Haight's Hangout

2007-12-24T09:01:00.000-06:00

May Peace, Hope and Love be with you and your families. Today. Tomorrow. Forever.

Tucson Marathon

2007-12-11T22:46:00.000-06:00

Well, there we are....the day before the Tuscon Marathon. Willie, Alex, Nicole, Megan, Lora, me and Anu. What a bunch of happy campers!!!

The weather was perfect. About 45º when the race started. Alex, Nicole, Anu and I were doing the 13.1, while Megan, Willie and Lora were BROC by doing the 26.2.

Here we are just before the start. Just a little chilly, but hey, we're in Arizona having left a snowstorm in Chicago the day before. So no complaints.

For me, I'm just happy to be there and 'able' to participate. If any of you have been following my so called 'running journey' (or lack there of) over the last year, you've noticed it was basically nonexistant. I attribute it evenly between laziness, nasty shin splints, actually not being a 'runner' and did I mention laziness?

At any rate, I did conquor on aspect of those elements. Shin splints. After all this time dealing with new different shoes, different insoles, various stretches. I figured, why not start from scratch. Maybe i should go back to how I started back in 2005 where I had absolutely no injuries and was able to my first marathon. i went back to the first brand of shoes i used - Brooks Addictions 7. And presto!!! Shin splints disappeared after TWO runs.

OK, this doesn't mean Big Daddy is ready for Boston, but at least it's a start. So since about October-ish, I've been back at it. OK OK OK.....let's make this relative to me. Longish runs on Saturdays and about 8-12 miles during the weekdays up to the Tuscon Half. This big boy has a long way to go.

Coming down to Arizona I did have a goal of breaking 3 hours. Last March, I finished the Sarasota Half with a very smoooooooooth 3:20ish. But at that time, my goal was just to finish. The only race since then was the Bucktown 5K in September, which was fun but still not a true indicator of what was ahead of me.

If your not familiar with the Tucson Marathon, it starts about 4800ft elevation and ends up around 3000ft. The Half starts around 3900ft. Sure, sounds easy. All downhill. Piece of cake. No problem. Well, think again Cha Cha, if you're not used to this, your quads are gonna feel like they're going to explode if you start off too fast. Luckily, 'fast' is not in my running vocabulary. Along with that, I actually have pretty strong quads like most big fellas (one thing we possess over you skinny runners). So my game plan was this....run/walk at a 'very' easy pace until about the halfway mark. It worked. Yes, I wasn't making any landspeed records, but I was feeling pretty good at about the 7 mile mark. And considering my longest run during this stretch of training was only 9 miles....I was feeling good.

So here is where I drank some nitrous oxide and blew past the people I was going back and forth with for the first half of the race. My only walking was during some slight uphills and ocassional flat areas. But downhill I was cruising. Anyone remember John Candy when he got off course during his army training run and went down the hill in 'Stripes'? OK, there's your visual...ha!

The scenery was fantastic. Mountains were glorious. This was the polar opposite of the Chicago Marathon. 100,000 fans with skyscrapers vs. maybe 100 fans with cactus and schrubery. Awesome. The last couple miles weren't too scenic since we had to finish near civilization, but the finishline was insight and that was the sight that put a smile and this big boy's mug. Under 3 hours - 2:53:25. In my best 'Puddy' impersonation, "High five."

As for all our Chicago running group buddies, here's a brief recap......

Marathoners:

Willie - just over 4 hours and even had a beer around the 25 mile mark

Megan - the roadrunner of the group, unfortunately missed BQ by 2 minutes :( 3:42

Lora - well, I'll let you check her adventure on her blog.

13.1ers:

Alex - new runner but a natural...1:47 and some change

Nicole - just over 2:06...she'll break 2 soon

Anu - the runner that had no aches or pains the next day....a smooth 2:21....again

Here are some snapshots from our fun filled adventure.....

Stay tuned for Part II of the Arizona Experience....hopefully in a day or so

Ugh....

2007-07-29T10:30:00.000-05:00

....9 miles yesterday on the lakefront....humid...nasty...sore...tired

GO CUBS!!!!

Officially Summer

2007-06-17T21:29:00.000-05:00

Since I went to my first Cub game of the year last Monday, I now declare it officially summer. And since they won...double bonus.

Of course since it's now summer, time for streetfests. On Friday, a few of us from work headed over to the Taste of Randolph Street. Fountains of Wayne (Stacey's Mom) was the main band there. Some good food and really long beer lines. I've been going to this one for a few years now and it's getting quite popular.

Saturday was our first training run for the Chicago Half. Lora is pacing again. We had four miles for the day. I'm still working my way back into some sort of shape, so there was definitely a bit of walking involved. Work in progress ;)

Today was my first Yoga class. Uh huh....yoga. I was a bit hesitant at first. I've never been the most 'flexible' guy. Prior to starting, I put in 30 minutes/2.9 miles on the elipitical, so I was already sweating like a pig....oink. The first 20-30 minutes were a bit tough. It was all new to me. But luckily, the last part seemed 'running' related. Very similar to stretches for after a long run. I think I'll be able to get the hang of it.

This afternoon went to Custer's Last Stand Art Fair. A few city blocks set aside for art, food and music. Rick Bayless (famous Chicago chef) was doing some demonstrations which was pretty cool. And overall, just a great time to people watch. And living in Evanston....lots of certain types to watch.

Next Sunday? Gay Pride Parade!!! Lora and I will be heading there for the grand spectacle. I've been a few times and it's a blast. If any of you locals are heading over, let us know and we'll meet up.

Go Cubs!!!

I'm Back.....

2007-06-12T23:03:00.000-05:00

Well, at least I'm going to give it a shot anyway.

I signed up for the Chicago Roadrunners half marathon training program. This will lead me into the Chicago Half Marathon in September. The ultimate goal is to be in 'decent' running shape to keep up with Lora for her Big 5-0 celebration.

We will be in Tuscon for a week in December to celebrate her big birthday. Of course, she has a weird way of celebrating. She's running the Tuscon Marathon. We'll see if I can get to that point. Right now I just need to get into some sort of running shape. So I will at least commit to that half, but if things go right and I can stick to it like i did in 2005, I'll join her for 26.2

GO CUBS!!!

Yeah yeah yeah....I know...etc.

2007-03-15T21:56:00.000-05:00

OK...I get it...one must keep up with blog entries in order for one to lay claim to a blog. I got it.

Since the dreadful 'Last Pro Football Game of the Year', it's been rather busy from many angles. Work, travels, condo stuff and even some running...yeah, go figure.

I'll litter this entry with a bunch of pics...

Here's my last football entry....about 3 hours before the 'Big Game'.

Well, after the big heartbreak that first Sunday of February, it was off to Key West for some serious shenanigans and buffoonary. There were 8 of us that went. Some of my old friends that I have known for years. Originally, one of the gals was getting married this same weekend in Key West. But about a month before the wedding, let's just say she kicked his ass to the curb...really hard. So, the ex-bride-to-be said, "We already have flights booked, so let's go down there anyway and cut loose! "

And that we did...

Here are the boys after a few cocktails and some serious seafood...
Here's where we had breakfast...twice out of three mornings. Needless to say the Blue Heaven was incredible. Mimosas or Bloody's while waiting for a table. Then breakfast from the gods.

Very cool how they mixed original 'weathered' items with created 'weathered' things. The place had a great atmosphere...
One of the goofier things...there were chickens and cats roaming around the joint. They weren't pests, just colorful characters...
Just a scenic portion of Duval Street...
....hopefully I'll get more pics from the others that made the trip.

After Key West, I decided to take a break and go to work for a week or so, because I had to rest up for about 9 days back in Florida. Did a lot of things once Lora and I got there. We had no real plans, but there's always something to do down there.

First thing of course was the Sarasota Half Marathon. My goal? Finish...regardless of the time. And I did. No, the time is irrelevant....not worth posting. There was a lot of walking involved. Considering this was the longest run I have had since the 2005 Chicago Marathon, finishing was fine with me. Heck, I think I only ran about 30 miles total since the 1st of the year prior to this race! Finishing was gratifying, but the best news of all? NO SHIN SPLINTS....AT ALL!!! I think I finally rid myself of that nasty issue.Here are my folks and my sister with Lora and me at a great seafood place. One of our many ventures of good eating....

