SWP Weight Loss Story

Ok this was sort of weird.  This video was actually sent to my inbox by You Tube.  I'm sure it's because I watch all of the Sidewalk Prophets videos, but this one is not about music, but rather about weight loss.  Please take a moment to watch.  Click here to watch the video.  If you're short on time, fast forward to about 7 minutes. This one almost brought tears (but you gotta watch the whole thing). 

Do Something

How many of you have seen the homeless girl that rides (or pushes) her bike around town?  The one that I believe has a little black dog with her.  Have you seen her?  Have you ever stopped to talk to her?  How about offer her something?    I haven't. 

It bugs me that I haven't even attempted to offer her anything.  I think about it every time I see her, but in this case, "it's the thought that counts"  just doesn't cut it.   Do you ever wonder if God puts these people in front of us to see what we will do?   Do we step up and do something, or do we just go about our happy and content lives?  I'm guessing for the most of us it's the latter. 

I read the news on my phone every morning (I know, it's pathetic).  I read Fox, I read NBC, I even read the Wall Street Journal if I can find the time.  Lately though, I can barely even force myself to read any of them.  I'm so tired of all the bad news.  All the shootings, all the politics, the hate, the anger, it's almost an epidemic of sorts.   Then after complaining about it to someone or anyone who will listen, I can't help but ask myself, "what are you doing to change it?"    For the most part, absolutely nothing.   I try to smile and I try to makes those around me smile, but that's about it.  I pray alot and I mean a whole LOT!!  But is this enough?  I don't think so. 

I think I mentioned this last month, but after the Sandy Hook shootings, our pastor said something that really made me think.  If you're like me, you asked or wondered, where was God when all this was taking place?   The one big responsibility that God has given us is that of free will.  We're free to screw up, we're free to try and follow in Christs steps, we're free to believe in whatever we want to believe in, and we're even free to deny that there even is a God.  The question isn't where was God, the question is where were YOU? 

There's a song by Matthew West that really describes what is expected of us.  Here's the story behind the song "Do Something".    Or you can click here to listen to the song.

We all bitch and complain (and I'm guilty big time) about everything going around us, yet what do we do to change it?   We all want a better world, we all want peace, we all want happiness, yet I think we all get stuck in our own little lives so much that we forget about everything that's going on around us.   Do we fear stepping out of our comfort zone?   Do we fear what others may think?   Do we fear the outcome?   We live in an unbelievably selfish world.   As Americans we are so blessed yet we still always seem to want more.  What the heck!!!!!!  Gonna get on my soap box for a second.    Remember when the economy was great?   During that time, at least around here, everyone one had toy haulers, every one had quads,  people were buying houses, toys, cars like they were going out of style.  Then whammo, the economy tanks.    We give a whole new meaning to "keeping up with the Jones".   Why do we do it?  Because we think "I worked hard, I deserve it!"     Uh I don't think so.   I know lots of people that work their butts off, but barely have a pot to pee in.  Don't they deserve luxuries too?   Wanna know something, we are all blessed with a lot, but we are also expected to something positive with what we are given.   I do believe that if we fail to do something with our gifts, they will be taken away.   I believe that I have been blessed with an amazing company.  An amazing chance to make a difference in the lives of so many.   Sure I would love to one day have a Ferrari in my drive way, but I just don't think that's in the plan (unless one of you  friendly souls buys it for me:) ).  We are all give far greater responsibilities then just ourselves.  We are all given just one human experience to make a huge difference, shouldn't we all make the most of it? 

I guess what I'm saying is that instead of a take take take mentality, shouldn't we focus on more of a give give give mentality?   Do we really need all the "stuff" that we have?   Only in America could the storage unit business be so successful.  We have so much crap that we need to rent storage units to put it all in.  I'm guilty of that very thing (though we're working on changing that, anyone what a brand new Sleigh Bed (I think it's a queen, email me and it's yours).   How many of you use your garages for your cars:) ?   Or is it full of stuff? 

Ok I'm getting way off track.  The point I'm trying to make is, quit complaining and talking and start doing.  Help someone in need, pay it forward!   Expect nothing in return and tell nobody about it.  Give something away.  Give your time (this is something I really need to work on).    The blessings will be returned ten fold.  I have no doubt of that. 

I'm on call tonight, so I best call it a night.  Hope you all have super day tomorrow.  It's Friday!!!  

My wife asked me tonight, "who's in the Super Bowl" and ya know what, I had no clue!!!   What kind of guy has no idea who is in the Super Bowl?   I honestly haven't watched one game this year.  I can tell you though who is fighting this Saturday Night on pay per view:)  . 

Jump some rope

I think I've posted this before, but if you like jumping rope, try this:  Gotta love the music:)  Reminds me of the music from "Breakin".  Love those 80's!! :)

Motivational Video

I'm sure most of you are not boxing fans, but I love this video.  Just for a second, look past the brutality of the sport and notice the art, notice the work, notice the focus and intensity.  Look at the speed in which they can move their hands, their skills with a jump rope.  My dad watched boxing every dang Thursday night when I was a kid and I couldn't stand it.  Now I look at it in a totally different light.   These guys work their butts off.  Just take a moment and watch and listen (the music is good).   It sounds crazy, but just watch their hands.  It's incredible. 

Need a little sleep.

I am beyond tired this evening.  I'm not on call very often, but last night was my night.  I had been told that Whiteriver ER was busy so I was prepared to be called at anytime.  Going to bed, I had laid out all my clothes, even had my coffee cup ready.  As expected, at 1am the phone rings.  Only it wasn't Whiteriver, it was Summit.   I live less then two miles from Summit so you would think this would be a quick set up.  Well it would be had I driven a work vehicle home, but nooooo I drove my truck home.   So because I wasn't thinking, I now had to drive up to the office, load my truck with tanks and a concentrator, then drive back to the hospital.  All of this at 1:00 in the morning.   It's our policy to always try and be at the hospital within 30 minutes of the phone call.  I was close, but didn't quite make it.  I think it took me 40 minutes.  Fortunately the patient and his wife were both asleep,  plus he still had his IV in so they weren't necessarily waiting on me.  They were such a nice family.  Had a great time talking and getting to know them.  Kudos to the ER doc as well.  Very personable, both with me and the patient. 

I mentioned getting my butt kicked yesterday...........well the bruises started showing up last night.  A bruised nose (even after wearing headgear), and bruises on each side of my forehead.  I'm actually amazed at how sore my nose is.   Needless to say, I was super frustrated after yesterdays workout.  I just felt like I couldn't do anything right.  It does motivate me though to work harder and I have to give it to Jay, even after beating the heck out of me, after were done, he broke things down and went over all the things I need to work on.  Right now, speed and follow through seem to be my biggest issue.  I'm old and slow so I've got lots of work to do.  I really have no goals to speak of except to improve.  I told Jay today that my goal is to beat him by the time he is 70 years old:) .   Get this, the guy is 51 years old and he bench presses 300 pounds!!  He's no runt. 

I decided yesterday to take some online classes.  I'll be working on my Elite Training Certificate.  This will include a personal training certificate (at the moment this doesn't really appeal to me), a sports nutrition certificate and a rehab training certificate.  I decided to this mostly because of where I want to take the company.  As I said before, I want to do more then just deliver wheelchairs, set up oxygen, or anything of the sort.  I really want the company to focus on helping people improve their lives.  If I can be a bigger part of that, then by all means that's the role I want to play.   I've reviewed some of the material already and I'm hoping it's not going to be too difficult.  My degree is in biology with an emphasis in human physiology so most of the info should be a review for me at least I hope so.  As I move forward with the studies, I'll keep you informed as to my progress.

I weighed in at 175 pounds today.  I feel really good (except for being tired) and I'm looking forward to seeing 170 real soon.   I haven't been struggling at all  with the diet.   Typically FAGE yogurt for breakfast, a grilled chicken breast for lunch and this week has been either a porkchop or salad for dinner.  Maybe a handful of my sons M&M's for a snack:) .   Other than that, I haven't really strayed too far.   Hoping to get some good sleep tonight then start again fresh tomorrow. 

