember some of the greatest games he ever played and I can remember watching them. To Brett Farve, I would also like to say thank you. You played the game I love with a joy seen less and less as I have gotten older.
It has been a sad weekend. For the players from The Appalachian State University who will never play again, you will look back on the game with anger for a little while, you gave it so much and it took more. But time will heal any open wounds you have and you will slowly again love the game. I hope that you look back and never remember the bad thing, the losses, the injuries, the pain. I hope that you look back and only remember the good times. The practices, the road trips, the wins, the championships and most of all the friends.
The other amazing thing to happen this weekend was the end of Brett Farve's 297 regular season start streak. It began in 1992 (September 27th to be exact) with the Green Bay Packers and included starts with the Jets and the Vikings. Farve is the Iron man of football. No one can ever argue the toughness of the man. Through four teams (Falcons, Packers, Jets and Vikings) and 20 years, Farve has been a constant. I can remember some of the greatest games he ever played and I can remember watching them. To Brett Farve, I would also like to say thank you. You played the game I love with a joy seen less and less as I have gotten older.
It has been a sad weekend. For the players from The Appalachian State University who will never play again, you will look back on the game with anger for a little while, you gave it so much and it took more. But time will heal any open wounds you have and you will slowly again love the game. I hope that you look back and never remember the bad thing, the losses, the injuries, the pain. I hope that you look back and only remember the good times. The practices, the road trips, the wins, the championships and most of all the friends.
Monday, November 29, 2010
I love football
Well, I know it has been said on here before, but I love football. I love the practice, the games, the weight lifting, everything. Since I don't play anymore, the closest I can come to ever playing again is watching my peers playing on Saturdays. Well, this Saturday, I get to watch more than a normal regular season game, I get to watch my ASU Mountaineers play Western Illinois, at the rock with the chance of bad, cold weather.
All I can say to Western Illinois is...
You better bring your A game.
All I can say to Western Illinois is...
You better bring your A game.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving day
Well, another thanksgiving has come and I have realized that I am really lucky. No, I am not talking about material things even though those things are nice. I am lucky because of my family. This afternoon, we gathered at my Nana and Papa's home. Present were my Aunt and Uncle, my Meme, my cousin Frankie, my parents and myself. Now this seems pretty normal for a family gathering, until I think about the last year and what my family has been through.
In February, my Papa underwent surgery and was in very bad shape, spending time in the ICU. He recovered from that and then had to have another surgery which had complications and spend more time in the ICU. His road to recovery has been long and hard on all of us. But He is still with us and looking alive and he is still full of shit.
I am very thankful that on this day I was able to be with my family. I am thankful that my parents have finally been able to move and put behind them a section of their lives that needed to be over. I am thankful for my friends, and all of their families. I hope that I am always lucky enough to be able to see the good things that I have on my side.
What are you thankful for? Are you able to put aside the little things that make you mad and cloud your view of life? I hope that you are able to put those things aside during this holiday season and be thankful for what you have.
In February, my Papa underwent surgery and was in very bad shape, spending time in the ICU. He recovered from that and then had to have another surgery which had complications and spend more time in the ICU. His road to recovery has been long and hard on all of us. But He is still with us and looking alive and he is still full of shit.
I am very thankful that on this day I was able to be with my family. I am thankful that my parents have finally been able to move and put behind them a section of their lives that needed to be over. I am thankful for my friends, and all of their families. I hope that I am always lucky enough to be able to see the good things that I have on my side.
What are you thankful for? Are you able to put aside the little things that make you mad and cloud your view of life? I hope that you are able to put those things aside during this holiday season and be thankful for what you have.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Ah, I love Bicycles
The Top 29 ways Bicycles are better than Girlfriends
1. Bicycles don't get pregnant.Copied from http://www.netjeff.com/humor/item.cgi?file=BicyclesBetterThanWomen.txt
2. You can ride your bicycle any time of the month.
3. Bicycles don't have parents.
4. Bicycles don't whine unless something is really wrong.
5. You can share your bicycles with your friends.
6. Bicycles don't care how many other bicycles you've ridden.
7. When riding, you and your bicycle can arrive at the same time.
8. Bicycles don't care how many other bicycles you have now.
9. Bicycles don't care if you look at other bicycles.
10. Bicycles don't care if you buy bicycle magazines.
11. You'll never hear, "Surprise, you're going to own a new bicycle"
unless you go out and buy one yourself.
12. If your bicycle goes flat, you can fix it.
13. If your bicycle is too loose, you can tighten it.
14. If your bicycle gets misaligned, you don't have to discuss politics with
it.
15. You can have a black bicycle and bring it home to your parents.
16. You don't have to be jealous of the guy who works on your bicycle.
17. If you say bad things to your bicycle, you don't have to apologize
before you ride it again.
18. You can ride your bicycle as long as you want and it wont get sore.
19. You can stop riding your bicycle as soon as you want and it wont get
frustrated.
20. Your parents wont remain in touch with your old bicycle after you dump
it.
21. Bicycles don't get headaches.
22. Bicycles don't insult you if you're a bad rider.
23. Your bicycle never wants a night out with other bicycles.
24. Bicycles don't care if you're late.
25. You don't have to take a shower before you ride your bicycle.
26. If your bicycle doesn't look good, you can paint it or get better
parts.
27. You can ride your bicycle the first time you meet it without
having to take it to dinner, see a movie, or meet its mother.
28. The only protection you need to wear when riding your bicycle is a
decent helmet.
29. When in mixed company, you can talk about what a great ride you
had the last time you were on your bicycle.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Happy Birthday to one of the most important people in my world
Mom, through all the years of my life you have been there. You always support me and have always allowed me to make up my own decisions about my life. Thank you. The love you have for me has followed me through life and I feel it every day. There is no other mother on this planet that comes close to being as awesome as you. I hope that you have an amazing day and that you know how thankful I am that you are my Mutha
I love you Mom.
I love you Mom.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Note to all drivers
On my way to campus this morning, I was riding along with the flow of traffic, doing the speed limit. Well, normally when you are able to ride the speed limit, vehicles will be a little more likely to treat you like another vehicle, like the law is written. Not this morning.....
I am riding along somewhere between 25 and 30 mph, and a car had to accelerate to pass me (on a 4 lane road) then immediately cuts me off to make a right hand turn. Well, somehow, it was seen by the driver as my fault, so he decides to flip me the bird. Son, I am bigger than you, I am in better shape than you and I am in serious need of some ass to kick. When you sit there flipping me the bird, and I stop and you run.....
Man the hell up. stop driving and being mad that your penis is little. Trying to take it out on other people won't make it grow. And guess what, we can tell you're penis is little and your mad. Get over yourself.
I am riding along somewhere between 25 and 30 mph, and a car had to accelerate to pass me (on a 4 lane road) then immediately cuts me off to make a right hand turn. Well, somehow, it was seen by the driver as my fault, so he decides to flip me the bird. Son, I am bigger than you, I am in better shape than you and I am in serious need of some ass to kick. When you sit there flipping me the bird, and I stop and you run.....
Man the hell up. stop driving and being mad that your penis is little. Trying to take it out on other people won't make it grow. And guess what, we can tell you're penis is little and your mad. Get over yourself.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Down with this sickness
Well, my run of feeling pretty good anytime I have school is over. Somehow, I have gotten some cold that has set itself right into my chest.
Weather since Friday has gown downhill fast, with last night seeing temps down below 40*. I have tried to sweat this mess out, and haven't been able to do it yet. Coughing up a lung doesn't sound like a good idea right now.
The good news is that by the end of the week, the temps should be back up to the 60s or 70s. Lets hope that by the time those temps return, I feel better.
Until next time, get your learn on
Weather since Friday has gown downhill fast, with last night seeing temps down below 40*. I have tried to sweat this mess out, and haven't been able to do it yet. Coughing up a lung doesn't sound like a good idea right now.