We hooked up with Jason & Leah at a Cincinnati Reds spring training game. The weather was great and I even earned a sunburn. Jason and I were basically unofficial scouts for the Cubs. We agree that both the Reds and Phillies really suck and the Cubs should have no problem with them this year...

WATCH OUT FOR GATORS!!!
There are a few other pics on Lora's blog if you want to check them out.

And lastly, while we were down there....I had a birthday!!! I'm a ripe 44...hahaha. And on this day, a major purchase was made. Something I have needed for a very long time. A new vehicle. After test driving the Nissan Xterra(which I've been eyeballing for about 2 years now) & Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander, I decided on this beauty...the Toyota 4Runner... same color as this pic...minus the mountainous terrain.

It should be delivered no later than next Tuesday...woooooo hooooooo!!!

WOW...this was a long blog entry. I'm a bit winded. I might have to wait until April to do this again.

PS......I'm still doing ok on the exercise and weight loss thing. 19 pounds as of today since January 1st. I was a bit stagnant during February, but never really fell off the wagon. I was kind of in neutral. But I'm getting back on track and we'll keep on trucking...with my 4Runner :)

Bear Flu

2007-02-05T21:51:00.000-06:00

Queasiness...

Upset stomach...

Headache...

Lack of concentration...

Blurred vision...

Mood swings...

Irritable...

Yep....the Bear Flu...it hit me Sunday. The only possible remedy is Cubs Spring Training in a few weeks.

Update

2007-01-29T21:37:00.000-06:00

I'm sure some of you are thinking..."didn't he say he was gonna start running?" or "I thought he was going to try some new healthy thingamajig?"

You're right. So here it is. I'm not really sure why I delay posting these things. Did I mention my middle name was 'procrastinator'?

Anyway. I've been doing what I set out to do. I've been watching what I eat and have been going to the club 3-4 times a week since the new year. Subtract the Bears games and I have been a very good boy :)

My initial plan was to avoid bad carbs. Kinda Atkins meets South Beach for the first couple weeks. Needless to say I have experienced this routine a few times before so I'm pretty educated on the good, bad and ugly of 'nutrition labels'.

Although I've been pretty good as far as the amount of times I go, the running/exercise has been hit or miss in a way. I've been able to get down to the club but just not as routinely as I want. Meaning I'm not following a set program per se. I'm sorta on track with Higdon's Half Marathon novice training schedule. However, for the Sarasota Half it will only get me up to an 8 mile long run by the time the race occurs since I started a bit late. But that 's ok, my goal is to finish without an injury. 3 hours or more...whatever...I'll be in Florida in March. It's a win-win situation.

So here are the 'stats' after 4 weeks of my new attitude:

Weight loss: 16 pounds (might seem like a lot, but look at my past pics)

Miles ran: 26 to date (not including some bike and elliptical)

So there ya go. I think I'm on the right track.

By the way, ran outside for the first time on Saturday. Joined some folks on the lakefront for a couple miles...holy crap it was cold.

In the mean time GO BEARS!!!

DA BEARS!!!

2007-01-23T21:40:00.001-06:00

Sing along Bear fans!!!!

BEAR DOWN, CHICAGO BEARS

Bear Down, Chicago Bears

Make every play, clear the way to victory!

Bear Down, Chicago Bears

Put up a fight with a might so fearlessly!

We'll never forget the way you thrilled the nation

With your T-formation

Bear Down, Chicago Bears

And let them know why you're wearing the crown!

You're the pride and joy of Illinois,

Chicago Bears, Bear Down!!

Was there any doubt? (ok, a little) But damn, they put a hurtin' on the Saints! I felt a little sorry for fellow Purdue alum Drew Brees, but I got over it quickly. Now it's on to Miami to put a hurtin' on Peyton Manning, 6'5 230 pound quarterback, laser rocket arm....

GO BEARS!!!!!!

"I have a dream..."

2007-01-15T11:36:00.000-06:00

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. And so we've come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we've come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the "unalienable Rights" of "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."

But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so, we've come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. And there will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.

The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.

We cannot walk alone.

And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.

We cannot turn back.

There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. *We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by a sign stating: "For Whites Only."* We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream."

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest -- quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.

Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.
And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of "interposition" and "nullification" -- one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; "and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together."

This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with.
With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

And this will be the day -- this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning:
My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.
Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim's pride,
From every mountainside, let freedom ring!
And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.
And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.
Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.
Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania.
Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado.
Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.
But not only that:
Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.
Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.
Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.
From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual:

Free at last! Free at last!

Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

________________

Hard to believe that this speech is over 43 years old. Looks like we still have some growing to do. Keep dreaming the dream. Make a difference. It feels wonderful when you do.

It's winter? Really?

2007-01-08T09:44:00.000-06:00

This is a typical look at Chicago in January. Snow covered, grey, dreary and if you were on that sidewalk you would be enduring about a 28º day with a windchill factor down to about 12º. Needless to say, we have not even come close to this yet...and it's January 8th. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. But a white Christmas would have been nice (even though I was in Florida). Point being...for the love of Al Gore!!! What the 'f' is going on?!?!?

Of course, sooner or later we'll be getting dumped on by the Snow Fairy, but until then I'll just to have shrug and think it's only about 40 days until Spring Training.

New Year...New Beginnings

2007-01-01T17:15:00.000-06:00

Yep...it's been a while. Time flies when you're having fun (and/or busy). As you know, if you follow Lora's blog, we've been pretty busy.

We moved into our new place in Evanston. We couldn't be located in a better area. It's exactly where we wanted to be. It's big city living without the big city. Anything you could ever want is within a couple blocks of our place. Whole Foods, Barnes & Noble, Turin's bicycle shop, our bank, movie complex, all types of restaurants/bars & less than half a mile from the lakefront. And our 9th floor southern view gives us a peek at the Chicago Skyline.

Since my last post over two months ago (holy crap), it's not only been busy with our move, but work was nuts. All of November thru early December was extremely busy with a lot of time spent on showsites and to wrap it up was some training at our corporate office in Dallas for about 4 days. That put me back at my office for about a week....then it was time for a vacation.

So I packed my bags and headed to Sarasota, FL for the holidays to spend time with my folks and sister, who also lives down there. It was nice to get away and not really concentrate on, well, anything. Unfortunately, I couldn't hide Lora in my suitcase and bring her with. She got stuck with work obligations.

Speaking of Sarasota, this brings me to another 'new beginning'. Lora and I have officially signed up for the Sarasota Half Marathon. Now you're asking yourself, "but you haven't been training, have you?" Well, not so much. But with that being said, today is the 'new beginning'.

Along with the support of Lora and whomever wishes to shake their pom pons, I'm setting out to get back in shape. For the most part, my shins are healthy again. I've just decided I have to push through it and 'get tough'. Although weight loss is a priority, I don't have 'over the top' goals. I just need to be consistent and determined. Since we have 'LA Fitness' in our building, I will be utilizing it as much as possible.

This isn't about getting into 'running shape'. This is about getting healthy. I'm using FitDay to monitor my progress with my weight loss and physical activity.

So I picked the Sarasota Half as a mini-goal....finish under 3 hours. I know, now you're saying, "3 hours? Heck, I can walk that fast and finish." Of course most of you can, I never professed to be a 'runner'. You can see that by my race results listed on the side of my blog. I look at this race as a goal to keep me motivated and focused. Keep my on the healthy path for life. And an added incentive is that Lora and I will be able to vacation together (sans kids), which doesn't come around too often. Florida in March? Ya, a no brainer.

Day at a time. Week at a time. Month at a time. Before you know it it will be summer and I'll be able to show off my girlish figure.

GO BEARS!!!

MIA

2006-10-23T15:33:00.000-05:00

And no, I don't mean my running reports.

Thanks to Jayhawk/Barb and Leah for hosting the RBF post marathon party at Goose Island. It was a great seeing all those shiny medals and happy faces.

As for the 'MIA' title, did anyone happen to pick up a Kodak digital camera? Lora and I realized late last night that we forgot it there. We called the bar and no sign of it in their lost & found or safe.

Please email me if you happened to pick it up...thanks.

And a big congrats to all that received their medals. Maybe I'll be back next year....maybe.

Hi

2006-10-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

...that's about it.

