Often times, we American sports fans get so wrapped up in supporting our teams we forget there's a whole other world out there. Yes, my Dallas Cowboys, whom I've loved and cheered on for almost four decades, lost a heartbreaking game last night, but that's nothing compared to the heartache someone feels over the loss of a murdered daughter, who just happened to be a United States Marine.
I admit I haven't been following this story as closely as I should, but I took the time last night to listen to the story as it was reported on Headline News and then Nancy Grace carried it in greater detail. This woman, who gave her life to serve her country didn't die at the hands of an enemy in a land half-way around the world. No, she was killed by a coward in the same uniform.
What happened to honor and decorum? How does a Marine rape and kill another Marine, let alone a human being killing another in cold blood? After watching the story and listening in horror as police extracted the body of this lifeless and PREGNANT, young lady from the shallow grave she was thrown in by her killer, it hit me that a football game really doesn't matter.
I'm the father of two beautiful girls and I can only imagine what this woman's parents are going through. It must be horrific. It makes my heart hurt that such evil is pervasive in our world. We can only hope the perpetrator is brought to justice swiftly and will face the maximum penalty for this heinous crime.
I pray for the soul of this girl and am humbled by her story. It serves to remind me there are things more important than football.
Take care of each other. Quit running red lights because you think you need to be someplace RIGHT NOW. Stop the road rage. Be kinder to each other and remember the mercy you receive is equal to the mercy you give.
That's my heartfelt confession for this evening...God bless you.
TFR
Monday, January 14, 2008
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Way Overpaid
You guys know I'm a Cowboys fan and I knew we were in trouble when New York drove the field in :43 to tie the game before the half. What a waste of one of the greatest drives in playoff history.
It's plain to see, and this is no secret as it plagues a mediocre NFL, that the Cowboys have some guys that are way overpaid for what the do on the field. Today cast a glaring light on a few players that have done nothing but either kill or extend drives on both sides of the ball.
I'd like to hand out some tin-plated game balls to some of Dallas' overpaid millionaires. First, thank you Patrick Crayton for dropping what was the biggest throw of the day for Tony Romo. Romo busts his rear to make a spectacular play and you let him, and all of us, down. There was nothing but daylight in front of you, so you must've been distracted by the possibility of being the Miller Lite Most Valuable Player for hauling that in and sprinting to Cowboy immortality. Instead, you showed us all what a choke you are.
Second, to Columbo and Adams for all your false starts all year long and how they came to a head in the biggest game of the year. I'll cut Flozell a little slack because at least he kept Romo alive and Strahan at bay. But Colombo? You stink, dude. Have yourself a nice off-season and take your tin ball with you.
Third, the Dallas Cowboys secondary deserves a great round of applause for making Jon Kitna, Jason Campbell, and Eli Manning look like hall of famers. This all began in Detroit and fittingly ended in our backyard. Led by Roy "I can't catch a cold if I stood out in the snow naked" Williams, the Dallas defensive backfield gave more cushion than a leather La-Z-Boy. I'd really like to thank Jacques Reeves for his lack of participation today. So, to all of you that allowed Eli to drive the Giants to the tying score after getting a 10-minute plus rest...Thanks!
I'll give Romo some credit for always making things exciting for us fans, but when he commits those mindless mistakes, like getting an intentional grounding penalty, or tossing a pick, it reminds us he has a long way to go. He violated Parcells' 11 Commandments that are hanging in his locker at Texas Stadium. Parcells told him, "When all around you are in chaos, you must keep your head." It was clear there in the last 2:00, Tony was losing it. He's 27 and will be a great one in time.
I know I'm coming down pretty hard on my team, but when you see a marvelous 13-3 season slip away, especially in those last three games, it just makes you wonder where the problems began, who is going to fix them, and where will the Cowboys be next year? It has been 11 seasons, now going on 12, since Dallas has won a playoff game. How can that be? I wonder if Troy Aikman puked all over Joe Buck after Fox signed off.
So, instead of enjoying another week of football and hoping Dallas would beat its old nemesis, Brett Favre, which I don't think they could have, I'll be casually flipping the channels next Sunday without worrying about the outcomes. I do hope Favre can now carry the Packers to the promised land, but the New England Death Star with Darth Belicheck is out there waiting.
Here's hoping JerryJones sends a message loud and clear to his overpaid bunch tomorrow morning, by cutting Colombo and Williams, and maybe even letting Crayton go, as well. He needs to let these guys know they are paid to do a job and they didn't get it done.
That's my postseason rant and good luck to the Packers next week.
The Fat Runner and disgusted Cowboys fan!
It's plain to see, and this is no secret as it plagues a mediocre NFL, that the Cowboys have some guys that are way overpaid for what the do on the field. Today cast a glaring light on a few players that have done nothing but either kill or extend drives on both sides of the ball.
