TKD Road Warrior

Snowy winter day in Ohio

2012-01-13T11:41:00.003-05:00

Craft. Passion. Devotion

2012-01-12T23:38:00.002-05:00

Handmade Portraits: Liberty Vintage Motorcycles from Etsy on Vimeo.

Bike Show Tour - Coming Soon... - Easyriders

2011-12-26T21:09:00.000-05:00

Bike Show Tour - Coming Soon... - Easyriders

Feb 10-12, 2012

Greater Columbus Convention Center (Halls E & F)
400 North High St - Columbus, OH 43215

The compass

2011-12-26T20:34:00.000-05:00

Christmas had passed and it's now the day after. I was feeling somewhat weighed down by recent events and activities, not to mention eating too many holiday goodies. Life lately has been somewhat stressful with trying to run a business, deal with the recent deaths of friends and family, worrying about my wife's health, trying to get Christmas shopping finished and keeping bills paid up, while trying to keep my family from falling apart dealing with personal issues & struggles. Depression is a frequent companion during this time of year and today was no different.

I had decided while I had some down time to go for a walk to stretch my legs and try to clear my mind. One thing about walking it's the best time to unwind, workout stress, and get away from the grind. It's during these quiet times I find moments of peace or a chance to pray. This walk would be slightly different though.

I had walked most of 2 miles around the local park and was heading up a large hill to the top where a war memorial was located for some local veterans whom had served in Vietnam. This particular spot is well elevated and has a great view or the surrounding county. As I was enjoying the view, catching my breath, and letting my body adjust to the stress from exercise, I began to talk to the Lord out loud about my walk. I slowly laid my requests at His feet and pray for direction in my life, my daily affairs, guidance being the leader of my family, direction regarding our business, and my own spiritual walk.

As I was praying and had began to recover from my speed walk, I began to walk down the backside of the hill enjoying the sunset over the harvested corn fields when I noticed an unusual white paper star laying in the grass nearby. At first glance I walked past it, but for whatever reason was compelled to take a second look at which time I turned, walked into the grass and picked it up. The white star was made from notebook paper and folded very intricately. As I was admiring it, I caught a glimpse of a larger solid object of dark green color laying just beyond the star a couple of feet away. I picked up the object to examine it and realized it was a compass (see exact picture below).

As an outdoor enthusiast whom hunts & fishes alot, I've always wanted to buy a compass, but here out of the blue, I find a very nice one while walking & praying.

It wasn't until shortly after I left the park admiring my find and was almost home when the thought crossed my mind that Jesus is my compass and that when I needed direction, all I had to do was ask Him and He'd be there. I began laughing at the odds of praying for direction and finding a compass moments later. My prayer had been answered. All I had to do was ask.

The compass now sits on my desk as a reminder to seek Him daily, especially in time of need and in my daily walk.

AutoDrive Magazine-Issue 26, 2011

2011-12-26T19:53:00.000-05:00

Another Central Ohio automotive magazine completed. Get yours FREE on news stands today or check out the online digital edition below.

"A Black Belt is a White Belt That Never Gave Up"

2011-12-11T23:06:00.001-05:00

Great video. The sound track says it all and is well done. Though I'm not much of a fan of rap, I like this. I admit, I miss training in the Martial Arts. This motivates me to begin training again and step it up.
Check it out!

NuBreed Martial Arts - Demo from Scott Fine on Vimeo.

Golf, the gentlemen's sport!

2011-09-09T09:26:00.003-04:00

Now, this is how golf should be played (click on image to see entire comic)!

Mopar Cruise In 2011 - Heath, Ohio

2011-08-14T12:30:00.000-04:00

Mopar Nationals are in town. Gotta love it!

Inspirational Sport Speeches

2011-07-17T11:01:00.000-04:00

Another great inspirational video composite. Enjoy!

I'm Going To Show You How Great I Am

2011-07-14T17:16:00.001-04:00

Great inspirational video. Need motivated? Check it out.

Warrior Dash completed

2011-06-27T10:54:00.000-04:00

I did it! One hell of a race too! It took me 58:20 mins at a pace of 16:35/MI but I did it.

Not bad for someone who is about 50 yrs old.

Enjoy the slideshow from that weekends' activities.

Warrior Dash 2011

2011-06-02T09:52:00.000-04:00

This Saturday I compete in my 1st Warrior Dash, which will be held June 4th & 5th in Logan, Ohio. The Warrior Dash is 3.10 hellish miles of running and overcoming multiple man-made obstacles while dealing the elements. The run Saturday should be especially trying with temps expected to be near 92 degrees with Isolated thunder storms.

This latest endeavor was the result of a challenge laid down by me to my little brother back in late 2010 around the time I completed my first 5k run with my son. Since mid-April, I've been training off and on up to a 4 mile circuit of walking & jogging. This week is the last week of preparation and am feeling pretty good about my training, even though I know I won't be setting any records, other than my own. The great thing is I will be doing this with my younger brother, who is a seasoned runner with several 5ks under his belt. I look forward to the camaraderie and the competition.

Check back for pics and video which will be posted here. JF

What do you live for?

2011-04-04T10:54:00.001-04:00

Great video. Enjoy!
(Thanks Diane for sharing this with us!)
<p>&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;Than</p>

12 Essential Gun / Firearm Disarms

2011-03-13T21:44:00.000-04:00

I love the martial arts. Simple yet effective methods to get out of potentially lethal situations.

The articles and videos presented in this site may cause serious harm or death if misunderstood or used irresponsibly. This site does not constitute itself as self defense instructions or advise. This site is for cultural information and entertainment purposes only. We do not encourage you to carry a knife or do anything that could endanger the life of any living person or persons. You must consider the legal implications of everything you do, exercising your judgment and common sense as an adult. You must follow the law or pay the consequences. Whatever you do, you do out of your own intentions. This site is for entertainment and cultural purposes only and cannot be used as legal advice. Please keep in mind, you will go to jail or worst if you have the intentions of harming another living person or persons.

Newsflash: Steel City Auto Shopper

2011-03-09T21:43:00.000-05:00

Starting Friday March 11th, 2011, Steel City Auto Shopper will make it's deput in Pittsburgh, PA.
Check out the digital edition below:

Steel City Auto Shopper

Auto Drive Magazine - Issue 5

2011-03-03T22:32:00.000-05:00

Another successful edition of AutoDrive Magazine published. This edition will hit the news stands Friday March 4th. Get yours today or check out the digital edition below. Enjoy!

Auto Drive Magazine - Issue 5

Self defence Lesson 2: Distance control with hook block

2011-02-23T21:55:00.000-05:00

I highly recommend checking out the entire series of videos by Master Wong.

I enjoy these YouTube self-defense videos by Master Wong. Full contact, no holds barred, straight to the point tactical protection. Aside from the language (which adds a dimension of humor & seriousness to the video), these are quite good techniques!