Fun game...still a bad team

2006-09-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

Yes...I'll live and die Cub blue. A couple days ago I went to my 1st game of the year. That's right, my first. The biggest reason behind not going until the end of September is I'm pretty bitter about how the organization is taking care of it's fans. Since the Cubs are owned by the Tribune Company, they don't see the importance of winning since the ticket turnstyles still give them the big bucks they need. Corporate whores...so to speak.

At any rate, it was a pretty good game with some late inning heroics by Henry Blanco (affectionately known as Hank White). Oh, and as you can see, they were pretty sweet seats.

Bye bye Dusty...

Some work stuff

2006-09-30T09:22:00.000-05:00

Just a peek into what I do for a living. I work for a staging company that produces conventions and tradeshows. I'm the guy that works with the clients to make sure they get what they ask for. Yep, I'm the sales guy. In the old days I was on the technical end.

Here's just a sample from this past week at McCormick Place.

Heart Walk 2006

2006-09-30T09:13:00.000-05:00

My company took part in the Heart Walk downtown to support the American Heart Association. There were many companies represented. A few thousand people.

Good cause...good time

Nude Marathon Runner

2006-09-20T09:46:00.000-05:00

OK, now that I have your attention.....this is only a joke, maybe some of you have heard it before....I would say it's rated PG-13

A woman was having a daytime affair while her husband was at work. One wet and lusty day she was in bed with her boyfriend when, to her horror, she heard her husband's car pull into the driveway.

"Oh my God - Hurry! Grab your clothes and jump out the window. My husband's home early!"

"I can't jump out the window ~ It's raining out there!"

"If my husband catches us in here, he'll kill us both!" she replied. "He's got a hot temper and a gun, so the rain is the least of your problems!"

So the boyfriend scoots out of bed, grabs his clothes and jumps out the window! As he ran down the street in the pouring rain, he quickly discovered he had run right into the middle of the town's annual marathon, so he started running along beside the others, about 300 of them. Being naked, with his clothes tucked under his arm, he tried to blend in as best he could. After a little while a small group of runners, who had been watching him with some curiosity, jogged closer.

"Do you always run in the nude?" one asked.

"Oh yes!" he replied, gasping in air. "It feels so wonderfully free!"

Another runner moved a long side. "Do you always run carrying your clothes with you under your arm?"

"Oh , yes" our friend answered breathlessly. "That way I can get dressed right at the end of the run and get in my car to go home!"

Then a third runner cast his eyes a little lower and queried, "Do you always wear a condom when you run?"

"Nope.........just when it's raining".

(sorry ladies, no pics to go along with the story)

Bayley & Me

2006-09-16T13:42:00.000-05:00

It's Saturday morning and Lora is off to meet her training group on the lakefront. Since my running is on a bit of a hiatus (doc's orders), it looks like some distance walking is my exercise 'of choice' right now.

So I thought I'd take my new training buddy with me to a different part of the lakefront. It's a 5 mile round trip with some rolling terrain and one 60º climb for about 600'

Here's a few pics from our journey...

Can you see the house in there?

A babbling brook...

Bayley (with his Cujo eyes) leading me up the hill...

Bayley hits the gazebo first...tired pup

Remnants of Lake Michigan's sand and water...got his Bears bandana dirty

Bayley took this pic...he's quite talented

Well, he is a Portuguese Waterdog...about time he lives up to his breed
Have a good weekend!!!

Indiana Dunes

2006-09-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

They always say a picture is worth a thousand words. And I just don't feel like typing 5000 words.

What's up Doc?

2006-09-06T20:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I went to Dr. Nicola's office for my feet/shins/legs. Although Dr. Nicola wasn't the one that examined me, I was pretty comfortable with the staff and UIC Sports Medicine Clinic.

After a few minors tests, he immediately ruled out any kind of stress fracture (didn't even cross my mind actually...phew). We decided to start off conservatively.
We went over some stretches that Mr. Procrastinator will have to do...
- lay on back hamstring stretch
- anterior foot stretch (directly effects the top of foot and shin) - calf raises on a step
15-20 reps @ 5x/week for each stretch.
- hold off on running for 3 weeks
- cross train with bike
- long walks on 4th week
- return to clinic in 4 weeks

I asked about using the elliptical machine, but he said they do not endorse it because it is not fully tested as a suitable training aparati as a substitute for running. If you notice the elliptical doesn't imitate running per se. When running, you put one foot in front of the other. However on the elliptical, your feet run on a parallel plane which puts added pressure on your hips. As he was saying that, it definitely made sense. But he said if you don't have any type of hip problems, it should be ok as a limited exercise.

The last thing we talked about was everyday shoes and orthodics. Some shoe brands he recommended were Kenneth Cole, Clark's, Madden, Timberline, Sketchers and Doc Martens. I have a pair of Sketchers, but they're pretty torn up. Formal shoe shopping...blah.

For now we're not going with full blown custom made orthodics. He told me a few brands of sport inserts to choose from and we'll see how it goes...here are those beauties.

Getting There...

2006-09-05T21:01:00.000-05:00

A couple days ago, we took a quick drive past our soon to be dwelling in Evanston. As of now, we're scheduled to move in in early December. We're keeping our fingers crossed on that and the selling of our house. Timing is everything of course.
We'll be on the 9th floor facing south (this is the side you're looking at). We can see Chicago's lakefront skyline from our windows which is a cool thing considering we are about 12 miles from there. Below is the southeast corner which is the main entrance for the residents. That's Lora and her son David on the corner.Within our building, there is a soon-to-be-open LA Fitness Center. We went into their office and snagged a membership. It's 54,000 sq feet and has everything you need. But the best thing about it is that we don't have to walk outside to enter the facility. So those nasty winter days won't be an excuse not to work out...dammit.

And now for something completely different...

One of, if not my all time favorite rock band is Queen. Hard to believe, but today, Freddie Mercury would have been 60 years old.

I'll always remember the time I saw them back in '82. His stage presence was so engaging that he had you in the palm of his hand. The only other time I witnessed that was Springsteen. Add that to his incredible voice and you indeed had a true rock and roll superstar.

My Brooklyn Chick Visiting Jersey

2006-08-29T15:35:00.000-05:00

Here's a little somethin' for my gal and her Brooklyn roots...

JUST OVER THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE

A world of its own,
The streets where we played,
The friends on every corner were the best we ever made.
The backyards, and the school yards
And the trees that watched us grow,
The days of love when dinner time was all you had to know.
Whenever I think of yesterday,
I close my eyes and see,
That place just over The Brooklyn Bridge
That will always be home to me.
It'll always be home to me.

- Art Garfunkel

Tao of Steve

2006-08-25T11:31:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard of this movie, it's a must see. Basically, it's a 'guy' movie. In the mold of 'Swingers' but in New Mexico. Women will like it too and then say to us, 'Are you guys really like this?' Of course our response will be 'umm, yeah, pretty much.'

Here's a few samplings:

Dex: Do you want to have sex with this woman?
Dave: Definitely.
Dex: Okay, then you're violating the first rule of being Steve.
Dave: Who?
Dex: You must learn to eliminate your desire.
Rick: It's Buddhist.
Dex: I think the Taoists said it first.
Rick: Hey, are we gonna have a seminar or are we gonna play golf?
Dex: Just a short seminar on the elimination of desire, okay? If you're out with this girl and even THINKING about getting laid, you're finished, cuz women can smell an agenda like shit on a shoe.
-----------------
[Dex takes a substantial hit off a bong at 7:30am]
Syd: Would you describe this as a typical morning for you?
Dex: [Trying not to exhale] Hell no. Usually I spend this time cross-training.
-----------------
Rick: This is almost as ridiculous as your sleeping diet.
Dex: That time I lost 30 pounds.
Rick: You also lost your job.
-----------------
Dex: Y'know, no one ever says, "Hey, God, how was your day? What can I do for you, God?" Or, "Hey, God, did you catch Letterman last night?"
Syd: Oh, and I suppose you talk to God like that?
Dex: Always. All the time.
Syd: And what does God say?
Dex: He says, "You know what? I saw Letterman and it sucked."

So if any of these lines made you at least smirk, go out and rent it. It's a very funny script.

