Changes soon

Be ready for some major changes in the coming week   :-)

Mobile email test post

If this works I'm going to start posting to Blogger again and if it doesn't...moving to Wordpress.

sent from my wireless phone

It Finally Started...

Well, yesterday started my 3 weeks of base building prior to the official start of Marathon training on June 6th.  I'm going to be following a training program with biking on Sunday and Wednesday; upper body and core on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; running on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday.  The upper body is going to be following the "7 weeks to 100 push-ups" book with the goal of 100 push-ups continuously at the end of those 7 weeks...maybe 10 ;-).  My core workout will be following a short 15 minute workout that Lolo Jones uses and was written about in Runner's World about one year ago. 

In other more important news Jack and Thomas are having a great time with Baseball this year and I'm loving every minute of coaching them.  I'm not at all loving or even liking the fact that I'm on the board and will be changing that after the season.  Jack has become aggressive at the plate and has been on base 9 of his last 10 at bats with 5 walks (all after a couple of swinging strikes), 1 HR, 1 triple, 1 double, and a single.  He has been doing great behind the plate as well as in CF and at 1B.  He has said he is enjoying it much more now that he is getting better.  It's great to see the light go on :)  Thomas is swinging a good bat but the best part of his game is his fielding.  He is stopping all the grounders coming his way and even taking it to the base to get the lead runners out.  I can't be more proud of them because of the efforts they have put into practice and listening to the coaches this year.  And both of them have already received Game Balls!!

Felicia is once again being a sports mom with snacks, meals on the run, extra laundry needed in a short time, and Jack's want to knock on his cup to let her know he has it on!

I want to remind Felicia what I told her on Mother's Day.  You are an absolutely wonderful, loving, supportive Mom.  I speak for Jack and Thomas when I say we all truly believe that you are the best Mom in the world and it's not even close.  Without you Jack, Thomas, and I would be lost and really smelly!  You are the best thing to happen to all of us and we can't thank you enough for YOU!

In Baltimore for training so to kill time tonight I decided to ride the stationary bike while watching the Phillies and rode 11 miles in 32 mins. Miss you guys!

Wow - 14 wonderful years!!

Today is our 14th anniversary and we celebrated with a really nice morning run together and a lunch at the diner...Felicia's choice. 
I have to be the luckiest guy around.  I'm married to a sensational mother, my best friend, and my true companion.  I couldn't be happier with or more proud of anyone in the world.  Thank you for being you!

Happy Anniversary Felicia!

I love you...

Opening Day

Well, Saturday was a great day for baseball, until you had to stand in the cold and try to not get blown over by the wind.  Saturday marked the 1st day of the local baseball season and the boys were able to walk with 282 other players and their families and friends in the parade.  After the parade and couple of brief speeches, the throwing of the 1st pitch, and the national anthem played on a trumpet the season started.  Both Thomas and Jack had a great game and lots of fun.  Thomas' team doesn't keep score.  Jack's team lost in the bottom of the last inning on a bases clearing hit by the other team.  Jack played Catcher, Pitcher, and 3rd base and did a great job.

There were issues for the board members due to dealing with the local towns but even with those hassles and the lack of township support it was a great opening day.

With all that went into that and my travel schedule last week I didn't get that weekend long run in or a bike ride but that's okay, we'll call it a recovery week.

Almost time

Well, Saturday was the final field day for SCCBRL and thank god for that.  But, as much effort as it's taking to get the fields in shape there are some decent turnouts with help and the fields look better then I've ever seen them look.  Next Saturday is opening day and both Jack and Thomas have games and the Parade.  It should be a great time for everyone (long but fun). 

We all went to the local field today and Jack worked on this Catching and Pitching and he seems to be getting more and more comfortable both behind the plate and on the mound.  This was his first time with anyone batting and Thomas was the one to do that for the practice.  Jack struggled at first...tough to focus with a kid swinging right in front of you but after about 30 pitches he settled in.  We also worked on this stopping bad pitches and he did a great job behind the plate with all we worked on!  For his pitching practice Felicia was the batter...didn't want to risk Thomas :-).  Jack really did great with the pitching as well and it seems like he understands and likes to turn the hips to help with the drive and speed on the ball.  Thomas was the runner while Jack was pitching and when Jack was catching Thomas showed why he's good at the plate.  He hit a bunch of balls and did great job swinging the bat.

Felicia and Jack rode bikes to the field and Thomas and I drove with the equipment.  Afterwords I decided to go for a ride to try and loosen up the hamstrings because they are very tight from field day.  I think it helped and I know it made me feel better to get on the bike and go for a ride.  It was a pretty good ride as well and was the 1st time I used the Garmin in bike mode.  Check it out in the sidebar.
 