Well I'm pooped out, so I'm going to call it a night.  Sorry for the boring post, but it's all I've got tonight. 

Some changes going on!!!!

Hey, we set a record this month.  Almost 1400 hundred people have taken a peek at the blog so far this month.  I realize that's not much compared to lots of other blogs, but for this small town blog, that's pretty darn good.  Thanks to all of you who apparently have nothing better to do then to read this boring darn thing. :)

Well, we started fighting again last Friday.  Jay hurt his knee in October so it's been that long since we've really did any sparring.  I knew I would be out of shape, but holy cow, it was on the edge of pathetic.  Thankfully we were both struggling for air, otherwise I would have been pounded on. Our first day back on the mats went very well.   No blood, no black eyes, and really not very sore the next day. 

Today..........well today was a completely different story.  I know no better way to put it then I had my ass handed to me today.  By the time we were finished, I felt like a human punching bag.   We had headgear on, but even with the protection, my face is pretty sore this evening.   My only excuse is that before we started, I worked my chest and triceps so I was a bit tired from that, but really I have no excuse for not getting my face out of the way.  I think I may have landed one punch for every 10 that Jay landed.  Had anyone been watching, they would have thrown in the towel, it was that bad. 

Then came the ground game.  I enjoy the grappling (wrestling) much more than the boxing, but today, I couldn't even get a shot in, yet Jay seemed to land  plenty.  I had to tap out 3 times where as Jay only tapped out once.  Today just really sucked as far as fighting is concerned.   I would love to use the age excuse, but Jay is 10 years my senior so I can't even go there. 

I've been doing great with my diet, but haven't weighed in yet.  I'm going to stay on track and hope for a great weigh in on Wednesday.   I'm blown away by the numbers some of you have sent in.  Slow and steady is what it's all about.  It's getting past that "stagnant" period that is really important.  Just stick with it and don't get frustrated. 

Aerobic, Aerobic, Aerobic!!!  If you want to see continued success, you have to got to find some sort of program where you can keep your heart rate up (at least 70% of max) for at least 30 minutes.  Need a heart rate monitor?  I've got one left.  First one of you to send me your weight loss goals and how you plan to reach them will win the last monitor. Email me at mail@alphaoxymed.com. 

So, we've got some changes going on at Alpha Oxy-Med.  From customer service, to marketing, to our long term goals, we have got our work cut out for us, but I have no doubts we're going to help a lot people.  First is our customer service.  Our competitors have call centers that call their patients.  Basically, someone super far away who really doesn't know anything about the patient, calls to see if they need anything.  Our goal is to build relationships with our patients.  Relationships that will allow us to get to know our patients on a much more personal level. I think this will give us the opportunity to really make a difference in the way we care for and treat our patients.   We have a program that allows anyone on our staff to spend up to $25.00 each month, however they may choose as long as it's connected to either helping a patient or building those relationships.  This may involve bringing them lunch, paying a light bill, whatever they may choose.  

We have managed to stay caught up with our work while utilizing only 2 delivery drivers.  This too is changing.  In an effort to allow our drivers to spend more time with their patients, we have just recently added a 3rd driver.   Our goal is to never have a patient have to call us for supplies.  It is up to our drivers to be sure each and every patient on their route is taken care of.   We call them before they call us.  Also, unlike our competitors who travel outside our local area only a few times a month, we are in each service area at least once a week. This means patients only need to keep a weeks worth of tanks in their homes instead of having to make room for a months worth. 

As far as marketing is concerned, as some of you have noticed already, I hope to make more appearances at your offices (I promise not to take much of your time).   I'll be doing my best this year to establish relationships with each and every doctors office and clinic.  I truly believe that with your help and if we can all work together, we can really make a difference in the lives of our patients. 

The biggest change though and the one I'm most excited about, is were going to add a wellness program to our plans of care for our patients.  Again, this is going to be contrary to the way things are usually done.  Our competitors have "quota's"  they try to meet every month.   We're going to take a totally different approach.   We're going to try and get our patients healthy and off of our services.  We are currently in the process of adding a wellness program to the care we give our patients.  Instead of  meeting quotas, we're going to try and make it possible for our patients to improve their health.  Our major goal will be to get them off of the therapy they are receiving  (ie, oxygen, cpap, bipap), but if this isn't possible, our goal will be to minimize whatever therapy they are receiving.   We've already started working with a few doctors on this and I'm excited to get more involved.  We will be utilizing nutritionist and wellness trainers as part of this program.  This is something I've always wanted to do, but never really took the initiative.   I believe we have been blessed with the opportunity to help a lot of people and I'm looking forward to helping our patients improve their lives.  Our focus will be on treating the entire patient, not only their diagnosis. 

That's our changes in a nutshell.  I'll keep you all up to date as to our progress.  Looking forward to it.

Ok I think it's time to go help with homework and dishes.  Hope you all have a great evening.

Cherish the time

Do you remember when your oldest child was your only child? How scared you were when you realized you had no formal instruction on how to raise a child. Do you remember that feeling of love and warmth when he/she would fall asleep in your arms and the peace/joy you felt when nobody else was around?

Then your second child came. Maybe he/she was the complete opposite of your first. You knew you would make less mistakes because you made them all with your first one. As your older child became more independent, you were able to focus more time on your youngest.

Then comes child 3 and/or 4. These are a piece of cake because 1 and 2 have made you a pro. You're not as strict on 3 and 4 because you have realized that some things just aren't worth the hassle. Maybe they are easier to raise or maybe they are the tyrants, either way, the family is complete. Now you just hope and pray that you can raise them to be smart and responsible young adults.

As I sit hear and I hear my oldest drag his body to the shower, I realize that one day soon, he will be graduating and hopefully off to some source of higher education. Then the others will follow. Before long, my wife and I will be wondering where all that time went.

My point is, teenager or not, little kid or not.....cherish the time you have. When you look at your oldest, don't forget that little child they once were. All that you have been through together. With each of your kids today, remember those times when they were so little and all you wanted to do was cuddle with them. Time passes people!! It passes us by before we know it. Hug those kids! Take time to talk to them. Even if you have no interest in what they want to talk about, listen! Whether they admit it or not, they want that relationship with you.

So as your teenagers are rushing out the door, remember not too long ago how little they were. Cherish the time you have together. Make the most of it. More importantly, MAKE THE TIME!!! It is something you will never regret.
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How many times do we convince ourselves that "we can't", when there are so many around us that are telling us that "WE CAN".

Love this

Just got this emaiI:

I recently heard a sermon on the radio where the pastor was speaking about the power of the spoken word. Much of his reference was toward the spoken word in prayer, but this can be applied to many areas of our lives, its one thing to think to ourselves we can do something. But to look in the mirror and speak it out loud has much more effect. Motivational speakers are capitalizing on this concept as well. I decided to try it for myself, and although I admit it felt sorta wierd talking out loud to myself (I made sure no one could hear me, ha ha) it defintely has more of an impact, the words come to life and have meaning... I wanted to share this because if it can help myself and others push through the tough times. Proverbs 18:21 says, "The power of life and death are in the tongue."
I recently started going to CrossFit Timber Mesa, the staff are so helpful and inviting... its like having a personal trainer every day I go. I learned the hard way that if I do an exercise too fast, I'll have to do double . But having that person there, knowing if I cheated or not, really motivates me to give the 100% for the workout, and the accomplished feeling I get afterwards is enourmous!!! So, advice to everyone out there who's struggling to keep up with their goals, think about this..... Anything that you are willing to accept, you will never change. It's time to get rid of the excuses (because excuses are like.....), and finish this challenge strong!!!

cantw82bskinny

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For you husbands out there.

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her.". Eph 5:25

A good friend once referred me to this quote then said "now go put some skin on it"

If you read that scripture then really put you heart into it, it's a huge responsibility. I can promise you though,that if you follow this scripture and give your wife your heart and your mind (aka, your ears and your time) it will change your marriage immensely.