Ironically, the lead guy kinda looks like me (at least according to Lora). And by the looks of the movie pic below, that would be me and Lora in New Mexico (soon) ;)

TEAM HOYT

2006-08-23T14:10:00.000-05:00

I'm sure some of you have seen this extraordinary story before. It's quite remarkable and in some ways unfathomable. It's amazing what the human spirit is capable of.

Enjoy and make sure you have a box of Kleenex near by...

TEAM HOYT

Here's a little history about
Team Hoyt.

Baby Cub

2006-08-22T11:13:00.000-05:00

Oh what this poor kid has in store for him...could be worse I guess...could have been a White Sox outfit.

Good Deed of the Week

2006-08-21T11:06:00.000-05:00

We had 'Customer Service Week' last week at work. One of the employee things to do was volunteer to give blood. I've done this many times so was not a big deal to help out LifeSource. But this time it wasn't a regular blood donation. They asked if I would like to donate red blood cells. So like a trooper I said sure, what's another 15 minutes in the chair (more OJ and Oreos then...sweet).

The machine you see separates my blood via a centrifuge and replentishes my platelets with plasma (you medical folks can correct me if I misspoke). Was kinda wild to see the flow of blood turn different shades or red/orange/almost yellow when the transfusion process took place. You can kinda see the pretty colors in those bags. After about 15 minutes a 'beep' was repeating and supposedly there was a kink in the tube. They couldn't figure it out, so he thought the best thing to do was stop the transfusion. At any rate, they said they got a good amount. It was good timing too, because I developed a cold sweat right when we finished. It was gone in about 5 minutes.

The group of us that drove to the blood drive thought we should stop for a cocktail for a quick buzz, but needless to say we were good boys and went back to work.

We also had our company picnic this past week. Was a good time. Your basic raffles, games with some awesome southern style bbq.

I thought this was a cool pic with a few guys I work with. If we were a band, it would be our album cover. Rock on!!!

Brokearm Mountain

2006-08-17T10:51:00.000-05:00

For any of you that are baseball fans, you realize what us poor Cub fans have been through the last 3 years...let alone our lifetimes. Here's something from Goat Riders that I thought was hilarious. For you other frustrated Cub fans that haven't checked out this site...please do.

A Little Hike

2006-08-13T19:56:00.000-05:00

First off...Lora's next post will include our Saturday evening at Ravinia. It was a very nice evening (Lora, better get snappy on that post).

Today we hopped in the Jeep and went off for a hike in the Lake County Forest Preserve. I'm as guilty as about the other 99.7% of the area residents that don't utilize our preserves and the nature trails they provide (people, we pay for them...taxes, remember?). And it's such a shame, they're peaceful, well kept and good for you!!!

The one thing I wish they could improve on are he mile markings. They exist, but since there are a few forks in the road, it's a little difficult to keep accurate milage (plus Lora forgot her Garmin). Anyway, we logged about 6 miles in 2 hours...we think. Like I said it was just a hike...enjoying the scenery. And our 3rd hiker, Bayley, thought it was more than enough. He was a bit of a drooler after one mile. Oh, in case you didn't know, he's our dog...a Portuguese Waterdog (that's hates to be in water...go figure).

Speaking of water, here's the Des Plaines River...
During our trek, we started counting runners, bikers and walkers. About half way thru we stopped counting the walkers, we didn't feel they were worthy (I know, yes, we were walking also). We got to about 40 bikers and 30ish runners. Since we didn't start this hike until about 8:50am, we figured more runners we're there before we arrived. Lora thought this was a lot because last time she was on the trail, there wasn't near that total...like 80% less. Maybe that was one of those Africa hot days.

Another added dimension to this trail is that horses are allowed on it.
Before we saw these guys with their horses, we kinda figured horses were allowed on the trail due to the 'massive' piles of evidence we came across on quite a few occasions...

OK...horses on the trail...I'm cool with that. But why are they exempt from cleaning up the horse shit? We have a dog and are expected to clean up after him. I'm sure there is a 'tool' that can be made for a guy to 'shovel' up that mound of road apples and at least toss it in the woods. If not, get off the damn horse and clean it up anyway!! Everyone has seen a cowboy movie. Ever see all the stuff a cowboy packs on his horse? I think these 'equestrians' could have packed a shovel.

OK...I'm off my soapbox. All in all it was a nice morning and once my leg gets all better I'm sure I'll want to check out those trails in the running capacity. And probably the trail bike before that even.

So we loaded Bayley into the Jeep...

...and headed home.

Showdown at the UIC Corral

2006-08-11T10:11:00.000-05:00

Ok sports fans...it's official.

I finally have an appointment with Dr. Nicola. Good news and bad news.

First the good...he's extremely respected in the Chicago running community for his experience and expertise. Saw him at a couple CARA clinics last year and enjoyed his sessions.

Now the bad...he's so popular (along with his UIC duties) that I couldn't get an appointment any earlier than 9/5 at high noon...crap.

But I'm sure it will be worth the visit....Big Daddy needs to get moving again.

A Cheap Sport?

2006-08-09T18:18:00.000-05:00

OK...I stole the idea from
Jason and Leah. But I thought I would add our toys for a scenic background.

Back in the day it was, "All ya need is a tshirt, a pair of gym shorts and some of those weird running shoes and you'll be all set. It can't cost that much, you're just runnin'."

PS...I left a message with Dr. Nicola's office and awaiting a call back.

On the road again....

2006-08-06T11:58:00.000-05:00

OK...first....leg update...

I went to AthletiCo, which is a physical rehab/athelitc club sorta place which was recommended to me from our trusted leader from Illinois Runs. After going through the questions, physical prodding and treadmill observation, they think I'm a probable candidate for orthodics.

I told them that's fine, but I am going to get a 2nd opinion from Dr. Nicola from UIC. He's a well known sports doc that is used with CARA and Illinois Runs. I'll keep you posted on that outcome (as long as I don't procrastinate over getting in contact with him).

During the week, I snuck into the health club a couple days for some cardio since it was so ridiculously hot outside (yes, Africa hot). I haven't been there in a while. Since I was there last they added about 20-25 total of new treadmills and elliptical machines...and they all have their own LCD screens. SportsCenter and a treadmill...sweet.

Yesterday...since I'm not really able to take on any long runs yet (Saturday was a scheduled 8), I decided to hop on the bike for a long ride. (My running group was aware of my situation and understood why I wasn't able to help pace my group.) So as Lora went down to the lakefront solo to meet the Saturday runners, I got ready for my bike ride.

I decided to head south via the Chicago Bikeway System which starts about 5 miles south from my doorstep.

So off i went...

To get to the northern access point of the bike paths, I had to cut through the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Since it was only a bit after 7am, I stopped at the guard gate to let him know why I was there. So he gave me a quick rerouting to get to the actual bike trail that is within the CBG. The last turn I made to get on that trail was passing through a double yellow gate. You know, the kind that has the yellow planks that go up and down automatically via payment or whatever.

Anyway, I took the turn towards that gate and didn't really pay attention at the speed I was going and was aimed right at one of those yellow gates that was in the down position. I really didn't have any time to manuver away from it and BAM!!! Yep, I went right through it. Just like a hokey car chase scene from the A-Team. Luckily for me, the board used had to be pine or some other soft wood. Cuz it had some good give in it before I busted it off it's base...lol. My first thought was 'great, this guard probably saw me via a cam at this gate and they'll send the Garden Police after me.'

Of course, since I'm a typical guy, I decided to keep going. I was in the middle of a bike workout for pete's sake. I'm sure it's not that expesive to replace a 1" x 4" piece of yellow pine (I promise to make a donation to the Garden). Oh, and did I mention since it was early and pretty quiet...it made a huge noise (quite impressive actually). So as i went on my merry way, about 200 yards around the bend I saw my first set of people walking. They had to have heard it. So as I rode past, I said my 'good mornings' with a smile. The farther I went the funnier I thought that incident was. I wish I could see a video of it. Remember the scene from National Lampoon's Vacation, when Chevy Chase flew the family truckster about 30-40 yrds in the air in the dessert? How he was kinda impressed with himnself? Well, in weird way, that was me for the moment...lol.

OK...onward...I left the Gardens...and began the biking trail. From tip to tip it's 13 miles. I've done portions of it before with Lora, but the south end was new to me. It was relatively flat with a few ups and downs (usually an overpass from cars). The majority of it is wooded until you get to some open areas where there is public places for picnicking, etc.