I'd like to hand out some tin-plated game balls to some of Dallas' overpaid millionaires. First, thank you Patrick Crayton for dropping what was the biggest throw of the day for Tony Romo. Romo busts his rear to make a spectacular play and you let him, and all of us, down. There was nothing but daylight in front of you, so you must've been distracted by the possibility of being the Miller Lite Most Valuable Player for hauling that in and sprinting to Cowboy immortality. Instead, you showed us all what a choke you are.
Second, to Columbo and Adams for all your false starts all year long and how they came to a head in the biggest game of the year. I'll cut Flozell a little slack because at least he kept Romo alive and Strahan at bay. But Colombo? You stink, dude. Have yourself a nice off-season and take your tin ball with you.
Third, the Dallas Cowboys secondary deserves a great round of applause for making Jon Kitna, Jason Campbell, and Eli Manning look like hall of famers. This all began in Detroit and fittingly ended in our backyard. Led by Roy "I can't catch a cold if I stood out in the snow naked" Williams, the Dallas defensive backfield gave more cushion than a leather La-Z-Boy. I'd really like to thank Jacques Reeves for his lack of participation today. So, to all of you that allowed Eli to drive the Giants to the tying score after getting a 10-minute plus rest...Thanks!
I'll give Romo some credit for always making things exciting for us fans, but when he commits those mindless mistakes, like getting an intentional grounding penalty, or tossing a pick, it reminds us he has a long way to go. He violated Parcells' 11 Commandments that are hanging in his locker at Texas Stadium. Parcells told him, "When all around you are in chaos, you must keep your head." It was clear there in the last 2:00, Tony was losing it. He's 27 and will be a great one in time.
I know I'm coming down pretty hard on my team, but when you see a marvelous 13-3 season slip away, especially in those last three games, it just makes you wonder where the problems began, who is going to fix them, and where will the Cowboys be next year? It has been 11 seasons, now going on 12, since Dallas has won a playoff game. How can that be? I wonder if Troy Aikman puked all over Joe Buck after Fox signed off.
So, instead of enjoying another week of football and hoping Dallas would beat its old nemesis, Brett Favre, which I don't think they could have, I'll be casually flipping the channels next Sunday without worrying about the outcomes. I do hope Favre can now carry the Packers to the promised land, but the New England Death Star with Darth Belicheck is out there waiting.
Here's hoping JerryJones sends a message loud and clear to his overpaid bunch tomorrow morning, by cutting Colombo and Williams, and maybe even letting Crayton go, as well. He needs to let these guys know they are paid to do a job and they didn't get it done.
That's my postseason rant and good luck to the Packers next week.
The Fat Runner and disgusted Cowboys fan!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
The Resolutionary War
My feet move steadily, as my breaths are short and precise. I'm on mile three of a four-mile run. I'm in the process of completing an 18-mile week. So far so good in keeping with my New Year's resolution to run more quality mileage.
If I didn't run another mile, it wouldn't matter if I failed in my most important of resolutions--to spend more time with God. 12 days into the year and my wife and I have held firm to reading our Bible together every day. I try to spend my driving time to work every morning in prayer and I've been successful in that venture. I am really enjoying the time I get to spend with my wife as we do our daily Bible study.
I don't know if I've even lost a pound, which really wasn't high on my priority list, but I figure as my mileage increases, I'll lose a little weight. Last week, I came in at 243 lbs. and I feel really good. My stomach hasn't been bugging me nearly as much as it did at the end of 2007, so that's a real plus. Hopefully, I'll drop below 240 before spring break.
Tomorrow, I begin to attack another of my goals and that is to train for a half-marathon. I printed off a training schedule from the Runner's World web site and I'm good to go. As soon as church is over tomorrow morning, I'll hurry home, throw on my running clothes, and head for my favorite running spot to get in a long run.
If you don't know me, you'd probably be surprised to know I run at all. I don't think I look all that bad and I do have runner's legs, but the rest of me leaves something to be desired. If my gut was as tight as my calves I'd be all right. Oh well. I'm the Fat Runner, hoping to be a thinner, more efficient runner in 2008, and I won't worry too much about the way I am. God loves me and that's what really counts.
I hope you're hanging in there with your resolutions. If you like to read my blog, please hold me accountable, particularly where God is concerned. Like David, I desperately want to be "a man after God's own heart." If I can do that, then my relationship with my wife, kids, friends, and co-workers will prosper.
That's my continued resolutory confession...what's yours?
God bless you as we move into the year!
TFR
If I didn't run another mile, it wouldn't matter if I failed in my most important of resolutions--to spend more time with God. 12 days into the year and my wife and I have held firm to reading our Bible together every day. I try to spend my driving time to work every morning in prayer and I've been successful in that venture. I am really enjoying the time I get to spend with my wife as we do our daily Bible study.