In describing the word love, I read this today "Love is a selfless and enduring commitment of the will to care about and benefit another person by righteous, truthful, and compassionate thoughts, words, and actions"

Just ask my wife, I am a major work in progress, but when I focus on (and follow through) what I wrote above, my entire day is better. Things are better when I get home after work. My wife and I used to say that a marriage was one big circle, sort of like, "I scratch your back and you scratch mine", but it's NOT. It's not at all.

It may be a one way street somedays! It's not your responsibility to judge, pout, be pissed off, whatever. It's your job to take the high road, no matter how difficult, you are to show love with all you've got. There are no conditions when loving someone. You either do or you don't. And if you do, SHOW IT! SAY IT!!! Love is an action word. It's more than just thoughts and words, you have got to show it!

Men, it's lifechanging! Step out of your "I'm the provider of this household, it's all I should have to do" box and start showing your wife how much you love and care for her. Sacrifice some of your time for her. Dude, I promise promise promise, that if not immediately, in due time it will change you!!!
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Excuses

I posted this a few years ago, but it's still one of the best videos out there.


 

Excellence

We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.

                  -Aristotle

Self Esteem

Well Sizzlean is the first to break the 6% mark.  Someday Skinny is right on his tail.  I'm so impressed with the numbers that people have hit already.   Scale Crusher did the PF Chang 1/2 marathon this past weekend but I haven't heard any updates yet. 

I got my first road ride for 2013 in today.  I think we only did about 9 miles, but it sure was good to get outside.  From the looks of the forecast though, I 'll be riding indoors again for the rest of the week. 

We just signed on once again to be the title sponsor of the 2013 Bike the Bluff bicycle race.  It would be so cool to get more locals signed up this year.  It's grown every year, but that's mostly because of all the riders that come from out of town.  Other than writing the check for the sponsorship, Alpha Oxy-Med really doesn't play much of a role in organizing the race, but this year I'm going to focus on getting more local riders involved.  Anybody want a free entry?  Let me know and AOM will take care it.  They have two citizen classes; one that is 62 miles and a shorter one of 22 miles.  Get involved, get your entire family out there.  It's a lot of fun and who knows, you may get hooked. 

So how the heck is everyone doing with their diets?  Are you kicking some butt?  Are you struggling?   In all honesty, if there is something I can do to help you reach your goals, please do not hesitate to email me.  I really want to see everyone succeed, so  please keep me informed as to your progress. 

Something has been on my mind lately; let's say I was to giveaway 10 gym memberships.......how many of you would actually take me up on the offer?   I'm thinking there are some major self esteem issues out there.   Let's say your 30-40 lbs over weight, do you fear going to the gym?  Does the thought of running next to the skinny chick on the treadmill bug you or even keep you from getting on the treadmill?    If this is you.....and pardon the choice of words, but you have got to say "screw the world!!".   Who cares what anybody else thinks?   And now I need to get a little religious on you.   NOBODY else matters but YOU!!!!  This may sound a little cheesy, but you have to realize that in God's eyes, it doesn't matter what you look like in those sweat pants, how your butt jiggles on the treadmill, you cannot let that keep you from reaching your goals.  And again honestly, who gives a crap what anyone else thinks.  Who is showing more guts by going to the gym?  The muscle bound guy that can bench 500lbs or the little runt that is doing all he can to get stronger?   The 18 year old skinny chick or the 40 year old mom of 3 who works 40 hours a week?    Keep those long term goals in your mind.  Once you reach your goals, then those people will really be talking about you.  "Wow, she looks great now!", "holy cow she has lost a ton of weight!"    Please Please Please do not shy away from your goals because of a self esteem issue.  It's your life, it's your body,  it's all you!!!  If you are 30-40lbs over and you have kids at home, well it's a no brainer!!!  You have got to get healthy!!!   It's not fair to you and it's surely not fair to your kids.    Stick with the program.  Like I said, if you are struggling, please do not hesitate to email me.  I will do all I can to help.  mail@alphaoxymed.com 

Well my eyes are getting heavy so I'm going to call it a night. Nighty night!!!  Start tomorrow strong!!!!   If you pray, pray for the strength to stick with your diet, to keep striving for those goals.   Stay strong!! Pray Hard!!!   Work out even harder!!!  Dig Deep!!!  Anything worth doing is rarely easy!

Getting Old!!

I think I'm going to try and get a bike ride in today. It's supposed to reach 60 degrees so I'm going to make the most of it.

My wife and I went to the gym after work yesterday and afterwards I asked her "do you ever feel really old while working out?". Christy has genetics on her side so most things seem to be a little easier on her then they do on me (as least that's my excuse). She can run 4-5 miles not hurt either during or after the workout, me on the other hand, I wouldn't be able to walk for days. Last night I did a half hour on the spinning bike then did a small workout on the bags (push ups, crunches, jumprope, bagwork, then repeat). I was only 15 minutes into the bag workout and dang, I was exhausted. My back hurt, my legs hurt, ugh it was just frustrating.

I've mentioned this in the past, but it's an honest fear; I fear getting old. It scares the crap out of me. When I was looking at those pictures from the day I drove the racecar, all I could think of was "I look more and more like my "older" uncles everyday. I look like an old chubby turtle. It honestly bugs the heck out me. Years ago, I was a teacher for a couple of years before opening up AOM. Last night at the gym, 6 of the young guys that were there were my ex students!!

Like many of you (I really hope I'm not alone) I wonder what the heck is the secret to youth. There's got to be a way (short of surgery) to feel and look younger (now I sound like a mabeline commercial). Remember the days when you could go out, run, jump, and play and not feel a thing? Is it possible to get that back? I'd like to think it is at least partially possible. I refuse to think otherwise, because if I do then I'm giving in to getting old and I just can't go there. I've got the rest of my life to feel old and right now that is a feeling that I really want to put off.

Anyway, those are my thoughts for this morning. I'm fighting "old"!! and I don't want to lose!! Funny thing is, as I write this, my back is killing me:).

Have a super day. I'm going to go take my Geritol and warm up my walker. :).

See you all later!!!! I'll let you know how the bike ride goes (if I can find my cycling shoes).
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Mydietitian.com

I'm hoping everyone is doing well with their diets.  In years past, I've noticed that once people lose their initial 5-6 lbs the weight loss seems to slow down, frustration starts to grown, then people just give up.  Don't let that happen!!!!  You have to refuse to quit!!!  Stay focused on your long term goals. 

I called  a friend of mine the other day who is a nutritionist at ASU.   I wanted to know if he would offer up some of his services for the weight loss challenge.  He's super busy (he has 3 other jobs) so I didn't expect much. 

We spoke a little about dieting, the struggles, the successes, and he said, "wouldn't you be more likely to watch what you eat if you wrote down everything that you ate each day, even better, wouldn't you be even more careful if you wrote down what you ate and you shared it with someone?  Go one step further, wouldn't you be more careful about what you ate if you wrote it down, shared it with someone, then that someone gave you feedback?" 

I'm thinking most people, if they were completely honest, would eat so much better if they recorded and reported everything they ate each day.   I soon found out that Rick (my good friend) just became part owner in this new start up business called mydietitian.com.    I can't believe someone hasn't thought of this sooner.  It's not free, but I'm sure for what most of us pay in coffee every month, you could manage to afford it.  I think it's an amazing program.  They have a variety of plans that will fit any budget.   Even better, they are going to give our Challengers a discount on the premium plan. The major difference with the premium plan is the amount of feedback you get from a dietitian.  With the premium plan, you get daily feedback and an evaluation at the end of each day.   If you are interested, shoot me an email and I'll email you back the code you need to use when you sign up for the program.  Instead of the 79.00 fee, you will get a month for 59.00.  Even better, if you have an android or I Phone, the entire program can be accessed with your phone. 

