Readjustment.

Getting back to a regular sleep schedule has been a bitch.

With being on holidays, going to hockey games in Van, and some unintentional late nights recently, the youthful enthusiasm I had when springing out of bed at 5am is non-existent.

I find that I'm tired in the morning, and wide awake at night - so awake that I don't even notice my regular bedtime, and when I do, I have trouble falling asleep. I've had people tell me everything from no caffeine after 3pm to try "rubbing one out" . (There's no way I'm giving up coffee, but the other one sounds interesting...)

It's driving me a bit nutty and pissing me off - but I'm not going to lose any sleep over it.. (Ya see what I did there?)

So if you find that my rambling is less coherent than usual, you'll know why.

Later.

I Feel:

• That's it's been a long time since I did an "I Feel" list.
• That the more reality TV my wife watches, the more I like crazy retarded shows, like Archer & Venture Bros.
• That being the "Tech Guy" at work just means that people think anything I do with a computer should be twice as fast as if they did it - like I can make Windows 7 boot faster just 'cause it's me.
• That some days I could just drink coffee and bitch and be happy.
• That the previous statement made me sound really gay.
  
• That after listening to some Smodcast Shows (Hollywood Babble-On & Smodcast), I really wish I would have taken the Sidekick's offer to do a podcast 2 years ago.
• That the pain involved in a cracked tooth, infection, and root canal is more than I would ever want to deal with again.
  
• That being said - I fucking loooove Percocet.
  
• That no one should worry - I won't sell DVD's to feed a potential painkiller addiction. But I may trade in the Mother-in-Law's dog.
• That it's 15 days until the Foo Fighters Wasting Light is released - not that I'm counting or anything.
• That I still have yet to come up with a way to end one of these things.

Later.

Back in the Saddle

Holidays are over, and I'm back to work.

As much as I like the regular routine again, there's something to be said for not having to work. I got to spend a lot of time with my oldest boy, who's big wish over spring break was to watch all the Star Wars movies with me.

How does anyone say no to that?

So after being bombarded with Jedi vs Sith questions for six days (which I had all the answers for, thank you very much) I was reluctant to get back to the real world.

And if the prequels were as good as they should have been, I wouldn't want to come back at all..

But I'm here and I'll make the best of it - although it would be easier with a Lightsaber.

Later.

Uplifting.

If there's one song that can get me through a bad day, this is it.

John Butler is freaking amazing.

When you play this good, who needs words?






Later.

Recovery.

I'm not the youngster I used to be.

(I know, you're shocked, right?)

But even though I'm in better shape at 38 than when I was 28, there are some things that take me just a bit longer to recover from than they used to.

A Hockey Game in Vancouverwith the Sidekick, and the resulting beerfest is a great example.

Saw my Avalanche lose to the hometown boys Wednesday night, and I'm still feeling some of the effects.

I'm telling everyone that the problem is the fact that you can't sleep comfortably on the ferry on the way home - if BC Ferries would invest in some bedspace with comfy mattresses, I'd be well rested and feeling chipper.

I can hear your advice - "If you would just act your age and try not to drink like a 22 year old, you'd be fine." - but where's the fun in that?

At least I have the memories of the trip (fuzzy as they are) to console me during the arduous recovery process.

Yeah, its worth it.

Later.

Missing Out.

Bumped into a person I know from Running last night.

We always talk races, training, nutrition, etc, whenever we see each other. It's great conversation, she's full of insight and wisdom, and its just great to chat with someone who is as passionate about running as I am.

So it was very disappointing for me to break it that I won't be running the Comox Half Marathon this year.  It's on Sunday, and with being sick, problems with my foot (getting better!), and just the fact that I haven't run enough mean I would be setting myself up for failure.

I ran it the last 2 years - missing out on this race will suck. I know its the right thing to do, but it bugs the shit outta me that I'm not in it.

Luckily my Running friend put a positive spin on it - sure, I will miss out on the Half, but now I'll have a chance to get ready for the Merville 15k - and she doesn't think I can beat her.

The gauntlet has been thrown down - and I have to answer.

Now the Merville race can't get here fast enough.

Later.

I Hate Erasing

I'm a list type of guy.

To-do lists are my bread and butter at work - being organized makes me look good, and helps me do my job better.

I do have one quirk when it comes to writing out my list:

- if I make any mistake - spelling, prioritization, or otherwise - when writing my list, I have to chuck the whole thing over and start again.

It may seem weird, but I just can't stand to see an imperfection on there - it drives me nuts. Sure, its a waste of paper - but I live in a town whose (former) main export was pulp and paper, so I've been trained for years that we can always just cut another tree down, go ahead and chuck away.

Even if we were still writing on pelts, I'd be the guy who wastes 3 cats just getting his list perfect.

But once its written, it's gold - and since getting it done makes me look like a hero, why mess with success?

Just be grateful that blog writing wasn't all paper based - the amount I stop and restart each post, I would be personally responsible for most of the Amazon deforestation.

Later.

Solitary Confinement and The Wonders of Vitamin D

Take one slightly fatigued, middle-aged guy after a workout.

Place him in a lighted tube, with bulbs that overload his pasty white skin cells with Vitamin D (Nature's pick-me up).

Add awesome music, (The previous post's "Rope") some skin cream, and

Subtract the fact that anyone can see or hear him.

What do you get?


Well, according to the guy who was actually in the tube, you get a fucking Rock Star.

Maybe it was the perfect storm of exhaustion, endorphins, and enthusiasm, but for a moment - just a moment - it felt like I was on stage, rocking away with the best of them.

Then the lights turned off, the door opened, and it was time to get back to the real world.

Who cares? I'm still feeling the high.



Later.

Gimme Some Rope

April 12th can't come fast enough.

As much as I'm looking forward to the new album, my real thrill will be trying to catch the Foo when (and if) they come to my neck of the woods. (Whaddya say, Dave? How about the Save-On Centre in Victoria??)

Time to bust out my personal Greatest Hits and give it a run through again.. (Febuary Stars, anyone?)




Later.

Sprung Forward

It's amazing how much of a difference an hour makes.

Subtract an hour (or even two) from my sleep any other time of year and I shrug it off and continue on with life. (Usually these subtractions are related to kids or the bar - either one.)

But if you TELL me I have to move my clock ahead, and forcibly rip that hour from me, I feel like a bag of shit.

Daylight Savings was partially Ben Franklin's idea - why do we even listen to a guy who's famous for flying a kite in an electrical storm?

Whoever made that call was suffering from lack of sleep already.

Later.

Generational Gap.

WARNING: The following will make me sound reeeeally old. If your mental picture of me involves youth and vitality, stop reading now.

So after picking up the boys from school, we're on the drive downtown when #1 son asks me a question about movies. (I encourage an open dialogue with my kids -especially in the entertainment category.)

"Daddy, what movie did you like to watch over and over again when you were my age?"

Simple question, right? If I would have thought about it, I would have just said "Star Wars" and been done with it.

But nooooo. I have to explain to both of them that when I was their age, you couldn't just watch a movie over and over at your house whenever you wanted.

"But why not, Daddy?"

So I explain that when I was eight, there was no Internet, so we couldn't download a movie; no rack of DVDs because a) there were no DVDs and b) VHS tapes were like $60 a pop and you had to rent the player because they were to expensive to own; and we only had 12 channels, movies were only on Sunday nights and you didn't get to pick what it was.

The sheer look of horror on their faces was astounding - you think I had just told them I grew up before fire was invented.

They couldn't wrap their heads around the fact that there were limited entertainment choices and that if you didn't like what was on, you were out of luck. (Come on, you think I watched Return to Witch Mountain by choice?)

To them, I must have lived in an entertainment wasteland.

I love the fact that I can watch what I want, when I want to -  but there's something to be said for the days of racing home to be ready for when the movie starts, needing a electrical engineering diploma to hook up a VCR and a virginal sacrifice to set up and record a program.