50 Weird, Wacky and Wonderful Motorcycle Trikes - Part 1

2011-02-15T09:21:00.000-05:00

Awesome collection of Trikes, especially check out the guy wearing yellow pants that match the paint of his trike :)

Click here to view!

Also check out part 2 to this collection too!

Shocking Motorcycle Crashes Compilation

2011-02-11T18:23:00.000-05:00

This video is a reminder to all my buddies to ride safe out there this season.

Shocking Motorcycle Crashes Compilation
Watch More Motorcycle Videos At BikerPunks.com

The reflection

2011-01-26T19:14:00.000-05:00

Enough said....

2011-01-26T19:09:00.002-05:00

On any Sunday (1971) - Part 1

2011-01-24T21:41:00.000-05:00

Great clip of one of the best motorcycle movies of all time

(Thanks Motorcycle SuperStore for sharing this on Facebook)

Interesting ride

2011-01-10T16:33:00.001-05:00

Stumbled upon this neat video of a guys invention.
It may not be practical for the twisties, but it'd be fun tooling around town.

One wheel motorcycle: The McLean Wheel
Uploaded by aekokok. - NASCAR, F1, tuning and drift videos.

Tapped out

2011-01-07T12:59:00.000-05:00

Just started my fitness routine today with my son. We signed up earlier this week for a yearly membership at the Advantage Club. Slow start at 10am this morning, but have much confidence & not too out of shape to begin with. My weight is about 215lbs, but I know what I need to do to lose about 15lbs in about 4-5 weeks and keep it off. Primarily I need to workout regularly & modify my eating habits.

After our orientation with the Sybex circuit, we went about our workouts of which I ran/walked about 35 mins on the treadmill. Afterwards, I worked out on the Sybex machines to familiarize myself with each unit and test my stamina & limits. Very fatigued to say the least considering I haven't worked out since November 4th. Boy, do I feel it today!

New year, new challenges

2011-01-03T13:12:00.000-05:00

This year will begin down 17lbs from a year ago. Not terribly happy with the overall results for the year, but at least I was able to keep it off. My original goal a year ago may have been over zealous, but I made progress, especially with accomplishing my goal of losing poundage & running my 1st ever 5k.

I'm now at 213.2lbs. This year my goals will be slightly modest. I will work to reduce my weight to just below 200lbs and run the Warrior Dash (2.91 mile run/obstacle course) in June with my brother.

With that said, let the pain begin.

Crazy Motorbikes

2010-12-30T17:49:00.000-05:00

Check out these Crazy MotorBikes -Click here!

Let the countdown begin

2010-12-28T21:56:00.004-05:00

Countdown until Warrior Dash June 4th, 2011 in Logan, Ohio

Created by OnePlusYou

The gauntlet has been thrown down!

2010-12-26T22:45:00.000-05:00

Not too long ago in my enthusiasm to run a 5k race with my son, I was catching up on some reading and surfing websites geared toward runners & jogging. That's when I came across the Warrior Dash. This is a 2.91 mile run/obstacle course for the macho sadistic warriors we men tend to be. Upon further review, I determined that a Warrior Dash race was taking place in our state in June of the coming summer. I was fascinated and intrigued at the same time and decided to see if I could stir up the warrior in my younger brother that runs 5 miles regularly during the week as part of his conditioning for motocross racing.
With this, I sent a simple email to him asking "Are you warrior enough" and supplied the link to the Warrior Dash website. This took place back in November.

Fast forward to a week before Christmas when I received an email from my brother that said we were registered, and provided the confirmation number, wave, and date/time of our race. I am totally stoked and will begin training again this week in preparation for this challenge. I've taken time off from training since the November 5th race and because of the holidays, but now that Christmas is past and New Years Eve looms, no better time to start preparing than now.

Let the games begin. In the words of King Leonidas: "Spartans! Prepare for glory"

Siren song of the road calling?

2010-12-25T23:37:00.000-05:00

Ohio winter activities

2010-12-15T21:55:00.000-05:00

Are you beginning to get cabin fever? Tired of looking at that cold white stuff every week?
Check out the Ohio RV and Boat Show 2011 January 8-16, 2011 at the Ohio Expo Center

Ohio RV & Boat Show from Jim Hern Productions on Vimeo.

Click here for more information!

International Motorcycle Show 2011 - Cleveland, OH

2010-12-15T02:33:00.000-05:00

International Motorcycle Show 2011 - Cleveland, OH

Friday, January 28, 3:00pm - 9:00pm

Saturday, January 29, 9:00am - 9:00pm

Sunday, January 30, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Click here for more details!

Easy Rider Bike Show Tour 2011 - Columbus, OH

2010-12-15T02:30:00.002-05:00

Easyriders Events Bike Show Tour 2011
The Greater Columbus Convention Center
Friday February 11th, 5pm to 10pm
Saturday February 12th, 10am to 10pm
Sunday February 13th, 10am to 5pm

Click here for more information!

54 Classic Motorcycle Pin-ups

2010-12-15T02:17:00.000-05:00

Some great classic pin-ups. Mind you, some of the eye candy is appealing, but I find a woman fully clothed sitting on a motorcycle to be unmatched in beauty.

Click here to see all the pin-ups.
(pic above and others in the link above courtesy of Bikes in Fast Lane Motorcycle News)

Enough said....

2010-12-15T02:09:00.001-05:00

15 Great Motorcycle Safety Ads From The USA

Click here to see more

Biker chicks....

2010-11-11T21:12:00.001-05:00

Love it! This is how mom has fun when the kids leave the nest!

Run4God 5k Victory

2010-11-06T13:00:00.000-04:00

Well, we did it! My son & I ran the Run4God 5k. It took 12 weeks of training, lot's of sweat, sore limbs, and much prayer, but we finished our first official 5k.
Overall I ran the 5k in 41:44 with a pace of 13:28 and placed 5th in male 45-49 age group. Jericho finished 4th in the male 13-17 age group. Not bad for two newbs.

It was a beautiful sunny 23 degrees this morning and I got to spend time celebrating this victory with my son. What more can a father ask for!

The Lord Rides A Harley (Bob Shaner)

2010-11-05T16:58:00.000-04:00

A good friend of mine sent me this link for a song from a local songwriter/vocalist.

Check it out here: The Lord Rides A Harley

11-3-2010 5k training

2010-11-03T21:11:00.000-04:00

Ran 5k circuit today and shaved 7 minutes from my last workout. Completed entire 5k in 46 minutes, which ain't great, but it is my best time yet. Improving on speed and endurance, but the knees hurt like hell tonight. Already taken 4 Tylenol and now 1 Naproxen Sodium Tablet. This is probably my only complaint about jogging is the dull nagging knee pain. Will research this to see what solutions I can come up with to resolve this. For now, take a break until Friday when I walk a couple miles, and then run the 5k on Saturday.