I don't know if I've even lost a pound, which really wasn't high on my priority list, but I figure as my mileage increases, I'll lose a little weight. Last week, I came in at 243 lbs. and I feel really good. My stomach hasn't been bugging me nearly as much as it did at the end of 2007, so that's a real plus. Hopefully, I'll drop below 240 before spring break.
Tomorrow, I begin to attack another of my goals and that is to train for a half-marathon. I printed off a training schedule from the Runner's World web site and I'm good to go. As soon as church is over tomorrow morning, I'll hurry home, throw on my running clothes, and head for my favorite running spot to get in a long run.
If you don't know me, you'd probably be surprised to know I run at all. I don't think I look all that bad and I do have runner's legs, but the rest of me leaves something to be desired. If my gut was as tight as my calves I'd be all right. Oh well. I'm the Fat Runner, hoping to be a thinner, more efficient runner in 2008, and I won't worry too much about the way I am. God loves me and that's what really counts.
I hope you're hanging in there with your resolutions. If you like to read my blog, please hold me accountable, particularly where God is concerned. Like David, I desperately want to be "a man after God's own heart." If I can do that, then my relationship with my wife, kids, friends, and co-workers will prosper.
That's my continued resolutory confession...what's yours?
God bless you as we move into the year!
TFR
Friday, January 11, 2008
None of the Above
Did any of you happen to catch the debate last night? Have you listened to any of the multitude of mindless candidates that have lined up to run our country (further into the ground)? They are, in a word, unbelievable. No really, you can't believe any of them.
When it comes to politicians, it's six of one, half dozen of the other. For either side to say they have made the economy better or worse is laughable. This snowball called the bureaucracy of the federal government began back when a bunch of powdered-wig wearing, plantation owners got together and put authored a document that would eventually lead to the demise of the very nation they sought to create.
Neither Republicans nor Democrats can take credit or affix blame for the mess we're in. It has been spiraling out of control for over 200 years. And as soon as lawyers/politicians got their ugly mitts on the Constitution and began twisting every word in it for their own good, that pretty much signaled the end of a good thing.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not anti-government. I love my country and would die defending it. What I am is anti-stupid, anti-theft, anti-moron, and anti-liar. I guess you have to be pathological to be a politician to begin with. It helps when you can believe your own lies because at least you don't change expressions while feeding Americans a load of bull so deep we're all choking in it.
Where did common sense go? Thomas Paine, where are you now? I often wonder if our founding fathers were alive today how they would respond to the wretched band of cowards that are festering and oozing in the hallowed halls of Capital Hill. Would Georgie Boy puke all over his riding boots? Would Ben Franklin run out into the thunderstorm, kite in hand, and pray to be hit by lightning? And Thomas Jefferson, would he take solace in the arms of Sally Hemmings, saying "What the hell happened?" Maybe if John Hancock were here to witness this mess he might want his giantic signature back.
Who knows what they would do? They might just join in and give themselves a raise right along with the rest of Washington's finest. Someone needs to design a video game that brings back the Revolutionary War heroes to do battle with today's gutless wimps. Of course, they would be struck down by the evil PAC groups and their war-chests.
So, when I look at what, not who, is running for President I have to wonder if voting is actually going to matter in the grand scheme of things. It's going to take someone that doesn't care if they only serve one term, but damn the torpedoes, things will change for the best. And that is just a dream.
The only way things will change, and I mean the ONLY way, is if the entire political machine is completely dismantled. Could you imagine how the rest of the candidates would gasp in disbelief if just one of these educated fools would stand before Wine Spritzer, or Wolf Blitzer, or whatever his name is and utter that incredulous statement? "If I win, I will begin the process of systematically taking apart the federal government," sayeth the candidate, with conviction. "Today, ladies and gentleman, we begin anew, banishing forever the influences of those that would destroy everything our forefathers and dead warriors fought so gallantly to preserve." "Let the 21st Century be forever known as the age of action, not words, and as my first role as President I order the military home from Iraq to stand watch in the halls of Congress and the front lawn of the White House as we begin the process of change." "This same brigade of brave men and women who have served so well in the debacle in the Middle East will now defend our borders as we the people will say with one voice, 'the real Bank of America is closed until further notice."
Let us have one brave man or woman willing to say that on national TV on CNN (the Clinton News Network) in front of millions of hardworking Americans and that's the person that gets my vote.
Until then, I vote "none of the above." Because none of them deserve the privilege of serving as my President. Not as long as they represent what is wrong with America.
Come clean, tell the truth, and really make an effort to change this country, whether you are running for Congress, President, governor, or mayor. Our country can continue to be a beacon of freedom, respected for the principles that drove its founding, or we can carry on and go nowhere.