I can go even one better then that.   The first person to email me how many calories are in a gram of fat, a gram of carbohydrate, and a gram protein I'll give you a 3 month trial at mydietitian.com.  That's  a $180.00 deal!!! 

AOM is actually going to start offering this program to our patients.  We in the medical field are great at treating the problems, but how often do we try to eliminate or lessen the actual cause of the problems?   I realize from a business standpoint it's probably not a good idea, but it's the right idea.   Rather then making sure someone is using their oxygen or being compliant by using their CPAP/BiPAP, wouldn't it be great if we could get them off of these machines?  To give someone who has been on oxygen for years,  their freedom from all the tubes and machines that they have relied on for so many years....... what a great feeling that would be.  As health care providers shouldn't that be our long term goal?  

I'm also working on bringing in a wellness coach.  I may be thinking a little optimistically, but if we could get our patients on some sort of exercise plan, we could help them regain their health, improve their quality of life, and even possibly get them off of some of their medications.   Right now it's a work in progress, but it's something I  really hope to have in place by this Spring.   

Ok it's getting late and I'm not even close to being prepared for tomorrow.  You all have a super evening. 

Driving Nascar!!!!

This weekend I had the opportunity to do one of the funnest things I have ever done, drive a Nascar race car.  It was a Christmas gift from my wife and if you are ever wondering what you can get your hubby for Christmas.....oh my gosh it is the best experience ever.  Even better, I got to do it with my brother.

I had no idea what to expect, but the night before I was as nervous as I am for a bike race.  I slept very little and got up at the break of dawn.  Being that the first hour of the day was going to be in a classroom, my brother and I left the hotel first then our families met up with us later in the morning at the track.   The program is called the Rusty Wallace Driving Experience.  I believe its the only program of its kind where you not only get to drive alone in the car, but you are encouraged to pass cars in front of you. 

During the hour long class you are taught what to expect in the race car and how to stay safe on the track.  Top speed for us was going to be around 150mph.  Frigging fast!!!!!   Our instructor proceeded to tell us, "when you screw up here,  you leave in an ambulance",  needless to say we paid attention.  We learned the proper way to hit the corners and to maintain our lines in and out of each corner.   It was a ton of info in just one hour.  

After the class, there were a few of us that had paid to ride 3 laps with a pro before we drove the car ourselves.  I had no idea what to expect.  Now as a "rider" (not a driver), you're only buckled in  with a typical harness.  Meaning the rest of your appendages fly wherever they may go.  So when my turn was up, I climbed through the passenger side window, some guy buckled me in.....and Holy Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!! Once on Pit Road we went from 0 to 150 in like zero seconds.  The G forces are just incredible.  Whatever isn't buckled in is being pushed against the side of the car.  We hit a top speed of I think around 180!!   The first lap was a major rush.   .  It was like no rollercoaster I had ever ridden.  I could not believe how fast these cars were.  Unreal.   Now my brother, who has racing in his blood was even like "holy crap, can I really drive this thing?"

Once the ride along was finished, we waited for our turn to get in the cars we were gonna drive.   I'm a huge fan of the movie "Days of Thunder" and guess what............that's right, my car said "Cole  Trickle".   It was the real deal from the movie.  My brother ended up the 18 car right behind me (this is not good because when my brother is behind me, his only goal is to pass me). Ok, Ill never look as cool  and Tom Cruise did, but I sure felt it:).   

My brother was in the #18 Interstate Battery car.  (Is there a such thing as an ugly Nascar).

Once we get buckled in, and I mean buckled in.  It's not like being the "rider" in the ride a long cars, you are buckled in beyond belief,  Hans device and all.  Once you are buckled in you have very little movement and if you are claustrophobic you are truly starting to reconsider things at this point.......(one guy did and said "no way") 

The Hans Device keeps your head from snapping forward if/when you hit the wall like a torpedo.  Odds are Dale Earnhardt would still be alive had he been wearing one.  

Starting your engines...........OMG what rush!  You push in the clutch, turn  your fans on, and flip the switch.  It is the coolest sound ever.  Loud and awesome!!   We follow the pace car out (it's a pretty fast mini van:) ), by the time we are off of Pit Road we are in 4th gear.   The little mini van hits 90 mph like its nothing.    There are no mirrors so I have no idea what's going on behind me except that I know my brother is back there somewhere.   Every driver has ear pieces in so that we can hear our spotters.  We can hear all the chatter but we can't talk back.  I hear "Cmon #18 get up there, your sitting in another zip code".   This was my brothers number and I knew he was planning to slingshot past me once the pace car pulled off. 

After 3 laps behind the pace car  and completing our passing drills, the pace car pulls off and the race is on.  130 mph like it is nothing!!   My goal was to stay in front of my brother.................not happening.  My brother fears very little and crashing a race car isn't one of his fears.   By lap 4 I hear on the ear piece "be patient 18"  not a second later he passes me.............by lap 9 he laps me.  Remember, I'm doing at least 130, he was hitting the limiter (keeps the car from going too fast) at 155mph.    On this round we ended up doing 16 laps.  16 laps of the most fun I have ever had.   So much fun that once we were done, we paid for 16 more laps:).    I ended up in the Lowes 48 car and my brother ended up in the #20 Home Depot car.  Again he lapped me:)    

The day ended up being a family event.  Both our wives and our kids (those big enough) went on a ride along.   Each and everyone of them had a huge smile on their face as they climbed out of the car.  It is by far the most fun you will ever have on 4 wheels.   I'm sure it's different when you making a living at it, but dang, to get paid millions of dollars to have that much fun would rock!!!

They only come to Arizona a few times a year so it's not quite a chance of a lifetime, but it's close.  They will be back in March and I'm already trying to talk my brother and a few friends into doing it again.  Can't wait!!!!!

 Me trying to play Cole Trickle as I get in my first car.

 My brother and I after he kicked my butt on track. Doesn't he just look like a bad ass?

 Coming off of Pit Road in the Lowes 48 car.  Sorry Jimmy Johnson, I made you car look bad.

My brother in the Home Depot car.   The boy is fast!!

One more thing real quick.  While my brother and I were waiting for our first turn on the track,  there were 5 other drivers before us.   One was in the 21 car.  This car was flying.  I don't know how fast he was going, but we were all impressed as we watched this guy just fly into the corners with ease and look like a jet coming down the straight away.  When finished, we watched him pull into the pits, turn off the car and slowly climb out.   We were all blown away.  This guy had to be at least 65 years old.  Even had these "old man" loafers on with his racing suit.   He was sporting the biggest smile I have ever seen.  Pumping his fist in the air saying "damn now that was fun".    It was the best sight!   Had we all been on  the track at the same time, this older guy would have whooped  us all. 

So if you want to have a great time or get your husband the best gift ever, go to www.racewithrusty.com
No doubt you will have a blast.  Can't wait for March!!!

Pre Post:) Nascar Baby

Sorry not much of a post this morning.  Super busy at meetings that I'm not 100% prepared for.  Lots to share though so I'll try posting later.

This is how I spent my day yesterday:

Will write more about it later, but Wow!!!  It was the best time ever.  Ever go 180mph in a car?

Awesome Response

I'm thinking Solid was sitting right next to her computer when I posted the last challenge.  I gotta say though, her answer was very impressive. 

" Well...I would hope that I could stick to my beliefs and morals and not dope like the rest of my peers.  I would like to think that I listened to my parents, got a college degree, and THEN started competing professionally, that I had a life outside of competition to walk right into...but not possible really because of the whole commitment that competing takes.   But in this whole scenario, I am extremely type A, and can do it all!!!  I would like to believe that cheaters never win, and that the system to monitor cheaters prevails.  I would pray that divine guidance would show the way to victory by keeping my body clean and training hard and diligently.  If living that life of competition, with cheating all around me, it would be incredibly difficult to not be discouraged...and just plain disappointed in human beings...but it would bring out the fight in me.  Lead by example, be supported by sponsors who believe in clean competition and not punish me for not winning, and believe that what we are doing as a team is not just about winning, but pushing these amazing bodies that we have.  It seems that racing clean and losing would be much more satisfying than being on the podium, waving my roses around but knowing that I am cheating and lying, never knowing if I could really do it on my own. "

So, Solid is the winner of the free month of Cross Fit.    Congrats!!!! 