Workout 11-1-2010

2010-11-01T21:16:00.002-04:00

It's been exactly 1 week since I last ran and this is the week of the Run For God 5k. I'm not prepared because I've not been able to consistently workout every week for the last 3 weeks, but never-the-less, I gotta do it. So today I figured I'd do the whole 5k (see run circuit below).

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br /&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://beta.mapmyrun.com/routes/detail/24960222/"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;A run mapped on 11/01/2010&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br /&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://beta.mapmyrun.com/routes/?location=Newark, OH"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Runs in Newark, OH&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br /&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; &amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>
I did it although it took me roughly 53 minutes. Of course I actually did just shy of 6k so I figure that's not too bad for this old man. However, it was rough. I stopped at least every mile. The knees are taking a beating. My lungs are doing well after the 1st mile, but the knees hurt like hell by the 2nd mile. Still I run a mile, walk an 1/8th to 1/4 mile, and then do the next mile and repeat. At least I finished it and still was able to walk a 1/2 mile cooldown.

I'll wait until Wednesday and try again and hopefully improve on my timing slightly. I'd like to at least run the 5k in 45 minutes. I'll admit, it's a slow pace, but I'm doing it at all. Everything in me wants to stop this nonsense, but the little voice inside reminds me of a year ago when I decided I need to do something about my weight. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy!

Split personality - My many faces

2010-11-01T09:10:00.002-04:00

Once of the things I decided to do was eliminate some of the extra garbage in my life. With this in mind, I've since decided to eliminate another blog I was keeping in addition to this one. The old one was called "da Fat Guy". Ive since imported the content from that blog into TKD Road Warrior.

Part of the logic behind the separate blog was to express the other side of me separate from being a biker. I decided to come clean and show my many faces. The different personalities or expressions I often kept hidden. Hopefully you'll like, or maybe enjoy seeing some of these other blog posts (or not). Either way, it's done so explore & enjoy my rants. JF

Antarctic Snow Chopper

2010-11-01T08:33:00.001-04:00

Now that Fall is waning and winter looms ahead, the timeliness of this picture seems appropriate. After all the snow we had last winter, one of these snow choppers might be just the ticket to extend the riding season, especially when all it took was $10 to build from re-purposing parts that were laying around. To read more about it, click here!

Black Widow Steampunk Chopper

2010-10-31T19:11:00.000-04:00

What is it about the steampunk genre that is intriguing? Never-the-less, it's totally cool.

Check out this bad boy!

Stress....

2010-10-31T19:00:00.001-04:00

“Stress: The confusion created when one's mind overrides the body's basic desire to choke the living daylights out of some jerk who desperately deserves it” - author unknown

Scream!!!

2010-10-30T00:50:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure why, but haven't you ever felt like just screaming at the top of your lungs?
Sometimes I feel like I am at my wits end and I just want to scream from deep with in at the top of my lungs. A deep primal scream of recognition. Of triumph. Of saying f*ck this, I am! Maybe it's the caveman in me that just wants to tell the world I am here and I will not be silenced. Deal with me and those that follow!

Then again, maybe it's just a physical release to let my mind say I've had enough. Don't f*ck with me! A psychological manifestation or mental lapse to cope with the pressures of the daily drudge we call life. All I know is I want to SCREAM!!!

Workout 10-25-2010

2010-10-25T12:07:00.000-04:00

Ran for first time in two weeks.
Good strong run until my knees began to ache. Overall great start for the week.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://beta.mapmyrun.com/routes/detail/24703840/"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;A run mapped on 10/25/2010&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://beta.mapmyrun.com/routes/?location=Newark, OH"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Runs in Newark, OH&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

More stress

2010-10-24T11:46:00.001-04:00

“Stress is nothing more than a socially acceptable form of mental illness”
- Richard Carlson

Sweet tuner!

2010-10-23T18:49:00.002-04:00

I'm not a big fan of BMW's, but this one is NICE!

2010 Vorsteiner BMW GTRS3 M3 Widebody Coupe

Mr. Nice Guy has taken a furlough!

2010-10-23T14:01:00.005-04:00

I've taken a kick to the balls for the last friggin time. Just this week after much discussion with my better half, we decided enough is enough. We are letting our house be foreclosed on & we're moving out into a townhouse. For 2 years we've struggled financially to keep ahead of the BS. After seeing my income slashed by $40k to what it is now, we've come to the realization that we can't make ends meet and keep our house.

Our finances are such that we have more expenses than income every month now. I'm double mortgaged and 4 months behind on both mortgages. I have almost $1,800 in back property taxes due I don't have money for. We have no savings, no 401k retirement savings, and no health care insurance. Add in $20k in medical bills, facing the upcoming holidays, and the added complication we haven't been able to set aside funds from our business toward Federal, State, or local taxes either. It has gotten to the point too at times where we've struggled to to buy groceries or pay for needed meds. You can understand the burden & stress we've dealt with for some time. The stress at times has gotten to the point where I drink to numb my mind from this craziness.

We decided this week we had to make the toughest decision ever to give up our house and move into a 3 bedroom apartment that has a full basement. The nice thing is it's in a nice area. The rent is affordable. We don't have to pay water or trash. By making this sacrifice we should begin to recover financially once we get past the holidays. It helps too we won't have to pay homeowners insurance. Nor will we have to pay property taxes (almost $200/mo), and we don't have to worry about maintenance or upkeep of the property.

In a nutshell, we're losing our home, but we should now begin to recover financially. Not happy about it. Matter of fact i'm rather pissed at the way life has taken a sh*t on me & my family. Therefore, i've become somewhat a mean irritable son of a buck! So excuse me I withdraw from the world and keep to myself. I don't want to vent on the wrong person, but at the same time, I've decided that Mr. Nice guy has taken a furlough for a while to sort out life & what to do.

Panoramic photography

2010-10-23T13:25:00.000-04:00

Stephan Tarzan, Tarzan Panorama - website of panoramic photography
Check it out here - http://www.tarzanpanorama.net/home.htm

How to Slow Down Weight Gain

2010-10-13T12:14:00.000-04:00

How to Slow Down Weight Gain - Click here!
Interesting read, but unrealistic for many of us baby boomers. I don't know about most people, but to have to workout more & increase resistance training each year as I get older is a real pain, literally. It takes longer to recover and the aches & pains are more frequent than when I was younger. There comes a point where just healthy living and reduced intake (eating) have to be the real goal to maintain an active healthy lifestyle.

2010-10-11T16:19:00.000-04:00

The picture says it all!
We (my son & I) are now on week 9, workout 1 and we're supposed to walk 5 mins/jog 23 mins/walk 5 mins each workout 3x week. I did it, but struggled from beginning to end. I figured by now I would start getting used to jogging, but I still have to get past the starting part and keep my pace going.