I vote "none of the above." What are you going to do?
The following message was paid for by my empty wallet that goes to fund $400 haircuts and supporting people that don't want to work.
TFR
When it comes to politicians, it's six of one, half dozen of the other. For either side to say they have made the economy better or worse is laughable. This snowball called the bureaucracy of the federal government began back when a bunch of powdered-wig wearing, plantation owners got together and put authored a document that would eventually lead to the demise of the very nation they sought to create.
Neither Republicans nor Democrats can take credit or affix blame for the mess we're in. It has been spiraling out of control for over 200 years. And as soon as lawyers/politicians got their ugly mitts on the Constitution and began twisting every word in it for their own good, that pretty much signaled the end of a good thing.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not anti-government. I love my country and would die defending it. What I am is anti-stupid, anti-theft, anti-moron, and anti-liar. I guess you have to be pathological to be a politician to begin with. It helps when you can believe your own lies because at least you don't change expressions while feeding Americans a load of bull so deep we're all choking in it.
Where did common sense go? Thomas Paine, where are you now? I often wonder if our founding fathers were alive today how they would respond to the wretched band of cowards that are festering and oozing in the hallowed halls of Capital Hill. Would Georgie Boy puke all over his riding boots? Would Ben Franklin run out into the thunderstorm, kite in hand, and pray to be hit by lightning? And Thomas Jefferson, would he take solace in the arms of Sally Hemmings, saying "What the hell happened?" Maybe if John Hancock were here to witness this mess he might want his giantic signature back.
Who knows what they would do? They might just join in and give themselves a raise right along with the rest of Washington's finest. Someone needs to design a video game that brings back the Revolutionary War heroes to do battle with today's gutless wimps. Of course, they would be struck down by the evil PAC groups and their war-chests.
So, when I look at what, not who, is running for President I have to wonder if voting is actually going to matter in the grand scheme of things. It's going to take someone that doesn't care if they only serve one term, but damn the torpedoes, things will change for the best. And that is just a dream.
The only way things will change, and I mean the ONLY way, is if the entire political machine is completely dismantled. Could you imagine how the rest of the candidates would gasp in disbelief if just one of these educated fools would stand before Wine Spritzer, or Wolf Blitzer, or whatever his name is and utter that incredulous statement? "If I win, I will begin the process of systematically taking apart the federal government," sayeth the candidate, with conviction. "Today, ladies and gentleman, we begin anew, banishing forever the influences of those that would destroy everything our forefathers and dead warriors fought so gallantly to preserve." "Let the 21st Century be forever known as the age of action, not words, and as my first role as President I order the military home from Iraq to stand watch in the halls of Congress and the front lawn of the White House as we begin the process of change." "This same brigade of brave men and women who have served so well in the debacle in the Middle East will now defend our borders as we the people will say with one voice, 'the real Bank of America is closed until further notice."
Let us have one brave man or woman willing to say that on national TV on CNN (the Clinton News Network) in front of millions of hardworking Americans and that's the person that gets my vote.
Until then, I vote "none of the above." Because none of them deserve the privilege of serving as my President. Not as long as they represent what is wrong with America.
Come clean, tell the truth, and really make an effort to change this country, whether you are running for Congress, President, governor, or mayor. Our country can continue to be a beacon of freedom, respected for the principles that drove its founding, or we can carry on and go nowhere.
I vote "none of the above." What are you going to do?
The following message was paid for by my empty wallet that goes to fund $400 haircuts and supporting people that don't want to work.
TFR
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Life on the Fake Road
Put the title above to "Life in the Fast Lane," by the Eagles. The "fake road" is my affectionate nickname for the treadmill.
Lately, I've spent a lot of time, and miles, on a road that goes nowhere (music and lyrics by The Talking Heads). The fake road has been my friend during the early winter months. Here in Amarillo, every day is another windy one. We actually beat Chicago one year for the most windy days. Sorry Steven, but Amarillo should've been called "The Windy City."
I've struggled with a bacterial infection in my stomach, so put that with cold, windy weather and I'm relegated to logging hours staring at a digital panel and a televisions in the gym I can't even hear. Thanks Apple for making iPod with no FM tuners! But, I get to listen to my playlist to pass the time in the comfort of indoor serenity. All I need is some fake birds chirping and I'm all set. I do find listening to music makes my rage against the machine a little calmer. Actually, I don't really rage against it. I like it, kinda sorta.
The tread has its place. I understand that. It will never replace the enjoyment of being outdoors, but it comes in handy when your pressed for time or the weather prohibits an outside run. Even in the summer I sometimes find myself pounding the conveyor since I'm not a morning person and if you wait until it cools off you'll be running at midnight on some days.