During this portion I was witness to a runner vs. biker tiff. I'll let you decide who was in the wrong (although it seemed pretty obvious to me). Coming toward me was an older couple running with about 10-15' between them. There was oncoming traffic, ie. me and another guy in front of me. behind the couple was an approaching biker. The biker decided to weave his way between the couple and continue on. That's when this runner blew his stack. He screamed at the biker that he should never cut in between runners like that and man was he pissed. The biker stopped, turned his head and said, 'How else was I supposed to pass you?'. By this time I rode passed them but could hear the runner guy yelling for at least a couple hundred yards after the scene. I guess the biker was in a hurry and couldn't wait in order to pass properly. But I won't get into the Biker vs. Runner road/trail etiquette at this time.

OK....I make it to the end of the trail. Small dilemma. My plan was to end up at the lake front to meet up with our running group in which I could through my bike in the back of Lora's Jeep and we would head home. Timing wise it would work out perfectly and should get me about 28-30 miles of biking. But I had a few road options to make and none of them I was too confident in. I'm now at Devon and Peterson. To any of you locals, you kinda know my whereabouts. So I decide to head NE on Peterson and hook up with Foster and then head east to the lake. It's pretty busy for about 8:15am on a Saturday, but then again, it's the city.

I make it about a half a mile. Then up in front of me I see a section of road construction. You know the part when they eliminate a big section of concrete which leaves the road about 2" lower than the rest of the road? And the edges are as sharp as the corner of your desk? Yep, that's what was in front of me. Since the traffic was pretty heavy, I couldn't really stop right there. So I tried to absorb the shock the best I could. I tried to lift up as much as possible to elevate as much weight as possible from hitting the sharp edges. And that I did. Up ahead I saw a really busy intersection, so I thought I would take a turn into a nice neighborhood to avoid it and pick up the main road farther down. As I'm on this new road, it feels like this surface is really rough. But it doesn't look it, weird. So I look down and around...and there it was...a fuckin' flat tire.

SONUVABITCH!!!!

That leap over the concrete bit me. So here I am with a spare tire in my bike pouch, but no tire pump...I'm such a doofus. I leave a message on Lora's cell so she can get a laugh and so she can pick me up.

So I begin to walk....and walk....and walk....

I make it back to Devon and head east. For those of you that aren't familiar with this part of Chicago, it's a trek through a real live Benetton. I started in a WASPy neighborhood....a few blocks and it was a mix of Polish and Hispanic...a few more blocks Korean....a few more block Orthodox Jew....a few more blocks Indian/Pakistani.

I enjoyed the trek, even though I was still pissed about the tire. I was looking forward to arriving at the lakefront.

Biking - 20 miles
Walking - 2.2 miles
Crashing through a gate - Priceless

Blah!

2006-07-29T19:49:00.000-05:00

Well...that sucked.

This morning was to be a 7 miler. Key word there is 'was'. Last Saturday's 6 miler went well, so what's another mile?

Just to back up a little...I was a bit of a slacker this week and only did a 2 miler on Thursday. Piece of cake, right? But to my delight I was visited by the shin demons. My left shin knotted up after about a mail and I had to stretch more. The rest of the way was run/walk.

So back to today. We all know it was Africa hot...even at 7am. But was prepared as could be. So off we went. And by the 1st mile my shin wound up as tight as a golf ball. I could barely tilt my foot up and down. At that point I had to relieve myself as a 'pace' leader. Handed my watch off to one of the runners so they could keep time.

I continued at my own pace. Stretch...walk....stretch...walk...run...repeat. I did this for 4 miles and called it a morning. Wasn't worth the aggrevation.

After the run, Lora and I had appointments with our masseuse. Lora has been a regular but I haven't seen her in quite a few months. Needless to say I was overdue. And she could tell. After all was said and done, the masseuse along with the wellness center's manager (who is also a chiropractor...and ironically a former downstairs neighbor when I lived in the city) feel I should take the route of orthodics. I know that is one way to go, but I also know that if I commit myself to daily stretching and strength training, I might be able to over come it that way.

One problem. And if you have seen some of my other entries in the past....I have an issue with procrastination. I know exactly what I need to do, but doing it is a whole other thing.

So...there it is...now what?

Running and Music and Hiking...Oh My!

2006-07-24T21:05:00.000-05:00

Saturday...7am...lakefront running....a success! Although I am pacing a small group, it's a perfect pace for me...for now. We had a 4/1 run/walk for 6 miles. The best thing for me was during the minute of walking, I was able to stretch my shins each time while the group caught up with me (ok, I should be along side my group while running, but they understood that I needed to be a bit quicker). Trust me, it's not like I was trail blazer. Bottom line was that I was able to finish the 6 miles and had no pain. A very good sign indeed.

Later in the afternoon it was back to to my old neighborhood to check out one of the many street festivals in Chicago. 'Summer on Southport' was about 4 blocks of food, beverage, music, trinkets and good people.

Sunday it was off to Wisconsin and do some hiking. Kettle Moraine is about a 1.5 hour drive from Chicago. Lora and I put in 7.5 miles that had some decent terrain. It was a perfect day, although a little breeze would have been helpful near the end.

And to finish off the weekend, the Chicago C.R.U. got together for some grub at FlatTops. It was nice putting some faces/bodies to the blogs. We rock.

RR? Another shot?

It's been a while....

2006-07-21T13:02:00.000-05:00

(as sung by Staind)

Last two weeks have flown by....sorta.

Here I sit in an educational seminar for oncologists discussing what they're gonna do for the next annual convention. Important and eduactional but man is it boring...almost robotic. No, I'm not an oncologist. What I do is oversee and support these and many other types of conventions and/or trade shows that utilize any audio, video, lighting, projection, staging and/or data equipment.

Work has been pretty busy this summer. Generally in Chicago, it slows down a bit in July as far as conventions but not this July. Of course this is a good thing, but I feel it's about time for a vacation.

That was the 'flown by' part....here's the 'sorta' part...I'm lazy. Running...biking...weights...nutritian...just lazy. No other way to put it. Throw in a hearty dose of procrastination and that's me.

But I have taken a step in the right direction. A couple of weeks ago I joined Lora with the Chicago Roadrunner's Half Marathon training program. It takes place on the lakefront at 7am on Saturdays. I was kinda pumped for it. The only other time I ran on the lakefront was last summer during our marathon training...but it was only once & I liked it. So I joined one of the run/walk groups since I know I am in no shape to keep a steady run at this time. It did feel good to 'get back out there'. But alas, that was it. I haven't run since. A couple bike rides here and there, but nothing to brag about or consider as 'training'.

So tomorrow I'm back on the lakefront with the training group, but here's the twist. They have a couple people that can't continue due to health issues and they need a couple repleacement pace leaders. Yep, I'm one. So I'll help out with the slow run/walk group (the only one I could have volunteer for). I'll let you know how it turns out.

Maybe this is the kick in the ass I need...

Pseudo Monday

2006-07-05T21:26:00.000-05:00

It felt like a Monday waking up. Work definitely felt like a Monday. Not out of the office til 5:30pm. Another long Monday.

But wait...it might be...it could be...it is...Holy Cow!! It's Wednesday!!! Short work weeks are almost as good as a Cubs sweep of the Cardinals. And since that won't happen, this is extra sweeeeeet.

Hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend. I was basically a sloth with a sprinkling of festival shenanigans.

After work today decided to climb on the bike and head out for a spin. Nothing dramatic...16 miles in an hour. Have to grab these 'crisp' summer evenings when they are available.

Somethin' Purdy

2006-06-30T21:49:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd add a little color to the blogging neighborhood.

Addition to the Hangout

2006-06-26T13:44:00.000-05:00

It's about time I figured out how to post my race history on this thing. Not that I have the need to show my 'elite' times, but just a rundown of my brief running career....so far.

...to be continued :)

PS....the Black Crowes rocked Saturday night

A Favorite Quote

2006-06-22T12:20:00.000-05:00

OK....what can I say...I'm a baseball junkie. Although 'Field of Dreams' isn't a baseball movie per se...to me, it has one of the best written scenes ever (given by James Earl Jones) if you're a baseball purist.

