Monday, April 30, 2012
First Game Tonight
Today is our first little league game. My young little team has put in a ton of time practicing. I believe most teams have probably practiced may 4 or 5 times in the last two weeks, we've practiced 8. It's not that I care about winning because I know we will lose our share of games, but it's about teaching. I want so badly for each one of these kids to learn so much and all the while still love and appreciate the game. I was reading something on Kristin Armstrongs blog the other day that really summed up why we should all be out there.
Her kids are obviously very competitive and one of the twins was getting ready for a run. She was scared that she wasn't going to win. Here's a part of the conversation they had.
"What if I don't run well?" she asks as she straightens and readjusts her number. It has to be just so.
"It depends," I say.
"On what?" she says, more accustomed to a lecture than my mystery.
"On the glory," I say.
"Whose glory?"
"Exactly," I say. "If you are running for your own glory, sometimes you will achieve and rejoice and other times you will fail and be miserable. It depends on the day."
"And otherwise?" she asks. With me there is usually an otherwise.
"Otherwise, if you are running and using your gift to glorify God -not yourself - then you will always rejoice and you don't have to worry about being disappointed. Different days will be different but you don't have to stress about the outcome. You can just have fun and enjoy your gift."
She looked me right in the eye. "Then I choose that."
"Great," I said. "You just changed your life, right there. Now let's go."
I'm probably not allowed to talk about God on the field, but this really summed it up. It really isn't about winning if you can enjoy the experience and give that experience right back to God. Winning is so short sighted if that's all we focus on. Don't get me wrong, I like to win. I definitely will take winning over losing any day of the week, but my goal this year is to give each one of these kids the best possible experience that I can.
This year I've taken things even a little further and started video taping some of the kids pitching and hitting. The things you can see while watching film frame by frame. One of my most talented players was having issues with his control while pitching. Just watching him, he's got great form and maybe just releases the ball a little funny. After watching the film though it was a huge eye opener. The little guy is all over the place. In fact, one of the issues is his elbow is too high when he releases the ball. This is something that needs to be corrected asap just to keep his arm healthy.
I've learned so much over the years and some stuff I wonder what the heck was I thinking. Over time you learn what's important to fix now vs what can be over looked and worked on as their arms mature. The tough part about the first game is the parents. For now, they think your a good coach, but when they see their kid either sit the bench or get very little playing time, then you become the not so good guy. This is the worst part about coaching any sport. I would love to play everyone all the time, but you have to look out for the entire team as well as the safety of the kids. In minors, everyone wants to play on the infield. When making the line up, it's no fun having to put some of your favorite kids somewhere they don't want to be. I've got one little eight year old on the team that just loves the game and always shows up ready to play. I'm just not sure if he is ready for the infield yet. I don't want him to lose his excitement for the game by being bored to death in the outfield, but I really don't have much of an option at least early on in the game. If we can get a lead and stay in front by a safe amount (is there really a safe amount in little league) I'll move some of the less talented kids into the infield. It all comes down to how much a child works on his skills while not at practice. Dad's need to throw with their kids. Repetition is the key. The more they do it, the better and more relaxed they will be.
We'll I've mumbled enough. Gotta get back to work. I'll fill you in tomorrow with how the game goes. Hoping for the best, but remembering still, WHO get's the glory.
Her kids are obviously very competitive and one of the twins was getting ready for a run. She was scared that she wasn't going to win. Here's a part of the conversation they had.
"What if I don't run well?" she asks as she straightens and readjusts her number. It has to be just so.
"It depends," I say.
"On what?" she says, more accustomed to a lecture than my mystery.
"On the glory," I say.
"Whose glory?"
"Exactly," I say. "If you are running for your own glory, sometimes you will achieve and rejoice and other times you will fail and be miserable. It depends on the day."
"And otherwise?" she asks. With me there is usually an otherwise.
"Otherwise, if you are running and using your gift to glorify God -not yourself - then you will always rejoice and you don't have to worry about being disappointed. Different days will be different but you don't have to stress about the outcome. You can just have fun and enjoy your gift."
She looked me right in the eye. "Then I choose that."
"Great," I said. "You just changed your life, right there. Now let's go."
I'm probably not allowed to talk about God on the field, but this really summed it up. It really isn't about winning if you can enjoy the experience and give that experience right back to God. Winning is so short sighted if that's all we focus on. Don't get me wrong, I like to win. I definitely will take winning over losing any day of the week, but my goal this year is to give each one of these kids the best possible experience that I can.
This year I've taken things even a little further and started video taping some of the kids pitching and hitting. The things you can see while watching film frame by frame. One of my most talented players was having issues with his control while pitching. Just watching him, he's got great form and maybe just releases the ball a little funny. After watching the film though it was a huge eye opener. The little guy is all over the place. In fact, one of the issues is his elbow is too high when he releases the ball. This is something that needs to be corrected asap just to keep his arm healthy.