Either way, I am a runner. I feel like I'm accomplishing something, one way or the other. Sure the elements aren't there to make a run as challenging, but it's cool to see people I know coming in and out of the cardio area, especially when my students see me up on that machine. They can't resist coming over to say hi, even after I've been with them all day. You can't get that outside.
Life of the fake road ain't all bad. The fake road serves its own calibrated purpose and makes life a little easier. Tomorrow's supposed to be nice, so I'll do my best to get out there and enjoy the warmth in January.
Do you like treadmill running? If so, tell me. If you don't, tell me why. Running on a machine is tricky and can make you feel like George Jetson. Trust me. Been there, done that!
Hope you had a splendid weekend and will have a great start to the week on Monday.
That's my treadmill confession...what's yours?
TFR
Lately, I've spent a lot of time, and miles, on a road that goes nowhere (music and lyrics by The Talking Heads). The fake road has been my friend during the early winter months. Here in Amarillo, every day is another windy one. We actually beat Chicago one year for the most windy days. Sorry Steven, but Amarillo should've been called "The Windy City."
I've struggled with a bacterial infection in my stomach, so put that with cold, windy weather and I'm relegated to logging hours staring at a digital panel and a televisions in the gym I can't even hear. Thanks Apple for making iPod with no FM tuners! But, I get to listen to my playlist to pass the time in the comfort of indoor serenity. All I need is some fake birds chirping and I'm all set. I do find listening to music makes my rage against the machine a little calmer. Actually, I don't really rage against it. I like it, kinda sorta.
The tread has its place. I understand that. It will never replace the enjoyment of being outdoors, but it comes in handy when your pressed for time or the weather prohibits an outside run. Even in the summer I sometimes find myself pounding the conveyor since I'm not a morning person and if you wait until it cools off you'll be running at midnight on some days.
Either way, I am a runner. I feel like I'm accomplishing something, one way or the other. Sure the elements aren't there to make a run as challenging, but it's cool to see people I know coming in and out of the cardio area, especially when my students see me up on that machine. They can't resist coming over to say hi, even after I've been with them all day. You can't get that outside.
Life of the fake road ain't all bad. The fake road serves its own calibrated purpose and makes life a little easier. Tomorrow's supposed to be nice, so I'll do my best to get out there and enjoy the warmth in January.
Do you like treadmill running? If so, tell me. If you don't, tell me why. Running on a machine is tricky and can make you feel like George Jetson. Trust me. Been there, done that!
Hope you had a splendid weekend and will have a great start to the week on Monday.
That's my treadmill confession...what's yours?
TFR
Saturday, January 5, 2008
The Devil and Mr. Jones
If I see one more Pepsi commercial with Jerry-I-could-coach-the-Cowboys-Jones, I may puke. Somehow, I have this feeling in my gut that Mr. Jones may be meddling in team affairs, again. That might explain why the Boys have been slumping, as of late. Either that, or Roy Williams is trying to cover everyone on the field. Not sure which it is.
I'm just not a big fan of Jerry. And have you noticed he looks more like "Weekend at Jerry's" every time the camera is on him? He's had so many chemical peels and facelifts I think he's auditioning to be one of the Real Housewives of Orange County. It's kind of scary.
What prompted me to write this, I'm not completely certain, but I'm just tired of seeing him on the sidelines, in commercials, or anywhere else, for that matter. He's the only owner in the NFL with his own show. What's up with that?
Speaking of the aforementioned Roy Williams, it may be time to cut him loose. Jack "Hacksaw" Reynolds, the old San Francisco 49ers middle linebacker, used to wear a t-shirt that said, "I'm too old, too slow, and I can't cover anybody." He needs to pass that shirt along to Williams. Roy's not too old, but somewhere along the way, the former Sooner has lost his punch. I loved his tenacity and hard-hitting nature when he first came into the league, but he absolutely cannot cover anyone (see Santana Moss and Jeremy Shockey) and he uses his shoulder to tackle instead of his arms. On too many occasions he's been a liability in the secondary.
Change the channel: The Steelers just scored to retake the lead from Jacksonville. Have you ever seen a smarter, more competitive receiver than Heinz Ward? I'd take him in Dallas in a heartbeat.
Well, that's my rant for this evening. I guess I got a burr in my saddle and had to satisfy it somehow. What better place than the world-wide-web, huh?
Enjoy the playoffs and let's hope the Cowboys show up minus Jerry in the booth sipping his Pepsi Max while the other coach catches his breath.
TFR
I'm just not a big fan of Jerry. And have you noticed he looks more like "Weekend at Jerry's" every time the camera is on him? He's had so many chemical peels and facelifts I think he's auditioning to be one of the Real Housewives of Orange County. It's kind of scary.
What prompted me to write this, I'm not completely certain, but I'm just tired of seeing him on the sidelines, in commercials, or anywhere else, for that matter. He's the only owner in the NFL with his own show. What's up with that?