The good news is that by the end of the week, the temps should be back up to the 60s or 70s. Lets hope that by the time those temps return, I feel better.
Until next time, get your learn on
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Come Back SUN!!!
Well, the fall weather has set in on the rock. I haven't seen the sun since Saturday and I wake up to fog and drizzle. I love the fall up here. We will luck out and get a few weeks of beautiful weather and with my present living location, I am just seconds away from one of my favorite rides.
The weather is having an affect on class sizes too. I have observed that most of my classes have shrunk by around 1/2. I know that professors are not stupid. They don't like the wet weather either, but they come to class daily.
Its time to get my learn on.
The weather is having an affect on class sizes too. I have observed that most of my classes have shrunk by around 1/2. I know that professors are not stupid. They don't like the wet weather either, but they come to class daily.
Its time to get my learn on.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Ah, college....
Well the meat of the semester has arrived. This has been my busiest week thus far with 3 test and having a project assigned. Ah, I love college.
The weather has been amazing lately. I have gotten my cyclocross bike completed and now I get to fine tune everything. I have been riding to school as often as possible and I think Thursday i may even get to go ride my bike for a long distance early in the am. Oh HAPPY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But now, it is time to study. Until later.......
PPPPPPEEEAAAACCCCEEEEE
The weather has been amazing lately. I have gotten my cyclocross bike completed and now I get to fine tune everything. I have been riding to school as often as possible and I think Thursday i may even get to go ride my bike for a long distance early in the am. Oh HAPPY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But now, it is time to study. Until later.......
PPPPPPEEEAAAACCCCEEEEE
Thursday, September 16, 2010
A kinda rant
Well, I am a cyclist. Ans as a cyclist, I am a big fan of cycling rights and equality. So when I see a fellow cyclist looking like a major dick and riding his bike on the sidewalk on campus (where we do have bike lanes sometimes, like when construction equipment isn't parked there. Thanks AppState) rather than on the road, I get kinda upset about it.
Dude, YOU TAKE UP TOO MUCH SPACE ON THE SIDEWALK, MAKING IT HARDER TO WALK FOR ANYONE TRYING TO WALK. YOU DON'T NEED TO RIDE ON THE SIDEWALK, YOU CAN PEDAL ON THE ROAD.
If you know the individual that I am talking about, the one who rides around on his black TOWNIE, with rack and bag, please inform him that he needs to ride on the road. Drivers in Boone are accustomed to cyclist on the road enough to give (almost) sufficient right-of-way.
Beyond how rude it is for anyone walking, it is also against the town ordinances in Boone. Son, a cop can give you a ticket. There are plenty of signs telling you not to do it. There is no need to ride on the sidewalk. I am tired of seeing you break the law when everyone else rides on the road.
And that is all I have to say about that. Have a happy day people. Enjoy the wonderful fall weather. Get outside and ride your bike (not on the sidewalk), walk or just sit around.
Dude, YOU TAKE UP TOO MUCH SPACE ON THE SIDEWALK, MAKING IT HARDER TO WALK FOR ANYONE TRYING TO WALK. YOU DON'T NEED TO RIDE ON THE SIDEWALK, YOU CAN PEDAL ON THE ROAD.
If you know the individual that I am talking about, the one who rides around on his black TOWNIE, with rack and bag, please inform him that he needs to ride on the road. Drivers in Boone are accustomed to cyclist on the road enough to give (almost) sufficient right-of-way.
Beyond how rude it is for anyone walking, it is also against the town ordinances in Boone. Son, a cop can give you a ticket. There are plenty of signs telling you not to do it. There is no need to ride on the sidewalk. I am tired of seeing you break the law when everyone else rides on the road.
And that is all I have to say about that. Have a happy day people. Enjoy the wonderful fall weather. Get outside and ride your bike (not on the sidewalk), walk or just sit around.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Almost middle of September.
WELL, September is here and with it brings Football. I love football, I love it at any level. So far this year, I have seen 3 high school games, 2 live college games, and the peewee games at halftime of a high school game.
I miss playing football with a large part of my heart. I miss the practices in the middle of August when it is so hot you can't touch the black on your chinstrap. I miss the games in November when it is so cold that you can't drink the water in the bottles because they are frozen. I miss weights at 5am and spring practices before school.
BUT most of all, I miss the guys I played with. We all built a brotherhood through the tough times that was so fantastic in the times of victory. We laughed, bled, cried and celebrated.
As I sit here, I hear MNF come back from the halftime show and I think about my friends and brothers still playing. To them I have this to say: Play every snap like it is your last. Play fast and play for fun. Play for those of us who are not playing anymore for whatever reason. Play for your family to make them proud. But most of all play for you. Don't play for a soul but yourself. Never say what if. Always say Remember.
FOOTBALL is my first love, it will always be a large part of my life as long as I am able to make it to games. But now, school is my main goal. I must force myself to perform up to my potential and stop slacking on and just getting by. Excel and don't let anyone hold you back or say you can't do it.
I wish my parents the best of luck in their house hunt. I hope that they are able to find the right home for them and the hounds and that it comes in the near (very near) future. I know it will happen and when it does, they will make it a HOME very quickly.
UNTIL the next installment, Do something you love. Don't listen to the haters, listen to your supporters.
I miss playing football with a large part of my heart. I miss the practices in the middle of August when it is so hot you can't touch the black on your chinstrap. I miss the games in November when it is so cold that you can't drink the water in the bottles because they are frozen. I miss weights at 5am and spring practices before school.
BUT most of all, I miss the guys I played with. We all built a brotherhood through the tough times that was so fantastic in the times of victory. We laughed, bled, cried and celebrated.
As I sit here, I hear MNF come back from the halftime show and I think about my friends and brothers still playing. To them I have this to say: Play every snap like it is your last. Play fast and play for fun. Play for those of us who are not playing anymore for whatever reason. Play for your family to make them proud. But most of all play for you. Don't play for a soul but yourself. Never say what if. Always say Remember.
FOOTBALL is my first love, it will always be a large part of my life as long as I am able to make it to games. But now, school is my main goal. I must force myself to perform up to my potential and stop slacking on and just getting by. Excel and don't let anyone hold you back or say you can't do it.
I wish my parents the best of luck in their house hunt. I hope that they are able to find the right home for them and the hounds and that it comes in the near (very near) future. I know it will happen and when it does, they will make it a HOME very quickly.
UNTIL the next installment, Do something you love. Don't listen to the haters, listen to your supporters.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Here it goes.....
Well, at 1pm this afternoon, week 2 of the new school year is over. There has been a whole lot going on. My goal of riding my bike to campus as often as I can is happening. I am throwing myself into my studies with force I have not used before. I have great roommates and the weather has been amazing so far.
That has been the good. The bad, has been real bad. It has been a week since I held my Murray's head in my lap while he went to the big sleep. After 15 years of companionship, things feel different knowing that I wont hear his unique bark the next time I go home. He was the best dog that anyone could ever ask for. I just hope that I am lucky enough to see him again someday.
That has been the good. The bad, has been real bad. It has been a week since I held my Murray's head in my lap while he went to the big sleep. After 15 years of companionship, things feel different knowing that I wont hear his unique bark the next time I go home. He was the best dog that anyone could ever ask for. I just hope that I am lucky enough to see him again someday.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
My summer review
Well, I have had an interesting summer. I was able to meet and work with some amazing people this summer as well as meet some amazing kids. I spent 9 weeks at YMCA Camp Hanes in King, NC.
I have been asked why I worked at camp. This question always offered me trouble. I needed a job, but that isn't it. It seemed like fun, but again that isn't it. The reason I worked at camp is because I wanted to make a difference.
This seems like a lofty goal, even now. But looking back on this goal, I feel like I succeeded. How you may ask. Well, I know that I made a difference in people's lives because of the gratitude that was shown me. From the Day Camper, Josh who every time he saw me yelled to get my attention just to say "hey" to the staff that will text me to see how things are since camp.