ZERO Leg pain when running

Well, for the first time in the last 5 months I ran today with absolutely ZERO pain in my legs!!!  However, I was spent by the last mile...obviously I need to eat more than just breakfast by 5pm each day :)  On Monday I rode the bike a few miles with Felicia and a trip 1/2 way around the neighborhood with Thomas on his bike...that was fun and I especially enjoyed the small skid he did on the leftover salt at one of the corners...he wanted to do it again today.  Tomorrow AM will be another short run and I'm very interested to see how my legs will feel during and after that one.


Happy Birthday Tom!  Sorry I wasn't able to get there tonight to celebrate...hoping you get that Ipad :-D  Either way, Woodford on the deck sometime this weekend if you're up for it.

Happy Easter

Well, the 42nd birthday is over and it's now Easter morning...time to go to bed.  I had a great birthday and got to spend time with Felicia, Jack, and Thomas today.  We had an awesome dinner of meatloaf, potatoes, and peas.  We then celebrated with my favorite white cake with fluffy white icing and got to open some great gifts... new running sneaks (color choice by Thomas), shirts, and cards made by the kids, a surprise gift from M&D, and some awesome Whiskey Rocks from TB&Z!  Thanks guys!  Tom and I will be trying the rocks out either Easter evening or next weekend.

The one thing I didn't do today was workout and that okay because the legs are still sore from the running on Wednesday and Thursday.  But tomorrow...well today...I'm taking the new sneaks out for a couple miles.

Be careful of the Bunnies...

Wow, it's been awhile...so let's get caught up...

Well, so much for the "post a day" approach that I wanted to do when I started this blog.  I've slightly slacked in that regard but if you go to my public training site at Buckeyeoutdoors you'll see that almost every day I had something to say about a run or ride on the stationary bike.   Heck, I even commented on my rest days.  I think I took that approach because I didn't want to bore the thousands of followers I have on this blog...okay the 3 (Felicia, Barb, and Tom).  Thanks Guys!!  

Part of my issue has been related to work and prep for the baseball season.  I've spent more time then expected on the road and in hotels so far this year and hopefully that sacrifice pays off in the long run in the way of more business.  The time I would normally be updating or posting on this blog has been spent building rosters, game and practice schedules, and other "stuff" that needs to happen behind the scenes.  Thank god for some of the people on the Board with me but mostly thank god for Felicia and the work she puts into helping me with issues, email, calls, etc regarding the league.

But all of that and the missed days, the lack of any kind of update be it big, small, wonderful, or sad is going to change.  Going forward there are going to be updates on progress towards overall goals as stated when this started, to health, and to training.  I'll try to keep it humorous if nothing else and if it needs work...comment and let me know!

As you know from following this (you may have to reread the posts) I started this blog to focus on becoming a better husband, a better father, and a healthier person.  Well, here's the update on that.  Felicia has told me that I didn't need work on any of the areas I believe I need work on.  So, I bug her enough to know she has to be somewhat frustrated with me but I need to know from her viewpoint to see if I'm more focused on her and the boys, to see if there are things I'm doing that aren't working as I want them to work and to see if she has seen a difference.  I've been told that even though I didn't need to work on things, I'm doing well in those areas that I want to work on.  I believe I'm a better, more attentive husband and father than I was a couple of months ago.  So, the good news is there has been progress in both her eyes and in my viewpoint.  The reason for that progress really is Felicia, Jack, and Thomas and their constant support, understanding, patience, and love.  Thank you for all that you are, all that you do, and all that you make me strive to be!

The one place I have been lax in focus is health.  Oh, I'm running and riding the bike, heck I'm on track to blow my calorie burn goal for 2010 out of the water and I've run or rode over 200 miles already this year.  But, I haven't done it with a focus or with a major goal in mind.  Sure, I'm running the Philly Distance Run with Felicia in September but it's only a Half Marathon and I've done that before so I know I can do that again.  However, due to some unexpected issues we are not going to run Broad Street (closed before we could register) or the The Crossroads 17.75K (baseball/extended school year).  I have to also admit that I've been horrible with my diet and if it wasn't for the mileage I've covered I'd be working towards a spot on the next season of the Biggest Loser.  So I needed to make sure I make up for those lost events with something to challenge me and something that would require much more focus in training, diet, time management, and rest/recovery.

So, what did I do that is going to cause me to rethink my approach to diet and exercise and force me to really focus on the health part as much as I believe I'm focusing on being a better husband and father?

Well, there are 2 things that I believe have a reward for my entire family although I guess some might think they are both selfish.  I guess "to each his own".  They are...