Terence Mann: Ray, people will come Ray. They'll come to Iowa for reasons they can't even fathom. They'll turn up your driveway not knowing for sure why they're doing it. They'll arrive at your door as innocent as children, longing for the past. Of course, we won't mind if you look around, you'll say. It's only $20 per person. They'll pass over the money without even thinking about it: for it is money they have and peace they lack. And they'll walk out to the bleachers; sit in shirtsleeves on a perfect afternoon. They'll find they have reserved seats somewhere along one of the baselines, where they sat when they were children and cheered their heroes. And they'll watch the game and it'll be as if they dipped themselves in magic waters. The memories will be so thick they'll have to brush them away from their faces. People will come Ray. The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it's a part of our past, Ray. It reminds of us of all that once was good and it could be again. Oh... people will come Ray. People will most definitely come.

How cool is that?? Makes me feel good every time I see/hear it.

Frustration

2006-06-21T23:25:00.000-05:00

Yep....it's only June and it's already a long year for us Cub fans.

My New Girl

2006-06-18T13:05:00.000-05:00

Well, there it is...the new wheels. It's a Bianchi Eros and after our first ride, I guess I'll keep her. Lora and I took a nice morning route north and back...about 24 miles. I was a little worried for the first half. My feet were killing me. I guess it has to do with getting used to bike shoes and their application. We took a quick breather after the 1st 12 and walked/stretched a bit. After that no pain...go figure :)

Speaking of bike shoes, I was also initiated in the 'what happens if you have to stop kinda quick at an intersection' trauma. Yep, we were at an intersection and my fearless leader kinda slowed down and as I approached her I needed to stop kinda quick. Did I mention this was the first time wearing bike shoes? Well, a quick sense of panic ensued and yep...fell over like a mighty Sequoia. I have to work on my escapability from the bike clips. Nothing major....some scrapes and a bruised ego.

Well, I'm researching some possible names for my new bike...any suggestions? Iris is already taken :)

As for this past Friday, Son Volt was a great time at the Taste of Randolph St. Next Saturday should be a great show on the lakefront. The Black Crowes along with Robert Randolph & the Family Band and the Drive By Truckers should leave my eardrums needing an icepack.

BONERAMA!!!!

2006-06-16T14:05:00.000-05:00

Now that I got your attention...no, it's not a porno or male strip joint. Bonerama is a New Orleans brass funk rock band that will blow your mind...no pun intended. Four guys on trombone, one amped tuba, a guitarist and a drummer (Stanton Moore from Galactic for this tour) make the walls melt.

I saw them last night at Fitzgerald's in Berwyn. It was their first ever appearance in Chicago. There was a good crowd...about 100-120. The place down't hold much more than that...unless you remove the tables...which is usually the case for bigger acts.

I played the trompone for about 10 years, so for me it was uber-cool. I'm sure this music isn't for everyone. But once you hear it, you can't deny that they make your foot tap and your shoulders sway. All i have to say is once you hear their version of the Allman Brothers 'Whipping Post", you'll love 'em.

Tonight it's off to the Taste of Randolph St. to see Son Volt. If you're familiar with Uncle Tupelo, you know of it's offsprings Son Volt and Wilco.

This is what summer is about in Chicago...we're done hibernating.

PS....I got a new road bike (Iris needed a friend). I'll fill you in after my first long ride :)

Movie Talk.....

2006-06-15T13:40:00.000-05:00

Did anyone catch the AFI Top 100 Inspirational Film countdown last night? The list seemed pretty fair...no glaring exceptions or flukes.

Here was their top 10...

1. IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE
2. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
3. SCHINDLER'S LIST
4. ROCKY
5. MR. SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON
6. E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL
7. THE GRAPES OF WRATH
8. BREAKING AWAY
9. MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET
10. SAVING PRIVATE RYAN

A pretty good list. I like that 'Breaking Away' made the list. Such a low budget flick that was so well made and poignant. I do have to admit I have not seen #5 or #7 though.

Here's a few from the top 100 inspirational flicks that I consider personal favorites:

13. Hoosiers - a tear jerker for guys (ya, I admit it)
23. Shawshank Redemption
28. Field of Dreams - another tear jerker for obvious reasons
31. Glory
37. Forrest Gump
52. Dead Poet's Society - 'Captain, my captain...carpe diem'
54. Rudy - tear jerker #3...ok. I'm not a wuss...really
59. Dances With Wolves
62. Braveheart
71. Cool Hand Luke - Newmans' such a stud
90. Hotel Rwanda - :(

I'm sure females will have a different take on the list...whattya think?

Weekend Recap: Shrubs, BoDeans, Wisconsin & Elvis

2006-06-13T21:54:00.000-05:00

More Elvis to follow...

Another nice spring weekend...ok, it rained Saturday morning, but like I said, it is spring.

As Lora went off to run Saturday morning, I decided it was time to do some landscaping. So off to Home Depot I went. I bought (4) 5' Arborvitaes for the front of the house. Last year I dug up the existing bushes because they were a bit out of control (and damaged by some roofers). We're keeping it simple so when we put the house on the market (soon) it will be a basic clean look for perspective buyers. Once they were in the ground, I threw down 10 bags of Cypress mulch which made it look all purdy. Watered them and the rest of the foilage around the house. The morning rain was the first rain we had in quite a few days, so the extra water didn't hurt. Job complete.

Saturday night Lora and I strolled down the trail to Ravinia to see the BoDeans. I've seen/heard these guys since the late 80's and I kind of exposed Lora to them recently. We had our trusty red wagon filled with our chairs, cooler, blanket, etc. It was a brisk night, Lora was bundled like a cocoon but comfy. It was a good time, good crowd and good way to finish off Saturday.

Sunday morning...off to Wisconsin. About an hour north of us, the Bicycle Club of Lake County had their 25th Annual BCLC Ramble. If you see Lora's blog, you'll see a recap of our biking (big day for her and her new bike).

Once we got home, I had to scramble a bit to get ready for another night at Ravinia. This time I was meeting up with some friends to see Elvis Costello. I think he's one of the greatest songwriters there is and is truly passionate on stage about his music. I saw him about 15 years ago and Sunday night he and the Imposters were just as tight as ever. Along with the Imposters, he's touring with Allen Toussaint & the Crescent City Horns to promote their collaboration after Katrina hit New Orleans. It was fantastic. I was in the 10th row to snap these pictures. They aren't the best but they were also illegally taken...so there.

My Ink

2006-06-08T22:11:00.000-05:00

After seeing JK Running's blog, I thought I would contribute the outside of my right calf. The japanese kanji represents honor, strength, loyalty. But when people ask, I ususally say it stands for 'Bogey Golfer' or 'Running Tortoise'.

At any rate, I don't have a cool story to share why I got it. I was thinking about getting one for years and one spring day back in '98 I got it. Yep, that's me...wild & crazy. OK, time to go to bed.....

Care for a PBJ??

2006-06-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

In case you're a little under the weather today...or just want a quick laugh...

It's peanut butter jelly time!!

Beautiful Day for a Bike Ride

2006-06-04T21:48:00.000-05:00

It couldn't have been a more picturesque day...barely a cloud in the sky...perfect temps....a slight breeze.

So today Lora and I headed to Marengo (IL) for the Udder 100 . It had 4 distance choices: 32, 50, 62 & 100 miles. We decided on 32 since we haven't had a ride any longer than that...and we had to get back for a graduation party anyway.

It was basically flat, but there were some deceivingly long inclines and a couple hills, albeit short, that kinda sucked. Right around the 18 mile mark there was a rest stop that refueled our carb tanks. Got back on the road and headed north for a couple miles...and then we took a right turn and headed east. Crap...what a change. That 'slight breeze' I mentioned earlier felt like a wind shear. Our average speed to that point was around 13-14mph (we're not real bikers, did I mention that?) and dropped to about 9-10mph. It certainly kicked me in the arse.

Lora was the smart one today. She had a nice even pace the whole time. While dumbass me decided to do some 'biking fartleks'...for 32 miles. Oh well, live and learn.

Nevertheless it was still a great day for a bike ride...oh, anyone have any aloe?