We appreciated it more, dammit!

I think I'll start the "Walked uphill to school both ways" conversation next week...

Later.

Embracing My Nerditude

Right now I'm typing on a blog, while listening to the Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog Soundtrack, and getting Twitter updates about Kevin Smith movies on my smartphone.

Holy Shit, I'm either a huge fucking nerd or the greatest multi-tasker known to man.

Shame?

I don't know what your talking about.


Later.

So Fucking Tired.

Remember that TV show, Heroes?

Do you recall that there were characters other than the cheerleader? (I know, I was shocked too.)

Well there was the one guy, he had the power to stop time - pause, wait, start again.. On my list of superpowers to wish for, it doesn't rate that high. (Pause, Rewind, and Start Over - that's the cool one - I like my superpowers like I like my Tivo.)

However, on days like today, it would be the most bitchin' power going -  I'd stop time, take a sweet fucking nap, and BAM! -  right back to work again. Sure, the day would be a lot longer for me, but throw a couple naps in there, and who cares?

Sounds sweet, right?

I thought so.

Later.

Gluteial Eyestrain.

I used to look forward to casual days at work.

Lately, not so much.

The main reason? Lulemon pants.

Back when all the girls wore frumpy, baggy, dress slacks to work, casual Friday was a welcome relief for the eyes. Jeans that hugged, cleavage, -it was a wonderful day all around.

Not that it still isn't great, but after looking at black, form-fitting pants that gently caress the curves and make almost every ass look like a Supermodel's it tough to just look at a regular pair of jeans the same way again.

I guess I'll just have to suffer through it.

(Waits for all the comments from guys who work in male-dominated areas, bitching that I'm complaining about looking at ass when all they can see is hairy man-crack.)

Life's tough, my friends.

Later.

Motivation Frustration

I know I've talked before about my lack of motivation when I comes to my days off and doing shit around the house.

But I've hit a different kind of wall.

If you're a regular reader of my Twitter feed, you will notice something has been missing lately. (The first person who says "Yeah, funny shit." Gets shot.) Those updates every time I run? The ones with how far, how long, and when? Yeah - there haven't been any of those for a week or so.

Part of the reason was an injury to my foot, which isn't horrible, but rest and not pushing it are essential. The other is that I've had a chest cold for a week, and the thought of running through a chest full of phlem isn't appealing at all.

What I should be doing is maintaining my diet, hitting the weights at the gym instead of running, and get back to it a.s.a.p.

Problem is, that's not happening. I'm finding it amazingly hard just to get ny ass outta bed in the morning - the combination of wanting to sleep as well as not wanting to freeze my sack off scraping the car have me hobbled.

Last year, I didn't experience this at all - there was no doubt that I'd be at the gym or on the road running each morning. And the fact that I KNOW there's a difference really bothers me.

As Austin Powers said, "I've got to find my mojo, baby."

I'm just not sure how i'm going to do it.

Later.

Shameful Recognition.

It's an awkward moment, telling someone you have a blog.

There's that moment that hangs in the air -where you wonder if the response will be interest or confusion. Most people my age (around here, anyway) don't seem to grasp the concept.

Needless to say, I usually keep a tight lid on the fact that I write here. I reveal it only to people I know for sure will "get it", and only let them know the address if they ask.

It's not embarrassment of what I write, or the fact that someone known to me will read my rants and rambling. It's more of a pain explaining *why* I'd want to write something that "just anyone" can read.

And that reason is a post in itself.

Later.

The Magnificent Mr. Sheen.

Why is anyone really surprised about what Charlie Sheen is doing, or how he's behaving?

We've lauded him for such actions (on screen, at least) for years.

His filmography reads like a testimonial to womanizing, sex-addicted, hard living douchebags. From Bud Fox to Charlie Crawford to Charlie Harper, they all drank, chased women, and openly displayed their vices.

Did it ever occur to anyone that maybe Charlie wasn't acting?

Part of me wants to be the publicly aware Dad that I am and say "That Charlie, so irresponsible." The other part of me is kinda envious about the partying and Porn Stars. (Do ya blame me? I'm a guy, for chissakes- anyone with a dick is lying if they say they don't feel even slightly the same way.)

I think that the media attention that's being given to Charlie is way out of proportion, considering what else is happening in the world, and I'm sure that he feels the same way. But people are watching Charlie Sheen for the same reason they watch Nascar - they are waiting for the crash.

I, for one, hope he makes it out ok. I'm sure he'll eventually get tired of the jet-setting and all the sex, and things will settle down for 'ol Charlie. (Hahaha - ya, I don't think so either.)

Stay the course, Mr. Sheen, you're living the dream for any man over 35. Your midlife crisis is inspiration to us all.

Later.

Communication Overload

Ask anyone, and they'll tell you I'm a talker.

However, there is a guy I work with who puts me to shame - it's unbelievable.

I'm the type of talker who kind of stays on track with the conversation - sure, it'll flow from topic to topic, but it's all related - I can look at how the conversation started to how it ended up.

This guy roams around so much in a conversation that you can start talking about how icy the roads were, and the next thing you know, you're discussing the foot speed of the average Kenyan.

As interesting as it is, it  can be very frustrating to try and get him to stay on topic - God forbid I need to get actual information from him -  I want to know what supplies he wants and you end up discussing the latest possibility of a manned mission to Mars.

I sometimes want to just stop him and point out what he's doing, but that would be a 3-hour conversation in itself.

If I ever get that bad, just gag me.
But gently, okay? I might want to discuss the latest episode of Archer..

Later.

Situational Clusterfuck

Walked into work today to a Murphy's Law situation.

If it wasn't already fucked or messed up, it soon would be - it made me feel like I'd committed so heinous crime in a former life, and God just decided to fuck with me all at once.

There's not really much point in moaning about it - but hey, I've got this space - why not use it?

Later.

Medication Admiration

I've got to admit, Buckley's doesn't pull any punches.

That stuff winds up and puts it's burning, vile tasting, mentholated fist right through your head. It forcibly removes what's ailing you like the Lybian government removes protesters. (Ok, bad example, I'll admit.)

But I wouldn't have it any other way.

Unlike other people that I know, I actually medicate myself when I'm sick - I take shit that gets it over with as quick as possible, so I can get back to doing the things people do when they are not sick. (You know, like life?)

Just laying around and hoping you will eventually feel better is like rolling over during a fight and hoping the guy will stop hitting you when his arms get tired.

So I take the short term pain (Buckley's) for the long term gain (Not feeling like shit).

It's working so far.

Now excuse me while I take my dose of nasty, nasty, tasting stuff.

Later.

Organization Consternation

I'm not the most organized guy in the world, but I'm better than most.

Which is why certain things at work drive me completely fucking nuts.

In my job, it pays to be organized - product in, product out, rotation - and the fact that you have multiple people working in the same area means that everyone has to do their part to keep it neat.

And one or two people being sloppy can make my day go from great to shitty in a half second.

It's not that hard - there is a place for everything - just put it where it fucking goes. (Not as elegant as "..and everything in its place.", but you get my meaning..)

I don't want to be "that" guy - the one who rages when one item is out of place - but its getting close. I think the next person I see just putting stuff away sloppily will experience wrath that will make Kahn's look like a Care Bear reunion.

Later.

Motivational Imbalance

My first day off is usually a write-off.

It's not that I don't want to accomplish anything - believe me, my ambition in the hours leading up to my days off is astounding. I have plans to clean the house, do enough laundry to get through the year, balance the budget, cure cancer, and possibly run a 20-miler - and all that before the kids are out of school.

But somehow, it just never seems to work out that way.

I'm probably going to blame it on tasty coffee and the Internet. I'd have to say that those two distractions are what eat up most of my time. And podcasts - sweet,sweet, podcasts.

Hence the fact that my second day off is usually just a catch up day - the house is cleaned, the laundry done, and I'll usually get 7-10 miles in. I guess the balancing and disease curing will have to wait until I'm on holidays.