Well my dad bailed on the Nascar driving so I'm waiting to see if my brother wants to race.  I was really hoping to go with my dad  as we do very little together and this was something we would always remember.   Guess that's the way the cookie crumbles sometimes. 

I've yet to weigh in today, but I don't think I'm anywhere near my goal of 173.   Just didn't get to the gym like I wanted to.   A lot of late nights at work this week and it was starting to take it's toll, so I decided to sleep instead of workout.   Feeling much better today and ready to kick some butt.  Speaking of kicking some butt, we start fighting again next week.  I really enjoy the boxing, but just not sure if I'm mentally ready to be hit in the face again.   I absolutely enjoy the wrestling and the grappling, but the boxing just plain hurts sometimes.  It's a tremendous workout and it is a great stress reliever (when your getting beat up, all other problems seem to go away:) ).

Next giveaway may be today.  Think I'll give away another heart rate monitor.  I'm praying for a quiet Friday.  I've got lots to do and could use a "down" day. 

So for now, hope you all have a great Friday. 





 

He's not all bad

http://velonews.competitor.com/2013/01/news/holm-armstrong-dying-by-his-sword-but-helped-during-cancer-fight_271679

2nd Giveaway

Feeling a tad under the weather so forgive the late post.   Just finished watching the Lance Armstrong interview with Oprah.  Super mixed feelings right now.  Sure he's admitting things now because he got caught, but isn't that why everyone before him admitted it as well?   My biggest question would have to be, why did they give Lance a lifetime ban from cycling while everyone else was given a 2 year ban?  Lance put cycling on the map.  Right or wrong, Lance brought cycling to the mainstream.  Time will tell how forgiving people will be.

I mentioned earlier that I was going to give away the from month of Cross Fit tonight.  So here it goes.  You are a professional athlete.  All those around you are kicking your butt and you know for a fact they are taking performance enhancing drugs.  You've got two choices.  Conform, take the drugs, and win or stay clean, lose, and risk losing your livelihood...............what do you do and why?   You have to justify your answer.   The first to email me their answer wins the free month of cross fit.   Email me at mail@alphaoxymed.com. 

I was hoping to write more tonight, but just not feeling all that great.  My entire family was sick all week and now of course I think I'm catching it.  Not good timing as I'm supposed to go to Phoenix this weekend to drive a Nascar race car.  My wife bought me the coolest gift for Christmas.   It's called the Rusty Wallace Driving Experience and this weekend I get to go down to Phoenix International Raceway and do 12 laps in a real race car.  It's the only program where you are alone in the car and get to race other drivers.  Top speed is 155mph.  It's going to be a major rush.    Even better, my dad received the same gift from my mom so we'll get to race each other.  I'm hoping I can take the old man, but he used to race when I was a kid so he's definitely got the upper hand (except he's old now:) )    So if he does beat me, I not only get beat my dad, I get beat by an old man.   What's really cool is that we can get a dvd of the entire thing.  If I don't make too much of an ass of myself, I'll post it on Monday.  If I hit the wall..............well maybe I'll post that too.  155mph!!!   Can't wait!!

Well I'm sorry this is short tonight, but just not feeling up to par.  Hopefully will feel better in the morning.  Lots to say, but just too tired right now. 

Hope you all have a great evening. 


 

A little motivation to start the day.

I've posted these pics before, but thought some of you could use the added motivation.  This is Elden, the author of FatCyclist.com.

   Elden is who gave me the idea for our Weight Loss Challenge.  Take a look at FatCyclist.com.  He will surely keep you entertained.   

The top picture is before he started riding his bike (and dieting) and the bottom one is of course after.   He prides himself with those quads.  I guess if I had legs like that I would too. 

And our first winner is............................

Can'tW82BSkinny!!!!! 

Absolutely loved the response.  Email me your physical address (I'll send it Fed-Ex) and I'll get it to you asap. 

Another give away later today.  Today I'm going to give away the free month of CrossFit  and possibly another heart rate monitor.  Stay tuned folks!!

Have a super Thursday. 

1st giveaway

I'll send the first of two heart rate monitors to the first person to either email me or post a comment as to their weight loss goals for this Challenge.  Either click the blue link or email me at mail@alphaoxymed.com. 

Good Article

Definitive Answers to the 3 Most Important Fat Loss Questions

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/559109-definitive-answers-to-the-3-most-important-fat-loss-questions/#ixzz2IBJ7D6S7

At the gym on the spinning bike. Gonna give two of these heart rate monitors away today and tomorrow, so stay tuned.
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The average American consumes over 150 pounds of sugar per year.  

God And Weightloss

Ok I don't want to step on anyone's religious toes or if you're not a religious person, I don't want to step on your toes either. 

I won't go into detail (yet) about everything I think God can do (the Dude is God, He can do anything He wants to), but as far as weight loss is concerned, someone sent me this awesome website.  Give it a look.   Don't think though for one minute that you're gonna sit on your chubby rear, pray for weight loss and it's going to happen.  Uhhh I just don't think so.   He can though give you the willpower to be successful. 

Here the link.   Weight Loss Prayer

Pray Hard!!!!  

Are you insane?

Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
Albert Einstein

You can apply this quote to pretty much every situation in life, but for now I'm using it for the weightloss challenge.

Tough love here people. Are you stuck at a certain weight? Frustrated that you can't lose any more or get away from that certain number you see all the time when you step on the scale?

Change something! Change everything! I see and hear people that complain they can't lose anything, but their actual lifestyle hasn't changed at all. If the only thing you have changed is you've decided not to have that oreo cookie before bed, well hello!!!!!! McFly!!!!!! You have got to step it up way more than that! So many people seem to be so afraid of "feeling" hungry. Well sorry folks, if you want to lose some weight, expect a little discomfort. If you are used to having 3 pieces of pizza for dinner and you only have one.......I promise you, you will not starve!!! Like I've said a million times before, dieting sucks!!!! But the end result is so worth it. The way you feel, they way you look, it's worth it.

Do you ever hear a successful dieting person say "damn, I wish I wouldn't have lost that 20 lbs!!!". Oh heck no!!! But do you think that 20 lbs just fell off them with them doing any work? Without them sacrificing some of their favorite foods???

I'm just as guilty as most of you. I get so frustrated when I don't see a loss when I step on that scale. I'm not naive enough to think though that I did all I could to diet and exercise enough to lose any extra pounds.

You have got to want it people!! You have got to want it bad enough so that when those weak tempting moments arrive, you can fight your way through them.

The little things add up. Sugar and cream in the coffee, the extra half a steak for dinner, the extra dinner roll. You have got to get serious about it. We as Americans are so spoiled and have such terrible eating habits. If most of your day is spent at a desk your body doesn't require much in the way of calories to get through. Snack on some carrot sticks, grab an apple, grab something that's main ingredient isn't sugar or flour.

Like good ol Albert said, if your doing the same thing over and over and expecting better results, well your crazy.

Strive to dig deeper. Again, write it down. Write down what you eat. Write down what you did as a form of exercise. If your not making progress, I think you will see the evidence of why on the paper. Less calories and more work (exercise)!!! Don't pout about!!! Do it!!

As of yesterday, I was still at 176. I knew I hadn't worked very hard and my diet, though not bad, wasn't strict enough on the calories. So my goal by Friday is to see 173. I know people say "well that's not healthy". Well if I eat right and get in enough cardio, I'm going to feel fine. You can't be afraid of "feeling" hungry. Now don't go and pass out on me, but if your stomach feels "satisfied" all the time, you're right back in that "insanity" group of not seeing success, but doing the same thing over and over. You are going to feel hungry at some point, deal with it. Don't have carrots or apples to snack on? Tote your happy butts to walmart or safeway! Out of cash? Let me know, I'll bring you some carrots:).

