Busy Weekend

Well I have had a very busy and active weekend.

I ran a 10k course yesterday but not the race I was looking forward to running. I completed the run in 1:00:36, so which is not bad. It's my first go, and the route I chose was hilly.

Today, I took off and went hiking with a friend. We did about 3 miles on trails that I will be running in the late fall. Now I'm going to relax, and enjoy dinner.

I am recovering now from a very busy morning. I ran a team 5-k challenge race this morning. It consisted of running, and numerous stations for push-ups, sit-ups, and other challenges. It was through the river and mud, and was enormous fun!

This is a photo of our team, muddy, tired but smiling. (I was mugging for the camera)
My other three teammates are all adventure racers, but none of us had done this race before. We had a very good time.

Well I promised to update this on a more timely basis, so here goes.

Today's run was the beginning of week 8. The total time was for 54 minutes, but the actual runs were for 10 minute intervals with a one minute walk in between and a 5 minute warm up followed by a 5 minute cool down. I found last week (Wednesday) that I was really running out of energy quickly (more so than I thought I should have). I couldn't put a finger on an exact cause. I had been sleeping well, and eating well. The only thing that came to mind was my hydration. Since I am running first thing in the morning, I don't have the luxury of have a long water intake prior to the run. All of last week it was starting out in the mid-70's with high humidity and ending up at or near 80 by the time I was finished. I'm trying a new routine and the results so far are encouraging.

I am also watching closely the Middle East once more spiral down a path last taken in the late 70's and 80's. I can see the Palestinians having a short memory, but surely the Israelis can see where this path will lead them? They are going to wind up invading Lebanon again, and this time, I don't think they'll stop at Beirut. I think the country as a whole has had enough. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see them trying to solve this problem once and for all. I'm not sure that they really know how to solve it, but they're going to try.

Happy Fourth of July!

When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another....

Thus begins one of the most moving and memorable documents in human history.

I bid you all a happy Fourth of July. Happy Birthday America!

Candlelight Run

I have just finished my morning run, and wanted to update you on my run Saturday night. I took part in the Candlelight 5K run in Greenville, SC. While I didn't run a record time (nor even a very good one) I did finish strong. It was a pretty hilly course, and running at night isn't my thing. But I feel good about finishing, and it's a step in the right direction. The results are up, and it's pretty ugly. 30:49 isn't exactly a stellar pace.

This mornings run was rather strenuous. My legs felt like they weighed a ton. And the weather was pretty bad today. We have thunderstorms all around us, so it was as humid as you could get. I could wring out my socks and clothes from the sweat.

Another day, and another good run.

Although today's run was interrupted half-way through by a lost truck driver looking for directions I still managed to get in a solid two miles. I wasn't looking to go longer today. I wanted a solid run, and that's what I got. My legs (especially my calves) felt heavy today, but I suspect that's just an after-effect from Monday's run.

I had a wonderful run this morning. I was a little apprehensive because on Friday's run, I tweaked a muscle in my back. (It sucks to get old!) I was taking pills for my back all day Saturday and Sunday. Today was one of those days where I could have run an extra 30 minutes or more with little to no problem.

I did manage to put together the bar for the back porch. That was a chore with a pulled muscle in my back. I was quite proud of it, that's for sure.

I had a very good long(ish) run this morning before picking up Loretta from the hospital. I also had a chance to stop by Dick's Sporting Goods to take advantage of their sale on running apparel and picked up some shirts, shorts and socks.

While my run this morning wasn't quite as long as I would have liked, it was a solid 5k. I wasn't too worried about the time, just the distance. I need to start stretching my runs in preparation for the 10k and a 5k next week.

10 Weeks and Counting

Well I've decided to run this race. I'm not quite sure how sane I am for doing so, but what the heck. My insurance policy is paid, so no worries, right? Take a look at the photos and keep me in your prayers, cause I'll need them!

I'll be updating here on my progress and a countdown to the Spring Maid Splash run. Now if I could only find a countdown timer to put up on my blog!