Sure, that'll work.

Later.

Lack of Communication

I'm lucky enough to have a job where I get to meet and talk to a wide variety of people. I enjoy most of the customers who come in, and get along with the majority of my co-workers.

There are the ones that you can talk more freely with, or have some sort of personal connection or shared interests, and talking with them always makes the night fly by.

Tonight is not one of those nights.

There's just no one interesting working - I can choose between talking quilting with one, how fascinating and dreamy another's boyfriend is, listen to the spazy guy talk about his "girlfriend" (pretty sure its his right hand) and the one other person working says maybe 3 non-work related words a month.

I personally believe this will be the longest night ever.

Wake me when it's over.

Later.

Rebuttal

Dear Mr. Homeless Man:

I do not know how you came to be in your current situation - drugs, misfortune, the CIA, whatever - and I don't really care.

What I do know is that continually asking me for change while I'm waiting for the bus in Vancouver does not endear me towards your plight.

Frankly, your strategy of asking for a quarter, being denied, and then asking for a dime and a quarter is baffling. I'm not sure of your profession before you decided to take up the homeless "gig" - but I suspect it was as a unsuccessful hostage negotiator.

I do admire your perseverance, though, and if you put as much effort into 8 hours at a actual job vs 18 hours of begging, you just might get ahead in the world.

I understand you're "off the grid" , and "living free", so the chances of you stumbling across this piece of digital advice are very slim, but if you do, please take it to heart.

Clean up, get a job, and stop being such an annoying dick to random strangers on the street.

Later.

P.s. - I stuck a quarter in my piece of gum and put it under the bench - pretend it's buried treasure!

Nerdzilla

See that right there? That is Godzilla's giant foot stomping on the Twin's Comic Book Store like my kids step in dog shit in the back yard. (God I suck at metaphors sometimes.)

It's coming out in March - something to do with the amount of copies they bought means they got to be on the cover. I'm surprised some rich guy didn't buy them all and get them to paste his Mother-in-Law on there...hahahaha.

I still think it rocks - good on you, Bro.


Later.

Feeling Horrible

I don't regret much when it comes to the world of pop-culture.

I missed out on Pearl Jam early on, and thanks to the Sidekick, was shown the error of my ways. My regret is that I missed out on all the hype and excitement for each album - the anticipation of what's to come. After all, isn't that half the fun of following a band?

I get the same feeling for Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog.

It was on the peripheral of my Internet browsing habits 3 years ago - I knew it was there and heard it being talked about, but just kinda ignored it - Neil Patrick Harris really didn't do it for me, and the whole musical thing just seemed weird.

Talk about being wrong.

Based on a solid recommendation from the Twin, as well as some others, I checked it out yesterday. I was blown away.

Complete fucking nerdgasm.

I'm glad I got to see it all in one go, but I kinda wish I'd have been paying attention when it was happening - the story just works for me, and the anticipation between each act would have driven me nuts. (Yes, I realize I'm a mid-thirties guy talking like a teenage girl at a Bieber concert.)

The next time something like this rolls around and I'm not paying attention, somebody slap me, please.



Later.

In Sickness and in Health.

I hate dealing with sick people.

Not mentally, sick - Hell, where I work, they're all a little twisted.

I'm talking about those people who treat a sore throat and sniffles like it's H1N1 - like the world is ending because their sinus headache won't go away.

Those people I want to stab with a pencil and put them out of their misery.

'Cause really, that's all you can do - they are useless to be around, don't accomplish anything, and the bitching and moaning are almost too much to handle.

The thing is, if they would just suck it up a bit, then they would probably end up feeling better - but no - bitching is waaaay more fun.

It's gunna be a loooong night.

Later.

Progress

It's that time of year again - weight loss time.

Since I have to lean out anyway for the races I'm training for, I decided to go for the added motivation of joining not one, but two weight loss contests, one at the gym, and the other is at work.

I know your asking yourself: "Are you fucking nuts?"

While my sanity can be called.into question at times, I think it'll work out fine - the weigh-ins are on different days, which will help me stay focused through the week. (All part of the plan.)

Yeah - believe it or not, I actually have a plan..


Later

Enjoyment

- Coffee.
- How I feel after a good run.
- Reading. ( right now, The Invisible Man )
- Watching my kids on the ice.
- Discovering a really cool app.
- Toast.
- Kevin Smith Podcasts
- "I just had Sex" by the Lonely Island.. ( I know, I know )


These are things I enjoy right now.


Later

Schedule Hell.

Mondays and Wednesdays ?
Skating and Hockey .

Tuesdays and Thursdays?
Karate.

I'm going to be driving these kids around for what seems like forever.

Thank God for Timmy's Drive Thru.


Later.

Last Call

Goodbye, 2010, I hardly blogged ye..




Later.

Mobility.

Picked up a smartphone the other day, and I'm really digging it.

I enjoy having the world's information at my fingertips, and just the fact that texting is so much easier is a plus.

I'm hoping I'll still feel the same way once the shine wears off, but the simple fact of being able to have workouts, dietary stuff, and the entire Internet in my hand is awesome.

(Like I said on Twitter- haven't had this much fun since I discovered my penis)

As for having the Internet in my hand? That includes sites with flash, because Android rules, and iPhones drool..

Later.

True Patriot Love

Just when I thought Canadian bands couldn't get any cooler, I see this on the news today:



The Trews visiting a B.C. school that's practicing "Highway of Heroes" for their Remembrance Day ceremonies. Hearing all those kids singing along is kinda touching. (Don't go telling anybody I have feelings - I'll deny everything.)

Since the video is kinda muffled, here's the original for comparison.




Now that's Patriotic Goodness, right there.


Later.

Brand New Scene

Yesterday I switched my TV service over to Telus. I did the whole "Bundle" thing with the Home phone, TV, and Internet. (It's what all the cool kids are doing.) Since I already had Phone and Internet with Telus, throwing the TV package in there just seemed like a good idea.

I'm incredibly happy with the results.

Aside from waiting for the Install guy to show, it was a painless procedure. (be it Shaw or Telus, why do they have to say "Between the hours of 8am to 8pm" - what's wrong with "2-ish"?) The installation was quick and easy, and he had it setup and running in about an hour. (All shiny brand-new equipment too - he said that this is the 3rd gen stuff they are installing now, works like a charm.)

I really like the guide/schedule/PVR setup as opposed to what I had with Shaw - it's more polished and intuitive. The "Search" feature alone is worth the switch. I find that my picture quality is better too - but if that's from Telus or the fact that they use HDMI instead of Component cables, I'm not sure.

And the upgrade to my ADSL speed is nothing short of amazing - to go from max 5Mbps to approximately 15Mbps is pure heaven. It's not like I was in a two wheeled cart on a muddy road, but my Internet has gone from a minivan to a sportscar to say the least.

I'm sure I'll find some faults with it once the shine wears off, but for now I think I made the right decision.

Now if you'll excuse me - I have some High-Def Zombies I have to watch - (Walking Dead premiere is on repeat..)



Later.

Ticket Frustration.

As a Canadian hockey fan, I understand how tickets to games are always at a premium - there's no shortage of fans who are always willing to pay the maximum price for a chance to see live professional hockey. What astounds me is how affordable the American teams make it for the average fan to go.

While looking at the Colorado Avalanche fan page on Facebook, I noticed there was a "Guys Night Out" package at the Pepsi Center in Denver to see the Vancouver Canucks- 2 seats, 2 beers, and 2 T-shirts for $59.

59 Bucks - and if you want to upgrade the seats to the lower bowl, it's an extra $20. I decided to price this out, just to see what it would be after taxes and shit.

Once you throw in taxes, handling fee, and the charge to pick up at the Will Call booth, the total is $97.30 - and converting that to Canadian Dollars only ads 25 cents.

$97.55 for all that.

Compare to seeing the Canucks play Colorado at Rogers Arena - same seating area, beers, cheapest shirts and all that - $409.