Cleveland

2006-06-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a while, but here ya go. A couple Saturdays ago, the Alpine Runners headed out to Cleveland on a chartered bus to conquor Cleveland and it's road race. We had 32 people that took the trek east. There was a good mix of runners. A pretty good mix of folks that did either the Marathon, Half or 10K. There were about 5 'cheerleaders' that weren't able to run...including moi.

Here are a few pics of the Adventure on Erie....

Marathon winner Eric Hartmark
2:27:25 27 from Rochester, MI

Bill Rodgers ran the last 1.2 miles with 75 future runners from junior highs around Cleveland

Took in a game vs. Pirates

Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame

JUMBO Guitars...Hey-Ho...Let's go!!

Few of us Alpiners wandering
back from a night of carousing

ARRRRGH!!!!

2006-05-24T15:46:00.000-05:00

Friggin' Cubs....

Ready to Dance??

2006-05-18T10:41:00.000-05:00

This is too funny...

Evolution of Dance

Makes you wanna bust a move, huh?

2006-05-14T15:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

A Nice Little Hike

2006-05-02T22:08:00.000-05:00

Lora and I took a nice little hike before dinner. We zigzagged thru the neighborhood between a few ravines and made our way to the shore of Lake Michigan. Once we got there, we watched Bayley (a Portugese Waterdog) avoid the water and just sniff the beach. My old pal (Buffett) was a Yellow Lab and he hated water too...go figure.

Just passed where this pic was taken, is the 'hill' you might have seen on LoraRuns blog. We decided to 'hike' it twice. I would say it is about a 60 degree incline for about 150 yards. Run that a few times and you definitely get your hill work.
We were making our way back and low and behold, we saw three Bambis wandering thru the ravine...

We think we went about 4 miles or so. But Miss 'I bought a new Garmin' had a naked wrist for this little trek. We'll check it next time.

Oh, for those of who are really interested in my boo boo on my finger...

Here it is...

April flowers bring May ______

2006-05-01T09:32:00.000-05:00

I'll let you fill in the blank....

I think now is the time to get the legs in motion on the trails/roads. We'll see how the non-running tactic worked over the last month or so. Hopefully, no real shin pain will develop. No worries...I'll take it slow.

Lora and I had a great bike trek on Saturday. We headed south to Evanston to take a peek at our new castle that is being built. Smack dab in the middle of town. Tomorrow we get our first peek of it from the inside. We finally get a visual. It's been more like a purchase of 'air' since last summer. Unfortunately, we don't get to move in until mid-November....as of now.

As for the biking, we did 21.3 miles in 1hr 45m. Not too speedy, but felt good nonetheless.

Yesterday, we had plans to head to head up to Kettle Moraine (near Whitewater, WI) for some hiking. A few Alpine Runners are doing some training up there for the Ice Age 50M/50K. Needless to say, it was raining all day and up there (it's a 90 minute drive to get there) they expected at least an inch of rain. And considering we (or should I say I) didn't get up until after 10am (hey, it's nice to sleep in once in a while), it was decided to stay home. Deep down Lora still wanted to go I'm sure...as stated in another blog ;) We will go up there soon I'm sure.

Sports Round Up:

Bulls stay even with Miami...

Cubs are hanging in there despite getting whooped the last two games...

Bears draft was uneventful...

White Sox....umm, who cares....

Oh...and my middle finger got slammed in a door last week. Can you say excruciating pain? So right now it looks like someone inserted a mulberry under my nail. It hasn't popped yet. We'll see if I lose the nail...probably. I took a pic of it. Maybe I'll post it for you macabre bloggers. Then again, I've seen bloggers post pics of there running related injuries on here...so we'll see.

Wait, one last thing....this is just a random thought. When people respond to a blog, is it common to not read the previous responses before the blog reader also responds? I've noticed on many occasions people repeat the same comments or advice. I'm not being cynical..I just don't get it.

Happy May!!!

....still here

2006-04-17T13:48:00.000-05:00

Been a while since the last post...just thought I'd check in and make sure the plumbing & electricity are still working in the blogloft.

No real news to talk about. Cubs looking good so far...I'm not running yet, pretty soon I hope...it's getting warmer & greener outside...tulips and daffodils are coming up...our ravine is getting ready to get 'jungle-like' soon.

Trying to figure out if the Sopranos is getting better or weirder. Best show on TV is on tonight....'24'. Watched a cool show On PBS/HD...Great Lodges of the Canadian Rockies...looks like some cool places to 'get away'.

Work is chugging along. Producing a small show out in the 'burbs this week.

Getting the itch for a new car...Nissan Xterra...does this mean I should try an Xterra Race?

Go Cubs!

Saturday Substitution

2006-04-09T08:29:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning is 'long run' morning with our running club - www.alpinerunners.com. Since I'm not over my shin splints yet, I decided to trade in my feet for some wheels. Loaded up the bike and headed to Lake Zurich.

At 7am the fastest pace group starts (7min/mile)...then 7:30 pace then 8:00 pace and so on....to the mighty 12min/mile pack - that's me and we're a hearty bunch. So I got all my gear on and headed out on the course. I know I'm on wheels, but it was nice passing the fast guys. That doesn't happen too much in my world.

The first couple miles were typical. Adjusting to the cold (it was about 38 - not including any windchill), getting the kinks out the kinks and establishing a rhythm. There were a couple hills to battle, but there was no pain in my shins at all.

I tried to average between 10-12mph. I know, it's not exactly Tour de France, but it was a nice pace for me. I don't want to risk any further stress on my legs. I made it back to the finishing area after 75 minutes and completing 13 miles. I was content with that. No pain what so ever and a decent cardio.

Oh, and the Cubs beat the Cardinals again....Woooo Hoooooo!!!

It's Officially Spring...In My World

2006-04-07T08:53:00.000-05:00

Today is the day that officially marks the spring season for me. On the corner of Clark & Addison stands the mecca of many dreams and nightmares...joys and sorrows...melancholy wonderment and drunken buffoonery.

"Scorecard! Get your scorecard!" is heard from the moment you walk in. Vendors barking out which items they're selling today. Fans scrambling about to get to their seats. The color blue is everywhere. Banners of former Cub players hang from the rafters: old and new...great players and great characters. Walk up the ramp and get that first glimpse of the green green grass, the ivy on the wall, the jumbo scoreboard in centerfield, I'm always in a sense of awe...from kid to now.

Not many places can give you an instant flashback to your childhood. To me this is the place. I have been a Cubs fan forever...literally. One of my first childhood memories is actually from Wrigley Field. It was the summer of '67. I was 4 years old and went to the game with my dad. It was the Cubs vs. the Cardinals (I didn't catch on to the rivalry until the early 70's). We got there early to see batting practice. This was a common thing when we were kids. Run down to the edge of the stands and see if you can get an autograph of your favorite player or maybe even a picture. Of course this was when players actually communicated with the fans, especially the kids. The 'Andy Frain' ushers weren't an issue. No security issues. An innocent time.

So as I came down towards the Cardinals dugout (our seats were on that side of the field) and was able, with the help of my dad, to get to the dugout unscathed. I was a pretty shy kid and I was a bit overwhelmed with the larger than life scenario. I remember a few Cardinal players around. Of course, only being 4 years old, I didn't really know who was who. However, I definitely knew my Cub players at 4: Banks (my favorite), Santo, Williams, Kessinger, Beckert, Jenkins. But as for the Cardinals, not so much. But the key memory here is I remember locking eyes with one player and he smiled and said hi then walked in the dugout. I was grinning from ear to ear. I asked my dad who that was and he said Orlando Cepeda (one of the best players of that time and now in the Hall of Fame). A couple seconds later he came back out of the dugout. He turned toward me and rolled a baseball across the dugout. WOW! Christmas in the summertime.

It's amazing the things we remember. And in all honesty, I can't remember anything that crystal clear prior to that glorious childhood moment. So I guess that's a pretty good starting point for the memory scrapbook.

Of course after many games from the ages of 4 to 43, I have numerous memories at Wrigley. More ups than downs, although the seasons had more downs than ups. I think I have sat in every area. From 3 rows behind home plate to the bleachers (left, center & right). From the upper grandstand to across the street on a rooftop and everywhere in between.

With that being said, I hereby christen in the spring season. Of course being a Cubs fan, one is always optimistic to a fault, but I think this is our year!

"Scorecard!! Get your scorecard!!"

HOLY COW!

2006-04-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

CUBS WIN!!!