I've learned so much over the years and some stuff I wonder what the heck was I thinking. Over time you learn what's important to fix now vs what can be over looked and worked on as their arms mature. The tough part about the first game is the parents. For now, they think your a good coach, but when they see their kid either sit the bench or get very little playing time, then you become the not so good guy. This is the worst part about coaching any sport. I would love to play everyone all the time, but you have to look out for the entire team as well as the safety of the kids. In minors, everyone wants to play on the infield. When making the line up, it's no fun having to put some of your favorite kids somewhere they don't want to be. I've got one little eight year old on the team that just loves the game and always shows up ready to play. I'm just not sure if he is ready for the infield yet. I don't want him to lose his excitement for the game by being bored to death in the outfield, but I really don't have much of an option at least early on in the game. If we can get a lead and stay in front by a safe amount (is there really a safe amount in little league) I'll move some of the less talented kids into the infield. It all comes down to how much a child works on his skills while not at practice. Dad's need to throw with their kids. Repetition is the key. The more they do it, the better and more relaxed they will be.
We'll I've mumbled enough. Gotta get back to work. I'll fill you in tomorrow with how the game goes. Hoping for the best, but remembering still, WHO get's the glory.
Big Lake Climb
What a beautiful morning. I left the house at around 5am to make the 45 minute trek over to Eagar. It's a busy week but I wanted I to get in one good day of climbing. The Big Lake climb is by far one of my favorite climbs in the state. Even with all the burned trees, the area is still gorgeous. I'm not sure what I was thinking getting up at 4am to drive an hour for a 1 hour ride, on top of having to work all day, coach a little league game, then go watch another. Needless to say, I don't think I'll have any problems falling asleep tonight.
The Big Lake Climb never lets you down. It's steep, it's long, and it just seems to keep on going. Here's the profile of the climb. It starts out at around 7000 ft and climbs to just under 9000. You really have to experience if for yourself to appreciate the beauty of the area, but it's nature at its best all the way to the top. If you click on view detail below, you will see the elevation gain.
Of course the best part is the descent. My goal was 40mph and I think I hit 42. There was headwind coming down so that takes a little away from hauling ass downhill, but it's still a blast. It took my 47 minutes to get to the top and only 15 to get back down. It's nothing short of a blast flying downhill. It was a great way to start the week.
The Big Lake Climb never lets you down. It's steep, it's long, and it just seems to keep on going. Here's the profile of the climb. It starts out at around 7000 ft and climbs to just under 9000. You really have to experience if for yourself to appreciate the beauty of the area, but it's nature at its best all the way to the top. If you click on view detail below, you will see the elevation gain.
Of course the best part is the descent. My goal was 40mph and I think I hit 42. There was headwind coming down so that takes a little away from hauling ass downhill, but it's still a blast. It took my 47 minutes to get to the top and only 15 to get back down. It's nothing short of a blast flying downhill. It was a great way to start the week.
IMG-20120430-00116.jpg
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
171# and counting
I weighed in at 171 pounds today. That's 17 pounds so far and only 6 to go. The cool part is, I've hardly been trying to lose. I've been eating good, but really haven't been starving myself. I'm riding a little more which probably helps, plus running with the boys at little league practice. Dang these kids are out of shape! I woop up on them every time. Guess the xbox doesn't go much for cardio.........hmmm imagine that:).
I've got the Ironhorse coming up in just over a month and my goal this year is to get my time back to under 3 hours. Last year I think I was 3:17 which is by far my slowest ever. I'm lighter and hopefully faster than last year so hopefully I'll see some improvement. Scott has helped me a ton and his ability to motivate is like no other. The guy just has some weird mental capability that makes you want and believe you can do more. I'll be increasing my miles and my climbing starting this week. Now I'll just have to beg my wife for some extra morning riding times. She usually goes on Mon,Tues and Thurs, not sure if she's willing to give any up though. She's doing the Barn Burner in Flagstaff which is brutal. I've got no desire to hurt that bad. Give me pavement any day of the week.
Speaking of pavement.........I got a text from a friend the other day (I don't have permission to disclose any names as of yet) stating that he now knew why cyclists shave their legs... CRASHING!!!
Heres what cinders can do to your backside and legs:
Oh and I would love to have my ass that bald:) heck if I was that delinquent in the hair category, I'd never wear clothes:).
I've got the Ironhorse coming up in just over a month and my goal this year is to get my time back to under 3 hours. Last year I think I was 3:17 which is by far my slowest ever. I'm lighter and hopefully faster than last year so hopefully I'll see some improvement. Scott has helped me a ton and his ability to motivate is like no other. The guy just has some weird mental capability that makes you want and believe you can do more. I'll be increasing my miles and my climbing starting this week. Now I'll just have to beg my wife for some extra morning riding times. She usually goes on Mon,Tues and Thurs, not sure if she's willing to give any up though. She's doing the Barn Burner in Flagstaff which is brutal. I've got no desire to hurt that bad. Give me pavement any day of the week.
Speaking of pavement.........I got a text from a friend the other day (I don't have permission to disclose any names as of yet) stating that he now knew why cyclists shave their legs... CRASHING!!!
Heres what cinders can do to your backside and legs:
Oh and I would love to have my ass that bald:) heck if I was that delinquent in the hair category, I'd never wear clothes:).
Ok, I have no idea why the pictures posted sideways, but you get the idea. Try keeping wounds like that clean when you have it mixed with hair, cinders, and pavement.
Did you ever see the commercial they were running while the Tour de France was going on?