I was winded. My calves burned. My lungs ached. My throat burned. I sweated...hard.
It's hard to be motivated and motivate my son too, but I'm pressing on toward the goal to finish the race and achieve running a 5k marathon.

Workout motivational suggestions

2010-10-10T20:49:00.000-04:00

Good read & motivational tips!
20 Ways to Stick to Your Workouts - Click here!

Saturday 10-9-2010 Workout

2010-10-10T11:18:00.000-04:00

Took a day off Friday to rest for Saturday workout. Waited until later in the afternoon (6:30pm) to run my circuit with my son. Decided to wait this late until after dinner was out of the way. Besides, I was feeling tired from the activities of the week and 2 back-to-back workouts on Wednesday & Thursday.
Decided to stay close to home so when it got dark we would be in well lighted location that was easily accessible.

&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/detail/24108742/"&amp;gt;A run mapped on 10/10/2010&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br/&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href="#"&amp;gt;Find more Runs in Newark, OH&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;;

What's nice about this circuit is there's plenty of parking, restrooms, water fountains, and a playground toward the end of our circuit for kids to play at. My son and I were doing our 5/20/5 circuit. My son is struggling considerably with trying to run any duration beyond 5 minutes before stopping multiple times, but at least he's doing the entire route and not whining about it. I believe he needs to stretch more on his off days and work on proper nutrition like myself.

All in all a good run in comfortable temperatures.

"I think I can. I think I can!" - The little engine that could

2010-10-07T22:16:00.000-04:00

I'm beat! Yesterday I ran a 5/20/5 which covered a 2.16 mile circuit (see below) and struggled from beginning to end. Dang near wanted to drop & pass out when I got to the last 2 minutes of a 20 minute jog. Weather conditions were great, it was around 4pm, and the trail flat. I couldn't understand why I was struggling so much but after much online research that evening, I believe part of my problem is improper nutrition. I need to regulate my diet, eat proper nutrition (i.e - carbohydrates and protein), and begin to fine tune how I eat & when to eat in relation to my training. My current pace is at 14:52/mile. Slow! I'd at least like to improve my pace to at least a 12 minute mile.

&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/detail/23962192/"&amp;gt;A run mapped on 10/06/2010&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br/&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href="#"&amp;gt;Find more Runs in Heath, OH&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;;
Today I ran and felt better. I ate a light lunch which included a peanut butter-jelly sandwich on whole wheat breat, an apple, and a handful of raisins about an 1.5 hours prior to jogging and made sure to hydrate well in advance. I jogged with my son on a completely different trail around 2:30pm in the warm sunny afternoon and felt much better today, although thirst was a definite issue.

Not sure if I like running 2 days in a row, but at least I'm going to have tomorrow to give my day a rest before the run on Saturday morning. Going to try hard to increase my pace and attack the trail with some gusto. The trail on Saturday is the same circuit as the 5k marathon we will run Nov. 6th. More to come.

Quote of the day

2010-10-07T09:38:00.000-04:00

"Our greatest glory consists not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson, writer and poet

Interesting read

2010-10-04T22:48:00.000-04:00

Found this great article in the New York Times that pretty well sums it up exactly how I feel.

Happy to Be the Tortoise in the Race to Fitness

By JOHN SCHWARTZ - Published: September 16, 2010

10 from 30

2010-10-04T21:34:00.000-04:00

Well on my way to running a 5k. This evening my son & I did our 5/20/5 circuit and did it successfully. Felt good with little difficulty. I was comfortable jogging just under 2 miles in 20 minutes, which puts me at 10 minutes away from running a full 30 minutes to achieve our 3.1 mile run. My legs felt good tonight and I got my breathing rhythm down. Ironically our Bible Study conversation this week centered around staying motivated, which I'm beginning to get stoked as each workout goal is met.

The only thing I didn't enjoy this evening was jogging in the dark. It was well after 7:45pm before we hit the trail and the sun had just set below the horizon. By the time we were done at 8:15pm, it was well after dark. Moving forward, we'll probably do our runs in the afternoon so we can see where we're going and for safety reasons. Making much progress & enjoying the results. Beginning to feel optimistic toward our 5k marathon Nov. 6th.

Move that mountain

2010-10-04T09:43:00.000-04:00

Faith. Belief. Will power. Endurance. Persistence. Determination. Over-comer. Bull headed. Stubborn. Commitment. - Matthew 17:20

Saturday morning my son & I left to go to the local YMCA to hookup with our running group from Run for God. When we got there, only the leader of the group and her two young sons showed. Although she & her boys decided to workout at the gym instead, my son and I decided we would run the 5k route we've done several times on Saturdays prior.

It was cool, crisp and fall is in the air. A beautiful morning to run. Although we altered our route slightly, the hardest part was still predominately uphill. Great training conditions all added up. See map below.
&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/detail/22727152/"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;A run mapped on 09/04/2010&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="#"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Runs in Newark, OH&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;;

My performance is improving and my son & I for the most part are sticking to the 5k training program's weekly metrics. We were finishing week #7. We started out slow and kept a rhythmic pace as we went. If I focus on enjoying the weather and my surroundings, the run seems to go much better and I don't struggle with enduring the run. However, my son is still struggling just to run 5 minutes let alone 8 minutes continuously. On the last leg of our run he stopped several times during the 8 minute run. This was discouraging but I had to push him and encourage him to overcome the mental and physical pain that his body was fighting. I myself had been fighting a stomach bug and full blown allergies for 2 days, so I was struggling too. As we went further, he produced more excuses to which I refuted with scriptures from God's word to strengthen him & encourage him to push beyond the limitations of his mind.

We were headed up a hill which seemed like a mountain, even to me. I know if we believe, we can achieve. Don't quit. Overcome. Endure. Push on. This brought to mind Matthew 17:20 which I quoted to my son. The other piece of scripture that came to mind was Hebrews 12:1 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

In a nutshell, we have 5 weeks of training left until our race on November 6th, 2010.
We begin Week #8 today (Monday) and our first workout will be a 5 minute warmup walk, followed by a 20 minute jog, and finish with a 5 minute cool-down walk. I can only pray my son is able to endure and overcome, as well as complete this myself. Tonight we'll see. I just pray my son will lean on God & His word to persevere and overcome the mountain. Post to follow.

First Day of Fall

2010-09-22T21:47:00.000-04:00

According to the Old Farmers Almanac, today is the first day of Fall. Hints of color are beginning to show around Licking county. Goldenrod is in full yellow attire and squirrels are busily stocking up for the approaching cold weather ahead. Now that the heat wave is in it's waning days, cooler temps are in the near forecast for the weekend.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has setup a weekly fall update page to keep track of where peak colors occur so you can enjoy the changing seasons. Check out their page at: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/tabid/9584/default.aspx

Change happens

2010-09-21T10:19:00.001-04:00

Today I'm feeling somewhat better, albeit life ain't any easier. When I think of recent events and how life is difficult most days, I can't help but wonder if there's a better way. I'm human and sometimes allow the pressures of life to weigh me down.