The first is a goal that when reached will lead to a reward for Felicia of a day at Bliss and a weekend away or jewelry (her choice).  Because she is going to be as important if not more important then I am for me to reach this goal.  I've posted this on my Buckeyeoutdoors training site and now here on my blog.  I will lose 26 lbs by September 1, 2010.  A total of 26 lbs in 5 months.  When I got on the scale this morning (April 1st) I was 206 lbs and that is way too heavy for me.  Felicia does almost all of the food purchasing and cooking hence the reason she is as important as I am in this goal.  Does anyone else notice that all my goals require a ton from Felicia (husband, father, now weight, etc)?

The second (yes, it will impact Felicia as well) is that this morning I signed up to run the Philadelphia Marathon on November 21st.  This is something I never, ever, even thought about doing prior to the past year.  Maybe I'm having a mid life crises or maybe I just want to challenge myself both mentally and physically in a way I never dreamed.  Ether way, I want Jack and Thomas to always remember that no matter what the challenge or what others think, if you follow your heart, focus your mind, and have the right attitude and approach ANYTHING is possible.  So today I decided to try and join the less than .1% (actually closer to .006%) of the population that has completed a marathon.

I truly believe in my heart that working with my family, continuing to focus on what I do with them and adding these two new goals will make me a much better husband, father, and overall better and healthier person then I am today.  I also believe these goals will help teach Jack and Thomas that anything is possible if you really want it and you set your mind to accomplishing it.

Felicia, Jack, and Thomas I promise to you that I will do everything in my power to become the husband and father you so deserve and I so want to be.

Poconos, snow, snow, sn.. well you get it...

Well, what can I say, it's been awhile since I provided any update or comments.  I've been wanting to post some updates but each time I go to post I look at the clock and realize that it's later than I thought and that I need to get to bed so that I can function the following day :-).

The beginning of February I choose to spend almost two weeks resting due to the pain I was experiencing in the lower back part of my left leg and rather then risk months of not being able to run I decided to take it easy...not the normal mode for me.  My numbers for the month will end up being lower than I would have liked but I think the rest was the best thing I could do for myself and in the long run for everyone in the house as we all know how I get when I can't get out and run...or at least exercise downstairs.  I've been going well for the past two weeks even with treadmill workouts since I can't go run on the snowbanks or the middle of the road without any pain.

So, lets get caught up, we went to the Poconos on the weekend of February 5th with the boys and friends for some tubing, walking on the frozen pond, and an indoor water park.  Everyone had a great time.  I loved being able to spend multiple days away with Felicia, Jack, and Thomas without having to do anything!  Being away was a great way to get some time together because we didn't have all the "at home" distractions while at the Poconos.

Based on the experience at the water park Jack has decided that he would rather go to the water park next year for his birthday rather then the tubing we've done the past 4 years.  So, it looks like we may not have to pack all those extra winter clothes next year :-)

While we were there just under two feet of snow fell at home.  Thankfully we have some great friends because when we came home on Sunday our driveway was cleared and all we had to do was some light shoveling of the walkway and deck -- Thank you!

On the following Tuesday and Wednesday after we returned the sky opened up again and provided us with just under another two feet of snow.  Again, great friends provided support and machines to clear the snow and make the driveway the only safe driving surface near our house as it took the road crews until Friday to make the street passable.  Al even used the snow blower to clear a path from his deck to ours and out to the sledding hill for the boys.  Basically, the boys got a day off to go to the Poconos, returned to school for 1 day and then got the next 4 off due to the snow...tough life (ha ha ha).

The best part of all of these past couple of weeks and the sick amount of snow we've received is the amount of time I've been able to spend with Felicia, Jack, and Thomas with some sledding and lots of inside, movie time.  The time together has been wonderful because it's now coming up to the start of Baseball season which means free time becomes nonexistent except for a couple Mondays each month.  Although this sounds bad it really isn't because all of those nights are filled with coaching the boys baseball teams with games or practice.  Also, it forces the title of this blog to become a constant reality.  All workouts will be taking place while the reasons for my being are still dreaming.  I expect it will take me a couple of weeks to really get my body working well at that earlier hour of the day but it will also provide me with the ability to spend any free time with them and that's what matters.

For the past month I've been able to get a lot of time with Felicia, Jack, and Thomas and I have loved every minute of that time.  It's also made it even harder than normal for me to be on the road as I am right now...on Long Island watching the snow come down sideways.

Felicia, Jack, and Thomas I've said it before and I'm going to say it again...you are the reason for everything I do and each chance I get to spend time together as we've had the past few weeks makes me realize how lucky and blessed I am.  You guys are everything and I love you!!