For that price, you could afford to fly to Denver to see the game. (Doesn't include getting back, but still..)

I know it's all about supply and demand, but I think the difference is just crazy - and it must be twice as bad for Toronto fans - they are rumored to be even more expensive, and their team sucks!

I can't see this changing anytime soon, and that's unfortunate - I'd love to one day take the Boys to see a live game - without having to spend their university savings to do it.



Later.

Mammeriffic.

Greatest Video Ever.
(According to my libido.)




Did I mention I didn't even turn my speakers on?


Later

Blast from the Past

So I'm watching AMC's The Walking Dead.

(Fucking awesome show, by the way.)

As the episode closes, there's this wicked song that comes on during the closing credits. Maybe it was the fact that I just watched some spectacular, emotional, engaging TV, but I was really digging the grove.

So I go online to look up the title, and find out it's called "Space Junk" - Cue it up on Youtube, and I'm grooving away.

Then I notice something.

It's Wang Chung.

Yeah - that Wang Chung - you know, Dance Hall Days, Everybody Have Fun Tonight.. The guys I fucking hated in the Eighties. Turns out they made this song in '97.

I guess 13 years is enough time to bury the hatchet. (And after watching The Walking Dead, that's just such a great visual..) Doesn't mean I'm going to run out and buy Look at My Wang - Wang Chung's Greatest Hits, but it does mean I'm going to grovve on this song just a bit more.

Later.

The Walking Dead.

I've set my PVR, double-checked the time slot, and if worse comes to worst, I'm ready to download the multitude of torrents I know will be up the next day.

I'm not going to miss The Walking Dead.

Forget that it's on AMC - who has two other awesome shows with Breaking Bad and Mad Men - it's from one of the best comic series I've ever had the pleasure of reading. Thanks to the Twin's ownership of a comic book store, I've been able to read at least 95% of this fascinating story. It's not a Zombie story - it's a story about people that happens to have Zombies in it.

If you haven't read the books, I'd suggest you do it asap.. I'm dying to see how they do some of the storylines on the small screen.

So after the candy is handed out and the porch light is turned off, don't bug me - unless you want to risk being one of the undead yourself.


Later.

Hallo-wtf?

The image to the right has me conflicted in so many ways.

There's a lot that I like:

1. Hot woman? Check.
2. Stockings? Um - yeah, Check.
3. Skintight Dress, practically glued to her body? Check. (Is it hot in here or is it just me?)
4. Heels? Check.
5. Big Bird perched on her head like a Brain Slug from Futurama? Check.
   

(Yes - I list the Brain Slug look as a positive thing - anything that references Futurama is okay in my books.)

And some stuff that I find troubling:

1. She's dressed like Big Bird.
2. Big Bird appears to have crammed his beak into her cranium, completely rendering her incapable of thought.
3. She's dressed like Big Bird if he was transformed into a nymphomaniac slut. (I really had problems putting this in the "negative" category.
4. She's dressed like fucking Big Bird.

Now for the longest time, I've been completely fine with the "slutty" or "sexy" trend in Halloween costumes. Slutty Mail carrier, Slutty Teacher, Slutty Nurse, Slutty CSI, Slutty Jedi (oh I wish).. you get the idea. But the line has to be drawn somewhere, and I guess this is it for me.

Sure, you can parody the ambiguous relationship Bert and Ernie have, and even make fun of Oscar the Grouch as a belligerent drunk - but making Big Bird (and Elmo too, believe it or not - I've seen pictures) sexy and trashy is just wrong. Big Bird is the most child-like and innocent of all the Sesame Street characters - as far away from sexy as can be.

If I see a woman dressed in this, am I going to look? Hell yes - I'm a man after all. But I'd feel reaaaallllly bad about it afterwards. (Hey, maybe if I asked nice, she'd take it off...)


Later.

The Power of Faith.

Whenever I go to the gym at a time other than my usual there's one thing I've noticed that always surprises me.

The 700 Club is on.

Now, most of the TVs in the gym are usually focused on one of two things: the News or Sports.

That's why it's such a shock to see one to the channels tuned into a religious program. It's hard to imagine one of the people that I work out with (around, actually) to be getting their Jesus fix on in between reps. (I think one of us would change the channel, but we're all secretly worried the it's the guy benching 285 who's eyeballing the program.) The private aspect of religion seems to clash with the openness of flexin' your glutes at the gym.

Shows what I know - just watch, Jesus will come back, and I betcha he's ripped.


Later.

"Don't be Evil"

"The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist" - The Usual Suspects


Let me just say that I'm sure Google knows more about me than my own Mother does. I use Google to search, Maps/ Earth for directions , Gmail for practically everything, and heck - you're reading this on Blogger, aren't ya?

Ya - I'm a fan.

But unlike everyone else in the world who is upset with Google for wi-fi privacy infringements and those who want there homes blurred in Google Street View, I think the company's biggest problem in this case is one of ignorance.

I secure my wi-fi network at home - everyone who lives around me has a secure network. If you are broadcasting an open signal to anyone who cares to jump onboard, you're an idiot.

That being said, I think Google, and especially the people who were involved in the data collection, are ignorant to the fact that there are people out there who aren't "tech" savvy and aren't going to accept the blame for leaving their digital front door wide open. I also think that Google"s ignorant (or arrogant) in thinking that nobody would catch them doing this - they are one of the most powerful/noticeable corporations in the world. Even if your slogan is "Don't be Evil", there are people out there who will assume you are doing your worst, and they live for moments like this - when they seemingly catch you with your hand in the cookie jar, inadvertently or not.

As for not wanting your home on Street View, I don't understand the fuss - anyone can get your address from a phone book, and can walk by and see the front of your home every day. Having the front view of my house accessible on the Internet really doesn't bug me - except that now some guy in Germany might notice that I needed to mow my lawn the day the Google Car drove by. The same people who are too ignorant to secure their wireless networks are probably the same ones who don't want their dwelling online, for fear of "teh h@ck0rz". Maybe there's a point I'm missing, but I don't think so.

Either way - I and millions of others around the world are going to continue to use Google and their products. I can still see Google's halo shining - it's tarnished, but in my book it's still there.


Later.

Stairway to...

There are 23 steps on the stairs at work.

On days when I'm the only senior (in experiance, not age) manager here, it means that I run up and down those stairs about 15-25 times, just in the general day to day stuff.

On days like today, however, I run up and down about 30-45 times.

For some reason everything I needed today was at the top of those stairs.

Any job or task I needed to do? Top of stairs.
If someone needed something? Top of stairs.
Lunch Room? Top of stairs.
Gotta pee? Top of stairs.

You get the idea.

So lets just say that after the workout this morning, the usual lifting and stuff that I do anyway, and all the running up and down the stairs I did today, my legs fucking HATE me.

Too bad they don't know about the run I'm going to do tomorrow...hahaha.


Later.

I Feel:

• That once my legs adjust to all the punishment of squats and lunges, that I will be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.
• That the new KOL album, while not their best effort - has grown on me, and I find it hard to step away from it.
• That the minute the new Foo Fighters album comes out, the previous statement will become null and void.
• That the fact that I use words like "album" makes me seem like I'm some ancient fossil.
• That it took me 5 minutes to fix my keyboard (having inadvertently switched it to French) and that makes me feel like a failure as a geek.
• That having just one day off is both a relief and a tease.
• That having finished Lamb by Christopher Moore makes me crave more funny, insightful literature.
• That just when I think Dave Grohl couldn't get any cooler - I see this.
• That even though I love Shaun of The Dead, Zombieland, and The Walking Dead, enough with the Zombies already - Pride and Prejudice and Zombies? Really?
• That if the River City ever got a Booster Juice, I'd be broke.
• That I want a Samsung Galaxy S sooo bad. Not that I'd turn down an iPhone...
• That I think I've exposed more geekiness in one post than I have in years on the Internet.