This seems like a lofty goal, even now. But looking back on this goal, I feel like I succeeded. How you may ask. Well, I know that I made a difference in people's lives because of the gratitude that was shown me. From the Day Camper, Josh who every time he saw me yelled to get my attention just to say "hey" to the staff that will text me to see how things are since camp.
I feel like this is somewhat selfish though. I say I wanted to work this job to make a difference to other people, but what about the people who made a difference in my life? There were many. I met and worked with around 70 of the most amazing people in the world. Each one brought amazing energy and a specialness that can't be described, but I am going to try.
I worked with people from all over the world; England, Wales, Brazil (or if you ask them Brasil), Texas, Arkansas, and yes even New York. These are the most exotic places. The rest of the staff hailed from the Great North State. I came in not knowing a soul that I worked with. This was a daunting challenge, but it did not matter. By the end of the first week, I had been accepted and was able to open up in a way that I haven't seen since I was playing football.
I lived with these people 6 days a week for 9 weeks. I know a bit about all of them and a good deal about some. I made some friends that I will stay in touch with forever. I have had a chance to look inside myself and start the journey to discover who I am after football. I have had the greatest experience of my life this summer. Because of sports, I never got to go to traditional sumer camp. I went to Scout camp and sports camps all over the South East, but none of them compared to Camp Hanes.
I want to thank everyone that was at Camp this summer. You are all special and you have all made a great impact on my life. You have been there for me and you have seen me fail (on the diving board), but you have also seen me succeed (on the power pole). I hope that I have been able to impact your life like you impacted mine. I will never forget any of you.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
A little bit about me
A friend of mine has a habit of asking question after question. She can go on for hours. The questions can range from general to rather specific and personal. Well, we sat and talked, asked questions for hours after we "got off work" last night. This got me thinking about some of her questions.
One of which is what is one thing I can't live without (excluding food, water, O2, shelter). Well, my original answer was nothing. At the time, this was true. But tonight got me thinking about this question and I realized that I cannot live without literature. I have loved books for a long time, somewhere around 3rd grade, my love affair with books began and it is still going on now. I read just about everything, from action to westerns to biographies. I read to escape. I can open a book, turn off my mind and "just leave this world for a while."
Another question that we have both asked of each other is that of favorite band. My favorite band is a tough call between AC/DC and Jimmy Buffett. I was raised on both of these bands and still listen to them whenever nothing else sounds right. AC/DC gives me a blues feel with rock rifts when I need to just disconnect. Jimmy Buffett provides the soundtrack for my life. He tells things how they are and that is refreshing.
What I have learned about my self from this conversation and this past week is this: Be yourself, stay true to yourself, and friends, your true friends will accept and love you for who you are.
I leave for week 2 of the most awesome summer job ever tomorrow morning. I will try to update the readers (all 1 of you) with how things are going.
Until the next installment, stay tuned, stay safe and keep it real.
One of which is what is one thing I can't live without (excluding food, water, O2, shelter). Well, my original answer was nothing. At the time, this was true. But tonight got me thinking about this question and I realized that I cannot live without literature. I have loved books for a long time, somewhere around 3rd grade, my love affair with books began and it is still going on now. I read just about everything, from action to westerns to biographies. I read to escape. I can open a book, turn off my mind and "just leave this world for a while."
Another question that we have both asked of each other is that of favorite band. My favorite band is a tough call between AC/DC and Jimmy Buffett. I was raised on both of these bands and still listen to them whenever nothing else sounds right. AC/DC gives me a blues feel with rock rifts when I need to just disconnect. Jimmy Buffett provides the soundtrack for my life. He tells things how they are and that is refreshing.
What I have learned about my self from this conversation and this past week is this: Be yourself, stay true to yourself, and friends, your true friends will accept and love you for who you are.
I leave for week 2 of the most awesome summer job ever tomorrow morning. I will try to update the readers (all 1 of you) with how things are going.
Until the next installment, stay tuned, stay safe and keep it real.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Blog entry tonight part 2
Well, this is the 2nd time tonight I have sat down to try to write an entry. The first time was filled with anger. Anger towards a really shitty situation. This time, I am sitting here to write about the two people in my life I never have to questions their feelings.
These two people are my parents.
My parents are hard working, honest people who have always supported me, whether or not they believed that I was doing the smart thing. My Mother has been driving over 2 hours a day for over a decade. My father has had many Jobs, and has still always been there for me.
My parents are very cool as well. I consider them my best friends, and know that all I have to do is get the nerve up to ask them and unless it is just wrong, they will do whatever in their power to help me.
Mom and Dad, I am thankful every day that I was born with parents like you. I know there are times where I have been rude, mean and not said thank you. But I want to apologize for all of those times and say Thank You, thank you for all you have done for me, to give me everything I have ever needed. You are the best parents anyone could ask for and I hope that I am able to live up to the example you have give me.
These two people are my parents.
My parents are hard working, honest people who have always supported me, whether or not they believed that I was doing the smart thing. My Mother has been driving over 2 hours a day for over a decade. My father has had many Jobs, and has still always been there for me.
My parents are very cool as well. I consider them my best friends, and know that all I have to do is get the nerve up to ask them and unless it is just wrong, they will do whatever in their power to help me.
Mom and Dad, I am thankful every day that I was born with parents like you. I know there are times where I have been rude, mean and not said thank you. But I want to apologize for all of those times and say Thank You, thank you for all you have done for me, to give me everything I have ever needed. You are the best parents anyone could ask for and I hope that I am able to live up to the example you have give me.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Its been a while
When I started this blog, I intended to write at least once a week. I feel like I did an okay job at it until lately when I slacked off hardcore. I can't promise that I will be much better this summer, but I will try to write some. But now with updates.....
Since I last wrote, school has ended until August. I had an okay semester, it was really difficult after I started working nights to find time to rest, but I made it through. I am going to make it official and throw it out to the entire world to have access to. So here it is, Over the remaining time I have in college, I will make deans list, shooting for at least a 3.5 GPA. People help me hold myself to this goal.
I have also gotten to ride my bike a lot more. I have raced 2 criteriums so far, finishing near the back, but launching attacks, getting the team some publicity. I have renewed my cycling license, with 2 different team affiliations (Team 1: Pirate Race Productions, Team 2: ASU Cycling). I have also completed my first charity event ride, the 2010 Cycle2Serve ride. This was the 2nd longest ride I have ever done, 62 miles in 4:24.21 ( I know it was slow, but I did it). I have gotten out on my mountain bike, and remembered the joy that goes along with that riding too.
School has been over for a week, officially today. I love school, I love learning, but I NEED some time off, some time where I can do something else than sit around in classrooms and listen to people talk. I am excited for this fall, as it will be my first year Legal at football games, and for taking new classes. But I am going to enjoy my 2nd summer since football (SFB) and I hope everyone else has a great summer as well.
Enjoy the sun.....
Since I last wrote, school has ended until August. I had an okay semester, it was really difficult after I started working nights to find time to rest, but I made it through. I am going to make it official and throw it out to the entire world to have access to. So here it is, Over the remaining time I have in college, I will make deans list, shooting for at least a 3.5 GPA. People help me hold myself to this goal.
I have also gotten to ride my bike a lot more. I have raced 2 criteriums so far, finishing near the back, but launching attacks, getting the team some publicity. I have renewed my cycling license, with 2 different team affiliations (Team 1: Pirate Race Productions, Team 2: ASU Cycling). I have also completed my first charity event ride, the 2010 Cycle2Serve ride. This was the 2nd longest ride I have ever done, 62 miles in 4:24.21 ( I know it was slow, but I did it). I have gotten out on my mountain bike, and remembered the joy that goes along with that riding too.
School has been over for a week, officially today. I love school, I love learning, but I NEED some time off, some time where I can do something else than sit around in classrooms and listen to people talk. I am excited for this fall, as it will be my first year Legal at football games, and for taking new classes. But I am going to enjoy my 2nd summer since football (SFB) and I hope everyone else has a great summer as well.