Update

Well, it's been a few days since I posted...sorry about that.  We went to the Ponocos this past weekend and had a great time.  The boys chose to go tubing on Friday afternoon/evening and the water park on Saturday.  Since we only got about 2 inches of snow we were able to get around with ease.  The tubing was a blast, and was running very fast.  I did a face plant at the end and cut up the mug a little bit but it was really a lot of fun for all of us.  Earlier that day we actually played on the frozen lake behind the house...pretty cool playing on the lake we canoe across during the summer.  On Saturday we watched the updates of all the snow falling at home and got ready to hit the water park.  That was another good time.  The park had a boogie board pool that was pretty cool and some really good tubes.  The family tube was a lot of fun because all of us were able to go down together.  The best part of the trip was getting a chance to get away and spend time together!

My training has slowed down this week becuase I had a slight injury to my back on Sunday and it has been pretty stiff and sore so I've taken a couple of days off this week to rest it.  It may not be such a bad idea anyway as it's also giving my leg some extra time.  I think I'm going to hold off until Friday to do too much of anything in the way of exercise and chalk this week up to a low mileage and recovery week.  Hopefully by the weekend I'll feeling closer to normal and I can pick up the pace over the next couple of weeks and start adding on the miles on both the bike and the runs.

As I write this I'm watching the snow fall and looking forward to the 1-2 feet we should end up with by late tomorrow.  Some of the drifts will be over Thomas' head and the overall amount of snow in one week will be absolutely amazing.  I'm hoping this one has some move moisture in it so that we can make some snowmen and snow dogs.

Well, due to some continued leg pain I rode today and will see how things feel on Sunday to decide on run vs. ride. Next 2 days is 100% family time...Awesome!!

End of January...wow

Well that seemed to go by really fast.  I guess it's going to be a quick year :-)  It was a good month for all the goals I'm looking to accomplish.  According to Felicia I'm doing a good job "focusing" as I wanted to when I spoke to her about my goals of becoming a better husband and father.  So, that makes me feel very good because those are the most important parts of my life.  I still have work and will continue to work to improve on those fronts as we get further into the year.  On the health front, I'm not losing weight as fast as I'd like but I am on track to crush my running and calorie burning goals but I'll have to bring up the biking numbers when it gets warmer.  Maybe I can coax Tom out when it warms up...he'll have to ride really slow but...

Felicia, Jack, and Thomas, thank you for all of your support, guidance, thoughts, and feedback during the month of January.  As we progress through the year I'm going to continue to need you guys to help me reach my goals and hopefully that will help you see more in me and allow you to see more of what we all can become with assistance, support and work.  I love you guys!

And the Weekend starts...

Now it gets good...baseball sign-ups are over for the day and with the really cold weather and the snow now falling it's going to be Felicia, Jack and Thomas time.  This will make it a great day because we'll be able to hang out, play the Wii, watch some movies and veg together.  I love days like this and wish they weren't so rare.

So Fortunate...

I've spent a lot of time thinking about what Jack said last night and I feel like I'm the most fortunate person in the world.  To have a son that feels that way is just unbelievably awesome.  I'm so fortunate to have his, Thomas' and Felicia's support, understanding, and most importantly their love.

Maybe I'm doing better then I think...

This was initially titled "Been a few..." but changed to the current so please read on...

Okay, so it's been a few days since I posted.  I've been tired at night and actually crawling into bed when I'm tired not after I post or catch up on the news...probably better for me. 

It was a good weekend as I was able to spend time with Felicia and the boys.  It was the start of the Baseball season...well sign-ups and I was also able to get my longest run of the year in during the drizzle/rain of Sunday and although it caused me to remove my glasses due to fogging and rain drops it felt really good to get out and run in the weather, probably because it was closer to 50 degrees vs. the 30 degrees it's been on the most recent runs.  Although today I bailed out of my planned run and moved it to tomorrow I did go and ride the bike. 

I'm really PROUD of Felicia because she ran 6 miles this weekend.  It was her longest ever and right on track with the "Broad Street" training program.  She is doing great with the program and her drive to make sure she completes the training and her other days of working out/cross training.  I don't know how but she ran it on the treadmill and I know there is no way I could do that but with the cold weather outside she struggles with her breathing.  I guess it's good I have boredom issues on the treadmill...it allows us to run together ;-)

It's coming up on the end of January and I'm really not sure how well I'm doing in my goal to become a better husband, a better father, and a healthier person.  I know I'm covering the last one as I'm exercising more and building my mileage and endurance for the runs later this year.  I just don't know how well I'm doing on the other two (much more important) goals.  I think I'm listening better and spending more time with everyone but it's really hard to judge that on my own.  I'm going to have to ask Felicia to give me a grade at the end of the month to let me know what needs lots of work and what needs just a little work.  I think more will need lots but I also believe it's moving in the correct direction for where I want to be as a husband and father.

Well, when I started this Jack came in and asked me what I was doing; I told him I was writing a blog and showed him what it was about and told him he could read it from the beginning so he would understand what I felt I needed to do for him, his brother, and his mom.  He said "okay" and went to take a shower.  Felicia and I tucked him and Thomas into bed and I came back into the office to finish this post and now I'm in tears because Jack just came in (sneaked up on me) and said...