Today I say screw it! Live for the day. Enjoy what I have and quit whining about what I don't. Yesterday is gone, and no one's promised tomorrow. I'll do what I can today and leave the rest for another time. If life gives me a hard time, no more mister nice guy. I'm taking the gloves off and gonna do things my way. Nuff said!

Do the impossible

2010-09-21T09:49:00.000-04:00

Pain...it comes in many forms and intensities. Last night my son & I ran with our 5k training group. Even though I hydrated well before hand and stretched out, I knew I was going to pay for not exercising the week before. I had taken a solid 9 days off with no exercising, no stretching, and straying from my normal diet and indulging my taste buds.

After 45 minutes of enduring the training regimen,I was sweaty, winded, and spent. Totally and completely exhausted. Near passing out, I slowly stretched out afterwards and crawled back to my truck to head home.

Fast forward to the next morning and I'm still feeling the effects of sore legs and slighly tight lungs. Add in an aching lower back & sore shoulders from playing 9 holes of golf earlier the same day I ran, and you have a 1, 2 knockout combo that has exceeded my body's limitations. Everything in me wants to blow this off, but I'm sticking it out for my health and to show my son even an old fart like me can do the impossible.

Hence the title and the following post: 25 Quotes to Inspire You to do the Impossible

Week 6: Update

2010-09-20T16:34:00.000-04:00

Today we start week 6 of our 12 week 5k training regimen. Up until now, we've done the routine stretching, 5 minute walks, followed by combinations of jog/walk sessions ranging from 3-5 minutes each . This week we will do 3 minute & 5 minute jogs separated by 90 second & 2 minutes walks, repeated twice, followed by the normal 5 minute cool-down. Next week we will do 3 qty 5 minute jogs with 3 minutes walks between 3x. Then starting (week 8), we start running 20 minutes continuously, starting & finishing with 5 minute walks to warmup/cooldown.

I'm looking forward to finally airing out the lungs. I just hope my son can keep up with me, which he should, especially now that he has learned to slow down and pace himself. He actually stated he's beginning to enjoy running. We'll see come week 8 ;)

Excuse me while I rant

2010-09-20T09:57:00.001-04:00

I think I need to disappear for a week on my motorcycle with no destination or deadlines. I feel the need to escape the daily doldrums of boredom and stagnation that is my life. Fed up with the BS and being bored out of my frigging mind. Tired of the bills and b*tch*ng.

I lost my job 2 years ago and life changed in ways I never imagined. I'm tired of people crapping on my family and me. I've put up with BS when I should've said "F*%# off". I went through almost a year and half of unemployment. Damn near lost my house because of little to no cash flow. Still struggling to keep it. I haven't had a vacation in 10 years. Savings - never had any! 401K - gone! Retirement, damn if I'll see it in my lifetime. Almost $20k in medical bills. We can barely afford groceries. I've even had to go to a food pantry.

I'm 48 years old, double mortgaged, have 3 dogs and a Noah's ark load of birds & fish. I'm broke. I'm overweight. I have high blood pressure. What the hell!

Life ain't easy. I've drank more that my share of beer to dull the senses but feel like crap the next day. I miss the good ole days of enjoying a good joint! Three hours of bliss with no hangovers and no worries. Too bad Marijuana isn't legal in Ohio and can be prescribed for depression. LOL!
Oh well!

Yep! I think a road trip is in order. Pack the duffel bag. Fill the mp3 player with some jams. Fill up the bike and head for the open road for a week. Yep. Sounds good to me. I can dream can't I!

The 53 Runner’s Commandments

2010-09-18T19:03:00.000-04:00

The 53 Runner’s Commandments, by Joe Kelly
1. Don’t be a whiner. Nobody likes a whiner, not even other whiners.
2. Walking out the door is often the toughest part of a run.
3. Don’t make running your life. Make it part of your life.
4. During group training runs, don’t let anyone run alone.
5. Keep promises, especially ones made to yourself.
6. When doing group runs, start on time no matter who’s missing.
7. The faster you are the less you should talk about your times.
8. Keep a quarter in your pocket. One day you’ll need to call for a ride.
9. Don’t compare yourself to other runners.
10. All runners are equal, some are just faster than others.
11. Keep in mind that the later in the day it gets, the more likely it is that you won’t run.
12. For a change of pace, get driven out and then run back.
13. If it was easy, everybody would be a runner.
14. When standing in starting lines, remind yourself how fortunate you are to be there.
15. Getting out of shape is much easier than getting into shape.
16. A bad day of running still beats a good day at work.
17. Talk like a runner. “Singlets” are worn on warm days. “Tank tops” are worn to the beach.
18. Don’t talk about your running injuries. People don’t want to hear about your sore knee or black toe.
19. Don’t always run alone.
20. Don’t always run with people.
21. Approach running as if the quality of your life depended on it.
22. No matter how slow you run it is still faster than someone sitting on a couch.
23. Keep in mind that the harder you run during training, the luckier you’ll get during racing.
24. Races aren’t just for those who can run fast.
25. There are no shortcuts to running excellence.
26. The best runs sometimes come on days when you didn’t feel like running.
27. Be modest after a race, especially if you have reason to brag.
28. If you say, “Let’s run this race together,” then you must stay with that person no matter how slow.
29. Think twice before agreeing to run with someone during a race.
30. There is nothing boring about running. There are, however, boring people who run.
31. Look at hills as opportunities to pass people.
32. Distance running is like cod liver oil. At first it makes you feel awful, then it makes you feel better.
33. Never throw away the instructions to your running watch.
34. Don’t try to outrun dogs.
35. Don’t trust runners who show up at races claiming to be tired, out of share, or not feeling well.
36. Don’t wait for perfect weather. If you do, you won’t run very often.
37. When tempted to stop being a runner, make a list of the reasons you started.
38. Never run alongside very old or very young racers. They get all of the applause.
39. Without goals, training has no purpose.
40. During training runs, let the slowest runner in the group set the pace.
41. The first year in a new age group offers the best opportunity for trophies.
42. Go for broke, but be prepared to be broken.
43. Spend more time running on the roads than sitting on the couch.
44. Make progress in your training, but progress at your own rate.
45. “Winning” means different things to different people.
46. Unless you make your living as a runner, don’t take running too seriously.
47. Runners who never fail are runners who never try anything great.
48. Never tell a runner that he or she doesn’t look good in tights.
49. Never confuse the Ben-Gay tube with the toothpaste tube.
50. Never apologize for doing the best you can.
51. Preventing running injuries is easier than curing them.
52. Running is simple. Don’t make it complicated.
53. Running is always enjoyable. Sometimes, though, the joy doesn’t come until the end of the run.