Ok, Ok, Ok! I get it! I've been absent for far too long. But in my defense, it's been very busy here at the Bar Tab Ranch.

I'll do more to updates this week, but just a quick blurb about this past weekend. I traveled south to Charleston, SC to be with a customer for his scenario paintball game. It was a 24-hour game that started at noon Saturday, and concluded noon Sunday. He had over 400 participants, and great weather and a good game. It was very hot for this time of year though. Yesterday it was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. While I don't normally mind hot weather, that is unusually hot even for South Carolina. We aren't even officially in summer yet, and have already topped the triple-digit mark!

I did take some photos this weekend, and will try to post them this week.

I had a good long morning walk today with Shadow. It was very cool, with a clear bright sky, and with the sun just coming up as we finished.

I also began my run program this morning. I've taken back up the "Learn to Run 10k" program by SportMedBC. Since I've been running already, I've started at week seven. When I woke up this morning, I had a good sinus headache starting, and wanted to use that as an excuse to put off running until this evening. But I know me. Had I put it off, I wouldn't have run this afternoon. There would be a million and one things to keep me from it.

Now it's off to the shower, and get ready for work. I have a lot to do in a very short time. *sigh. There really aren't enough hours in the day.

The Nanny State

It is spring time and the trees and flowers are full of pollen. When you add in a low front moving through, that spells trouble for me and my sinuses.

I was scheduled to go to a friends 40th birthday party tonight at 7:30. I went out today to do some shopping for the house, and stopped by a local CVS pharmacy. I picked up the CVS brand of Claritin D 24 hour sinus medication and took it to the counter to pay and be on my way. When I pulled out my wallet I noticed the lady at the counter pull out a large notebook. She asked me for my id. I thought she wanted to verify it against my debit card I was using and showed it to her. She then asked me to take it out as she needed to write down my name and address. I asked her why she needed that. She informed me that a new federal law was in effect and they were required to take the information on me. Needless to say, I told her no thank you. She seemed shocked, but I politely informed her I wouldn't be making the purchase.

I understand what the intent of the law. Sinus and cold medication contains a precursor that drug dealers use to manufacture methamphetamine. Had I been purchasing a large amount I might have understood. However, I had intended to purchase a box containing 10 tablets. I am becoming more frustrated with the onerous requirements thrust upon us by our government. Between the machinations of the TSA to this new silliness, where will it all end?

Another good day at the office followed by a much needed run when I came home.

Tomorrow the Masters tournament begins. The hype that precedes it each year reminds me of the Super Bowl. I don't enjoy all the garbage before the Super Bowl, and find I like the pre-tournament shows even less. I love the Masters, and everything about the course, but enough already! I'm sure if I looked, I could find someone trying to dig up Bobby Jones for an interview.

Now for something that truly is frightening. The implications of what happened here are not very good. An adult's job is to correct children, especially when their safety and security is at stake. I would love to hear from the prosecutor and hear his story in this. Not just a two or three line quote in the middle of a paragraph, but sit down with him and hear why he thought this deserved to go to trial.

It's so nice now that spring is finally here. I had the chance to come home, change and go running (two miles). It's a great way to let the stress from the day melt away. Today was tough run though. It's incredibly windy out and fighting a headwind almost killed me. Now that I'm home the wind is howling. I have the windows open and the wind is pushing the blinds open and closed. Shadow is not amused by all the noise and commotion.

I have been following all the hoopla surrounding the immigration issue. While I understand both sides, my question is why now? Why is now the time to discuss this? What precipitated it all?

This is not a new problem. This has been an issue for well over one hundred years. While the nationality of the immigrants (legal or otherwise) has changed, the attitudes towards them have not. The story remains the same. What do we do with the (Italians, Irish, Vietnamese, Cubans, fill in the blank)? The poor are always leaving their homes to seek a better life elsewhere. I saw this in Spain with the North Africans (Morrocans mostly). In Greece it was the gypsies. However, these were commonly reviled all over the Mediterranean where I visited. Some of their reputation was deserved, but most was not. Yes they had thieves that traveled among them, but they numbered less than the native thieves.