Speaking of the aforementioned Roy Williams, it may be time to cut him loose. Jack "Hacksaw" Reynolds, the old San Francisco 49ers middle linebacker, used to wear a t-shirt that said, "I'm too old, too slow, and I can't cover anybody." He needs to pass that shirt along to Williams. Roy's not too old, but somewhere along the way, the former Sooner has lost his punch. I loved his tenacity and hard-hitting nature when he first came into the league, but he absolutely cannot cover anyone (see Santana Moss and Jeremy Shockey) and he uses his shoulder to tackle instead of his arms. On too many occasions he's been a liability in the secondary.
Change the channel: The Steelers just scored to retake the lead from Jacksonville. Have you ever seen a smarter, more competitive receiver than Heinz Ward? I'd take him in Dallas in a heartbeat.
Well, that's my rant for this evening. I guess I got a burr in my saddle and had to satisfy it somehow. What better place than the world-wide-web, huh?
Enjoy the playoffs and let's hope the Cowboys show up minus Jerry in the booth sipping his Pepsi Max while the other coach catches his breath.
TFR
Friday, January 4, 2008
Rambo: Thin Blood, Part IV (Intravenous)
By now you've probably heard Sylvester Stallone is back as the out-for-blood, action hero, John Rambo. I thought the first two Rambos were all right, especially his spin on trapped Vietnam P.O.W.'s in First Blood, Part 2.
But now, Rocky, er, Tango, um, Rambo is back with a vengeance. He's 61 and he's angry. Apparently the plot of the film goes like this. John Rambo, now interned in the Happy Valley Retirement Home gets upset when the cafeteria runs out of his favorite Jell-O. He goes absolutely ballistic as he creates a shank out his plastic spork and then proceeds to obliterate everyone in sight. Rambo then fashions a pair of bulletproof Depends and takes on a group of security guards whom he keeps calling "Soviets." From here it gets pretty brutal as the devastation, and false teeth, gets deeper.
Stallone has outdone himself on this one. No, I mean he has REALLY outdone himself. Other than anyone born in the 40's, I can't imagine anyone shelling out $7 to see a reprieve of an over-the-hill star raising hell in the jungle.
Now, Rocky Balboa really wasn't as bad as I initially thought it would be. I thought the notion of a 60-year old man fighting a 30-year old was going to be a stretch, but actually it was written and filmed very well. The best scene in the whole film is when the former champ gives his son the brow-beating of a lifetime. Rocky's words may just go down as some of the best advice to give a young man as he looks for his place in the world. In fact, I typed them up and gave a copy to each of my 8th grade careers students on our final day of last semester.
If you haven't seen the movie, Rocky Balboa, it really is a decent final chapter and a fitting way for the champ to go out.
Rambo needed to go away, but he's back. I won't waste my time watching it. I'd rather remember Rambo the way he was 20 years ago before he was committed to the home.
Hey, you have a great weekend and let me know if you actually went to see Rambo. I'd like to make fun of you. Joking!
TFR
But now, Rocky, er, Tango, um, Rambo is back with a vengeance. He's 61 and he's angry. Apparently the plot of the film goes like this. John Rambo, now interned in the Happy Valley Retirement Home gets upset when the cafeteria runs out of his favorite Jell-O. He goes absolutely ballistic as he creates a shank out his plastic spork and then proceeds to obliterate everyone in sight. Rambo then fashions a pair of bulletproof Depends and takes on a group of security guards whom he keeps calling "Soviets." From here it gets pretty brutal as the devastation, and false teeth, gets deeper.
Stallone has outdone himself on this one. No, I mean he has REALLY outdone himself. Other than anyone born in the 40's, I can't imagine anyone shelling out $7 to see a reprieve of an over-the-hill star raising hell in the jungle.
Now, Rocky Balboa really wasn't as bad as I initially thought it would be. I thought the notion of a 60-year old man fighting a 30-year old was going to be a stretch, but actually it was written and filmed very well. The best scene in the whole film is when the former champ gives his son the brow-beating of a lifetime. Rocky's words may just go down as some of the best advice to give a young man as he looks for his place in the world. In fact, I typed them up and gave a copy to each of my 8th grade careers students on our final day of last semester.
If you haven't seen the movie, Rocky Balboa, it really is a decent final chapter and a fitting way for the champ to go out.
Rambo needed to go away, but he's back. I won't waste my time watching it. I'd rather remember Rambo the way he was 20 years ago before he was committed to the home.
Hey, you have a great weekend and let me know if you actually went to see Rambo. I'd like to make fun of you. Joking!
TFR
Thursday, January 3, 2008
I'm Encouraged
It was our first day back at school after an abbreviated Christmas break. That's not the reason I'm encouraged, though. I got some great responses from my fellow bloggers today and that really gets me pumped.