"Daddy, you know how you're writing a bog about becoming a better father, well I don't think you need to do that because you're already the best at that and I don't think there is anything you could do to be a better dad..."

Oops...better go the other way

So, early this am I strapped on my "strobe light" and made my way out for a run.  Yep, good guess, it was cold and surprise, the wind was blowing...love living on the hill :-)  Anyway, while on the run I went on the typical route past Keystone Foods, around the loop a few times and back out.  Since the run was 1/2 over at that point (based on time) I figured I'd go left and backtrack to the house but when I came out of the business center and onto the road there was a car heading my way and they stopped.  I thought to myself...I'm on the side of the road there's no way you can hit me unless you drive into the corn field...then I saw it.  Silhouetted in the headlights was a dog whose head and shoulders were above the hood of the car.  The next thought I had was...oops, better go the other way.  So all I can say is "thank you" to the driver of that car because there is no way I was going to be able to out run that dog (horse?) and no reason for me to want to try.  It didn't cause a problem as I just made a slight loop adjustment but wow...I think I need a mask and maybe a second light.  :-)

The Spelling Bee

Late last year Jack was in the finals for the 3rd grade Spelling Bee at his school.  He was sensational and became the alternate because he came in 3rd out of 86 3rd graders.  Absolutely Awesome!

Today they had the District Spelling Bee and since Jack was an alternate he would only get on stage if one of the two 3rd graders representing his school was unable to perform.  Jack was not able to get on stage because both of the representatives were in attendance and they did a great job representing their school.  Unfortunately neither of them made it to the final 3 but it looks like a strong group for the 3rd graders going to the County Spelling Bee.

Jack, I know you were upset but you need to know that Mommy and Daddy are extremely PROUD of you and your Accomplishment with the Spelling Bee...we love you!

1st time and another favorite

Last night at the Flyers game I saw someone score a goal off the faceoff.  Not as a one timer but an actual shot off the faceoff as the puck dropped (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zioRydQL1uw).  It was the first time I've ever seen that and it was really cool to see it live.

This quote can be credited to Theodore Geisel...otherwise know as Dr. Seuss.

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

That is one of my favorite quotes and one I completely agree with...sometimes getting me in trouble but it's better to be honest upfront because at some point your true viewpoints and feelings will become known.  It's one of the quotes I want the boys to live their life by...

Pretty darn close to a Perfect Day

So, today was a vacation day to get some time with the family and hang out.  And for once it actually was as planned...maybe because I kept my Blackberry off all day...hmmm? 

Jack had a friend sleep over so that allowed Felicia to be stuck with me all day...lucky her.  We just hung out in the AM and both went for runs around lunch.  She decided on the less windy route and jumped on the Treadmill for 5 miles and I ran outside for just over an hour.  Good workouts for both but of us and it was really nice except for the wind.  Afterwords we hung out and went for a walk with Thomas after Jack and his friend went out to play.

When we got back the best part of the day happened.  Thomas tied his shoes all by himself for the 1st time - Awesome milestone and later, after dinner, he read us a "Dick and Jane" book.

Almost a perfect day - more time with Jack around would have made it perfect but it was darn close :-)  Thanks Felicia!! (for talking me into taking the day off)

Raining yet again and the start of Broad Street training

Well, it's raining yet again and showing us that only a few degrees lower and we'd be shoveling out of 1-2 feet of snow...oh well.

Since the rain started last night/early morning and is still falling my typical Sunday run was pushed to tomorrow since I've taken the day off to spend it with Felicia, Jack, & Thomas.  So, instead of exercise Felicia and I got the tree put away, cleaned out part of the kids area in the basement and converted the old train table into a Lego & Bionicle table and moved it from the basement to the "horsey room".  They seem to like that they can have a space to keep all of those toys off the floor and out in the open.  We'll see...

Tomorrow will be a hang out day after Felicia does her long run and I do mine.  Training starts for the Broad Street Run on May 2nd - only 15 weeks away.  Felicia is going to run that with me, well faster than me but with me.  It will be her first long race (10 miles) and my second long one.  I'm looking forward to discussing the training and the race with her during the training phase and after completing the race.  I think she is going to enjoy it but I think she will enjoy the training even more.

Kooma whooma

Well, thanks to Tom and Barb (and Zoey) we took a step into the Sushi making life and I have to say it was awesome!  We won't be going to Kooma anymore.  We had a great time with great friends - Thanks guys!

Friends and Family --- nothing better and nothing more important!!

Back from Orlando and what a Boar that was...

I missed Felicia, Jack, and Thomas because I was in Orlando at Leadership Meetings hosted by the company where I work.  I was able to talk to them on the phone but it's never as nice as kissing them good night or good morning but, I'm home now.  Even though this trip was very short it reiterated to me why having a wonderful wife and mother like Felicia is so important. 

Felicia makes everything at home smooth and that allows me to focus on the things I needed to focus on for the meeting and the things I need to focus on during the course of a typical week when I'm on the road or at the office.  As I think about it, without Felicia I'd never be 1/2 of what I am.  Her love, her support, her guidance, and her encouragement are what has made me most of what I am.  And, Felicia is doing that with Jack and Thomas as well.  I'm unable to describe how GREAT the impact on us by her words and actions is but I can say that we all have more confidence and strength because of it.  Because of you all three boys in the house are so much better than they could ever be without all you do - Thank You and We Love You!!

So why the title?
Well today on my run while in Orlando I decided to run past some forest/swamp around the golf course on the grounds of the complex.  Around 6:30 while the dawn was just starting to break, I passed a snack bar and the 9th green on the golf course just below the road where I was running.  As I started to pass the area on my way back to the hotel the light from the snack bar fell towards that green and the woods just beyond.  I looked over towards the green and saw a shape and thought at first it was a really small, fat grounds keeper picking something off the grass but as I thought that I stopped because he/she would have been about 3 feet tall and 4 -5 feet long...pretty weird.  So, I looked again and he/she stopped and looked at me and that's when I said "oh boy".  I looked closer and said to myself; okay, not running at me and really short legs with a round body so it's probably not a panther but is it a Bear, nah, I'm in Orlando for gods sake, what else could it be because it's not a dog...could it be a wild Boar?"  So I took a couple of steps and it did the same (in opposite directions) and I stopped again and looked and it did the same, looked in my direction.  Now I was slightly unnerved and thought; okay it didn't charge or growl at me so it can't be a Bear right, it must be a Boar.  Yet again I took a couple more steps and this time moved through the grasses on the side of the hill and onto the road.  At that point it sped up on it's way to the snack bar trash can area and I took off down the road in the opposite direction.  So, when I got back to the hotel I asked the concierge what he thought and he agreed, it was more than likely a wild Boar.  I thought it was a really cool experience and it showed me yet again why it's a great idea to work out early in the morning.

Well, good run and 52 degrees but wasn't great because when I got back I wasn't able to give Felicia, Jack, & Thomas hugs and kisses. I love & miss you guys!!

Well, based on temps at tonight's event a short sleeve shirt and shorts is going to be very, very cold on the AM run...maybe it will warm up some by morning :-)

Well, missed yesterday due to work issues but will catch up with everyone later this week. A shout out to Tom for fixing the PC and to the family for my hugs.

Observations

It's amazing how many words can be both a noun and a verb.  Jack had a homework assignment today that asked him to put words into the correct category and Felicia and I had to check them at Dictionary.com just to make sure he was right because we disagreed on some of the answers.  The funny thing, we were both right as was Jack.  Force and swarm are just two examples of the words he had in the assignment. 

So how is the progress of better Paul?  Well, it's still a long way to go but I've noticed that I'm spending time thinking of how I interact with others and that's causing me to look deeper at myself.  I know, I'm not the "deep thinker" but really, I've been taking time and thinking about things and how I react to them.  I can honestly say that I never looked at how I reacted/responded to things before I decided that I needed to work on being a better husband and father.  I'm glad I'm looking at them now even though I still have to figure out how to make changes but that will come as I get further along in this process.

By the way, I wimped out on the outside run again today...flashbacks to the feeling of the skin on my face being pulled from the biting cold...and worked out on the Elliptical today...gotta get that mask.

Boys - school and baseball

Well, now one week back into the swing of things and the boys are loving school and getting great grades.  Jack is popping out 100%'ers on tests and getting ready for the regional spelling bee.  He finished 3rd out of the 12 kids that made it on stage from his school (3 from each 3rd grade classroom) and because of that sensational finish he is the alternate for the regional spelling bee.  Thomas is starting to read to us on his own.  Currently he is reading the "Dick and Jane" books...great beginner reading books...same ones Jack started with and I have to say, it is awesome to have him read out loud.  He really seems to be enjoying it which is good because his father and older brother love to read and can actually ignore people in a room when into a good book :-)

Jack and Thomas had their first baseball camp last night at USTC and seemed to have a blast.  It was the typical 1st night event...slight confusion.  But overall it was well run and the kids really enjoyed being worked with at all the different stations.  It's always cool to see your children get coaching and fundamentals tips from guys that have played or are playing in the professional ranks.  Last year Jack had some coaching with Nick Leyva (former Phillies manager) and this year both Jack and Thomas are getting tips from Ryan Vogelsong (Phillies pitcher).  We told them to make sure they pay attention and listen to these guys...seemed to work because even with lots of friends there they really paid attention.

We have a couple of GREAT kids in Jack and Thomas...knuckleheads at home :-)  and respectful gentlemen outside of the house - as it should be.  Again, this is mostly due to Felicia and the absolutely wonderful job she has and continues to do with both of them.

Because of them I can smile, laugh, and love....thank you guys!!

24 hours later...

Well, those great feeling legs didn't hold up.  I think Felicia must have put "cramp cream" on my calfs while sleeping last night because they have been tight all day.  So, today became a day of rest which is okay because it allowed for a breakfast with everyone, some reading, some Band Hero, and lounging around. 

We were going to have Tom over to jam with us but the session only lasted about 8 songs before Thomas was done and needed some Rabbids time.  So next weekend will have some neighborhood jamming going on - rest that voice Barb ;-)

The boys got doughnuts again this Sunday and one of the best questions of the week came from Jack when he asked in front of both Felicia and me..."Daddy, do I need to get dressed before we go?  Last week I went in my pajamas."  To which I responded with "yes you did but last week Mommy was still in bed.".

Rest comes to an end in a few minutes as we will be taking the boys to USTC for Basball camp.  This is a great time for camps - early evening on Sundays and very early in the season to get the kids thinking Baseball and Spring.  Spring getting here soon would be nice...maybe I won't have to get that mask for running :-)

Only 6 weeks until Pitchers and Catchers report!

2 days in a row and legs feel great

Well, last year while training for the Philly Distance Run I had a very hard time with running 2 days in a row.  So, today was a test to see how my legs would feel/bounce back.  And I have to say I am very happy!  It was a very good run and I was shooting for at least 4 miles and I exceeded it by a little bit.  That was on top of the just over 3 I ran yesterday so all in all it was very good and I added some speed and about 1 mile with only an additional 10 minutes of time out there.  I'm not running 10 minute miles but since the snow melted I was able to run without having to be cautious with the slipping and falling.  But like yesterday it was very cold on the open skin and the wind gusts were tough.  I think it may have been colder at 2pm today in the sun then it was at 5am yesterday in the snow and dark.  It may be time to break down and buy a mask/hat combo and better gloves for the remainder of the winter.

The best part of the day was jamming with Jack and Thomas on the Wii.  Last night they opened the Guitar Hero 5 they got with the returns at Target and downloaded the song list to Band Hero - Thanks Tom, Barb, and Zoey!  So now there are about 150 songs they can play on Band Hero and they are loving it.

Cold and Slippery but so nice

Well today was the first day I completed the really early run (five am).  I actually woke at 5 and started my run at 5:19.  It was about 8 degrees with light snow and average winds (12 - 15 mph).  I made sure to wear my headlamp with the flasher going so I must have been a sight...like a blinking fire hydrant sliding down the road. :-)

I only saw 2 trucks plowing parking lots and 2 other cars on the road and I have to say I have felt GREAT all day.  I'm glad I decided to run outside today for the peacefulness of it.  I did slightly more than 3 miles even though my pace was slower due to a different running style because of the snow on the ground and so I didn't slip and fall.  It really allowed me to start the day with a clear head and more energy then a couple cups of coffee.  After I finished running I cleared the snow off the driveway for a cool down.  But, the best part of the early morning run is that I was done before anyone woke up and was free to spend tonight with Felicia and the boys without anything on my mind.

Tonight we opened the new item from the returns (Guitar Hero 5) and installed guitar #2 for the boys (gift card + some assistance from Mommy and Daddy).

If you scroll to the bottom of the blog you'll see I composed a new playlist from playlist.com.  It is the new running mix I'm using (minus one TSO song).  Although I guess I would say it's being used inside on the bike or elliptical since I'm really enjoying the morning runs with no music.

What's the most important thing in your life?

This is another favorite and like yesterday, another that I cannot attribute to anyone.

I want Jack and Thomas to live by this because even thought many of us try we sometimes forget what should matter most.  This reminder is for all that family is and always should be the most important part of your life and your time with your family should be cherished each and every day.

So, try to remember, just like all of the best investments your time should be spent on the things you need, want, and cherish most.

For me that is my family Felicia, Jack, and Thomas.

I love you guys!!

FAMILY

I ran into a stranger as he passed by,

"Oh excuse me please" was my reply.

He said, "Please excuse me too;

I wasn't watching for you."

We were very polite, this stranger and I.

We went on out way and we said goodbye.

But at home a different story is told

How we treat our loved ones, young and old.

Later that day, cooking the evening meal,

My son stood beside me very still.

When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.

"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.

He walked away, his little heart broken.

I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.

While I lay awake in bed,

God's still small voice came to me and said,

"While dealing with a stranger,

Common courtesy you use,

But the family you love, you seem to abuse.

Go and look on the kitchen floor,

You'll find some flowers there by the door.

Those are the flowers he brought for you.

He picked them himself: pink, yellow, and blue.

He stood very quietly not to spoil the suprise,

You never saw the tears that filled his little eyes."

By this time, I felt very small,

And now my tears began to fall.

I quietly went and knelt by his bed;

"Wake up, little one, wake up," I said.

"Are these the flowers you picked for me?"

He smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree.

I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.

I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue."

I said, "Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;

I shouldn't have yelled at you that way."

He said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay.

I love you anyway."

I said, "Son, I love you too,

And I do like the flowers, especially the blue."

What Matters Most

Even though Jack has a major ear infection, he came running into the garage this morning to make sure he gave me a kiss and a hug before I left for work...it was awesome!!

When I got home tonight, Thomas read me a book, all the words, the whole book.  It was the first time he has done that...again...it was awesome!! 

This is one of my favorite quotes...not sure who to attribute it to but it sums up everything! 

"One Hundred Years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child."

Thank you Jack and Thomas - I love you!

A cold run but a good run and great strides in school for the boys

Well, the workout was later then planned but it was a good run.  I increased the distance slightly and although it was very cold and the winds were blowing at about 20 mph I was able to also increase the pace by 28 seconds per mile while keeping the average HR the same at 149 bpm. 

I started a challenge on buckeyeoutdoors.com  for a 500/500 in 2010.  So far it's Felicia and I as part of the challenge but I think others will join as the weeks progress.

Jack is doing great in school and brought a test home that he took just before xmas break and scored a 100...he is amazing.  And Thomas is doing sensational and his writing/letters have improved dramatically.  We are so fortunate...

Welcome Back

Okay, so today was the first day back to school, work, and the real world in general and boy is everyone tired.  Felicia and I planned to workout together after the boys went to bed this evening but that changed and she got her workout in before dinner.  I followed prior to eating.  Did some crosstraining on the bike.  Did 9.5 miles in 45 minutes for a good workout.

Tomorrow starts the 1st day of early morning workouts!  A nice cool run...hoping the wind calms before I head out the door.  Getting to bed early tonight :)

A Healthier Person

My reason for becoming Healthier should be obvious but if you missed it below it is for Felicia, Jack, and Thomas.  To become healthier will hopefully allow me to be around longer to enjoy as much time as possible together.  It will also allow me to be able to do more with them.  To get there I've put some goals together for 2010 and they are...

• Burn 70,000 calories while exercising
  
• Run 500 miles 
• Bike and Elliptical 500 miles
• Weigh a maximum weight of 184 lbs. by 12/31
  
• Complete the Broad Street Run (10 mi), The Crossroads 17.75K (11.02 mi), The Philly Distance Run (13.1 mi){Felicia will run it with me this year}, The Philadelphia Marathon (26.2 mi){still being decided, final decision in June}

 You can follow my progress with the link to my training log on the right.

A Better Father continued

So I went for a run today and left the iPod home due to the cold (ear muffs) and to allow me to focus on my thoughts...getting deep ;-)

I realized I forgot to say in my post yesterday that Jack and Thomas are great boys.  They listen very well, they clean up after themselves, they are extremely respectful, and both try very hard with all they do and don't give up...kudos to Felicia and Mrs. Wooton.  Felicia has done a wonderful job with them and I've provided some assistance but the majority of this falls on Felicia - - Thank you!

This is the reason for them needing me to become a Better Father, it will provide me the ability to give back to them some of what they give me and Felicia every day.

Time to eat and build more Lego sets :-D

A Better Father

As I sit here on day one of 2010 and take a break from building Lego sets I've been able to take some additional time and think about what I can do to become a Better Father.  I think the most important thing I can do for Jack and Thomas is to be there for them.  That means being there now and hopefully for a very long time into the future.  Being there now can be accomplished by making time for them individually and jointly for Daddy time and making the time for Family time.  I can share with them what I think will work or what I've seen work for others and what I've seen and experienced that doesn't work both socially and with sports.  My goal as their Father is to have them each become a better man then I have been or will become.  I want them to know that it's alright to show your feelings, matter of fact it should be expected and to be respectful of everyone they meet no matter the circumstance.  Most importantly I want them to know they are loved more then can be shown.  I want them to know that no matter what that love won't ever leave.  I want them to know that they are the best boys in the world and like Felicia, I place them before me now and forever.

I need to get better at making sure my free time is their time and that I share that equally with the boys and Felicia.  I am going to ask both boys and Felicia to help me become better and making the time NOW, not 5 minutes or 10 minutes but NOW.

In a previous post I discussed how I'm going to free up time on a daily basis...remember the reason for the name:-)  Now I have to work on making sure the time I cleared is used in the best manner possible.