Feeling like a Forest Gump kind of day

2010-09-11T14:31:00.000-04:00

Forrest Gump meets the Flock of Seagulls in this invigorating run.

Running plans & MapMyRun

2010-09-08T22:42:00.000-04:00

After playing 18 holes of golf today, I decided to finish off the day running. I went to the nearby bike trail and successfully achieved my objective for the evening and felt good coming off the run. I can feel a difference the training my son & I is paying dividends and my endurance is improving.

Later while cruising the internet, I checked out a similar running program called The Couch-to-5K ® Running Plan. You can check it out here. I also visited a good site for mapping ones' runs too at MapMyRun. Once you register for free, you can easily map circuits you've completed. I mapped at least 4 separate routes I've completed. Check 'em out. More to come

Motorcycle Etiquette, The Quick & Short List

2010-09-06T11:22:00.000-04:00

It's always a good idea to refresh ones' memory on rider etiquette when it comes to group motorcycle riding. I came across this great site that does a good job of that. Check it out at: http://www.njmc.org/etiquette/

TKDWarrior

Labor Day weekend

2010-09-05T20:43:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was bright and sunny with temps in the 60s. Perfect running weather which both my son & I enjoyed running in with our 5k training support group. Unfortunately my son struggled thru the training because he skipped training all week because of a bout with poison ivy which has been life miserable, especially when he sweats. Hopefully this clears up before our Monday evening run session.

On the flip side, my weight is holding steady at 205lbs. No real progress in weight loss, but I feel good. Now that September is here and Autumn is making it's presence known, I'm even more determined to increase my training efforts in an effort to prepare for the 5k which is only 2 months away. Stay tuned for updates.

Run4God-week2

2010-08-23T21:57:00.000-04:00

Well my son & I are off to a good start. We are now in week 2 of our 5k training. Last week we both ended up working out separately (because of work), but we did it. We did run together with our group on Saturday and my son struggled quite a bit with it, but we managed to squeak out the 5k following the plan guidelines.

Week 1 workouts starts with a brisk 5 minute walk, followed by 60 seconds of jogging, and 90 seconds of walking. Repeat this for 20 minutes and then finish with a 5 minute cool down walk.

Week 2 workouts consist of a brisk 5 minute walk, followed by 90 seconds of jogging, and 2 minutes of walking. Repeat this for 20 minutes and then finish with a 5 minute cool down walk. We workout 3 times a week. The weather was absolutely gorgeous out as the sun was setting this evening with a very cool breeze to keep things cool, which is a nice contrast to the 90 degree days we've been experiencing lately.

The irony of the day is we played 18 holes of golf this morning and then the 5k training this evening running with our group. All in all, a very good day.

Mon 8-16-2010 Update

2010-08-16T11:24:00.000-04:00

205.6 lbs official weight today.
Not bad, but still not below 200 lbs.
Hopefully after today I will begin to see positive losses. Ran a 2 mile circuit on a nearby stretch of bike trails. Nice straight run and didn't have to dodge cars like I do in my neighborhood. Decided too many close calls and inconsistent running surfaces created too much risk to contend with.

My son & I start our 5k training program & Bible study. From emails shared between myself and the program admin, we will have a meeting from 6:30-7:30pm and then run at a nearby park afterwards. Not sure if I will go although I'd like to for my son's benefit. Really depends upon how much are business workload looks like later today. Updates to follow.

Too dang hot, 8-14-2010

2010-08-14T10:48:00.000-04:00

Thursday I finished a 5k walk/jog circuit on the local bike trail. Temp was 90 degrees. Heat index was at 100 degrees. Could only jog 1/4 mile at a time, walk a 1/4 mile & repeat jog/walk/jog. Finally ended up jogging 1/2 mile and finished last 1/4 mile walking. CRAZY HOT!

I decided to get up this morning and try a morning workout. After breakfast and some stretching I went out to exercise. Friggin muggy out. 78 degrees, 76% humidity and sunny. Miserable weather for running. Completed a 5k circuit which consisted of starting with 1/4 mile walk, 1 mile jog and 1/4 mile walk, and jog the balance. At the 2.1 mile mark I was ready to die and was completely dehydrated. I'm so over this damn hot weather, especially when trying to exercise. I don't mind sweating, but c'mon. Got back to house and downed 20 oz water no time flat and cooled off in front of fans. I'll be glad when fall gets here.

Run for God 5K Challenge

2010-08-11T10:36:00.000-04:00

Life has gotten in the way of my taking care of myself, again!

The business has gotten very busy. The temps have risen to over 90 degrees. I'm always tired. All kinds of excuses to fall back on.

I finally decided to take a stand and have signed up (along with my son) for the Run for God 5k challenge & Bible study. Training begins Monday August 16th, 2010 with the 5k taking place on November 6th, 2010. Twelve (12) weeks of training to prepare for this challenge.

Check back for more updates!

The Fast and the Furious

2010-08-11T10:24:00.000-04:00

Are you bored and need some fast action this weekend?
Head to Kirkersville, Ohio the weekend of August 13th-15th for the 30th Annual Mopar Nationals at National Trails Raceway.

Can't afford to go, check out the Mopar Super Cruise along Ohio 79 in Heath this Friday & Saturday.

Sounds like a fun weekend coming up!

The Manliest Motorbikes Ever Made

2010-07-22T08:12:00.000-04:00

Motorcycles at their most basic are already pretty manly. So when rogue lunatics decide to soup them up with increased power and/or jet engines, it's like putting laser gun goggles on Batman. To prove the theory, we've found six bikes that kick more ass than Jet Li with his hands tied behind his back.
Click here to read the entire article!

7-13-2010

2010-07-14T21:14:00.000-04:00

Completed 3.5 mile circuit again and successfully jogged 2 miles of this, albeit it took quite a bit effort to do. Goal now is to do 12 minute miles and increase my running distance to 2.5 miles by July 31st.

My brother still plays in the dirt & mud

2010-07-14T09:44:00.000-04:00

My brother Mike (on dirtbike) after finishing 3rd in the first of several motocross races he raced in at AMA Vintage Days at Mid-Ohio in Lexington, OH on July 11th, 2010.

Pictured from left to right is Mike's step-son Anthony, Jeff Freas (big bro), and George Roat (family friend).

Overall Mike finished in 2nd place in his motocross class (division) for old guys (he he). Great job Mike!!

Humorous fishing video

2010-07-14T07:56:00.000-04:00

Funny video to start your day with a laugh!
Who'd of thought fishing could be so stressful.