Enjoy the sun.....
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Seeing the sunrise, well sorta
It is a rare thing for me to see a sunrise. I am not much of a morning person. I feel like this is due to the fact that I am having to leave a warm, comfortable bed to expose myself to the riggers of the world, first of all is the cold floor. Today is a different story however. Today, I was up to see the sunrise (except for the fact that it is a cloudy, overcast morning.
I am up for a twofold reason; 1 is that I didn't get home until around 2:30 and I needed to be awake around 7, 2 is that I knew that I wouldn't get to sleep until probably 4 and having to get up at 7 would just make me grumpy. With that knowledge, I just stayed up, studied, read, stretched, did some basic exercises, watched the news, drank coffee, ate breakfast and prepared myself to have a GREAT day.
So, that is what I am going to do. I am going to get an 'A' on my exam this morning. I am going to enjoy another day in college. I am going to race my bike tonight and (maybe, just maybe) podium. But I am going to have myself a GREAT day. Grumpy people, just stay out of my way!
I am up for a twofold reason; 1 is that I didn't get home until around 2:30 and I needed to be awake around 7, 2 is that I knew that I wouldn't get to sleep until probably 4 and having to get up at 7 would just make me grumpy. With that knowledge, I just stayed up, studied, read, stretched, did some basic exercises, watched the news, drank coffee, ate breakfast and prepared myself to have a GREAT day.
So, that is what I am going to do. I am going to get an 'A' on my exam this morning. I am going to enjoy another day in college. I am going to race my bike tonight and (maybe, just maybe) podium. But I am going to have myself a GREAT day. Grumpy people, just stay out of my way!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Econ and Stand Up
So, I am taking a short break from my econ studying to write this. But there is nothing like good, slightly dirty stand up comedy to help you focus on Economics. Tonight's act is featuring Mitch Hedberg.
Mitch Hedberg was a very funny man. But like most comedians, his life came to an extremely premature end. Drugs are bad children. Just remember, say no to crack.
Mitch Hedberg was a very funny man. But like most comedians, his life came to an extremely premature end. Drugs are bad children. Just remember, say no to crack.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Ode to Ugly Runner Face
Ode to Ugly Runner Face:
I see you running with a face like someone at mile 24,
I know this is not true as I just saw you at the door.
Your pace is slower than a snail
On top of that you are extremely pale
You rock short shorts like you have a bod,
yet you eat more than a football team.
I respect the fact that you are trying to better yourself,
I really do, but can you run at night so no one has to see you?
Your face looks very much like death,
Yet working out should be something fun.
Please keep up the run, I hope that it can eventually,
maybe one day, possibly become fun.
Please do not get upset,
I just need a way to vent.
Like you with running,
this is how I show my Ugly Runner Face.
I see you running with a face like someone at mile 24,
I know this is not true as I just saw you at the door.
Your pace is slower than a snail
On top of that you are extremely pale
You rock short shorts like you have a bod,
yet you eat more than a football team.
I respect the fact that you are trying to better yourself,
I really do, but can you run at night so no one has to see you?
Your face looks very much like death,
Yet working out should be something fun.
Please keep up the run, I hope that it can eventually,
maybe one day, possibly become fun.
Please do not get upset,
I just need a way to vent.
Like you with running,
this is how I show my Ugly Runner Face.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Cows, the sure sign of spring?
Well, today I went out for about 2.5 hours on a bike. I hadn't been out since Thursday and it was just a great afternoon to be alive. I left and did a modifided version of my standard ride from the house, climb up and over the hills to Todd, NC and then do it backwards. Along this ride, I see a few different herds of cows.
Well, along with these herds, I saw more than enough cows (both behind fences and roaming free- this was a shock, seeing such a large animal roaming free) this weekend. After seeing so many cows and calves this weekend, I realized that cows tell you the season!
Now, I know that spring is the time for calves to be born, thats not what I am talking about. What I am talking about is you can look at the cows, their physical appearance and know that spring is come.
As spring arrives, the cows are more frisky, they will climb into their hay, chase after each other and then nap in the sun. But they also tend to stare you down as you ride past, ofter uttering among themselves "you may be able to ride faster, but I'll knock you over" and "small people may be fast, but I don't give a Sh*t, I'll still knock you over". Add with that, their winter diet has them in great fighting shape and you have the makings of disaster.
But they are all talk and no action, preferring to just eat their lives away; eat, poop, eat, eye passing cars, poop...... it just never stops.
But really, next time you drive/ride/walk/ crawl/dance or any other mode of transporation past a cow, look it in the eye. See the vast amounts of badass-ness that the cow throws off and be thankful that it is (hopefully) behind a fence.
Well, along with these herds, I saw more than enough cows (both behind fences and roaming free- this was a shock, seeing such a large animal roaming free) this weekend. After seeing so many cows and calves this weekend, I realized that cows tell you the season!
Now, I know that spring is the time for calves to be born, thats not what I am talking about. What I am talking about is you can look at the cows, their physical appearance and know that spring is come.
As spring arrives, the cows are more frisky, they will climb into their hay, chase after each other and then nap in the sun. But they also tend to stare you down as you ride past, ofter uttering among themselves "you may be able to ride faster, but I'll knock you over" and "small people may be fast, but I don't give a Sh*t, I'll still knock you over". Add with that, their winter diet has them in great fighting shape and you have the makings of disaster.
But they are all talk and no action, preferring to just eat their lives away; eat, poop, eat, eye passing cars, poop...... it just never stops.
But really, next time you drive/ride/walk/ crawl/dance or any other mode of transporation past a cow, look it in the eye. See the vast amounts of badass-ness that the cow throws off and be thankful that it is (hopefully) behind a fence.
Monday, March 29, 2010
"Why don't you shove that whistle up your butt?"
As many of you know, I can get rather involved in a sporting event. With that being said, the title sounds like something I would say to an official when a bad call was made. But it wasn't. In fact, it was made by the complete opposite of me. It was said by a man in his mid to late 70s on Sunday afternoon as the Appalachian State Lady Mountaineers beat Memphis to win the 1st ever WIB National Championship.
Dad came up the mountain on Sunday and we attended the game. It started off ugly and he and I were in full voice from the start. Not sitting in the student section, I had to try to keep my cheers PG-13, as to no offend anyone. I was loud, the refs were lousy, and around 2 minutes into the game, the elderly gentleman I mentioned before turned to me and requested that I refrain from voicing my opinion, that he was trying to enjoy the game.
When I have paid my price of admission to an event and I am not acting out of line for the event, I feel that I can do just about whatever I wish to do. This includes to, but is not limited to taunting, being loud, booing, cheering among other things. I never cuss or use any culturally insensitive or degrading remarks towards anyone but the officials. So when I have someone turn to me and ask me to calm my actions, I become offended and tend to not do as was asked but increase the amount of "shit" I talk.
As is form, the further we become down, the louder I become. At the worst point of the game, we were down by almost 20, the fouls were extremely lopsided and the game was ugly. The Lady Apps made a major run to end the 1st half and cut the lead to 3, having a chance to tie at the end of the half.
After the intermission, the officials kept up their bad calls and I kept up my jeers. With about 10 minutes to go in the game, the very same man stood up and in one of the quietest parts of the game let out the crown jewels of calls from the stands "Why don't you shove that whistle up your BUTT?" As soon as he said it, he got that sheepish look that everyone knows so well. I looked at Dad, he looked back and we started laughing. Apparently, all it took was that being said by someone other than young people. The officials began calling the game much better and when the 2 teams were allowed to play, the better team won.
Now, I am not saying that just because I am an ASU student. Memphis played a wonderful game, they had great talent and were well coached. But our girls were just better.
But what I will remember in 10 years isn't the win. Oh no, it will be those 9 words, out of the mouth of someone who was asking me to be quiet, as so that he could enjoy the game.
Ah do I love live sports.