It said, "If you want to know what it feels like to crash on a road bike, jump out of a moving car going 60 mph wearing only your underwear"
All I know is that crashing sucks. No matter how slow youre going, it hurts.
Oh and here's a challenge for all you fitness buffs. I get an email from Sam the other day saying that he wants me to set a goal of 2 minutes for side planks. I thought, piece of cake!! Ya, whatever. 30 seconds was all I was capable of. My obliques were sore for a week. Today though, I hit one minute. My goal is 2 minutes by the end of May. We shall see!!
Side Plank
(keep your body straight)
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Spring is here
As you can see from the lack of posts, things have been pretty busy. Little league is in full swing with practices almost every night. I feel like I'm slacking at work as much of my evening has been consumed with baseball. My guys have really stepped up and covered for me while I'm off playing. I promised myself that I was going to spend some good fishing time with my dad this spring/summer, but of course I haven't reached that goal either. I need to take a chill pill and step back and smell the roses.
This past Sunday, my wife and I headed out for a 5:30am ride with Todd and Katie. What a gorgeous morning. There was no traffic and the winds were perfectly calm. We met at the go karts and headed up towards Hondah. From there we headed down the hill to the Roberts Ranch turn off. This is typically where we turn around and time ourselves back up the "Whiteriver Hill". Sunday was no different. It was a time trial for the next 5.1 miles. Painful is what it was. My hamstrings were still sore from doing squats on Friday and on Saturday night we had taken my oldest son out for dinner for his birthday so I was also feeling the repercussions of eating a crappy dinner. My fastest time up this hill is 23:30 or something like that. Well on Sunday, it took me more than 27 minutes. I was shot.
The best part, I was able to get in a 2 1/2 hour ride. This is the longest I've been able to ride since starting the rehab on my back. Felt really good to be out riding pain free. I'm looking forward to a really good summer. Baseball, cycling, and fishing:) oh ya and working.
So have most of you kept your weight off? What's crazy..........I haven't heard from the winner yet!!! That's 400.00 bucks that someone is missing out on.!! Email me people! I have your moolah!!! mail@alphaoxymed.com
I should probably get some work done before having to head off to practice. These kids are gonna be wore out by weeks end. Hope you all are having a great spring. It's gorgeous outside today!!!!
This past Sunday, my wife and I headed out for a 5:30am ride with Todd and Katie. What a gorgeous morning. There was no traffic and the winds were perfectly calm. We met at the go karts and headed up towards Hondah. From there we headed down the hill to the Roberts Ranch turn off. This is typically where we turn around and time ourselves back up the "Whiteriver Hill". Sunday was no different. It was a time trial for the next 5.1 miles. Painful is what it was. My hamstrings were still sore from doing squats on Friday and on Saturday night we had taken my oldest son out for dinner for his birthday so I was also feeling the repercussions of eating a crappy dinner. My fastest time up this hill is 23:30 or something like that. Well on Sunday, it took me more than 27 minutes. I was shot.
The best part, I was able to get in a 2 1/2 hour ride. This is the longest I've been able to ride since starting the rehab on my back. Felt really good to be out riding pain free. I'm looking forward to a really good summer. Baseball, cycling, and fishing:) oh ya and working.
So have most of you kept your weight off? What's crazy..........I haven't heard from the winner yet!!! That's 400.00 bucks that someone is missing out on.!! Email me people! I have your moolah!!! mail@alphaoxymed.com
I should probably get some work done before having to head off to practice. These kids are gonna be wore out by weeks end. Hope you all are having a great spring. It's gorgeous outside today!!!!
Day at the races
Ok, even getting the guilt trip from the wife for not posting in a while. Things have just been so hectic. Work has been super busy, now little league takes up my evenings, then also trying to ride and keep up with my back therapy workout at the gym. I know, poor poor me.
This past weekend was the first weekend of BMX races. If your kids like bikes or racing at all, you should give it a shot. The kids seem to really enjoy it.
Races will be every Saturday at the BMX park in Show Low. Sign ups are at 10am Races start at 11am. All you need is a bike and a helmet. My kids had never raced before and they both had a great time.
This past weekend was the first weekend of BMX races. If your kids like bikes or racing at all, you should give it a shot. The kids seem to really enjoy it.
All ages are out here. Check out this little guy.
Races will be every Saturday at the BMX park in Show Low. Sign ups are at 10am Races start at 11am. All you need is a bike and a helmet. My kids had never raced before and they both had a great time.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Baseball Season is Here\
Ok, Ok Ok, enough already. Sorry for the lack of posting lately. There's been a ton of stuff going on at work plus today was the first day returning to work after 4 days of the flu. Ugh, I can't stand being sick. It is such a waste of time.
Little league practice started this week. This is my 13th year coaching and I must say, I'm usually a little more pessimistic after my first practice of the season, but this year I was pleasantly surprised at how my team looked. We are a very young team (I have 3 eight year olds), but impressively, one of the best pitchers on the team is an 8 year old.