Later

Fuck You, 5am.

Is that too bitter?

Don’t get me wrong - I’m enjoying my new routine - the legs are a little bit sore from the different weight program, but everything seems great so far - with one exception:

5am sucks.

I used to do it no prob - 5am, jump out of bed, head to the gym or out for a run. But when I started letting things slide this summer, the first thing to change was how much I hit the snooze button. Not good.

I read somewhere that the best way to establish a habit is to do it (or not do it, as the case may be) for 21 days. After 3 weeks, your body adjusts to the change and you just accept it. So my goal is to make sure that I’m getting up for that morning workout or run on a regular basis.

Yesterday the combination of getting up at 5, the new weight workout, and heading back from holidays to bust my ass at work had me in bed by 10:15! (Really - how sad is that?) Today is the same, except now it’s a night shift, which meant that the whole night drrrrraaaggged. (Sure, I could have slowed down and left myself with work to keep me busy, but that’s not how I roll.) And do you know how hard it is to stay awake when there’s nothing to do? I felt like taking a nap on the Bakery Table - and don’t say coffee, the stuff at work is a crime against man.

But I overcame that, and soon it’ll be Marathons while shoulder-pressing 120lbs on 4 hours sleep.

Ha! If that’s the case I must be dreaming - I’m off to bed.

5am comes early, ya know.


Later.

Rededication.

I failed my legs.

For the first time ever, I failed to PB (Personal Best) in the last two races I was in - The Victoria Half Marathon, and the Miracle Beach 10K. The fact that I placed well in both (429th out of 6800 and 27th out of 150+) is a small comfort - but basically I let myself down.

It's all a matter of training, really - I wasn't putting in the distance and staying focused like I did last year and earlier this year - I let my diet and the gym slide, and it shows. I was just tired of the same routine, and lost it on the follow through.

But that's enough - it's stopping now.

I'm rededicating myself, changing the routine, (can you believe running less?) and knocking the honey cruller out of my hand. I have a goal to CRUSH my Half Marathon PB at the Comox Valley half in March - that gives me plenty of time. (As for the running less part - don't think my Twitter feed will go silent - it'll still be minimum 3 times a week.)

Part of that re-dedication will come from this blog too- it was always something that helped, in running and life, and I would really like to get back to it. I'll try not to make it all about running, but if your tired of hearing me talk about my shoes, you might want to delete me from your bookmarks...

(On a side note, just occurred to me -I'm going to have to change my blog title soon - from "Thirty-something Man" to "Holy Shit, I'm Forty." - but that's 2 years away, so I can hold off on that..)


Later.

Digital Letdown.

A while ago, the book Little Brother was suggested to me.

I'm not going to talk about the book, except to say that it's fantastic and a must-read for pesudo-geeks like me.

What I am going to talk about is why I wasn't raving about it earlier.

I downloaded the book the day it came to my attention. (Before you curse me as some sort of digital pirate, it's a free download right here.) As compelling as it is, I was only able to make it through a couple of chapters - not the author's fault at all- reading for that long on a computer screen just sucked.

(Compare that with reading the entire book in one evening the moment I had it in paperback form.)

I'll be honest - I haven't tried any e-readers, and the moment I hold an iPad in my hands I'll probably be too preoccupied containing my geek-gasm to think of it as a device for casual reading - but something about holding paper in your hand while you read a novel just feels...right.

And it's not the reading material's fault, either - I'm having the same problem with A Confederacy of Dunces - trying to read the digital version while I wait for my actual copy to arrive is almost as maddening.

It's funny - with music I embraced the digital format immediately - movies took a bit longer, but now I've come to appreciate the convenience of a digital copy. But books? I just can't do it.

This all might change the moment I lay hands on on a Kindle or an iPad - but for right now, I say chop down some trees and fill my hands with pulpy literary goodness.


Later.

Telemarketjerk.

Got the most retarded phone call today, on behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada.

I pick up the phone, and immediately the guy launches into his spiel about the threat of an election in the fall, and that the Party now needs funds to get ready to fight the opposition.

(Why does the Conservative Party call me, you ask? Maybe I voted for them last time around - maybe because I didn't vote at all - or maybe I'm a middle-aged White Guy who's reported income falls in the right bracket...)

He tells me that if I just donate $200, I can get a $150 tax credit for my 2010 income taxes. ($200? Is he fucking nuts?) I politely told him that it's not fiscally possible for us to donate, and thanked him for his call.

Like a dog with a chew toy, he just wouldn't let go. He reminded me that I'd get 75% of my donation back when my taxes were done. At this point, I veered off into the realm of fabrication, and told him that I had recently lost my job, was on E.I., and times were tight trying to support the family.

This is when it got retarded.

He then tells me that they take credit cards, and that I could charge my donation, and potentially pay it back when I got my refund. (What kind of crack does this guy smoke before he logs in at the call centre?)

So just to get this straight - I tell him I'm unemployed, times are tight ,struggling to keep head above water, etc, and he advises me to go deeper in debt for a political donation. Sounds fucked? That's what I thought too.

I think that a huge part of the Government's problem, and those who work for them - is that they've lost touch with the opinions and efforts of average Canadians. Show me a Canadian who will go deeper in debt to fiance any political Party, and I'll show you one who deserves to be slapped upside the head with a shovel.


Later.

Right Now...

1. I'm in love/ addicted to Peanut Butter. My craving each morning for peanut butter on whole wheat toast is something that cannot be denied. Oh, you may try to tempt me with Almond or Cashew butter, but be ready for disappointment.
2. I'm typing on my laptop, drinking coffee, and updating my blog. The fact that I'm at home instead of Starbucks is the only thing preventing me from looking like a nerdy douchebag.
3. I'm listening to the Kings of Leon - which I know always makes the Sidekick happy - but it's their last "most commercial" album, so I know inside he's dying just a little.
4. I'm looking at the sunshine and wanting to go for a run - does it matter that I ran this morning? Not to me.
5. I'm debating (internally of course, I'd look the fool debating all by myself) on what to spend some Birthday monies on.
6. I'm realizing that nobody wins in an internal debate.
7. I believe that BP has taken over the mantle of Most Evil Company on Earth - and is ahead in the running for Most Incompetent as well.
8. I'd like to change my nametag at work to read "Most Evil Dairy Manager" - I'm sure I'd have to deal with less customers that way.

...but that's just how I feel right now.


Later.

38 and Change

Today is my 38th Birthday.

To tell you the truth, it feels just the same as the day before, and the one before that. The only thing that amazes me about it is that I don't feel 38. Hell, mentally, I'm surprised if I'd rate anywhere over 18.

When I was younger I always looked at people near or over 40 as responsible, serious, and...old. As I creep up on that age myself, I find it's just the opposite - I'm serious, all right, but I'll still do shots in the cab of a truck or dance until I can't stand anymore. I relate well with people who are both 10 years older and 10 years younger than me. (Maybe that's just my sunny disposition, but who knows?)

So when does this "old" age hit?
Not for a long fucking time, if I can help it.


Later.

Balance

Sometimes I don't feel like I have much to say about what's going on around me - okay, maybe not that I don't have anything to say, but that I just don't have the words to express what I think of it all- not like I used to.. I find that lately I take more pride in the things that I do than in the things that I think.

I find that I'd rather talk about how I crossed the 2000 mile marker with my Nike+, or how well I did against a kid who's twenty years younger than me, than to talk about what I think of some random encounter with some weirdo at work.

Is that a good thing? Maybe - maybe not.

This place was sure a lot more entertaining when there was more of the former than the later..



Later

Race Report, Part 2

Little bit more info on my Half, and then I swear I'll stop talking about it..

• My official time is 1:33:48.
• I placed 174th out of 6561.
• I placed 30th in my age group.
  
• I was the 153rd Male to cross the line - there are some fast women out there!