Tom from The Runners' Lounge gave me a shout out earlier and I'm so happy to hear from him. And my friend from the midwest, Steven, chimed in. I really enjoy hearing from you, brother. You guys, and others like you, are the reason I began a blog in the first place. My prayer is this grows into something special.
So, even though I'm tired from being around kiddoes all day, and boy are my spring classes huge, I am completely fired up by reading the comments I received. You have made my day.
Keep those cards and letters coming, boys and girls, and may God bless you with happy blogging and great running!
That's my exhuberant confession...so how was your day?
TFR
Tom from The Runners' Lounge gave me a shout out earlier and I'm so happy to hear from him. And my friend from the midwest, Steven, chimed in. I really enjoy hearing from you, brother. You guys, and others like you, are the reason I began a blog in the first place. My prayer is this grows into something special.
So, even though I'm tired from being around kiddoes all day, and boy are my spring classes huge, I am completely fired up by reading the comments I received. You have made my day.
Keep those cards and letters coming, boys and girls, and may God bless you with happy blogging and great running!
That's my exhuberant confession...so how was your day?
TFR
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Day Two: How's Your Resolutions?
It's January 2. How many of you are already behind on your resolutions? I'm working on making mine stick. Stephen Covey in his book, "The Seven Habits of Effective People," says it takes doing something 21 times for it to become a habit. So, it'll take 19 more times for me to be habitual in my resolutions.
Already, I've stuck to a couple which I figured would be much tougher than it seems. Like drinking coffee. Typically, I drink two 24 oz. cups a day. I try to have decaf in the evenings, but I still spruce it up with creamer, and that's added fat I don't need. Reducing the caffeine alone will help lower my blood pressure and that's, as Martha says, a good thing.
Last night, my wife and I began our daily Bible reading. I'm excited about doing this with her. I want us to be a more prayerful couple and to study the Bible together.
I'm off to a great start on making my runs more meaningful. I want to run with a purpose instead of just running for running's sake. I need the fitness boost and weight loss, but I want to be more goal-centered and hit a few 5k's and maybe even a half-marathon this year.
Tomorrow will begin another resolution. We go back to school tomorrow (yeah, on a Thursday!) and it's my goal to make this semester my best yet. I want my lesson plans to be tight, on schedule, and everyone on task. I look forward to perhaps a shot at being an assistant principal by this coming summer. This will probably be my last pursuit of this and if things don't work out, I pray God will open a new door for me.
So, here's to everyone meeting their goals and fulfilling their resolutions this year. Let me know how it's going. 2008 is going to be the best year ever!
That's my early year confession...what's yours?
God bless!
TFR
Already, I've stuck to a couple which I figured would be much tougher than it seems. Like drinking coffee. Typically, I drink two 24 oz. cups a day. I try to have decaf in the evenings, but I still spruce it up with creamer, and that's added fat I don't need. Reducing the caffeine alone will help lower my blood pressure and that's, as Martha says, a good thing.
Last night, my wife and I began our daily Bible reading. I'm excited about doing this with her. I want us to be a more prayerful couple and to study the Bible together.
I'm off to a great start on making my runs more meaningful. I want to run with a purpose instead of just running for running's sake. I need the fitness boost and weight loss, but I want to be more goal-centered and hit a few 5k's and maybe even a half-marathon this year.
Tomorrow will begin another resolution. We go back to school tomorrow (yeah, on a Thursday!) and it's my goal to make this semester my best yet. I want my lesson plans to be tight, on schedule, and everyone on task. I look forward to perhaps a shot at being an assistant principal by this coming summer. This will probably be my last pursuit of this and if things don't work out, I pray God will open a new door for me.
So, here's to everyone meeting their goals and fulfilling their resolutions this year. Let me know how it's going. 2008 is going to be the best year ever!
That's my early year confession...what's yours?
God bless!
TFR
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
One Cold Run
I hit the road for the first run of 2008 this afternoon at 4 pm. Brother, it was chilly out there. I checked the temp before I left the house and it was 36 with a slight wind from the northeast.
Today's run would be in my favorite place. In fact, I chronicled the site in an earlier post called "Fave Runs." I parked in Wolflin at my usual spot. Hopped out and got stretched and then hit cobblestones.
Even wearing a sweatshirt, hoodie, winter hat, and gloves it was still cold. I ran in shorts, which is my trademark. No matter what the weather conditions happen to be, I'm always in shorts, unless I'm at work.
The cold air was exhilarating, but wore me down. I managed 4 miles and with my cooldown walk I stopped my watch at 45:06. I figure I ran an 11:00 pace since I took one minute walks every 10 minutes. My knees were red from the cold.
2008 is off to good start and I can't wait for more. I finished '07 with some respiratory and stomach problems that I hope I'll kick soon.