Dad came up the mountain on Sunday and we attended the game. It started off ugly and he and I were in full voice from the start. Not sitting in the student section, I had to try to keep my cheers PG-13, as to no offend anyone. I was loud, the refs were lousy, and around 2 minutes into the game, the elderly gentleman I mentioned before turned to me and requested that I refrain from voicing my opinion, that he was trying to enjoy the game.
When I have paid my price of admission to an event and I am not acting out of line for the event, I feel that I can do just about whatever I wish to do. This includes to, but is not limited to taunting, being loud, booing, cheering among other things. I never cuss or use any culturally insensitive or degrading remarks towards anyone but the officials. So when I have someone turn to me and ask me to calm my actions, I become offended and tend to not do as was asked but increase the amount of "shit" I talk.
As is form, the further we become down, the louder I become. At the worst point of the game, we were down by almost 20, the fouls were extremely lopsided and the game was ugly. The Lady Apps made a major run to end the 1st half and cut the lead to 3, having a chance to tie at the end of the half.
After the intermission, the officials kept up their bad calls and I kept up my jeers. With about 10 minutes to go in the game, the very same man stood up and in one of the quietest parts of the game let out the crown jewels of calls from the stands "Why don't you shove that whistle up your BUTT?" As soon as he said it, he got that sheepish look that everyone knows so well. I looked at Dad, he looked back and we started laughing. Apparently, all it took was that being said by someone other than young people. The officials began calling the game much better and when the 2 teams were allowed to play, the better team won.
Now, I am not saying that just because I am an ASU student. Memphis played a wonderful game, they had great talent and were well coached. But our girls were just better.
But what I will remember in 10 years isn't the win. Oh no, it will be those 9 words, out of the mouth of someone who was asking me to be quiet, as so that he could enjoy the game.
Ah do I love live sports.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
It's spring time, I want to ride my Bike!
Well, since it is "officially" spring, I want to ride my bike. I was able to get out and do about 20 miles on Friday afternoon with Kent. The ride went well, no major points where I ask myself why do I put myself through this. I felt like this was going to be a good wake-up call for my cycling. So I decided to set aside my Monday and Wednesday afternoons to ride.
Well, that all went down the crapper yesterday, as we saw (yet another) snow. It didn't stick much except on the grass and vehicles around Boone, but it was cold and wet. It keeps me asking when is spring really going to hit? The weather is suppose to be very good the rest of the week, and as a friend told me, "ride your bike, it helps." So I am planning to ride Tomorrow and maybe Friday (depending on work and what not).
We shall see how much riding my bike helps on my journey of self discovery.
Well, that all went down the crapper yesterday, as we saw (yet another) snow. It didn't stick much except on the grass and vehicles around Boone, but it was cold and wet. It keeps me asking when is spring really going to hit? The weather is suppose to be very good the rest of the week, and as a friend told me, "ride your bike, it helps." So I am planning to ride Tomorrow and maybe Friday (depending on work and what not).
We shall see how much riding my bike helps on my journey of self discovery.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Early life Crisis?
Well, I know that I am too young to have a "Mid-Life Crisis", but That is about what I am having. Over the last two years, a lot of things that I had thought were stable in my life have changed. 2 years ago, I was in the middle of my Freshman year of college. I was attending Chowan University (Murfreesboro NC) and playing football. At this point, I had no clue that in the coming weeks my entire coaching staff would be flipped upside down, and we would have one of the worst head coach and staff in the world come in and destroy the since of team that we had built.
After the coaching change, the new staff did its best to run off anyone of any talent who had played under the previous staff. Since I started as a freshman on the OL, I was one of the ones who was on the outs. I knew that I wouldn't play much (if any) that season, and I knew after a week that I would not be returning to Chowan after that semester.
The hardest part of all of this was the amount of work that I put into training going into that camp. I was working out 4-5 days a week, working 40 hours a week and getting myself into the best shape of my life (to that point). I was able to bench 350+, I could squat well over 700 lbs and I could leg press 1500 lbs. I was running a sub 4.6 second 40 yard dash. I had worked myself into prime form, under the guidance of a former PRO football player.
Football was how I saw myself. Whenever someone asked me about myself, the first thing I would say was that "I am a football player". I knew that I was more than that, but Football was ME. The first fall after I stopped playing was last fall. It was my first semester at Appalachian State University (one of 2 former NCAA Division 1-AA schools that invited me to be a preferred walk on when I was in high school) and Appalachian was 1 season removed from winning its 3rd straight National Championship. I threw around the idea of walking on, making the team and proving the staff at Chowan wrong. But I didn't.
So much of my life has revolved around team or organized sports. From the time I was 4, I was playing soccer and baseball. From there I advanced to playing baseball and football. Finally in high school, I played Football and threw the shot put. My Mom tells the story of the first day I came home from football practice in the 7th grade. It was August the 6th, (2 days prior to my Bday), and I walked in the house, sweaty, smelly and tired. But when she asked me how practice was, I looked at her and said "Mom, I have found what I was meant to do."
Now, I know just about every child that plays a sport dreams about going pro. It doesn't matter if it's baseball, basketball, football, soccer, any sport a child plays, they always dream about playing in front of thousands if not millions of fans. Out of ever child with that dream, only a few hundred make it to play in their respective sport. As a child though, no one ever tells you that you can't do it, or to change your focus. They build the dreams up to the point that when it doesn't happen (which happens more often than it does happen), a young adult is completely lost.
I still love sports, I love to watch, to play to talk about sports. I even was extended the chance to play football for a local Semi-Pro team out of Statesville. This could have been one of the greatest things to have happened to me. But I am not going to play. I would love to, but I know that I need to still further remove myself from that game which I love to this day more than anything outside of my family.
I have been told that I needed to find out who I AM now. A very wise woman gave me that advice and I have been trying to listen to it. I have spent time thinking about who I really am, what makes me who I am. What I value and what I could care less about. I am trying to surround myself with positive people, and people who have common interests with me. I have only been on my journey of self discovery for a short time, but I have made some MAJOR advancements. Even with that, I know that I have a long way to go before I really know who I am. It will probably take all of my life, but I am striving to have a better understanding of me.
After the coaching change, the new staff did its best to run off anyone of any talent who had played under the previous staff. Since I started as a freshman on the OL, I was one of the ones who was on the outs. I knew that I wouldn't play much (if any) that season, and I knew after a week that I would not be returning to Chowan after that semester.
The hardest part of all of this was the amount of work that I put into training going into that camp. I was working out 4-5 days a week, working 40 hours a week and getting myself into the best shape of my life (to that point). I was able to bench 350+, I could squat well over 700 lbs and I could leg press 1500 lbs. I was running a sub 4.6 second 40 yard dash. I had worked myself into prime form, under the guidance of a former PRO football player.
Football was how I saw myself. Whenever someone asked me about myself, the first thing I would say was that "I am a football player". I knew that I was more than that, but Football was ME. The first fall after I stopped playing was last fall. It was my first semester at Appalachian State University (one of 2 former NCAA Division 1-AA schools that invited me to be a preferred walk on when I was in high school) and Appalachian was 1 season removed from winning its 3rd straight National Championship. I threw around the idea of walking on, making the team and proving the staff at Chowan wrong. But I didn't.
So much of my life has revolved around team or organized sports. From the time I was 4, I was playing soccer and baseball. From there I advanced to playing baseball and football. Finally in high school, I played Football and threw the shot put. My Mom tells the story of the first day I came home from football practice in the 7th grade. It was August the 6th, (2 days prior to my Bday), and I walked in the house, sweaty, smelly and tired. But when she asked me how practice was, I looked at her and said "Mom, I have found what I was meant to do."
Now, I know just about every child that plays a sport dreams about going pro. It doesn't matter if it's baseball, basketball, football, soccer, any sport a child plays, they always dream about playing in front of thousands if not millions of fans. Out of ever child with that dream, only a few hundred make it to play in their respective sport. As a child though, no one ever tells you that you can't do it, or to change your focus. They build the dreams up to the point that when it doesn't happen (which happens more often than it does happen), a young adult is completely lost.