This past Saturday was the last tryout before choosing teams. I was sick on Saturday, but of course still managed to make it to tryouts. Every year, we seem to see less and less talent. Why is that? Do we blame the video games, do we blame the parents, or do we blame the coaches? I think its probably a combination of the 3, but I think the first 2 are the most influential in the initial talent development of a child. Just think, if a kid was to throw a baseball for every 5 minutes spent on the Xbox, think of how much better he would be at throwing a baseball. We as parents have go to spent more time throwing with our kids. You don't have to know about baseball to throw with your child. 30 minutes a day would make such a huge difference.
One thing that personally bugged me while watching the tryouts, was watching kids that I had coached in the past. Not the good kids, but the kids that were a challenge, the ones that didn't know much about baseball. None of them, whether they were once players of mine, or of another coaches, hadn't improved much, if at all. Does this mean we failed as coaches? Did we focus so much on winning or so much on developing the "better" kids, that we failed to teach those that needed it most? After all, it is so much easier to teach a kid who already has some sort of skill set.
This was on mind the entire day. As a minor league coach, one who coaches kids ranging from 8 years old to 11 years old, what are my goals with these kids? Is it to have an undefeated season or is it to teach baseball. I worry that in that in past, it may have been the winning season. Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but I want this year to be different. I want to teach. I want every kid to be a better player at the end of the next 7 weeks. I want the kids who can hit the ball to hit the ball harder and farther than ever before. I want those kids that can't currently hit the ball to be able to get into that batters box and have the confidence knowing they're going to hit that pitch. I want every kid on the team to experience both the stress and the joy of pitching off of a pitching mound. I really want this year to be something new and very educational. I have and excellent assistant coach and some great parents. I think most of us will be on the same page when it comes to the goals of the season. Teach the kids as much as possible and let that dictate the outcome of each game.
With the parents permission, I'll do my best to keep you informed of how the season goes. I'm looking forward to a fun summer. I've got a great group of boys and I have no doubts the season is going be both fun and exciting.
Little league practice started this week. This is my 13th year coaching and I must say, I'm usually a little more pessimistic after my first practice of the season, but this year I was pleasantly surprised at how my team looked. We are a very young team (I have 3 eight year olds), but impressively, one of the best pitchers on the team is an 8 year old.
This past Saturday was the last tryout before choosing teams. I was sick on Saturday, but of course still managed to make it to tryouts. Every year, we seem to see less and less talent. Why is that? Do we blame the video games, do we blame the parents, or do we blame the coaches? I think its probably a combination of the 3, but I think the first 2 are the most influential in the initial talent development of a child. Just think, if a kid was to throw a baseball for every 5 minutes spent on the Xbox, think of how much better he would be at throwing a baseball. We as parents have go to spent more time throwing with our kids. You don't have to know about baseball to throw with your child. 30 minutes a day would make such a huge difference.
One thing that personally bugged me while watching the tryouts, was watching kids that I had coached in the past. Not the good kids, but the kids that were a challenge, the ones that didn't know much about baseball. None of them, whether they were once players of mine, or of another coaches, hadn't improved much, if at all. Does this mean we failed as coaches? Did we focus so much on winning or so much on developing the "better" kids, that we failed to teach those that needed it most? After all, it is so much easier to teach a kid who already has some sort of skill set.
This was on mind the entire day. As a minor league coach, one who coaches kids ranging from 8 years old to 11 years old, what are my goals with these kids? Is it to have an undefeated season or is it to teach baseball. I worry that in that in past, it may have been the winning season. Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but I want this year to be different. I want to teach. I want every kid to be a better player at the end of the next 7 weeks. I want the kids who can hit the ball to hit the ball harder and farther than ever before. I want those kids that can't currently hit the ball to be able to get into that batters box and have the confidence knowing they're going to hit that pitch. I want every kid on the team to experience both the stress and the joy of pitching off of a pitching mound. I really want this year to be something new and very educational. I have and excellent assistant coach and some great parents. I think most of us will be on the same page when it comes to the goals of the season. Teach the kids as much as possible and let that dictate the outcome of each game.
With the parents permission, I'll do my best to keep you informed of how the season goes. I'm looking forward to a fun summer. I've got a great group of boys and I have no doubts the season is going be both fun and exciting.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Dear God, Please Be with Newell and Family
Having a hard time with some stuff tonight. If you keep up with this blog (you poor poor soul) you may possibly remember that I've mentioned Newell a few times. Over the last few years, Newell has become a very special friend. I admire the guy in so many ways, but lately my heart just breaks for him. I don't know if I've mentioned it, but he has two children diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease. Don't ask me to explain it, but go to his blog to read more about it. http://www.shamelesscyclist.blogspot.com/
If you have ever had the privilege to meet his little boy Seth, he will melt your heart in a second. Heck all of his kids will. They are such an awesome family. Anyway, there is so little known about Mitochondrial Disease that it leaves those dealing with the illness searching and searching for more answers and coming up with even more questions.
Spencer is the oldest son. What an awesome kid. I've ridden bikes with him and the kid can go forever. Just this past week, Newell learned that Spencer too may have some form of Mitochondrial Disease. Ugh!!!!!!This is very hard for me to write tonight. Because I try to put myself in Newell's position and I know I would fall a part. Have you heard the saying, "God will never give you more than you can handle". Well right now I think that is a bunch of crap. Yo God!!! Relax a little. Give this family a break. Allow Newell to have one restful night!!!