Surprisingly, I was faster on the last half of the run than I was on the first - I guess when I stopped thinking about where I was and just ran, I picked up speed. (Helps that after that motherfucking hill, gravity kicked in.)

I can't stress how nice the run was - I'm already thinking of doing this again next year, and maybe just keeping it as a Half always, and avoid the shitty winter Marathon training.

And maybe, if I give him enough warning and harp on him to drag his ass out and run - the Sidekick and I can run it together next year... (Not togethertogether, we're not like that - but run at the same time. I'd cruise over the finish line and then rest for a half hour or so until he caught up..)

Thanks Vancouver - I had a blast.


Later.

Race Report.

Today I finished the Vancover Half Marathon, and set a new personal best time: 1:33:50!

(I'll admit - pretty stoked..)

It was a great run - going through downtown Vancouver was spectacular, and Stanley Park was incredible...except for Prospect Point - which kicked my ass HARD. (Honestly, after that hill, I had resigned myself to a 1:40:ish time - you can imagine my surprise when I rounded the corner towards the finish line...)

As hard as the race was physically, I did have one emotional moment: We ran by the beaches along False Creek, and the last time I was there was when I went to see my Brother's name on the Vancouver Aids Memorial - I know Sonny would have been impressed. (He also would have called me an idiot for wearing shorts and running in the rain, but still..)

So now I'm going to take my tired legs and have a night out with the Sidekick - my feet took a pounding today, so why not my liver tonight?

Later.

Of Oyster and Updates.

Yes it's been ages since I've updated, so here's a quick rundown of life:

• I'm back in the OR. (For those of you not in the know, that's Oyster River, not Operating Room.) Little bit of culture shock again, but I'm sure I'll adjust. Plus: I go trail running on my lunch hour - it's a fun, scenic change from just pounding on the Seawalk.

• Did the Comox Valley Half Marathon - rocked over last year - Improved by 6 minutes, finishing in 1:37:00! I was 111th out of 602, and 13th in my age group. Next up - the Merville 15K - a shorter run, but that just means I can hopefully go faster - looking to beat my 10th place finish from last year.

• I kicked ass in the Weight Loss Competition at my gym - won in all 3 categories for men - pounds lost, inches lost, and body fat % lost. But since you can only win one prize, I only got one package. Still, nice to know I did well. (Woulda thunk I could hit 172pds?)

• The night out with the Sidekick in the Riv? Yes - it was as sweet, and as full of G&T, as you would imagine.

• Reading a lot of Chuck Palahniuk - just finished Choke, Snuff, Fight Club, and Survivor. Also finished Juliet, Naked by Nick Hornby and Up In The Air by Walter Kirn. Really enjoying reading out of my "comfort zone" if that makes any sense...

And really, next to all the running, working, and Home life, that's about it. It's not the most exciting, but it suits me, I guess.

Trust me, I'll post something pithy and funny soon - right now, I'm flashing back to the Trews, Foo, and City and Colour.. Being back in the OR will do that to ya.


Later.

Thank You, Vancouver.

• For being cheerful and fun while I was there. Keep this up, and that "No Fun City" label will disappear fast.
• For having a transit system that worked perfectly, and wasn't a pain in the ass to navigate.
• For cleaning up and shining - looking like a true International City.
• For having all those people in Blue Jackets around - who don't mind giving directions to a guy who's "got his buzz on".
• For a Tim Horton's, Starbucks, or other caffeinated beverage place available when I stopped drinking Gin.
• For being the Gateway to Poco, where the real party was.. hahaha.

I'll be back in a month, so don"t forget about me..



Later.

I Feel...

1. That with only two days left until I go to Van, I can't fucking wait.
2. That starting a new workout regime the day before I have to do a Long Run is a Very Bad Idea. (Sore Legs!)
3. That I could wear a Hockey Jersey to work every day and be quite happy.
4. That True Canadians won't jump off the Team Canada bandwagon quite yet - we're used to disappointment - this is a country that has the Habs and Maple Leafs, remember?
5. That even though I'm not a huge fan of the States, sometimes we Canadians come off as extremely bitter anytime we go up against the US in any Competition, like a loss to them results in the loss of our National Identity.
6. That it wasn't until the Olympics were hosted on home soil that most Canadians even realized we have a National Identity.
7. That there nothing hotter than a woman in a Hockey Jersey. (Unless that's all she's wearing, then"Yowza!")
8. That it says something about me when I get a patriotic lump in my chest from a Tim Horton's Commercial.
9. That the moment someone asks if I speak English, or jumps in the back of my car and demands I take them to the Airport, I'll give up tanning.
10. That's probably a lie - I'd be flattered and offer to show them my tan lines. (Consider yourself lucky I haven't posted them to the blog, I'm that proud..)

Later.

Olympic Fever.

I'm sick.

Sick in the sense that in one week I'll be over in the Big Smoke checking out the Olympics and hangin' with the Sidekick.

You see, I have tickets to 2 events over there that were given to me through work - Men's Hockey Quarterfinal's and Short Track Speed Skating - both events are on the 24th. I'm excited about the Hockey, of course (Center Ice seats in lower blues - how can I not be?), but the Speed Skating also looks to be interesting.

I'm going over with Baxy - a co-worker who I get along really well with- and he's just as excited as I am. We're going to head over early, enjoy the day and the events, and meet The Sidekick Downtown after the game - and knowing the 3 of us, I'm sure that's when the real party will start.

That's why I posted a picture of the Olympic mascots up there - The Sidekick's the Big Guy, Baxy"s the Small Guy, and I'm the one with the hat on who's waving - now just picture those three completely inebriated and having the time of their lives... Can you see why I'm excited now?

I've got the fever - I've got the chills.
Now I need the medicine, and a hot nurse too.

Van City won't be the same...hahaha.



Later.

SportFit.

Mondays and Thursdays are quickly becoming my favorite days of the week.

Those are the days that I go to SportFit.

SportFit is a program at The Sportsplex in town. I'd seen tons of people wearing SportFit jerseys and T-Shirts at the various races I run in, and they seem to do well - so it might just help me in my endeavors to hold back the passage of time. It's got a fairly harsh rep - when looking into it, I had heard lots of "It's hardcore." and "You'll be sore, it's too tough." - but I decided to bite the bullet and attend a class, just to see if I could cut it.

I love it.

The class starts out with an aerobic-type stretching session- we're kinda dancing to music, and just getting warmed up. (The whole class is set to music - it's God awful stuff, but whatever - I'm not there to hone my musical tastes.) after about 10 minutes of this, the The Run begins.

The Run is my favorite part of class. (Go figure.) The first couple of classes, I held back, just pacing in the middle of the pack, moving along with the group. Eventually, I realized that it's too slow back there and moved up to the front of the line where the pace picks up and you leave the stragglers in the dust. We usually average at least 4 miles in our 30 minutes of running.

After The Run, we immediately go back into the stretching, dancing thing for about another 10 minutes, and then get down to floor work.

Floor work varies from night to night - sometimes it's more abs-focused, sometimes, more legs. Tonight we did it all - upper-body, (push ups for ages) abs, and legs. By the end of that, I'm usually quivering in whatever body-part we've just finished pummeling. And then we do Yoga.

Now, the Yoga we do at SportFit isn't hardcore guru-style Yoga. Hell, the only reason I know it's Yoga at all is because I recognize some of the poses from Wii Fit. (Really, not kidding.) Stuff like Downward Dog, Tree and Warrior poses are mixed with stretches for hamstrings, calves, and core. It's right behind The Run as my favorite part just 'cause after it's done you feel so good. (Or maybe it's because class is over after that, so it could be either.)

I've been going twice a week for over a month now, and I really dig it - it's helped me pick up the pace on my short runs, and it's just nice to be around a bunch of people (there's about 40 in the class) who are interested and like doing the same things as me. (SportFit also has a Pub Night at The Willows every Thurs after class, but I haven't gone to that ...yet.)