There is more to be said on this, and I'll revisit this later.

I followed Christine's advice and bought King Kong yesterday and watched it last night. I have to say she was right! It was very good. Although if you have seen the original, or the 70's version, you can skip to the their arrival at the island, and you won't have missed much. They let that drag out a little too much in my opinion.

Once they have reached the island, it picks up and the story really takes off from there. Peter Jackson does a very good job getting you to sympathize with the ape. The scenes with he and Fay sitting on the "edge of the world" watching the sunset were pretty good stuff! You could almost hear him say, "I'm the last of my kind. Sit here with me and watch the sunset just once. I'm tired, and I know I'll be sleeping soon."

I gave my third speech in Toastmasters on Tuesday, and it was well received. I had the objective of "getting to the point" and could either entertain or inform. I decided to inform and chose emergency preparedness as my topic.

It is too bad that more people along the Gulf Coast weren't better prepared. Experience is the harshest teacher, and she doesn't suffer fools lightly. But once she give a lecture, the lesson tends to stick.

Legislate by Feelings, not Facts

I've seen some poor examples of legislation, but this tips the meter from funny to foolish.

The number of errors misrepresented as facts in this press conference is staggering. When you go to the site, it's full of even more. It is a prime example of a group trying to pass a bill through fear tactics.

While the press conference took place close to a year ago now, it is still worth a look.

I've been both incredibly busy and lazy at the same time! Busy with work, and then when I'm done with work, I have too many other things taking up time. *sigh.

I've finished my speech for Tuesday, now I just have to give it some polish and I'll be ready.

On a sad note, I'm adding this to my blog. Please keep this family in your prayers that their boys will be returned.

The annual meeting of the South Carolina Grand York Rite has ended. It was held here in Greenville, SC at the Embassy Suites. If you are in the area, it's a first class hotel with a first class staff. They were wonderful to us!

I was appointed and accepted the position of district Deputy Illustrious Master for the 3rd district. I will be the MIGM's "eyes and ears" in the district. I am looking forward to serving the craft during the coming year.

I managed to get a good run in after work today. The whole loop is 4 miles and while I didn't run the entire way I did get in a solid two miles plus. I could feel all the stress of the day just melt away. What a great feeling!

An incredibly beautiful weekend is fast coming to a close.

I managed to do a few things yesterday that I've been trying to do for some time.

Today was given to church in the morning and then a round of golf at Willow Creek. I had my clubs re-gripped and my driver re-shafted and was looking forward to a good round of golf. However, that was not to be. I just couldn't seem to find the planet with my driver. After putting my driver in the bag and going to my three wood, I was finding the fairway with regularity. But then I'd watch my irons go over the green into horrible lies. I decided after the round to visit the driving range there at the course. With a minor adjustment to my shoulders, I managed to get my driver under control.

When I returned to the house, Shadow and I spent some quality time enjoying the sunshine.

Hope your weekend was as good as mine!

I went yesterday after work and picked up Shadow! Thanks to the volunteers from the Foothills Golden Retriever Rescue for watching for me while I was at the trade shows!

I am glad to be home for a weekend and not have to work for two whole days! I'm not sure what I'll do with the time off but it's nice to finally have it.

I do have some errands that need doing today, and have promised to meet with a friend who's in town for either lunch or dinner. So between that and my other errands I should have enough to do to keep me out of trouble and yet still have a relaxing weekend.

Cartoon Violence

I've been following with some interest all the unrest over the Danish publication of a cartoon featuring the Prophet Mohammed. I have some thoughts on this, and would like to share them .

I'd like to address the freedom of speech issue. The freedom of speech - one of the rights enumerated in the Bill of Rights- should always be tempered with propriety. The tastlessness of the cartoon as depicted in the news reports should upset not only Moslems, but other faiths as well. The levels of violence are not called for, but indignation, even outright anger, most certainly is. I am Christian, and am appalled by the depiction that has been described in the reports. Understand that I am not advocating violence in any fashion regarding the cartoon, it's artist, or those who publish it. I do think that expressing your dissatisfaction with the lack of editorial judgement used is worth while.

Tolerance of anothers views of religion are another brick in the foundation of our great nation. While some here in the United States believe it's a freedom from religion, not a freedom to have one's own religion. I certainly hope that no papers here in the U.S. allow such a travesty to soil their editorial pages.

Well, I'm in the airport here in Greenville, SC waiting on my flight. Luckily the airport now has FREE wireless service, and handy signs that point out AC power outlets, so I don't have to depend on my battery. Why other airports can't (or won't) do this, I don't understand.

The connection speed is very good, and the service is much appreciated. I'll have to drop them a line and say "thanks".

Of course, I was selected to go through the full search by the TSA. After the process I got a strange look from the TSA types. I went through my briefcase thoroughly after it was returned. I made sure that not only was everything still there, but nothing had been introduced without my knowledge. It had been out of my direct sight during the search process, and I wasn't about to leave until I had looked carefully through it. It is a crying shame that we've managed to do more damage to our freedom than the perpetrators of 9/11. "Those that give up essential liberty for temporary security...." runs through my head each and every time I board a plane now.

Home Again!

Well, home for a short time!

I've made it home from Ft Worth, only to take off again. Oh well, at least I'm not bored!

Super Bowl XL

It's finally Super Bowl Sunday! It's a shame my Panthers aren't in it, but I'll enjoy the game none the less. Carolina had a great season, and I was very happy to watch them. It's a shame that they lost Deshaun Foster at the end.

Speaking of football, I had a chance to meet, and get an autograph from, Hall of Famer and former Dallas Cowboy Tony Dorsett! It isn't often you get the chance to meet someone who had such a wonderful career as he did. He was very cordial and it was a pleasure to talk with him.

I also had a chance to meet with Rob Petiitti. He was a rookie OG this year, but didn't make it into any games. It's amazing how big he was, and yet the ease with which he moved and carried his weight.

I finished my run this morning but had a back spasm about three quarters of the way through. That stopped me in my tracks, that's for sure! I think it was caused by the cool temperatures here in Ft Worth this morning.

Today is the last full day at the trade show. Tomorrow it closes down at 2:00, and I fly out around 6:00. Hopefully everything will go smoothly and I'll make it to the airport in plenty of time.

It's time to return to more regular postings, and hopefully I will do so.

I'm in Fort Worth, TX for the first of back to back trade shows. In one way this trade show couldn't have come at a better time. I have started running again, and the weather here is wonderful and helps make it easier to keep it up. Yesterday was my best run of this year, and one I am looking to build upon and the running season begins.

The trade show is one that I attend twice each year. One is in the spring and the other is in the fall. I didn't bring my camera to this event, however I did bring my camcorders. I want to take more shots of the area and the show, and see if I can publish a segment or two here.

Stop by later, and see if I can continue to update this!

Well my Panther's season is over after a disappointing loss to Seattle last night. While the game was disappointing, the season was not.

My hat's off to Seattle. They played a very good game in all three phases. They deserve to go to Detroit.

Well, I got it!!

I heard from my customer late yesterday that the bid I had been working on for over a year has been accepted. They have asked for two concessions, one I can meet, but one I can not. However they are not deal breakers.

This has been a long and tough journey. I am in the harbor, and just have to guide the ship to her berth and that will be the end of that.

This was the sunrise here at the house a few weeks ago. I was suprised at how red the sky was that morning.

Atlanta Trade Show

Here's a photo of me and two of my best customers at the trade show this weekend.

I've been remiss in keeping up with this lately, but am trying to rededicate myself to writing more often.

I have spent the last two days in Atlanta , GA at a trade show. I made a number of good contacts and had a very good time.

While I was down there, I saw the new movie "Hostel". Take fair warning: if you don't have a strong stomach, stay away. It is incredibly graphic. The plot was weak. The acting was good but the story was juvenile.