CUBS WIN!!!

CUBS WIN!!!

World Series here we come!!!

(we've been saying that every April since 1909)

Crap...

2006-04-03T09:53:00.000-05:00

Oh well, I gave it a shot. I thought taking a couple extra days off from running/biking would have helped a little.

But......no such luck. I got to the 1.5 mile mark and had to stop and stretch for those damn shins. I began to walk a little and slowly got back to a run. At the 2 mile marker...I had to stop. The pain was awful. Like someone implanted a golf ball between my bone and muscle. Huge knots. As the rest of the runners took a right turn...I took a left and 'walked' back towards the end of the course. They cut off my 'chip' and I grabbed a banana.

It's pretty disappointing but deep down I was expecting it. Since I don't have a race on my docket in the near future (Cleveland Half Marathon was scrapped due to job obligation), this is the time for real rehab. Start from scratch.

Hard to believe it was only 6 months ago that I ran the Chicago Marathon.

But for some positive news...the Cubs open their season today in Cincinnati!!!

The Ability to Shuffle?

2006-03-31T09:35:00.000-06:00

This Sunday is Chicago's 'Shamrock Shuffle'. It's an 8K that is like 'Opening' Day' to the racing season in the Windy City. There are 25,000 registered runners and a few world class are invited to participate. It's more of a fun race/social gathering due to the distance and activities connected to it. Big beer tent and Cracker is the band this year (a great live band - seen them many times).

Needless to say, many of the runners are there for the fun of it and are not 'runners' per se. And for me, that's a good thing, because there's a good chance I won't be able to finish the race. I'm still battling shin splints. It's something that has been lingering forever - well, at least since early January.

I've come to the realization that I have to go back to the drawing board. Start from the beginning. Revamp my diet. As far as running, might have to eliminate it for a while and utilize a bike and ellipitical machine to boost my cardio and allow my shins and knees to heal and strengthen.

At any rate, it will still be a fun day....

Rock & Roll Feuds

2006-03-30T14:53:00.000-06:00

I had some old Rolling Stones on earlier aka the good stuff pre-Jagger vs. Richards. And it got me thinking about other band feuds that lead to either the band's demise, change of personnel, a hiatus or at least some wacky front page news.

Here are a few I came up with...

Pink Floyd - Waters vs Gilmour
The Kinks - Davies vs Davies
Van Halen - Eddie and Alex vs Roth vs Hagar
The Clash - Strummer vs Jones
Oasis - Gallagher vs Gallagher
Black Sabbath - Ozzy vs Band
Simon & Garfunkel - well, duh
Genesis - Gabriel vs Band
Temptations - Ruffin vs Band
The Smiths - Morrissey vs Band
Guns 'n Roses - Axl vs Band
Cream - Clapton vs Bruce vs Baker
The Police - Sting vs the other two guys
Fleetwood Mac - take your pick
Yes - many combinations
Uncle Tupelo - Rob Farrar vs Jeff Tweedy (they made a win-win decision)
Metallica - Mustaine vs Band
Ike vs Tina

oh, and some little obscure band called the Beatles...

Now here are a few that are a little, let's say, different...

Frank Zappa vs Tipper Gore
Pearl Jam vs Ticketmaster
Marvin Jr. vs Marvin Sr.
Michael Jackson vs Paul McCartney
GG Allin vs Sanity
Billy Corgan vs anyone else that played with him
Bob Marley vs the Jamaican government
Kurt Cobain vs a shotgun
Keith Moon vs Meds
Pete Townsend vs exploding amps
Brian Jones vs swimming pools
Milli Vanilli vs a tape player
Vince Neil vs cookies, cake and pie
David Lee Roth vs hair loss
Michael Hutchence vs sexual satisfaction
Sid Vicious vs heroin

and of course....

U2 vs the World

NCAA

2006-03-27T23:10:00.000-06:00

Ohio State?? What the hell was I thinking??

New shoes....new legs?

2006-03-16T10:43:00.000-06:00

Well, I tested out the new shoes. It definitely put me in the right direction.

Tuesday I ran out on the trail with the new trail shoes (New Balance 907) and even though i did have some stiffness in my left shin I think they helped. Definitely not as sore as Saturday. Got back and stretched (a little) and iced and felt fine.

Yesterday, went to the club and hit the treadmill with the other new pair (New Balance 766). Light stretching prior to hopping on and only minor soreness in my right shin. Ironically no pain what so ever in my left shin...weird. Lots of stretching after the run (only 2 miles...remember, kinda like starting over) and felt just fine.

I'm sure it's more than just the change of shoes, but I'm glad there was a noticible difference. I had less than 100 miles on the shoes from before. Maybe less than quality shoe from the previous 4 pairs of the same brand and model (sorry Brooks Addiction). That was the only model shoe I used since I started running.

Hopefully this will get me back up and running, literally. Time to end the winter hibernation and reclaim some of that running prowess I once possessed...that's the part where you chuckle or roll your eyes.

Oh, by the way, since my Boilermakers aren't in the NCAA Tourney, I'm still going to cheer on the Big Ten. Of course, I won't win the pool with this logic, but what the hell.

My Final Four: Iowa vs Memphis.....UCONN vs Ohio State

Final: Memphis vs Ohio State...........winner..........Ohio State

I know I know...but it's only 10 bucks

Monday, Monday

2006-03-13T10:22:00.000-06:00

Well, the birthday passed quietly over the weekend. Relaxing and enjoyable. On Friday, my sweetie and I had a nice dinner in our soon to be new neighborhood....Saturday morning met up with our running group (although my running was basically nonexistent)...massage in the afternoon...Sunday a nice hike up in Wisconsin...and finishing it off with the Sopranos. Not bad, huh?

As far as my running, like I said, lately it has been nonexistent. I've been battling shin splints since the beginning of the year. Add an on and off sore left knee and that has you earmarked for limited running. The last few weeks have been bicycling and some weight training. Hopefully, with extra stretching (which I neglect to do on a consistent basis) and the new shoes I bought over the weekend, the pain will go away or at least subside.

My history of running is pretty brief. Basically, I'm not a runner. I was on the track team in high school, but I didn't run too much. Some wind sprints the occasional mile run and that was about it. I was a shot put and discus guy. Although being inside this 'running world' is somewhat foreign to me, I'm knowledgeable on the sport itself.

I started pursuing this running endeavor on January 1, 2005. At the time, I was 41 and realized it was time to do something about my health. I've always been healthy per se, but being overweight has been a life long trait. I've never been thin....never. So at this time a few things started clicking in my head that started my motivation:

1) Being over 40...this is the time where bad things may creep up on a guy if you are not careful with your day to day lifestyle.

2) My Lora...in 2004 she started to get back into running. Seeing her enjoy it and seeing her happy with the results of her improved physical health. I saw this as something we can enjoy together. Plus, I want to make sure I'm around so we can grow old together.

3) Lastly, and honestly, The Biggest Loser...we watched the 1st season of that show and in many small ways, it began to influence my (and I think to an extent Lora also) health behaviors. The actual turning point for me (if you saw the show) was near the end of the season (around Thanksgiving '04 I believe) when they confronted the cardboard cutouts of themselves when they were at their heaviest. To see the emotion pour out of them and to say they didn't even recognize who that person was, kinda flipped my switch.

Needless to say, on January 1st, 2005 (sure, you can call it a New Year resolution)...I began my journey into the running world....unfortunately after a successful and enjoyable year of running (at least on my novice level) and getting 'lighter'....the injury bug has paid it's toll and 14 months later...here we go again...nowhere to go but up :)

I'm 43 Today

2006-03-10T14:27:00.000-06:00

43. A prime number. Not a very popular number. Unique? Perhaps. Not too many athletes attached to 43. Richard Petty. But that's NASCAR...which is another discussion altogether.

Not sure how to feel about this age. Born when Kennedy was president. We aren't Baby Boomers. We aren't Gen-Xers. We're kind of on the cusp of, well, I have no idea. Too young to be considered part of the disco movement (phew). Too old to be part of the Hip Hop scene (another phew).

I don't feel old. But then again I don't feel young either. Is this middle age? Double 43 and get 86. Maybe it is just that. The old adage is 'you're as old as you feel'. Well, I guess I feel like I'm 43.

My prime.