I feel so so helpless! What do you tell a friend, a dad, who is hurting so badly when you really have no answers yourself? He tries his hardest to put on a strong front when at work or even around me, but again, I'm a dad too. I know he's hurting and scared. I want to help, but have no idea how.
My problems are so miniscule. What is Spencer thinking when his head hits the pillow at night? I don't even want to know what Newell is thinking. Damn!! There's got to be some answers out there! I keep praying for some miracle treatment that just comes out of no where. This family deserves that kind of blessing. Matthew 18:20 says, "When two or more gather in my name, there I am among them", Ok God, you have a family of 6 and I don't know how many friends all praying together, lets see some results here, some positive friggin results!!
So I ask you, whatever God you may pray to, please please please, keep Newell and his family at the forefront of those prayers.
If you have ever had the privilege to meet his little boy Seth, he will melt your heart in a second. Heck all of his kids will. They are such an awesome family. Anyway, there is so little known about Mitochondrial Disease that it leaves those dealing with the illness searching and searching for more answers and coming up with even more questions.
Seth (isn't he just adorable) and Newell
(I hope Newell doesn't mind me stealing a photo from his blog)
Spencer is the oldest son. What an awesome kid. I've ridden bikes with him and the kid can go forever. Just this past week, Newell learned that Spencer too may have some form of Mitochondrial Disease. Ugh!!!!!!This is very hard for me to write tonight. Because I try to put myself in Newell's position and I know I would fall a part. Have you heard the saying, "God will never give you more than you can handle". Well right now I think that is a bunch of crap. Yo God!!! Relax a little. Give this family a break. Allow Newell to have one restful night!!!
I feel so so helpless! What do you tell a friend, a dad, who is hurting so badly when you really have no answers yourself? He tries his hardest to put on a strong front when at work or even around me, but again, I'm a dad too. I know he's hurting and scared. I want to help, but have no idea how.
My problems are so miniscule. What is Spencer thinking when his head hits the pillow at night? I don't even want to know what Newell is thinking. Damn!! There's got to be some answers out there! I keep praying for some miracle treatment that just comes out of no where. This family deserves that kind of blessing. Matthew 18:20 says, "When two or more gather in my name, there I am among them", Ok God, you have a family of 6 and I don't know how many friends all praying together, lets see some results here, some positive friggin results!!
So I ask you, whatever God you may pray to, please please please, keep Newell and his family at the forefront of those prayers.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Someday Skinny..................Wow!!!
I typically don't post emails that are sent to me, but this one was a little special. One reason being that Someday Skinny was extremely thankful for the challenge, but mostly because they shared something that was very personal and private with me (and have now given me permission to share with everyone else).
Back when I received the first email, it just made me day to read it. Do you remember you first little one? Or just finding out that your family is about to add one more little one to the brood? I loved the excitement of the email. The best part of all though is the video. Dad's response is priceless. I start laughing just thinking about it. Anyway, here's the first email, I hope you get as much joy out of it as I did.
Dear Pedaldork,
I'm sad to say (but also very excited!) that the day after my last weight was submitted, I found out I'm pregnant! I went to the doctor this week and found out it's official so I don't really see it as a wise decision to continue to try to lose weight at this point :).
I'm extremely disappointed that I was SO close to my goal weight of 130 and will have to cut that short with only 3 lbs. to go and that the month is almost over! I feel like I could've done it within a few more weeks.
I am VERY excited to have a little one on the way though, and also very excited that I'm starting this pregnancy weighing almost 30 lbs. less than I did when I got pregnant with my first child. I'm also on a roll with good eating habits and hope to incorporate that into this pregnancy to hopefully have a healthy weight throughout the pregnancy.
Thank you so much for putting together this challenge! I've been trying to reach these weight loss goals for almost 5 years and something about this challenge gave me the motivation to finally do it! I really appreciate all your encouragement and everything you've done to keep it going and keep me motivated! I can't tell you how much just losing this weight has boosted my confidence and changed so many aspects of my life!
I'm due in November, so maybe if you do the challenge again next year, I'll have the baby weight to lose and a shot at winning!
Thanks again!!
Here's the best part: Best Reaction Ever
Make sure you listen to all of what dad says. OMG it's hilarious. Remember that shocked scared feeling?? :)
A few day's ago, I got a second email from Ashley. Oh and by the way, Ashley, thanks so much for sharing all this.
Ashley sent over some before and after pics that are just ossm!!!! I hope it inspires everyone else as much as it has me. What an amazing change. And to all you other moms out there: To be willing to gain all that weight during pregnancy, lose it, then gain it again....all for the sake of being a mom and raising a family.................you are nuts!!:) No but really, thanks for being so selfless and unselfish. (do those words mean the same thing:) ) You know what I was trying to say.
So here's the befores and afters:
Back when I received the first email, it just made me day to read it. Do you remember you first little one? Or just finding out that your family is about to add one more little one to the brood? I loved the excitement of the email. The best part of all though is the video. Dad's response is priceless. I start laughing just thinking about it. Anyway, here's the first email, I hope you get as much joy out of it as I did.
Dear Pedaldork,
I'm sad to say (but also very excited!) that the day after my last weight was submitted, I found out I'm pregnant! I went to the doctor this week and found out it's official so I don't really see it as a wise decision to continue to try to lose weight at this point :).