I'm going to keep going - eventually I'll be able to put my head on my knees with straight legs... (Why I want to do that, I have no idea.. but a goal's a goal, right?) Wish me luck.



Later.

Super - Duper.

I have no idea where I found this or who made it - all I know is that I laughed my ass off.



And not to cast doubt on Spidey's abilites, but shouldn't he have prevented Abel's murder, or Jesus's crucifixion? I guess not, since he couldn't even save Uncle Ben. (Ooh - low blow!)

Later.

I Fear No Scale.

Tomorrow is weigh-in day.

Yes, boys and girls - I've signed up for yet another weigh-loss/ fitness contest at my gym.

Call me crazy, stupid, or insane, but I think I can do well in this one too. (Brief History Lesson: Won the first one I ever went in - lost 42 ponds - Won body fat% lost in 2nd contest - 5.2%)

So Why not try again?

It coincides nicely with my plans for this time of year:

• Training for the Vancouver Marathon.
• Running in the Merville 15K & Comox Half again.
• Keeping my svelte figure. Hahaha

It's not that I have a ton of weight to lose - I know I'm probably going to drop 10 pounds just between now and May with the training, but I also want to work more on my legs and core than I did for the last run - which should help me close the gap and get closer to qualifying for Boston. (Every runner's wet dream)

I find that being involved in something like a simple contest keeps me on-track (Nutritionally wise) for the duration of the training. (Point in fact: So dying for a Peanut Butter Sandwich or two right now..but I'm being strong..)

Having my name and progress posted on a public board where people I know can see and check out really helps. If I don't make progress, everyone in the gym will bug the shit out of me.

I might even post some of my stats here, just for the hell of it - hey, at least I'd be blogging something, right?

I'd say wish me luck - but I think I'm going to be okay on this one... at least for the first week.


Later.

T.V. Gold.

As a child of the 80's, I would have watched the fuck out of this if it was a weekly T.V Show.




How sweet is that?


Later.

Stay of Execution.

Considering that since Christmas, the kids have been playing Lego Batman and Lego Indiana Jones non-stop, just the sight if this comic made me laugh my ass off.

This guy's stuff is hilarious - check it out.


Later.

Resolve

Okay 2010, here's what I'm hoping to do this year:

• Blog more - going a month between posts kinda defeats the purpose, don'tcha think?
• Run more - I have 2 Marathons planned this year, May and October - training starts tomorrow, so this one will be easy to keep.
• Save - I don't know for what, but you have to save for something.
• Read Better - rather than re-reading my bookshelf over and over, I'd like to branch out into some newer territories.

Short, sweet, and to the point.

Kinda describes me, right?


Later.

Someone Save My Baby!

Forgive me if I ramble - I'm a little distraught.

My youngest has been stricken down in his prime - and I'm having trouble dealing with it.

I stop at home on the way to the gym at lunch yesterday, and my wife tells me there's something wrong with Sammy. His full name is Samsung Hp-t4264, but I call him Sammy. (For Sammy Davis Jr, another wonderful black entertainer.) Sammy just shut off and instead of turning on, just makes a "click click" sound.

I immediately started revival procedures - I unplugged him and let him cool down. (Sammy usually did run a bit hot - it's his passion for the cinema that burns inside him.) When I got home after work, and all Sammy did was make that soul-crushing noise, I knew I had to seek professional help.

So this morning I bundled Sammy up in the blanket we brought him home in, snuggled him into the car, and drove him to Comox, where the nearest specialist is. I won't lie, a single tear rolled down my cheek when I left Sammy with the "Technician" (or whatever they call their Doctors.)

They'll let me know by Friday how much it'll cost to "fix" Sammy. I said money wasn't an object - the wife disagreed and said that $300 is the limit she's willing to go. (I don't understand - we've only had Tristan for 18 months longer than we've had Sammy - yet I know she'd pay more if something went wrong with him.)

So I'll wait by the phone until I hear from them - hoping and praying that Sammy will be okay. I can't even look at the spot where he used to be - his 21-inch cousin "Citizen" sits there now - but it isn't the same.


Come back to me Sammy - step away from the light.





Later.

Tattoo Goo.

Yeah - that's my leg.

You can tell by the muscular definition in the calf...and the freckles.

So I just got it done today, and it was an excellent experience. My last Tat was done when I was 19-20, so it's been a while since I've been in a shop. But completing my first marathon deserved something, and I think this was it.

My plan now, for future runs, is to put a small mark of some sort - ( a runner or if I want to sell out - a nike swoosh) under my time for each other marathon I run. Considering I'm doing 2 next year, I think the leg will be seeing some work.

Excuse the shitty, bleeding look to the pic.. remember - it's fresh.

Would ya believe I'm already contemplating my next one? Tattoos are almost as addictive as running. (Almost.) Thank God I'm in control of my addictions.. (Those of you who know me can start laughing now.)


Later.

Made me Laugh.

Saw this today and it made me chuckle.

"Use the Loofah..." Hahahah.



So I guess if you're and exhibitionist, Shiny Suds is for you...


Later

Station Identification.

Just so the world doesn't think I've died, I thought I'd update.

A lot has happened since I last wrote anything down here.

Most importantly, I lost my Father-in-Law - he was a great man and I was saddened by his loss and honored to be chosen to give the eulogy at his service. Trust me, I'm a talker, and getting up in front of those 350 people was both humbling and terror-inducing. From all accounts afterward, I did a good job , and everyone said he would have been pleased.

The two weeks preceding, I was single-dadding it - with all that had happened, my wife stayed with her mother, and even though it's on the same town, I didn't see her at all for 14 days. Juggling the kids and my OCD complex with the house was a challenge but I did it.

And if you think I got a lot of runs in, you're dreaming - check my Twitter - I haven't done much at all. Thank God it doesn't show yet, but I'm just glad to get back to the routine so I can get my shoes back on and just get out there. I'm still planning on Vancouver in May, and Vic again in October - with the Comox Half , Merville 15K, and any other run I can scrounge thrown in there. You have no clue how bad I'm aching for a 10 miler.. does that make me crazy?

Coming up, I have the Sidekick in town soon, and we're going to see the Trews at the Tidemark on the 23rd. (Yes, he's explained how coming to the sticks to see a concert is completly wrong, but he's still coming..)

And in 2 weeks and 2 days, I get my Tattoo. Totally looking forward to it.

Well you've been topped up with the meat and potatoes of my life - and yes, there's tons I'm not telling - but that's probably another post at another time.

Trust me, I'll be back.
(You can't keep a good man down - so a guy like me can only be kept down about 75% of the time.)


Later.

10K, A-Okay.

I ran my last race of the year today.

I finished the Miracle Beach 10k with a blazing fast 44:28 - 5 minutes off my time from last year. I still placed fourth in my age group, which just means the other old bastards (M35-39) have gotten faster too.

It was a great race, and I felt fantastic throughout. I probably could have even pushed a bit harder, but with doing Victoria last Sunday, I didn't think it wise to punish my legs further.

As always, the weather turned out great for the run - I always seem to luck out that way. (Knock on wood if you can.) It was sunny, cool, and the perfect weather to kick ass in.

For most of the race, I was running with a couple of guys, not paying attention to my pace, just running what felt right. It wasn't until one of them commented that we were clocking a 4'30" k that I started to check my pace, and even slowed down a bit - got to have gas in the tank to be able to finish. (Running's like sex - if you start out too fast, you just fall apart at the finish - never a good thing.)

Still, I was well ahead of where I wanted to be - at best I hoped for a time somewhere around the 45 minute mark, so to beat that even by just 30 seconds is a great thing. And as always, having them call out your name at the awards is great, even if it is just 4th place.

I say it's my last race of the year just because of the fact that I know of nothing else that's coming up. I'm contemplating the Vancouver Marathon, but that's not until May - and even then, I can incorporate the Comox Half and the Merville 15K into my training plan. ( I haven't really talked to the Wife about Vancouver - she already thinks I'm nuts, and telling her I want to do 2 Marathons and at least 1 Half next year will have her calling the guys in White Coats.)