If you like to run, give me a holler and tell me about your favorite places to run, your running experiences, and running goals for the year. I'd love to hear from you. I hope we'll get more readers coming to visit my site.
I found a really neat running site you might be interested in. It's called The Runner's Lounge. I found it purely by accident and now I have a profile listed on it. It's a great cyberplace for runners to gather and I really love the tips and forums shared by regular running Joes and Janes. Go check it out and tell me what you think. Click this link and give it a look:
http://www.runnerslounge.com
Take it easy and happy running to all.
TFR
Today's run would be in my favorite place. In fact, I chronicled the site in an earlier post called "Fave Runs." I parked in Wolflin at my usual spot. Hopped out and got stretched and then hit cobblestones.
Even wearing a sweatshirt, hoodie, winter hat, and gloves it was still cold. I ran in shorts, which is my trademark. No matter what the weather conditions happen to be, I'm always in shorts, unless I'm at work.
The cold air was exhilarating, but wore me down. I managed 4 miles and with my cooldown walk I stopped my watch at 45:06. I figure I ran an 11:00 pace since I took one minute walks every 10 minutes. My knees were red from the cold.
2008 is off to good start and I can't wait for more. I finished '07 with some respiratory and stomach problems that I hope I'll kick soon.
If you like to run, give me a holler and tell me about your favorite places to run, your running experiences, and running goals for the year. I'd love to hear from you. I hope we'll get more readers coming to visit my site.
I found a really neat running site you might be interested in. It's called The Runner's Lounge. I found it purely by accident and now I have a profile listed on it. It's a great cyberplace for runners to gather and I really love the tips and forums shared by regular running Joes and Janes. Go check it out and tell me what you think. Click this link and give it a look:
http://www.runnerslounge.com
Take it easy and happy running to all.
TFR
New Year's and Do-overs
I love New Year's Day. Football is on every channel, but that's not the real reason I love this day. There's a simplicity this day brings in the midst of the complexities of life called a "do-over."
All the things I did wrong last year--all my broken resolutions--can be righted. Like the half-marathon I had to back out of because of health issues. I wanted to lose a little more weight and didn't accomplish that goal. The time I should've been spending in God's word got pushed to the back shelf as life kept competing for every precious minute in my day-planner.
New Year's Day brings the hope of renewal. It's the next year Cubs' fans always talk about. It's the time we ponder all the possibilities before us, like changing careers, or rekindling relationships, or improving ourselves.
I'm just minutes away from embarking on my first run of the New Year. And as I enter into this endeavor I do it with a hope of fresher legs and a chance to be a better runner in 2008. Yes, I'm the Fat Runner. I'd like be a skinnier runner in '08, with better endurance and speed for an almost 44-year old.
As I enter this new year of running, I want to regain all the simple pleasures I first discovered in running over a dozen years ago. Those pleasures are the reasons I enjoyed running in the first place.
2008 will be a year of challenges and opportunities, all of which I hope to face with passion and gusto. I'm ready to grab this year by the horns and get after it.
Whatever your do-over, I hope you attack it with all your might. Make 2008 a great year.
My running shoes are laced, my watch is on, and I'm about to grab my hoodie and winter hat. It's 40 degrees out and I can't wait for the fresh, cool air to hit my face.
Life is good and so is the chance of a do-over.
God bless you all with a great year, good running, or whatever it is you're all about.
TFR
All the things I did wrong last year--all my broken resolutions--can be righted. Like the half-marathon I had to back out of because of health issues. I wanted to lose a little more weight and didn't accomplish that goal. The time I should've been spending in God's word got pushed to the back shelf as life kept competing for every precious minute in my day-planner.
New Year's Day brings the hope of renewal. It's the next year Cubs' fans always talk about. It's the time we ponder all the possibilities before us, like changing careers, or rekindling relationships, or improving ourselves.
I'm just minutes away from embarking on my first run of the New Year. And as I enter into this endeavor I do it with a hope of fresher legs and a chance to be a better runner in 2008. Yes, I'm the Fat Runner. I'd like be a skinnier runner in '08, with better endurance and speed for an almost 44-year old.
As I enter this new year of running, I want to regain all the simple pleasures I first discovered in running over a dozen years ago. Those pleasures are the reasons I enjoyed running in the first place.
2008 will be a year of challenges and opportunities, all of which I hope to face with passion and gusto. I'm ready to grab this year by the horns and get after it.
Whatever your do-over, I hope you attack it with all your might. Make 2008 a great year.
My running shoes are laced, my watch is on, and I'm about to grab my hoodie and winter hat. It's 40 degrees out and I can't wait for the fresh, cool air to hit my face.
Life is good and so is the chance of a do-over.
God bless you all with a great year, good running, or whatever it is you're all about.
TFR
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)