I'm extremely disappointed that I was SO close to my goal weight of 130 and will have to cut that short with only 3 lbs. to go and that the month is almost over! I feel like I could've done it within a few more weeks.
I am VERY excited to have a little one on the way though, and also very excited that I'm starting this pregnancy weighing almost 30 lbs. less than I did when I got pregnant with my first child. I'm also on a roll with good eating habits and hope to incorporate that into this pregnancy to hopefully have a healthy weight throughout the pregnancy.
Thank you so much for putting together this challenge! I've been trying to reach these weight loss goals for almost 5 years and something about this challenge gave me the motivation to finally do it! I really appreciate all your encouragement and everything you've done to keep it going and keep me motivated! I can't tell you how much just losing this weight has boosted my confidence and changed so many aspects of my life!
I'm due in November, so maybe if you do the challenge again next year, I'll have the baby weight to lose and a shot at winning!
Thanks again!!
Here's the best part: Best Reaction Ever
Make sure you listen to all of what dad says. OMG it's hilarious. Remember that shocked scared feeling?? :)
A few day's ago, I got a second email from Ashley. Oh and by the way, Ashley, thanks so much for sharing all this.
Ashley sent over some before and after pics that are just ossm!!!! I hope it inspires everyone else as much as it has me. What an amazing change. And to all you other moms out there: To be willing to gain all that weight during pregnancy, lose it, then gain it again....all for the sake of being a mom and raising a family.................you are nuts!!:) No but really, thanks for being so selfless and unselfish. (do those words mean the same thing:) ) You know what I was trying to say.
So here's the befores and afters:
Check out her little tiny arms:) Love it!!!
Awesome Job Someday Skinny!!!!! Just Outstanding!!!
Top 3 Finishers......Send me your address!!!
Ok ya'll. Here's the top 3 finishers in the challenge:
1st: WannaBe
2nd: Someday Skinny
3rd: Thunderthighs
Team Finals:
1st: Hungry Hippos
2nd: Wii Not Fit
3rd: Phat Mama's
So I need each one of you to email me your mailing addresses. I've already got Someday's and Thunderthighs but still need Wanna Be's.
Also each team needs to designate someone for me to send the prizes to.
Hippo's what are you waiting for? You guy's have $400.00 waiting for you.
The Wii's...I'm assuming Mrs. Poo is the boss:). Dana, send me your address. Oh oops:) I have yours. I'll drop off your winnings.
Yo!! Phat Mama's!!!! Wake up!! Native Texan or Jamaica N July send me an email with your address.
Awesome job to everyone.
1st: WannaBe
2nd: Someday Skinny
3rd: Thunderthighs
Team Finals:
1st: Hungry Hippos
2nd: Wii Not Fit
3rd: Phat Mama's
So I need each one of you to email me your mailing addresses. I've already got Someday's and Thunderthighs but still need Wanna Be's.
Also each team needs to designate someone for me to send the prizes to.
Hippo's what are you waiting for? You guy's have $400.00 waiting for you.
The Wii's...I'm assuming Mrs. Poo is the boss:). Dana, send me your address. Oh oops:) I have yours. I'll drop off your winnings.
Yo!! Phat Mama's!!!! Wake up!! Native Texan or Jamaica N July send me an email with your address.
Awesome job to everyone.
Monday, April 2, 2012
It's been fun
It's getting late, but I just wanted to take a second to thank everyone for all the emails. Most of you have mentioned how much the challenge either helped you or your families. Know that your emails and comments have helped me just as much.
Regarding the weight issue, I've never been super overweight, but at 188 I was the heaviest I have ever been. I look back (even recently) at pictures and I can't believe how chubby my cheeks looked. What's even more disturbing was nobody really ever said anything. I know nobody wants to be rude or hurt feelings, but sometimes honesty is good medicine. Even if you know it yourself, it's sometimes pretty motivating to hear it from others. I also learned how difficult dieting can be. We are overwhelmed daily with good food. It's all crappy food, but it sure tastes good. There was a point in the challenge that I was so frustrated with having such little success. I learned then that it is not a daily challenge, but a lifetime committment. Eating good is not easy. Hmmm pizza or a salad. You know what's right, but your head wants to yummy crappy stuff. I hope you all will continue to do well with healthier eating. It is so worth it. Bound 2 B Healthy, awesome job. I don't know how much of a struggle it was for you but you put up some impressive numbers. Someday Skinny, I still look back and read your email. So much luck with your pregnancy and I'll see you next January:) . Dana, your team/family as well as the Hippos.....you guys made it fun. Hope the summer is just as rewarding for all of you. Thunderthighs,,,,you never fail to crack me up. Super proud of your progress. Keep it up. And of course Wanna Be. Wow!!! Your numbers were beyond great. Good job and keep it up.
So regarding the prizes. If your one of the top 3, send me an email with your mailing address. I'll get your prizes out asap. mail@alphaoxymed.com
Hope you all will continue checking in with my boring ass blog. I'll do what I can to keep it entertaining.
For now,,,,,I've got a ton of work to do and it's already 10pm. Hope you all have a great Tuesday. Good night for now.