So for now, it's back to just running for running's sake. I'm going to be hitting the gym for three days a week and running on the off days. I know there's a six-pack hiding under that last layer of fat - I'm determined to find it.

(Plus - and I won't make any promises - I should be able to blog more, now that I'm not going to be running 5 days a week. Believe it when it happens.)


Later.

Tattoo You.

I'm going to get another Tattoo.

As most of you who read this blog have come to understand, I have become slightly obsessed with running. ("No Shit!" You say - "Tell us something new!")

And as some of you may know, I already have a tattoo - the Japanese symbol for "Love" on my chest. As that Tattoo was wrought from pain and anguish (some of you even know that story), so this Tattoo will rise from pain and success.

I've decided to get the Roman Numerals for 26.2 (XXVI) tattooed vertically down my right calf, and at the bottom have my finish time for my marathon.

"But wait!" You say, "The Roman's didn't use decimals, you schmuck!". I know - I'm going to get a smaller "II" symbol tucked in beside the "I" - Trust me - I've drawn it out already, and it'll look cool.

And though it may seem crazy and weird to get a running tattoo on my leg, my reasoning is thus: I did it - I accomplished what few do, and no matter what else happens in my life, I will have that to be proud of. And it doesn't matter how many more I run, or whether my time improves or decreases - this was my first, and I want to remember it. (The only other thing I might ever get would be something involving my kids, but that's about it.)

The only thing that sucks is I have to wait until November 26th to get it done - the only reputable Tattoo Artist in town that I would trust my skin to is booked up until then.

I'm sure I'll describe the procedure and post photos when it happens.. But for now, I can't wait.


Later.

Good Mail.

Most days, your average Inbox is so full of spam and other assorted debris that it's hard to sort out the good news from the ENLARGE YOUR PENIS NOW!!! - type stuff.

My Telus-assigned email address is the one I use for all my junk. Anyone who needs an actual address I can respond to, but I think is going to send me copious amounts of crap - they get that one. I check it once a week, and it's usually to just shift-select all-delete.

The Real Me uses Gmail.

Even with that, I still get some junk - newsletters I subscribed to but don't read, the one guy I know who still sends out FWD:FWD:FWD:FWD stuff, (even though I've asked him not to), and the occasional spam because the Wife signed up for something and put in the wrong address.

But today was a good mail day. I received 4 emails that brightened my afternoon:

• A reminder from the local running store about the 10K I'm in this weekend. (I placed 4th in my age group last year - going to try and better that)
• Same local running store sending out a congratulatory email to all the local runners in the RVM - sure, it's a bulk email, but everyone gets to see my name in lights - as a finisher.
• Message from the Event Photographers that my race-day photos are online. This one's tough because my finish-line photo looks realllly bad.
• And a confirmation email from the Tidemark that my 6th row tickets to see the Trews are in. (Oh yeah, baby - the Trews.)

So believe me when I say- checking my email, while purely habitual and borderline obsessive-compulsive, was very rewarding today.

And I also got this one from a Nigerian Prince who needs my help to transfer millions of dollars - this could be good.


Later.

Completion.

It's done.

26.2 miles, 42.2 kilometers, 16 weeks of training. And it rocked.

The Royal Victoria Marathon made me feel like I can accomplish anything. I'm still on cloud nine - not only did I meet my goals, I blew them out of the water.

As you can tell from the certificate on the right, I finished in 3:28:20 - almost 2 minutes faster than I figured my best possible time could be. I placed 402nd out of the 2611 who finished the marathon, and 63rd in my age group. (considering that 12 of the first 25 finishers were my age or older, that's a good sign.)

But it was a great day and I had an awesome time. Even when my calves and hammies started cramping up at the 40K mark, I kept going. I paused to walk twice, but my determination to run the race wouldn't let me do it for more than 30 seconds. (I'm stubborn that way.)

It's a beautiful run - from the Seawall to the Parliament Buildings, from Oak Bay to running through the golf course, (even ran by the Twin's Comic Book Store!) it was just amazing to be surrounded by people just as crazy and dedicated as I am.

Some of my memories from the run:

• The line up for the bathrooms - listening to some ladies debate the moralities of sneaking into the wheelchair porta-pottie.
• The Elvis Impersonator on a flatbed truck in Oak Bay - The King kept me going..
• The clothing strewn on the side of the road as runners peeled off thier outer layers.
• The fact that only 1 in 200 runners can hit the trash can at any water station. (which is why we run, instead of being in the NBA.)
• The running club offering "Beer Shots" at the 38K mark.
• Eating my first gelpak - was too much like really sweet chocolate pudding.
• Wondering if being struck by a golf ball means you get to subtract time off your finish..
• Seeing 3:2x:xx as I came toward the finish line - fuck the pain - I ran.
  
• Wanting to hug the lady as she put my finisher's medal around my neck.. (I didn't.)
• The greatest chocolate milk/donut combo ever as I walked out of the food area after the race.

Overall, an amazing experience.
I'll post the photos as soon as I can - with selective editing - no one wants to see me grimacing in pain.

Now, about next year...

Counting Down.

It's 10 days to go until the Royal Victoria Marathon.

And I think my taper madness has set in.

I feel good, I'm confident about finishing - but in the back of my mind, there's this slight shred of doubt about my hip flexor. I think that it may be the only thing that will hold me back from achieving my goal.

And I'm just really excited about the run. My nervous energy is a slight to behold - I've become someone who can't seem to sit still. I normally don't sleep well the night before any of my long runs - I'm sure I'll need to be knocked out the night of the 10th.

With my infrequent posting history as of late, I'm not sure if this will be the only post you see before the big day - I'm hoping not, but who's to say?

If it is, wish me luck - I'm going to try and make 26.2 my bitch.


Later.

A Long Day.

Today was my Long Run Day.

Technically, it's supposed to be tomorrow, but really - when you set out to run 22 miles, does it really matter what day of the week it is? Didn't think so.

The thing that weirds me out about my long runs lately is that I start out in the darkness of the morning (6:30), and before I'm even two-thirds done, the sun is up and the day has completely changed. Sometimes it almost feels like I've been running from one day to the next.

To tell the truth, I'm disappointed in my long runs. Last week, I was supposed to do 20 miles, and came up three-quarters of a mile short because my hip flexor was bugging me, and this week I was 1.5 miles short because of a leg cramp. (I know it was a hydration issue, but it just kills me.) The fact is, after 20 miles, I think my body just says "What the fuck are you doing?'

My Body's going to learn that I'm the one in charge.

I don't have anymore long runs until the Marathon on October 11th. The longest I run is 12 miles. (Ha! Two years ago I would have called you crazy to think I'd run 12 miles. Now I don't consider it "Long".) So now's the time to rest between runs, and just try and stay healthy and injury-free.

As for the Marathon, I'm still hopeful of my time - still want under 4hrs, and as close to 3:30 as possible. I'm confident in my training, and know that between that and adrenaline on race day, I'll do just fine.



Later.

The Inconsistent Blogger.

An Anonymous source has said that Micro-Blogging via Twitter isn't nearly as interesting as Blog posts.

And they couldn't be more right.

Trying to tell an interesting story via Twitter is like someone trying to write Fight Club via Facebook status updates. ("I am Jack's Wall - help me in Farmtown")

So then what's the deal with the lack of posting, you ask?

Just plain laziness and the inability to tell a story. Oh, I can talk a story - trust me. Nobody bullshits better than me. But trying to find something that I want to say and than making the time to say it seem to be my downfall right now.

I think I'll try and change that.

I do miss this place. It used to be my refuge,my place to shout out into the darkness and see what echoed back.

But after such neglect, if I shout is there anyone there to listen?
If you Blog and there's no one to read it, is it really a post?
Welcome to my digital tree - I'm going to chop it down and see if it makes a sound.

Later.