Step it up a little as the week comes to and end. Less calories, healthy food choices, and get that heart rate up, 70% of your max for at least 30 minutes.

Be determined!!!!! Step Up!!!
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What's Your Deepest Fear?

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

by Marianne Williamson

2nd thoughts

I was driving back from Whiteriver today and as usual thinking of a million different things.  One being the post I wrote earlier about forgiving Lance.  My head started playing devils advocate. 

From Lance, to Tyler, to Floyd, David Millar, and the countless others that have "confessed to doping", the one thing they all have in common...............they all got caught!!!  Would they have confessed if they hadn't got caught?  I truly doubt it.   This part pisses me off in the fact that now they all claim to want to help "clean up" the sport.  Well ya, of course they do, they have no other choice. 

The more I thought about the "Lance Confession" the more it bugged me.  The are all just outright liars.  I could go both ways on this.  Yes it is their livelihood and yes I understand why they did it.   It's Lance though that is bugging me.  The apology is coming only because he has lost about every sponsor he's ever had, he can no longer race in any race that has agreements with the USADA or any other antidoping organization, and he's lost his credibility.   Of course he's going to apologize, purely for selfish reasons. 

I know this is the complete opposite of what I wrote earlier, but dang it, I wanted to believe so bad that he was legit.    When I started racing, Greg Lemond was the top American cyclist.  He's been calling a spade a spade for years and was just demonized for doing so.   So many others have tried to come forward, but there was no way you were going to battle Lance Armstrong. 

So here's my decision.  I believe whole heartedly in the mission of the Livestrong organization.  I will continue to support them, but as far as Lance is concerned.............forgiven but not forgotten (as if my opinion really matters at all).  

My oldest son loves to ride and hopefully down the road will find a love for racing.  I can only hope that he will always take the high road.  In the end, your integrity, your faith, and your family are all you have.  Hold it close!!!1

 

-18!!!!!

Right now the NOOA website is saying that our current temp with windchill is -18 degrees!!!!!

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Lakeside&state=AZ&site=FGZ&textField1=34.1042&textField2=-110.082



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Lance........Do ya forgive or not forgive

So it's assumed that Lance Armstrong has admitted to Oprah that he used performance enhancing drugs.  I would assume that by now, most people are convinced that he did dope and made millions by doing so.  Personally,  I'm a huge Lance fan.  I have read every book, watched every Tour, and bought lots of yellow wristbands.  For the longest time, I believed he was clean.  It's common knowledge that Lance was talented even when he was racing as a teenager.  His work ethic is like no other and his only goal on the bike was the punish all those trying to beat him.   Lance was by far the best at what he did.  He raced a bike and quite often he won on the bike.   Honestly, it really sucked to finally admit to myself that Lance doped.  I wanted to believe in his story and I wanted to believe that hard work really did paid off.  Ya know what..... I still do. 

Lance's cancer was so far advanced that he had less than a 50% chance to survive.  Lance kicked the crap out of cancer and brought that attitude with him on the bike.  Doping or not, nobody trained like Lance.   He was one of the first riders to ever preride all of the climbs in  the Tour De France.  He knew every corner and he knew every little uphill and downhill.   He knew the courses better than anyone.  Don't get me wrong, Lance cheated and now everyone knows it.  Ya know what though.......everyone did.   Lance just didn't get caught.  90% of the peleton (if not more) was using performance enhancing drugs.  Sad as it may be, the playing field was level.   A few years ago there was a question asked to Olympians, if you could take a performance enhancing drug even if it was a health risk, but you were guaranteed not to be caught, would you take it.  100% of them said yes.  100%!!!!!!     They are competitors and they will do whatever it takes to be the best. 

I realize there is a huge question of integrity there, but I'm just saying.   This is people's livelihood your talking about.  This is the way they make their living.  You win or you go home.  You win or you find a new job.  You win or you go broke.   We as spectators should understand better than anyone.  We're the ones sitting on our butts, watching the TV and yelling at it when our team is losing.  Oh they suck! or Oh you can do better than that!!  

We as spectators are the worst when it comes to judging the athletes we so dearly respect.  We love them until they lose.   Then we move on to another prodigy.   Put any 40 year old human up against Lance Armstrong on a bike and Lance will come out on top.  The guy is talented, there's no way around it.

It sucks that he cheated and now he's finally paying the price.  It sucks that the Livestrong organization is suffering because of it.  I don't think any one organization has directly helped so many cancer patients and their families more than Livestrong.   It's an outstanding group of people working their tails off every day to make a difference in the lives of so many suffering from a such a powerful disease. 

I'm not saying cheating is ok when everyone is doing it.  I'm just saying that Lance didn't win because he was the only one doping.  When the entire field is doping, the playing field, no matter how wrong it may be, is level.

We are a forgiving people.   Lance will continue to race and Livestrong I hope will continue to grow and touch the lives of so many more people.    As a cyclist and a fan, I too will forgive.  I will still believe in hard work and I will still have faith in the system.  The system that allows for so many of us to screw up, fall hard on our faces, then get back up to ride another day.  The system of human nature that says, dang dude you really screwed up, but allows you to get back in the game.  A system that forgives, because so many of us want to believe in our heroes.   We want to believe because we want to see that little bit of hero within ourselves.  

So ya, for me, it's a no brainer to forgive.  I think that often times these situations will make the guilty party an even better person.  I think Lance will be humbled more than he has ever imagined.  I can only hope though that the humbleness will bring out more good.   I do believe it will.

LeeLee takes the lead.

Don't have much time to write at the moment, but wow!! Some of you are really kicking some butt!!!
LeeLee is now out front with 4.97% and Someday Skinny is in second with 4.79%.   Super Impressive!!!   
Scale Crusher is knocked down to number 5 (Cmon Crusher!! those mid evening snacks will kill ya)  and Pedaldork is knocked out of the top 5.  Dang!!!! (No more tamales for me)

Timber Mesa CrossFit

Lots of impressive weigh in updates coming in.  I think this is the most success we've ever seen this early.  Keep it up!!!!   Just don't get burned out early in the game.

My diet went pretty well all weekend until dinner this evening (Sunday).  Christy was working late so the boys and I decided on some home made tamales that a friend had made for us.  One other big obstacle that I'm having to overcome is the new bakery next to our office.  The bread is out of this world!!  Guess where it goes if it's not sold that day..........that's right, Art offers it to us.   So if I bring some bread or pastries to your office.....it's not because I'm trying to sabotage your weight loss, it's because I've already got plenty at my house.

Christy and I watched the Xterra triathlon championships this morning.   While I've never done a triathlon, it really motivated me to get back into shape.    I don't mean just mediocre shape, but I really want to get my butt in gear and start getting some miles in on the bike.   I realize it's "bittereffing" (this is a new word) cold, but I know folks who commute to work on a daily basis in Minnesota and our temps are nothing compared to that frozen place.  So tomorrow night, I'm hoping to dig out all my cold weather riding gear and start getting some cold miles in on the bike this next week.   I just got home from the office and my truck said it was 3 degrees outside.   Anybody else ready for Spring?

On Friday, I mentioned that Brandon from Timber Mesa Cross Fit wanted to offer a discount to any and all of our Weight Loss Challengers.  If you know a little or nothing about Cross Fit click here.   I've never done it, but my wife has.   It's one heck of a work out program.  The folks at Timber Mesa have a great program.  Whether your overweight or not, old or young, tall or short, etc..........they have a program for you.  As soon as you walk through the door, you will be met by someone who will show you what it's all about.  I've got a half brother that has lost over 50 lbs and looks amazing.  I guess it's pretty addicting, because once people get started,  they go crazy about working out.  It's a pretty impressive program.  So here's the deal.  When you arrive, tell them that you're a part of the Challenge.  While everyone's first visit is free, a normal month would cost you $70.00.  For us, Brandon is offering a super rate of only $40.00 a month.  I promise you, give it a week and it will be the best $40.00 you have spent.  That's the cost of 8 coffees from Starbucks.  Only this won't spike your blood sugar or add a few inches to your waistline.   Timber Mesa CF is located behind Show Low Ford in Show Low.   The actual address is 1640 E. Adams. Their hours are 5am-1pm then in the evenings from 3pm-7pm, you can show up anytime within those hours.   By the way, I'll be giving away a free month's membership so stay tuned to this blog to see how to win.      