Regarding the weight issue, I've never been super overweight, but at 188 I was the heaviest I have ever been. I look back (even recently) at pictures and I can't believe how chubby my cheeks looked. What's even more disturbing was nobody really ever said anything. I know nobody wants to be rude or hurt feelings, but sometimes honesty is good medicine. Even if you know it yourself, it's sometimes pretty motivating to hear it from others. I also learned how difficult dieting can be. We are overwhelmed daily with good food. It's all crappy food, but it sure tastes good. There was a point in the challenge that I was so frustrated with having such little success. I learned then that it is not a daily challenge, but a lifetime committment. Eating good is not easy. Hmmm pizza or a salad. You know what's right, but your head wants to yummy crappy stuff. I hope you all will continue to do well with healthier eating. It is so worth it. Bound 2 B Healthy, awesome job. I don't know how much of a struggle it was for you but you put up some impressive numbers. Someday Skinny, I still look back and read your email. So much luck with your pregnancy and I'll see you next January:) . Dana, your team/family as well as the Hippos.....you guys made it fun. Hope the summer is just as rewarding for all of you. Thunderthighs,,,,you never fail to crack me up. Super proud of your progress. Keep it up. And of course Wanna Be. Wow!!! Your numbers were beyond great. Good job and keep it up.
So regarding the prizes. If your one of the top 3, send me an email with your mailing address. I'll get your prizes out asap. mail@alphaoxymed.com
Hope you all will continue checking in with my boring ass blog. I'll do what I can to keep it entertaining.
For now,,,,,I've got a ton of work to do and it's already 10pm. Hope you all have a great Tuesday. Good night for now.
Times Up!
Time is up folks. I'll post the winners later. Remember, Teams are scored by taking the avg of their entire team. Members of teams are not part of the individual challenge. So you are either part of a team or an individual........not both.
Winning Teams will have to let me know who the leader of the team is. I'll then need your address to send you the prize. It will be up to the team leader to divvy out the prize:)
Here's the prize list for this year.
1st Place: $400.00
2nd Place: $250.00
3rd Place: $100.00
This is for both team competitors and individual competitors. I may throw a little more out there as far as prizes, but will have to see what I can afford:). I have to eat ya know.
Honestly though, everybody did an awesome job. By far the best of any challenge we've had.
Well I'm off to the gym. Will post the Biggest Losers later. I'm gonna seperate the list though into Teams and Individuals.
Winning Teams will have to let me know who the leader of the team is. I'll then need your address to send you the prize. It will be up to the team leader to divvy out the prize:)
Here's the prize list for this year.
1st Place: $400.00
2nd Place: $250.00
3rd Place: $100.00
This is for both team competitors and individual competitors. I may throw a little more out there as far as prizes, but will have to see what I can afford:). I have to eat ya know.
Honestly though, everybody did an awesome job. By far the best of any challenge we've had.
Well I'm off to the gym. Will post the Biggest Losers later. I'm gonna seperate the list though into Teams and Individuals.
Beautiful Morning
Had a very good, but a very cold ride this morning. When I left my house, the computer said it was 30 degrees with a 26 degree windchill. As I headed up to Pinetop, the initial chill on my frozen face finally gave in to a little warmth, but there was going to be no sweating this morning.
Being the Monday after Spring Break, I expected a lot more traffic, but instead it seemed to be a very peaceful and quiet morning. As I turned the corner near the movie theater and headed up past the school, the sun was starting to come up through the clouds that had were covering the eastern sky. It was a gorgeous site. You could see the individual rays spreading in a dozen different directions. It reminded me of the sun logo on CBS Sunday Morning.
Being the Monday after Spring Break, I expected a lot more traffic, but instead it seemed to be a very peaceful and quiet morning. As I turned the corner near the movie theater and headed up past the school, the sun was starting to come up through the clouds that had were covering the eastern sky. It was a gorgeous site. You could see the individual rays spreading in a dozen different directions. It reminded me of the sun logo on CBS Sunday Morning.
Of course it was missing the facial features, but the rays were so defined. Arriving up near Hondah, it seemed to be getting colder rather than warmer. Little did I know, I had a tail wind going up. As soon as I turned to head back down, the cold wind sent an instant chill through every part of clothing I had. My warm face was once again frozen and I had 10 miles to go. Needing to get home and showered to get the boys to school and already running late, I had no choice but to pedal hard and fast to get home. This made it warmer, but the darn wind was miserable. No matter how hard I pedaled, it felt like I was in slow motion. Finally, though turning down the road to my house, I was happy I went. There is no better way to start the day. Your head feels so much clearer, youre much more postive and motivated to face the day. Even the cold doesn't take away the feeling you get after such a great ride. It just adds to moment.
So, it looks like we have about 3 hours till the end of the challenge. I've yet to look at the current standings, but some of you are very close to each other. One sock on the scale could mean the difference between placing and not placing.
More importantly though is how well people did. This is by far the best turn out we've had and by far the longest that people have stayed motivated and involved. I hope all of you stick with the better lifestyle. Even more important than the weight loss is the effects on your health. Lower cholesterol, normal blood sugars, lower blood pressure, etc,,,, you feel so much better both physically and emotionally when youre eating better. Keep up with the exercise, its good for the soul.