I still love sports, I love to watch, to play to talk about sports. I even was extended the chance to play football for a local Semi-Pro team out of Statesville. This could have been one of the greatest things to have happened to me. But I am not going to play. I would love to, but I know that I need to still further remove myself from that game which I love to this day more than anything outside of my family.
I have been told that I needed to find out who I AM now. A very wise woman gave me that advice and I have been trying to listen to it. I have spent time thinking about who I really am, what makes me who I am. What I value and what I could care less about. I am trying to surround myself with positive people, and people who have common interests with me. I have only been on my journey of self discovery for a short time, but I have made some MAJOR advancements. Even with that, I know that I have a long way to go before I really know who I am. It will probably take all of my life, but I am striving to have a better understanding of me.
Friday, March 12, 2010
What is the world coming to?
Tonight, we had a rare occasion, a family (whole family) dinner. We were sitting at a local Italian restaurant after ordering out Pizza and a family comes in and sits down at the table next to us. And before they were all seated, the mother had pulled out the portable DVD player and placed it in-front their little girl.This was a first for me. I know that you are not "Cool" parents unless the Minivan you are driving has a better entertainment system than most homes, but I have never seen someone bring the entertainment system inside.
Seeing this made my Father ask "how did we ever do it, growing up without all the entertainment systems?" This is a real question. Growing up, I had a gameboy and I would play it in the car on trips, but as soon as it was dark, the gameboy was useless and I had to either sleep or learn how to carry on conversations with whoever else was in the vehicle. So, I learned how to hold my own in a conversation, I picked up on random knowledge (of which my parents are full of) or just sang along with all the songs on the radio.
Recently, I saw wall-e. If you haven't seen it, the movie centers around a robot who is living on earth after it has been so trashed by humanity. Well after trashing earth, the human population went into space, and lived life inside of a massive spaceship. With life on the ship, people had to do nothing and everyone became extremely overweight.
It seems to me that what this mother decided to do to control her child is going to lead to her child being a mindless drone, someone who cannot carry on a conversation or know how to express herself.
And that makes me sad.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wondering one of life's many questions....
Well, as I told you when I started this blog, I am a random person. And being a random person, I think of random things at random times. My random thought for today has to do with clothing. Which piece of clothing you might ask? Well, my faithful readers, I am talking about sweatpants.You may wonder where this is about to go, I mean sweatpants are a very random thing to ponder. I know this, but it is the thought floating around in my head.
I want to know why a single pair of sweatpants, no matter how old, torn, tattered, faded or stained can be so treasured. I know, we as humans grow an attachment to things over time and that could be the reason. But what makes this one pair of pants different from all the others in the world?
The pair of sweatpants that holds a special place in my heart came from a track meet my junior year in High School. This was an invitational only meet, meaning that only 1 or 2 people in each event, from each school were invited. I was invited to throw Shot and Discus. The meet was held at Appalachian State University, in their (and now our) amazing facilities. The meet was held on a Saturday in early April (I think) and the weather in April is rather random. Well this day showed the major difference in a 35 minute trip up a mountain. When we left from the High school, it was warm, mid 60s, sunny, blue skies. A great day to be outside. Well, when we hit Boone, it was a different story. It was cold, wet and windy.
Not ready for the vast difference in weather, I was in my track suit and my uniform. This was fine for mid 60s and sun, but for low 40s and rain, it was vastly inadequate. Since there was a meet full of perspective buyers, the host decided it would be a great idea to sell some sweats, pants, shirts and some t-shirts to raise money. And it just so happened that the day called for warm clothing. Being extremely under-dressed, I decided that I wanted, no wait I needed another pair of pants on. With that decision made, I went and forked over the $8 or so and had myself a brand new pair of ASU Track and Field gray cotton sweat pants.
Those pants were a must have for me on meet day through out the rest of that season and through my senior season as well, all the way to NC A&T and the NCHSAA 2-AA State Championships.
I wore those pants a lot of places. I wore them to the weight room during my time at Chowan University playing football, I wore them in Mexico on a family vacation. I wear them now in Boone, as I am now an ASU student. They are thin, faded, stained, and ripped (I hate elastic in the cuffs of pants, so I cut it out). They have no pockets, they aren't stylish, but they are mine. They are comfortable and that is all that matters. I dont wear them to class (anymore, that ended when I moved off campus and needed to carry my wallet, keys, and phone because these pants have no pocket), but they still find their way to the library, when I know I will be there for a long night of studying or paper writing.
My attachments to these pants are strong, I have accomplished many things in them; from personal and school records in the Shot to squatting more that any person should squat. Some people may look at them and wonder why is that crazy guy wearing such shabby sweats, he so isn't cool. To them I am sad, because you dont know the comfort from putting something on that hasn't ever changed and hopefully will not change for many years to come. Then there are the people that see me wearing the afore mentioned sweats and think to themselves "I wonder if my (insert article of comfort clothing here) are clean/not too dirty/not to smelly to wear when I get home.
To you, I say the answer is no, your favorite article of clothing is not too dirty to wear. So head to the drawer, hamper, pile of clothes in the corner that you cant tell if they are clean or not, or your dryer and put them on! I know that mine are now clean (I washed them tonight and the dryer is done drying now).
Happy Trails my FRIENDS, and until next time, stay alive and above water.
I want to know why a single pair of sweatpants, no matter how old, torn, tattered, faded or stained can be so treasured. I know, we as humans grow an attachment to things over time and that could be the reason. But what makes this one pair of pants different from all the others in the world?
The pair of sweatpants that holds a special place in my heart came from a track meet my junior year in High School. This was an invitational only meet, meaning that only 1 or 2 people in each event, from each school were invited. I was invited to throw Shot and Discus. The meet was held at Appalachian State University, in their (and now our) amazing facilities. The meet was held on a Saturday in early April (I think) and the weather in April is rather random. Well this day showed the major difference in a 35 minute trip up a mountain. When we left from the High school, it was warm, mid 60s, sunny, blue skies. A great day to be outside. Well, when we hit Boone, it was a different story. It was cold, wet and windy.
Not ready for the vast difference in weather, I was in my track suit and my uniform. This was fine for mid 60s and sun, but for low 40s and rain, it was vastly inadequate. Since there was a meet full of perspective buyers, the host decided it would be a great idea to sell some sweats, pants, shirts and some t-shirts to raise money. And it just so happened that the day called for warm clothing. Being extremely under-dressed, I decided that I wanted, no wait I needed another pair of pants on. With that decision made, I went and forked over the $8 or so and had myself a brand new pair of ASU Track and Field gray cotton sweat pants.
Those pants were a must have for me on meet day through out the rest of that season and through my senior season as well, all the way to NC A&T and the NCHSAA 2-AA State Championships.
I wore those pants a lot of places. I wore them to the weight room during my time at Chowan University playing football, I wore them in Mexico on a family vacation. I wear them now in Boone, as I am now an ASU student. They are thin, faded, stained, and ripped (I hate elastic in the cuffs of pants, so I cut it out). They have no pockets, they aren't stylish, but they are mine. They are comfortable and that is all that matters. I dont wear them to class (anymore, that ended when I moved off campus and needed to carry my wallet, keys, and phone because these pants have no pocket), but they still find their way to the library, when I know I will be there for a long night of studying or paper writing.
My attachments to these pants are strong, I have accomplished many things in them; from personal and school records in the Shot to squatting more that any person should squat. Some people may look at them and wonder why is that crazy guy wearing such shabby sweats, he so isn't cool. To them I am sad, because you dont know the comfort from putting something on that hasn't ever changed and hopefully will not change for many years to come. Then there are the people that see me wearing the afore mentioned sweats and think to themselves "I wonder if my (insert article of comfort clothing here) are clean/not too dirty/not to smelly to wear when I get home.
To you, I say the answer is no, your favorite article of clothing is not too dirty to wear. So head to the drawer, hamper, pile of clothes in the corner that you cant tell if they are clean or not, or your dryer and put them on! I know that mine are now clean (I washed them tonight and the dryer is done drying now).
Happy Trails my FRIENDS, and until next time, stay alive and above water.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
4 years seems so short
4 years ago this morning, one of my best friends died. Adam was 16, and like most 16 year old teen age males, he thought he was invincible and that he knew it all. But unlike most 16 year old males, he didn't get to live long enough to learn it. Adam died of serious injuries suffered in a wreck while street racing.
We all did it to some extent. Every Friday and Saturday night all you had to do was ride the 25ish minutes down 321 to Hickory and hit highway 70. From there, all you needed to do was stop at a stoplight and rev at the car next to you, the race was on, from stoplight to stoplight. This happened every weekend, sometimes the cops were out in force, others they were nowhere to be found. This culture grew out of So-Cal, and hit worldwide fame with the release of The Fast and the Furious.
Street racing is very dangerous for everyone on the street. From the pedestrians to the other drivers, one fluke accident can take the life of someone’s best friend, son, brother.
Sometimes I think about how my world would be different if Adam hadn’t died. I know that I would still have a great friend, and we would have gotten in some sort of trouble, either on a spring break trip or over a summer road trip.
It is just so hard to think that 4 years ago Monday, was the last time I saw Adam alive, and in a state I would want to remember him. True he did not die until the morning after his accident, but he left this world before his car came to a stop. I am selfish and wish that my friend was still here, but I know that he is in a much better place now, and has been there for 4 years. I also know that he will be among the group that is waiting for me when my time comes (in about 65 or 70 years).
Rest in Peace Adam Lackey 3/9/1989-3/3/06, May we all learn to live life the way that you did, never holding back, always on the edge.
We all did it to some extent. Every Friday and Saturday night all you had to do was ride the 25ish minutes down 321 to Hickory and hit highway 70. From there, all you needed to do was stop at a stoplight and rev at the car next to you, the race was on, from stoplight to stoplight. This happened every weekend, sometimes the cops were out in force, others they were nowhere to be found. This culture grew out of So-Cal, and hit worldwide fame with the release of The Fast and the Furious.
Street racing is very dangerous for everyone on the street. From the pedestrians to the other drivers, one fluke accident can take the life of someone’s best friend, son, brother.
Sometimes I think about how my world would be different if Adam hadn’t died. I know that I would still have a great friend, and we would have gotten in some sort of trouble, either on a spring break trip or over a summer road trip.
It is just so hard to think that 4 years ago Monday, was the last time I saw Adam alive, and in a state I would want to remember him. True he did not die until the morning after his accident, but he left this world before his car came to a stop. I am selfish and wish that my friend was still here, but I know that he is in a much better place now, and has been there for 4 years. I also know that he will be among the group that is waiting for me when my time comes (in about 65 or 70 years).
Rest in Peace Adam Lackey 3/9/1989-3/3/06, May we all learn to live life the way that you did, never holding back, always on the edge.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Been a while
Well, its been a while since I have written. Since then, I have seen temps from the mid 50s all the way down to the mid to upper teens. It is strange.
Thats about all I have for now.
Thats about all I have for now.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
What is that strange color in the sky?
Well, the 5 straight days of snow decided to stop today. I saw this strange color in the sky, something like this blue color. It was strange, and kinda hurt my eyes. But it was very refreshing.
I never knew I would miss color like I have since this winter has hit. With an artist as a mother, I always had some color around. I still have some in my house. I still have my Christmas lights up, my Christmas tree is still up (about 3 feet tall and green), and all the quilts in the house. But it is not the same. I want to see grass, I want to see the green leaves of trees in summer, the rainbow colors of cycling kits and the flash of bicycles.
I know that spring is coming, and with it comes beautiful flowers and new life. We have had somewhere around 70 inches of snow and it is just draining me. Maybe spring will get the hint this weekend when we are suppose to see temps in the mid to upper 30's. Mid to Upper 30's and it is making me happy.
Wow, Hurry up Spring.
P.S. I'll try to keep the mood slightly more upbeat in the future.
I never knew I would miss color like I have since this winter has hit. With an artist as a mother, I always had some color around. I still have some in my house. I still have my Christmas lights up, my Christmas tree is still up (about 3 feet tall and green), and all the quilts in the house. But it is not the same. I want to see grass, I want to see the green leaves of trees in summer, the rainbow colors of cycling kits and the flash of bicycles.
I know that spring is coming, and with it comes beautiful flowers and new life. We have had somewhere around 70 inches of snow and it is just draining me. Maybe spring will get the hint this weekend when we are suppose to see temps in the mid to upper 30's. Mid to Upper 30's and it is making me happy.
Wow, Hurry up Spring.
P.S. I'll try to keep the mood slightly more upbeat in the future.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Well
I have been told a lot recently that I need to stop living to make everyone else happy and make my own self happy. Great advice. Except I am not sure how exactly to do that.
There are things in my life that do make me happy. I love being outdoors, I love riding my bike, I love my friends, I love spending time with my girlfriend. But all of these thing are hard to get right now.
But I am going to start by letting people know when they are going to far. I am a rather chill person. Not a ton of stuff gets me worked up. And that being said, there are times when I let people kinda walk all over me. Well, I am going to work on that.
There are things in my life that do make me happy. I love being outdoors, I love riding my bike, I love my friends, I love spending time with my girlfriend. But all of these thing are hard to get right now.
But I am going to start by letting people know when they are going to far. I am a rather chill person. Not a ton of stuff gets me worked up. And that being said, there are times when I let people kinda walk all over me. Well, I am going to work on that.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
The day after Yesterday
Well, yesterday we had a nice little Blizzard. I can't tell how much snow I picked up on top of what I already had, but it's anywhere from 3-7 inches. We had some majorly high winds and I even got to lose power (not a great thing from my point of view). Oh and ASU even called off classes for almost 2 days in a row, thats a big deal.
But today was almost completely different. It is still brutally cold, but the wind is chilled out some. The Skies were (Carolina) blue today, I saw this big orange/yellow orb in the sky, I think they call it the Sun(maybe?).
Hopefully ASU will allow us to have classes tomorrow. I just get bored when I dont have class. Besides I like class, I like to learn.
I have pretty much decided that I am not watching any more UNC basketball this season. I have been watching UNC basketball for all of my life. I have seen 3 NCAA Championships and even the 8-20 season. Of all the Basketball I have seen played, I have never seen a team that has this much talent play so poorly. Sitting a 2-7, tied for the toilet in the ACC with NC State, This could be the first season that the Heels have finished last in the ACC. The way things are looking, my Apps will make the NCAA's and my Heels will not even be in the NIT......
Oh well, lets hope for no more snow.
But today was almost completely different. It is still brutally cold, but the wind is chilled out some. The Skies were (Carolina) blue today, I saw this big orange/yellow orb in the sky, I think they call it the Sun(maybe?).
Hopefully ASU will allow us to have classes tomorrow. I just get bored when I dont have class. Besides I like class, I like to learn.
I have pretty much decided that I am not watching any more UNC basketball this season. I have been watching UNC basketball for all of my life. I have seen 3 NCAA Championships and even the 8-20 season. Of all the Basketball I have seen played, I have never seen a team that has this much talent play so poorly. Sitting a 2-7, tied for the toilet in the ACC with NC State, This could be the first season that the Heels have finished last in the ACC. The way things are looking, my Apps will make the NCAA's and my Heels will not even be in the NIT......
Oh well, lets hope for no more snow.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Sunday in the Elk
Well, I am spending the vast majority of my Sunday (stuper bowel Sunday) with the Aunt and Uncle. Its a balmy 30.6 degrees, there is some sun, and the trees sparkle with the ice.
Talking with the Uncle, We are ready for the end of winter or at least having temps in the mid 40s as so we can get some hiking, camping or biking on. But as for now, its cold, dark, and white (that is not a racial joke at all).
Stuper Bowel kicks off soon, Hope it lives up to all the hype, we shall see how all things go.
Until tomorrow, stay classy.
Talking with the Uncle, We are ready for the end of winter or at least having temps in the mid 40s as so we can get some hiking, camping or biking on. But as for now, its cold, dark, and white (that is not a racial joke at all).
Stuper Bowel kicks off soon, Hope it lives up to all the hype, we shall see how all things go.
Until tomorrow, stay classy.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Suck Fnow
Well, The weather persons called the weather correct. It started about 6:50pm last night, and it snowed until about 8am then turned to rain. I love winter weather.....
Anyway, the family is all here (for now), the roads don't seem to be bad, and I am ready to get back to Boone. They are calling for this wonderful mix of joyous weather conditions until Sunday night.
The Stuper Bowl is coming up, just about 2 days away, Time to make plans for where your gonna be watching it, get all the food you will need and bring it into the living room, beverages are also a good thing to have, sit back and hope for a great game that makes my prediction (see yesterdays post of you missed it) come true.
Until the next time........ I'ma stay fly, you do the same
Anyway, the family is all here (for now), the roads don't seem to be bad, and I am ready to get back to Boone. They are calling for this wonderful mix of joyous weather conditions until Sunday night.
The Stuper Bowl is coming up, just about 2 days away, Time to make plans for where your gonna be watching it, get all the food you will need and bring it into the living room, beverages are also a good thing to have, sit back and hope for a great game that makes my prediction (see yesterdays post of you missed it) come true.
Until the next time........ I'ma stay fly, you do the same
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Life, it just happens
Well today ended up being a good day even though I spent my afternoon between driving to the parents house/doctors office/tire store and waiting. Waiting is one of the few things I can't stand having to do. I like to be able to do what I need to do and go on with myself, but everyone knows that is just a dream.
But, I got my new allergy drugs and my tires rotated along with my daily dose of education, so I can't complain too much.
Speaking of allergy drugs, random fact for the day is that I am allergic to life basically. I can't figure out how this happened, neither of my parents suffer from allergies. It is one of the worst things I can think of having.
As I said yesterday, it looks like the weather forecasters have (sadly) hit the Snow nail on its head again (dang it)and they are calling for everything from snow to sleet to rain for this weekend. I hope the Ice pare of what they are calling for is not just wrong, but dead wrong. Snow is alright, but ice sucks.
About the stuper bowel, (yes I spelled it stuper) I haven't seen any television coverage of it today. Its refreshing, but the only reason i haven't seen the ex-greats sitting on the set in South Beach is because I haven't had time to watch t.v. today. But I happen to agree with what I am hearing from the talking heads, the Saints will be saying 'what dat" as I see this happening: The teams will battle back and forth all game long. The Saints will probably get some pressure on Peyton early on and may even have a lead at the half, but whatever lead they have (if they have one, it will need to be at least double what they have)slipping away. Somehow, it will come down to the colts Offense scoring within the last minute of the game, even if the Saints hold the ball for most of the game, it only takes 1 play to score, just ask Miami, they held the ball for something like 45 minutes against the Colts in September and still lost the game.
But that is enough rambling for today. Stay safe in whatever weather conditions you end up with this weekend.
But, I got my new allergy drugs and my tires rotated along with my daily dose of education, so I can't complain too much.
Speaking of allergy drugs, random fact for the day is that I am allergic to life basically. I can't figure out how this happened, neither of my parents suffer from allergies. It is one of the worst things I can think of having.
As I said yesterday, it looks like the weather forecasters have (sadly) hit the Snow nail on its head again (dang it)and they are calling for everything from snow to sleet to rain for this weekend. I hope the Ice pare of what they are calling for is not just wrong, but dead wrong. Snow is alright, but ice sucks.
About the stuper bowel, (yes I spelled it stuper) I haven't seen any television coverage of it today. Its refreshing, but the only reason i haven't seen the ex-greats sitting on the set in South Beach is because I haven't had time to watch t.v. today. But I happen to agree with what I am hearing from the talking heads, the Saints will be saying 'what dat" as I see this happening: The teams will battle back and forth all game long. The Saints will probably get some pressure on Peyton early on and may even have a lead at the half, but whatever lead they have (if they have one, it will need to be at least double what they have)slipping away. Somehow, it will come down to the colts Offense scoring within the last minute of the game, even if the Saints hold the ball for most of the game, it only takes 1 play to score, just ask Miami, they held the ball for something like 45 minutes against the Colts in September and still lost the game.
But that is enough rambling for today. Stay safe in whatever weather conditions you end up with this weekend.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Confused weather and the Ancient Mediterranean world
I'm rather on the happy side today. I found some great sources for a paper I have to write in sections. I got my first part of the paper done this afternoon.
If you ever have to do any research, I would suggest using Google Scholar, it is such a great resource to have.
The weather today was very confused. True, it is February in the Mountains, but I wish the skies could decide on what to do. As I walked to class this afternoon, it seemed like the predicted snow was coming early. That apparently changed in the 50 minutes it took my class to be completed. I walk outside and the sun is out and the sky is blue.
We shall see if the weather people are going to be right again about this winter weather, or will they miss (like they seem to do more than they hit).
It is hump-day, and I only have to wake up 2 more mornings. Hopefully the rest of the week will pass by at a decent rate of speed.
Then the weekend comes and we have the BIG game (the NFL kinda frowns on using their trademarked name for the championship game). Will the Saint's still be saying "who dat" or will the Colts follow the pattern they have seemingly been following since Manning went under Saturday (center)? Stay tuned here, or ESPN will have round the clock coverage until the game starts. It seems like coverage has started earlier and earlier every year.
Until next time, I hope the 4 of you that are reading enjoy. Any ideas you have for future discussion topics, let me know. Comments are always welcome.
Stay warm out there.
If you ever have to do any research, I would suggest using Google Scholar, it is such a great resource to have.
The weather today was very confused. True, it is February in the Mountains, but I wish the skies could decide on what to do. As I walked to class this afternoon, it seemed like the predicted snow was coming early. That apparently changed in the 50 minutes it took my class to be completed. I walk outside and the sun is out and the sky is blue.
We shall see if the weather people are going to be right again about this winter weather, or will they miss (like they seem to do more than they hit).
It is hump-day, and I only have to wake up 2 more mornings. Hopefully the rest of the week will pass by at a decent rate of speed.
Then the weekend comes and we have the BIG game (the NFL kinda frowns on using their trademarked name for the championship game). Will the Saint's still be saying "who dat" or will the Colts follow the pattern they have seemingly been following since Manning went under Saturday (center)? Stay tuned here, or ESPN will have round the clock coverage until the game starts. It seems like coverage has started earlier and earlier every year.
Until next time, I hope the 4 of you that are reading enjoy. Any ideas you have for future discussion topics, let me know. Comments are always welcome.
Stay warm out there.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
First entry. Its a cold, wet day on the hill top
Well, this is the first blog entry, what should I talk about? I have always been told to talk (or in this case write) about what I know. So, here is what I know:
Its a nasty day outside, its cold (around 30 deg F.) and the skies have opened up and sent the rain down with force, causing it to freeze on everything, cars, sidewalks and I thought I even saw a dog that was frozen in mid run due to this mess.
The second thing I know is that all classes here before 11am have been called. I understand that the weather leaves a little to be desired today, but we have had worse weather this year with classes still being held. So I am slightly confused as to the decision process that was used.
The third thing I know is that the winter sports teams at my wonderful institution of higher learning need more support. I went to a game last night and there may have been 250 people there. This is a NCAA D-I AA School and we have less than 300 people in the stands for a Varsity sporting event? What is wrong with my student body?
That is all I know for sure today. This will be my outlet to rant about all the things that have pissed me off throughout the day (or week). I can't say what all I will talk about, probably everything (except politics, there are enough people on the internet that want to pontificate about the goings on of the government as it is).
Have a great day everyone!
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