I also mentioned a cool email I received and now have permission to share it, so here ya go.  Pretty cool.

"Firstly, I wanted to say thank you for getting so many of us motivated to do something about our health!
Last time I did this challenge I did it as a group and it really helped me stay on track having other team members that were counting on me, now after having a baby and gaining 60 lbs... I am doing this challenge again but not as a group. I was worried I wouldn't be as motivated, especially with code names no one knows if I fail or not. Well, turns out there are a lot of nurses here at the hospital who have joined this challenge and I am seeing them on the stairway instead of the elevator. Someone has posted inspirational sayings on the walls along the flights of stairs. Many of us are driving to walmart for healthy meals and snacks rather than wendys which is closer. Tonight I lost to rock paper scissors and braved the blizzard to go get veggies and fruit for everyone instead of the chicken fried chicken the hospital had planned for us. My coworkers have definitely kicked my drive up a few notches and so I have to tell them, "move over on the stairwell, cuz I'm takin home first place this time!" :-)

cantw82bskinny"

So to all you hospital employees, keep it up.  I'm sure it can't be easy eating healthy in that place.  Stay Strong and Stay Motivated.   Stay Focused on those goals.   Rewrite them often!!!

Ok it's getting late.   Gotta get some sleep.  Hope you all have a Super Monday!!!!   Fruit and Veggies for snack food!!  No more crap food!



 

Brrrrr

Ok, I don't know if "bittereffing" is a word, but it's bittereffing cold outside!!!!!!
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Yeah!!! It's Friday!

Is it really Friday? This has been one heck of a week. I cannot believe how busy my poor drivers have been. I should be asking for their family's forgiveness because all week they have had to work late. RSV is finally showing its ugly head so we're about to get even busier.

The updated weigh ins are starting to roll in. So cool to see so many of you motivated. Dieting is no easy task......just ask my wife, she sucks at it (I'll pay for that comment later).

Some cool stuff though, apparently some of you are doing Cross Fit. I haven't spoke with him yet, but the owner of Cross Fit in Show Low heard about the challenge and wants to get involved. I'm going to call him this morning to see what's up. Pretty dang cool if you ask me. I also saw some cards up at Pinetop Fitness advertising some nutritional counseling so I'm going to call the owner of that program as well and see if they want to donate some stuff. As I do every year, I'll be giving away a couple of 3 month memberships to Pinetop Fitness. I realize some of you don't live up this way, if any of you have any connections at the other gyms, please let me know. I'll see what I can do.

I received the coolest email from one of you this morning. I haven't been given permission to share it yet, but all I can say is Kudos to the hospital challengers! I heard about the motivations put in the stair well. That is just beyond OSSM!!

I'm down 5lbs and feel really good. The Diet has been fairly easy so far except that I do feel hungry in the evening, but I think most of it is just psychological so I just grab some water or juice and call it good. Night time is what makes all the difference in the world. It will make or break you. It's down time for most of us so we want to eat out of boredom plus were just sitting around so were not burning much for calories either. So if you're like me, fight those night time cravings. Come the following morning, you will be glad you did.

Well it's time to go warm up the truck and get my tail to work. Be safe out there. God Bless! Have a great Friday!!!!!

Ill post the cross fit info as soon as I know something.
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We're unhealthier than most.......no really???

Anybody read this?
http://vitals.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/01/09/16433458-were-unhealthier-than-everyone-else-and-its-our-own-fault?lite

And Pedaldork moves into second!!!

 

Dang straight!!  5 lbs down.  Scale Crusher, better look out, I'm coming after you!:)  

It's Thursday!

Hey!! Get up!!! Wake up!!! Two days left until the weekend! Be determined to make this a great day!!!

So while in the shower this morning, I was thinking (pending on how much hot water one has, you can get a lot of thinking and praying done in the shower) about my last post. This was a totally sporadic thought, but in thinking about my Nair comments.......wanna imagine something funny? Imagine a 41 year old guy, with pins in his shoulder, trying to Nair his own back. It verges on the edge of pathetic. I'm sure I look like some deformed creature from Aliens. It probably looks just as scary too. Anyway, that is what my pee brain mind was thinking about this morning.

So with that said and leaving you with such a wonderful thought on a Thursday morning.......:). Have a super day. Smile!
Oh wait! One more thing. There's a new bakery that just opened next to our office. I realize this doesn't go well with the weight loss challenge, but give it a try if you're up in Pinetop. Our office is next door to Bobbi Joe's restaurant in Pinetop. It's not a big bakery, but this guy (Art) has worked really hard on getting this place opened and while it may not look like much from the outside, the bread is excellent. Don't get the idea that I've been falling off the wagon with my diet. Before the challenge started, Art would bring me over samples of his work. Oh my gosh it is delicious. My family and I finished two beautiful loaves of sourdough bread in less than 24 hours. If your office in Pinetop or Show low and you want to try some, let me know. Ill even pay for and deliver it. I highly recommend the almond croissant.....yummmmm.

Ok, I gotta get ready for work. It's knee week so I need to deliver some cpms to the hospitals.

Once again, have a super day. God Bless! And don't forget to smile!!!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Insecurities

Well that last post was just a bunch of mumbo jumbo.  I couldn't quite put into words how little Keevan just made a tough night a ton easier...............and he didn't even realize it.

Another busy day today.  I didn't get home until almost 7pm.  I had a new patient out in the middle of no where on a crazy amount of oxygen, so we had to come up with some creative ways to meet the patients needs.  Due to lovely HIPPA laws, I won't go into detail, but lets just say, it was a very interesting evening. 

I'm not sure how to approach this topic without just jumping head first into it.  I can't tell you all how much I want everyone to succeed with this challenge and I really want to find ways to help you all do that very thing.  Most of you, I don't think I know and because everything is pretty much confidential it's hard to say if I know you or not.   With that said, I want everyone to feel free to send an email or comment (I'll only post comments with permission) if your struggling with the weight loss.  I will do my best to help and if I can't I'll find someone who can.  I've got lots of friends in low places so I'm sure I can dig up some answers somewhere. 

I guess my bigger question would be; does the extra weight make you insecure?  If it does, believe me, you are not alone.  Being that I'm really not overweight, one might think "this guy doesn't even have a weight problem, how would he know what it's like?"   Let me tell ya, I may not have a weight issue, but I'm the king of insecurities.   Some of this will be humbling to share and a few of you who know me already know some of this stuff, but if it will allow you to accept the fact that I really want to help then that's all I'm after.  So after reading this and you see me walk into the hospital or into your doctors office, don't point and laugh at any of the things I disclose on this blog.  Even better, say hi! Don't be so stuck up!:)   

Remember the "Hot and Hairy" name that Thunderthighs gave us?  As I said earlier, I'm far from the "hot" part of the equation.  I got all the hair.  Now that I'm older and discovered the amazing product of "men's nair" (God Bless the inventor of that stuff) it doesn't bother me as much, but it will be a cold day in you know where when anyone sees me without a shirt.  This has been a problem for me since I was in college (for some weird reason, I was hairless up until then).   Honestly though, I hate it.  It sucks.  In college I used to love to swim, but hellooooooo, one would look like a complete idiot swimming in an indoor pool with a t-shirt.    So while most college students were sleeping, I would get to the pool at 5:30 in the morning and do my laps.  The only people at the pool at that time of day were usually the old people and they could give a crap what I looked like.  