Anyway, I will post the winners this afternoon. Hope you all are having a super day.
Later!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Coaching your own kids.
Time is almost up!!!! Hope you guys are all starving yourselves:) I've only made it down to 172 pounds, a bit shy of my 165 goal, but far better than the chubby 188 that I started with. I'm anxious to see what sandbaggers wait till the last minute to post. I'll post the winners tomorrow evening.
Going for a chilly ride at 5 in the morning. I'm so ready for spring. If we could only have a spring without wind, it would be perfect.
Oh and AW reminded me that Friday was national cleavage day. Please tell me this isn't something our congress voted on. Though if they did, I bet the debate was a lot more interesting than any talk of budgets.
Little league season is upon us. Looks like Blue Ridge is getting a later start than everyone else. Things are a bit different for me this year. Ryan my oldest will be playing juniors while Coby my 9 year old still has one year left in minors (Blue Ridge doesn't allow 9 year olds to play majors). The difference between my two older boys is something that really hasn't been the easiest thing to deal with, at least from a dad's stand point. Ryan, likes to play ball, but that's about as far as he want to take it. He could care less about practicing or even playing in his spare time. He's got so much potential to be a really good player, but he just doesn't have the desire or the drive to do so. Originally this was hard for me. Growing up I lived to play baseball. It was all we did. The worst part of summer was when baseball season was over, but Ryan at least for now just doesn't have that love for the game.
Coby on the other hand is just like I was. The kid loves to play and as a dad, I get a kick out of watching him practice and play. Something I learned from Ryan though and I'm not sure I succeeded, is to keep it fun. I have coached both my boys for the entire time they have been playing. I think most dads would agree that when you coach your kid, you are usually hardest on your kid as well. It bugs me to think that Ryan may not enjoy playing as much because of his experience with me. I'm not sure if that's the case, but this year I'm letting him make his own decisions about playing plus it will be someone completely new that will be coaching him.
After tryouts on Saturday, Coby wanted to head over to another field to work on his pitching and his hitting. Who am I to say no to that? We spent almost another 2 hours throwing and hitting. It's so fun to watch him challenge himself to hit further or to throw more strikes. The only difference with Coby is that I'm allowing him to play however he wants. I'm not instructing him the entire time. He's only 9, and for now all I care about is that he enjoys being out there. This is where I went wrong with Ryan. Every session was a "practice session". This is no way to make the game fun. Kids will learn so much on their own (I found this out the hard way). Just by being out there throwing and catching, repetition is what makes a huge positive difference. It's going to be a fun summer with Coby. I only hope that Ryan renews his love for the game. If not, that is ok too. I'm proud of the young man he is becoming and will support him in whatever he chooses to do.
Almost time to hit the sack. Gotta get up early. Gotta Ride, Gotta Work.
Good night.
Going for a chilly ride at 5 in the morning. I'm so ready for spring. If we could only have a spring without wind, it would be perfect.
Oh and AW reminded me that Friday was national cleavage day. Please tell me this isn't something our congress voted on. Though if they did, I bet the debate was a lot more interesting than any talk of budgets.
Little league season is upon us. Looks like Blue Ridge is getting a later start than everyone else. Things are a bit different for me this year. Ryan my oldest will be playing juniors while Coby my 9 year old still has one year left in minors (Blue Ridge doesn't allow 9 year olds to play majors). The difference between my two older boys is something that really hasn't been the easiest thing to deal with, at least from a dad's stand point. Ryan, likes to play ball, but that's about as far as he want to take it. He could care less about practicing or even playing in his spare time. He's got so much potential to be a really good player, but he just doesn't have the desire or the drive to do so. Originally this was hard for me. Growing up I lived to play baseball. It was all we did. The worst part of summer was when baseball season was over, but Ryan at least for now just doesn't have that love for the game.
Coby on the other hand is just like I was. The kid loves to play and as a dad, I get a kick out of watching him practice and play. Something I learned from Ryan though and I'm not sure I succeeded, is to keep it fun. I have coached both my boys for the entire time they have been playing. I think most dads would agree that when you coach your kid, you are usually hardest on your kid as well. It bugs me to think that Ryan may not enjoy playing as much because of his experience with me. I'm not sure if that's the case, but this year I'm letting him make his own decisions about playing plus it will be someone completely new that will be coaching him.
After tryouts on Saturday, Coby wanted to head over to another field to work on his pitching and his hitting. Who am I to say no to that? We spent almost another 2 hours throwing and hitting. It's so fun to watch him challenge himself to hit further or to throw more strikes. The only difference with Coby is that I'm allowing him to play however he wants. I'm not instructing him the entire time. He's only 9, and for now all I care about is that he enjoys being out there. This is where I went wrong with Ryan. Every session was a "practice session". This is no way to make the game fun. Kids will learn so much on their own (I found this out the hard way). Just by being out there throwing and catching, repetition is what makes a huge positive difference. It's going to be a fun summer with Coby. I only hope that Ryan renews his love for the game. If not, that is ok too. I'm proud of the young man he is becoming and will support him in whatever he chooses to do.
Almost time to hit the sack. Gotta get up early. Gotta Ride, Gotta Work.
Good night.
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