Leave A Mark Church - Biker Ministry Ride Schedule

2010-07-13T10:50:00.000-04:00

Leave A Mark Church ~ Biker Ministry

Community Event July 23 – 25

...Join us for a ride on Saturday, July 24th, to Sugarcreek, Ohio, for lunch and an ice cream stop in Utica at Ye Old Mill. Ride leaves the church property at 10:00 AM. (4818 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, 43207)

Our Biker Sunday event is Sunday, July 25th at 10:30 AM at the church property. Lunch will be provided and the bikers will escort the parade to the Food Bank. We encourage you to participate in our food drive by bringing nonperishable food items for donation. We will be filling up a semi-trailer! See church website for details: www.leaveamark.org

Saturday, July 17th Ramona Lake Picnic Ride

Join us for a beautiful ride to Ramona Lake near Mohican State Park for a

picnic lunch. This ride leaves the church property at 12:30 PM.

Sunday,July 18th Biker Sunday Event

Pastor Steve Combs will be speaking at the First Baptist Church in Grove City.

Join us for food, games and fellowship. Ride leaves LAMC church property at 5:00 PM.

Leave A Mark Church ~ Biker Ministry

Cruise-in on a Motorcycle Poker Run this weekend!

2010-07-13T10:34:00.000-04:00

If you get bored this Saturday, I encourage anyone with a motorcycle to join the multitude of poker runs that are taking place here in Licking county. Below is the listing of the motorcycle related events that are taking place:

Annual Fun Day - Event Date: Saturday July 17, 2010
Location: Old Country Church, 101 S. 5th St., Newark
County: Licking
Phone: (740) 349-2244

Yard sale, flea market and kids entertainment from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., lunch available at 11 a.m., motorcycle scripture run (poker run), 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with registration starting at 9:30 a.m. (cost is $10 per rider), dinner from 3 to 5 p.m. There will also be contests, silent auction, raffles, and live local bands. Proceeds go to the church to help pay for a new heating/cooling system.

LOOK UP CENTER, POKER RUN
Event Date: July 17, 2010
Location: Tims Manor House, 300 south 30th st. Newark
County: Licking

Cost: $15/20
Contact Name: Tim Haas - Phone: 740-522-2401
First annual LOOK UP CENTER, Poker run. Proceeds benefit the Look up Center of Newark Ohio. Community help center. First out at 12 last in at 5. Food & live entertainment starting at 6pm.

Poker Run for Developmental Disabilities
Event Date: July 17, 2010
Location: Starting at Travel Centers of America Rt. 37 and 70 (Hebron)
County: Licking

Cost: $10 per person, includes all-you-can-eat breakfast
Contact Name: Kim Ayres - Phone: (740) 973-2658
This Poker Run is organized by the Travel Centers of America in Hebron.

Crossroads Christian Church 9th Annual Poker Run - FREE  Event
Date: Sunday July 18, 2010 Open to anyone who loves to ride (In a motorcycle, a Jeep, a car, etc;) . A ride of about 100 miles with 5 stops with games to get your poker hand. A prize for the best poker hand. A free picnic for all riders, friends, and family.  

Registration begins at 11:30am - Ride begins at 12:15pm - Picnic begins at 4pm .
Leaving Licking Valley H.S. (100 Hainsview Dr NE Newark, OH).
 Concluding at Dillon State Park

7/7/2010

2010-07-07T22:03:00.000-04:00

Waited until 8:45pm to go for jog. It was around 86 degrees & very humid. Jogged/walked 3.5 miles tonight. First ran 1.4 miles in about 15 minutes (which is pretty good for me in this smothering heat). Walked another 2/10ths, and then jogged another mile before finishing the rest of circuit walking & stretching to cool down.

Not bad after working 17 hours straight the day before, then catching 4.5 hrs of sleep and then back up at 6:30am this morning to start again.

Feeling better each time I go out.

Nice cycle ride footage through Sequoia National Park

2010-07-04T13:14:00.002-04:00

Gary(Sickboy) Crank Toss ride 5/14/10 from Chris Abegglen on Vimeo.

Premier Sports -Another great resource

2010-07-02T18:25:00.000-04:00

Premier Sports: Central Ohio's Premier Running, Walking, Inline and Cycling Resource

SPORToften.com

2010-07-02T18:22:00.000-04:00

SPORToften.com - Good website link that provides tips, resources, and events for many aspects of physical training, sports, and more.

No Boundaries - 5k Training Program

2010-07-02T18:20:00.000-04:00

7/1/2010

2010-07-01T21:56:00.000-04:00

Update....after much twisting of the arm (and wallet), I decided I to buy the proper gear to continue jogging and to make positive gains in my exercise goals. I had worn out my original pair of cheapo Walmart shoes and could feel the resulting pain afterwards in my left knee & both calves after working out.

Today I went to Dunhams and tried on multiple pairs of running shoes before settling on the New Balance line of running shoes, specifically the New Balance MR769 series of shoes. The first thing I noticed was they are American made shoes. That's a big selling point right off the bat. Secondly, out of 61 customer reviews, these shoes received 4 out 5 stars reviews. So far so good! One note though they are narrower and form fitting fitting shoe, and I had to go to a 1/2 size larger shoe to a size 11 1/2. As you can see in the picture above, the trim highlights are in yellow and they are very sporty looking treads. However, for me the real test was when I hit the road.

Tonight I waited until 8:40pm as the sun was sinking lower into the horizon and the temps dropped to around 70-72 degrees. These shoes fit like a glove, have great stability and were quite comfortable to wear. I was able to pickup my jogging pace considerably with little to no pain in my left knee. I also jogged 3 full miles a 3.5 mile circuit. After each mile jog I took a brief 30 second fast paced walk to regain my wind, and then took off for the next 1 mile leg of the circuit. This worked out great and I was able to shave 5 minutes off my total circuit vs my last run on Tuesday. I'm very pleased with my results and beginning to feel stronger & more comfortable in my running stride. My goal to complete a 5k circuit is beginning to look reachable now.

6/28/2010

2010-06-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

Update...It's too damn hot to exercise!
I took off the last 8 days because of work and various other excuses that range from working, life setbacks, golfing, and fishing.

After trimming the weeds, I was able to run 2.5 miles and complete a 3.5 mile jog/walk circuit overall in 1hr. Need to get back in the groove exercising and reduce my time to less than 45 mins.

6/19/2010

2010-06-19T23:06:00.000-04:00

Hot, humid, stagnant. Typical summertime weather. That's what I had to jog in tonight. Still, I was able to run 2.5 miles and complete a 3.5 mile jog/walk circuit overall. Slowly but surely making progress toward a full 5k run.

6-17-2010

2010-06-17T21:54:00.000-04:00

3.2 mile (5k) circuit tonight. Weather conditions were mid-70s and sunny at 8:30pm. Overall I walked 3/10s mile warmup, jogged 2 miles, walked another 4/10 mile, jogged the remaining 1/2 miles. I felt good with this run and was able to control my breathing while maintaining a steady pace.

I'm beginning to feel like I am making strong headway, but my legs still are suffering the remainder of the day after the jog. Tonight while jogging down the hill, my left knee began to hurt considerably and I ended up walking because of the pain. After hitting the bottom of the hill and the road leveled out I was able to continue my jog. I will have to monitor this and possibly change my route to avoid hills on the return leg.

6-15-2010

2010-06-15T21:52:00.000-04:00

Yesterday went pretty well. Went jogging last night around 7:30pm. Very hot, humid, and stagnant but still was able to do a 5k circuit jog/walk. Can now jog one full mile before stopping to gather breath & give my legs some relief walking off the tightness in my calfs before doing another 3/4 mile jog.

This afternoon Dad and I played 18 holes at one of the local golf courses. It was sunny, hot, and muggy. I finished off a 32oz bottle of ice water and a 20 oz Gatorade before we were done. Figure I lost close to 3lbs in sweat just playing thru. Very tough conditions to say the least.

To finish off the day, I had a healthy coconut fish dinner!

Where the Hell is Matt?

2010-06-12T23:28:00.000-04:00

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

6-12-2010

2010-06-12T12:39:00.000-04:00

Very humid & warm morning for a jog. Never-the-less still did a 3 mile circuit which included a 1/2 mile walk to warm up & stretch out, followed by a 1.5 mile jog, and then cool down walk for another 3/4 mile. Much sweat & fatigue because of the brutal conditions. It was like jogging in a sauna. Thank goodness I wore a bandana to keep the sweat off my face & out of my eyes.

While I was walking this morning I began to think. Most times when I'm walking, it's a good time for me to reflect, pray, contemplate the future, etc. This morning though I as my mind wandered I thought about all the times people made comments about my weight in the past. Mind you, I didn't get huge by any measure, but my waistline was expanding considerably and I had the appearance I swallowed a keg. The more I thought about the mindless comments made by friends and family about my weight, the more I became pissed off. Rather than offer to ask me to workout with them or inquire if I was exercising, they instead jokingly poked at me with their stupid ass comments. You know it's bad enough when one is struggling with the thought of being overweight and trying to do something about it, not to mention fighting the physical aspects, but when someone makes what seems like minor comments, it still bothers me. Trying to lose weight and keep it off is a daily struggle which screws with your mind and often times causes depression, which only compounds ones' struggles. In other words be considerate of someone who has gained weight. If they want to bring up the subject and discuss it, so be it. But keep stupid remarks to yourself. Words hurt.

Honda CBR 1000F custom

2010-06-11T13:11:00.000-04:00

Honda Hurricane - Exotic custom to wet your appetite for more bike porn. For more details, check it out at http://www.bikeexif.com/honda-hurricane

The Motorcycle of the Future Has Arrived

2010-06-10T22:51:00.000-04:00

For an electric motorcycle, it's impressive! This bike hit a top speed of 140 mph and lapped the 37.7-mile course at an average speed of 94.66 mph. Read More http://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/06/motoczysz-e1pc/#ixzz0qVcLybEU

6-9-2010, 205lbs.

2010-06-10T09:09:00.000-04:00

I started the morning off at 5:25am today, took a motorcycle ride to the east side of town for a 6am men's Bible study, hot coffee, and freshly made blueberry muffins. I was back home by 7:45am to change clothes and head out the door jogging by 8:15am. I jogged exactly 1.3 miles before stopping to walk for .6 miles, and then jogging another .4 miles. I then finished with a .2 mile cool down and stretching. Total circuit was 2.5 miles. Very good workout today.

When I weighed myself today, I was very pleased to see I've dropped down to 205lbs. I'm stoked with how much weight I've lost, but still need to focus on refining my eating habits & increase the intensity & regularity of my workouts. I've been plagued by back problems, health issues, crappy weather, and poor morale, but I've continued despite these setbacks and will continue to push through.

In reflection, although I've miss my original goal of losing 45lbs in 120 days, I'm still pleased I've stuck it out this long. I will continue to push myself to the point I am down to at least 195lbs and able to run a 5k circuit.

Ironically, when I reviewed my journal to refresh my memory, I realized I decided to start this blog on my daughters 19th birthday. Funny I never realized that before now.

6/7/2010 - 3.6 mile circuit

2010-06-07T11:04:00.000-04:00

Walk, jog, hike....3.6 miles today with half of the circuit uphill on serious inclines. Tough workout today!

Live Free / Ride Alive - A Documentary

2010-06-06T20:40:00.000-04:00

A great site with lots of rider commentaries explaining the good, the bad, sharing common sense tips, and sharing the rider experience. Check it out!

Live Free / Ride Alive - A Documentary

June 5th, 2010

2010-06-05T14:26:00.000-04:00

2.7 mile circuit today with 1.3 mile jog.

6-3-2010 Progress?

2010-06-03T09:57:00.000-04:00

It's been exactly one month since my last post. Unfortunately no real progress made. I've allowed myself to become complacent in my daily eating habits and my regular workouts. No real crisis or reasons, just lazy I guess & sometimes gone mad.

I've been off for a week now and just started my workouts today for this week, which is unusual starting out on a Thursday,

however, I've decided to alter my schedule to change the stagnation of daily drivel which sometimes plagues my life.

Yesterday I played 9 holes of golf with my father so that's some exercise. I walked/jogged 2.25 miles today with 1.1 miles of it being a continuous jog. When I jog this coming Saturday I will push for a 1.2 mile continuous jog. My new goal is to complete a 3 mile circuit with 2 miles of it jogging and working to reduce my time to complete the circuit. I think too I will add some bicycling to my routine to add another dimension of fitness. There's a couple really intense hills nearby that I may start working on walking up to add more intensity & drive to my workouts. Will keep this blog updated on my progress.

My parting thoughts is I wish I could inspire my wife to join me to workout too. Although she's gained considerable weight since we first dated almost 30 years ago, I still love her. I worry much because she's following the same path her father has gone down health-wise & physically. Her blood pressure is an issue. If she does anything physical, she struggles to keep her breath. The biggest health concern is she continually struggles to be healthy as she is regularly sick. I would think if she lost about 25-50lbs, she'd feel much better physically & psychologically. I need much prayer on how to inspire or help my wife to change for her well being. Maybe guilt ;)

My son's first dirt bike ride

2010-06-02T09:07:00.001-04:00

Like father, like son. Jericho learning to ride a dirt bike.
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5/3/2010 - 208lbs

2010-05-03T19:52:00.000-04:00

Rough weekend and strayed from my diet & drank a few more cold ones than usual.

Finished last week running 3 days last week & working in some rehab exercise for my lower back. Seems to be helping.

Did 2.25 miles today walk/jog. Doing 1 full continuous mile jog now. Working toward 1.2 miles. Need to increase the distance & duration.