It gets even better (and I'm sure thunderthighs is really going to give me a hard time after this).   Remember, I've been racing bikes since I was 14.  I'm a ton slower now then I used to be, but in the spring and summer, my legs are shaved.  So if you want to have nightmares for the rest of your natural born life, close your eyes and picture that.  A hairy guy with shaved legs.   This just proves that God has a major sense of humor.  If I didn't laugh at myself in the mirror, believe me, I would cry like a baby:) . 

I've got more insecurities to share, but I think I will only humiliate myself so much in one post.   But honestly though, accept the issues you've got, and if they are changeable (as mine are with the blessed Nair), then change it.  If weight is the issue, CHANGE IT!!   Sure, dieting sucks!! It sucks big time, but just think of all the positives if you were to reach that goal!    I have these long sleeve shirts in my closet that look horrible on a guy that weighs 180lbs, but I think they would look pretty good on a skinny ass man at 165 pounds.  I'm sure there are clothes that you would love to get back into.  It's totally possible,  you just need to want it bad enough. 

Whether it's for looks or whatever, there are many other positive benefits (is there a such thing as a negative benefit) to losing weight.   Do you have knee pain?  Back pain?  Diabetes? High blood pressure?  If so, just think of the money you would save in medications!!

Why do I worry about my weight?  I don't know my real dad, but at one time I was told he was pushing 300lbs.  I do know he has diabetes.   I gain weight easy and I really don't want to go down that road.  I don't want to feel 50 years old when I hit the big five O.  I've got a 4 year old kid that I still have to coach through little league. 

Do you snack all day at work?  Can you honestly say you snack because your hungry?  Most of us are far from starving.  We eat because we're bored or because it's convenient.  Soooo, dump that candy drawer!!  Grab a bag of baby carrots, cut up some celery, find something that isn't made of sugar or flour.  

You've got to want it and I know most of you do.  Just commit!!!  If you want to email, send it here.   I'm gonna start visiting more of your offices a little more often, so if I don't know you and your competing, let me know.  I'd love to hear how your doing. 

Well I best call it a night.  I'm wore out.  Hope you all have super day tomorrow.  Good night and God Bless.

Little Keev

Yesterday was just brutally busy.  I never made it to the gym which made the day that much more crappy.  My drivers have been super busy the last two days and instead of doing my work, I did my best to lighten their load (though I'm sure they think I didn't help very much) by doing some deliveries myself.   Though it's the most labor intensive, I think my drivers have the best job out of all of us.   Spending time with the patients can literally be life changing.  You get to hear some amazing stories.  We had one gentleman (one of my favorites) who has sense passed away, but the guy was 6' 4" and he was a turret gunner in World War II.   He had some great stories to tell.  

Anyway, yesterday was just plain crazy.  We were going non-stop all day.  I think my guys have set up a total of 9 hospital beds in two days and that's not counting the ones they have picked up.   This is also on top of taking care of our oxygen patients, delivering wheelchairs, etc.  

By the end of the day, my head was pounding.  One of those headaches where you just want to lay in a dark room and go to sleep.  Well Christy was working late so laying down and going to sleep was out of the question.  Tonight, dinner, homework, and bath duty was in my hands.  Fortunately for me, the two older boys are fairly self motivated so I didn't have to do much.  Coby (my 10yo) has a guitar lesson today so him and I spent an hour practicing the guitar (I'm learning too).

 Laundry was piling up, so I did my best to get past the headache and started throwing clothes in the washer then hanging and folding the ones from the dryer.  This entire time, little Keev would poke his head in the laundry room and say "I love you daddy".   Periodically he would come in and try and help.  He would pull clothes out of the dryer and try folding or hanging them.   Not feeling up to par, I would ungratefully say, "it's ok Keev I got it".  Again, all he would say is, "I love you daddy".   My head was pounding and I did my best not to get frustrated.  I just kept plugging away and every few minutes he would repeat, "I love you daddy". 

After everything died down, with the exception of my headache, Keev and I sat down to watch some cartoons.  All I could do was sit there and think to myself, what an awesome little kid.  Then out of no where, he hops up and says "daddy will help me with my pajamas, I'm going to go lay down with Ryan" (his older brother).  So he ran into his room, grabbed his spider man pajamas and ended up insisting that he didn't need help. 

Keev is  99% daddy's boy.  The other night I was called out to a patients house at 8:00pm.  I asked Keevan if he wanted to go and he didn't hesitate.  He didn't make it half way to the patients house and he was out cold.  It was funny though, as he was talking non stop then suddenly I heard nothing.  It was as if a switch went off.  He went from talking, talking, talking, to ZZzzzzzzzzzz. 

Early in November, I took Keevan and Coby to the ball field to throw the baseball around a little.  Keevan who of course, thinks he's ready to be signed with a major league team, is always ready to play.  Well, I was working with Coby on his batting and coming around the dugout is Keevan. saying "ok daddy, I'm ready".  I looked over and this is what I saw:

I had some boxing headgear in the truck and apparently he thought it was a batting helmet.  I could do nothing but laugh, but he was completely serious (and the way I pitch, the head gear was good idea).

This little guy just makes my day every day.  He's an ornery little cuss sometimes, but for the most part, he's got a huge heart and is as loveable as heck.

By the way, the day at the ballpark was a blast.  These two boys get a long so well. Notice he found the right batting helmet:).

I'm blessed some pretty great kids!!  If it's not snowing on Saturday and not too cold, Ryan and I are going to go ride the Big Lake Climb, anyone out there want to join us? 

 Always trying to help

Its Tuesday!!

Get up!!! Put a smile on and have a great friggin day!!! If your heading to work, realize this...........you have a job!!!! And most likely......you have a car!!!!! So smile dang it cuz right now you are blessed to have both. If your not thankful or your sitting there with a pouty look on your face, go stand your butt out there at one of the bus stops in the freezing cold.

So many of us are blessed in so many ways, yet on a daily basis, we take most of it for granted. Why? Not sure, but I think some think they "deserve" it. They say "heck, I work hard, I deserve to have all this stuff". Well let me tell ya, it can all disappear in a blink of an eye. Illness, lay offs, family struggles, whatever it may be it can all disappear tomorrow.

If you woke up in a fairly warm house this morning, if your kids are healthy and getting ready for school (don't forget what happened in Connecticut), if you have food in the cupboards, be thankful. Tote your butt into whatever room your spouse is in, give them a kiss and say I love you! (For many, this may cause a heart attack so be gentle:) ).

Don't let all that has been given to you pass you by. Don't wait around for something bad to happen in order to be thankful for things. Cherish it! Hug those kids! Sure they may be driving you crazy, but they are in your presence and that's something to be thankful for.

I think I've told this story before, but I'm gonna tell it again for all the millions of readers new to this blog.

When I was younger, I spent a ton of time with my Grandma. So much so, that I called her mom (sort of wierd, but I always heard my mom call her mom so I did as well:) ). Anyway, my Grandma always seemed to have this direct connection with God. When she prayed, crap happened. I mean stuff really got done. And my grandma was never fearful of praying out loud. When she went to bed, I could always hear her praying even when I was at the opposite end of the house. She prayed for everyone and everything.

My grandma had no concept of time. If she got up at 5am she thought the whole world should be up at 5am. She had no problem calling people whenever she was up and going. I was one of those people. When I was in college and since I knew my grandma had this direct connection with God, I would call her before an exam so that she would pray for me. There is a downside to this though.

If I called her on a Thursday evening to tell her about an exam I had the following morning, well guess who called at 5am to say, "just wanted you to know I'm praying for you". Usually I was up all night studying so I didn't always take to well at being woke up, sometimes right after I had gone to bed. Sometimes I wasn't too pleasant. "Do you realize what time it is!!"

Several years later, I lost my grandma to cancer. Any idea how much I would treasure that 5am call now?

Sooooo, cherish what you have today, even if it or they drive you crazy sometimes. Cherish it and love it with all you've got!!!

Have a super day!!!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry