The word of the day is Vituperate. It is pronounced like so: Vi (as in vitamin) tup (like tube, but with a p) a (like the word a) rate (like the word rate). Vituperate is a synonym of berate. It means to abuse or censure severely or abusively.
I personally hate to be vituperated. It’s what has kept me good over the years. The thought of a scolding from my parents, teachers, or anyone else who might take the chance is something I strongly shy away from.
Of all things, I like to be right the most. I take great pride in my correctness. I’m not often wrong, and that’s not always a good thing. I hate to apologize. I don’t admit defeat. When someone vituperates me because I’ve done something wrong, I don’t often forget it. I try my best to never make the same mistake twice. I’m usually pretty successful.
...Which must make living with me or just plain knowing me a treat. I don’t proclaim myself unless I absolutely know I am right or can find a way out. When I know I have something right, I stick to it to the death. My stubbornness has caused me to get into a lot of arguments. And the solution let’s-agree-to-disagree, doesn’t work for me. I can’t stand that someone will not agree with me when I am trying so hard to convince them.
And yet I am who I am. People who can’t handle me soon move on. I usually only show my true nature to the people I really like. It’s as if I wait for them to vest in me and then I try to drive them away.
Over the past few years I think I’ve become a little better. I’ve been out of school where chances to prove how smart I am are rare and useless. No one cares what my grades or test scores were. I don’t even care about them. No one cares which college I got into. No one cares how many tests I passed. The point of being smart now is to be able to carry on a conversation with the people around me. I’d say I do a tolerable job of that.
But believe me, you cross me on something I know or strongly believe in, you better be the one prepared for vituperation.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I'm a hiker
I love to hike. Ever since I was a little thing, I’ve been hiking. My family spent most summers camping and that meant a lot of hiking.
I don’t even care where I’m hiking. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail runs along the mountains just above my house. I like to get on that and take it north or south. I like to hike in the national parks. I like to blaze my own trail. I like to follow well groomed trails.
But I have a hiking routine. I prefer hiking in shorts and tevas. I always carry my CamelBak. Because I’ve been hiking for so long, I know the way I am most comfortable hiking.
I especially love hikes that involve water. That’s part of the reason I prefer to hike in my Tevas. If I see water, I generally get in it. I slosh through streams, rivers, lakes, tiny springs, I’m all about the water.
So, like Gabby, I’m way excited for the summer and the warmer weather. It can’t come soon enough.
I don’t even care where I’m hiking. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail runs along the mountains just above my house. I like to get on that and take it north or south. I like to hike in the national parks. I like to blaze my own trail. I like to follow well groomed trails.
But I have a hiking routine. I prefer hiking in shorts and tevas. I always carry my CamelBak. Because I’ve been hiking for so long, I know the way I am most comfortable hiking.
I especially love hikes that involve water. That’s part of the reason I prefer to hike in my Tevas. If I see water, I generally get in it. I slosh through streams, rivers, lakes, tiny springs, I’m all about the water.
So, like Gabby, I’m way excited for the summer and the warmer weather. It can’t come soon enough.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Week 5
I think that every time I do this I am completely wrong. Everyone keeps letting me down. I blame the teams for losing when I said they should win.
Kansas City Wizards at Toronto FC
Toronto has a great home crowd. They are loud and obnoxious and throw streamers at the opposing team to the point where they can’t even take a corner kick. I don’t know why this behavior is allowed. I am really hoping that Kansas, who I believe is in first place right now, hands Toronto a home loss. Maybe that will shut their fans up for a few seconds.
Houston at Columbus
Columbus is kind of looking amazing right now. Houston…not so much. I am going to give this win to Columbus, who have been playing hard this year and have actually won a game. Houston has not.
Real Salt Lake at DC United
I don’t have high hopes for our boys. They looked in very poor form the first half of their game at Toronto. The play was sloppy. And although I would like to think that they would be able to beat DC again, it just doesn’t seem likely. 3 points to DC.
Colorado Rapids at Chicago Fire
Both these teams lost last weekend. Chicago to Kansas and Colorado to San Jose. Of the two, I would say that Colorado’s loss was a bigger surprise. They lost at home. To San Jose. I’m giving this one to Chicago.
Chivas USA at Los Angeles Galaxy
Yeah, LA is technically the home team, but since both of them play at the same field, it’s a home game all around. I don’t think LA will win.
San Jose Earthquakes at New York Red Bulls
San Jose is starting to prove that they are a team. They beat Colorado at home last weekend. Colorado has been up and down this year. New York has been a little confusing so far this season. I think that they had a victory last weekend and then lost it. I still think that they are going to win at home.
Kansas City Wizards at Toronto FC
Toronto has a great home crowd. They are loud and obnoxious and throw streamers at the opposing team to the point where they can’t even take a corner kick. I don’t know why this behavior is allowed. I am really hoping that Kansas, who I believe is in first place right now, hands Toronto a home loss. Maybe that will shut their fans up for a few seconds.
Houston at Columbus
Columbus is kind of looking amazing right now. Houston…not so much. I am going to give this win to Columbus, who have been playing hard this year and have actually won a game. Houston has not.
Real Salt Lake at DC United
I don’t have high hopes for our boys. They looked in very poor form the first half of their game at Toronto. The play was sloppy. And although I would like to think that they would be able to beat DC again, it just doesn’t seem likely. 3 points to DC.
Colorado Rapids at Chicago Fire
Both these teams lost last weekend. Chicago to Kansas and Colorado to San Jose. Of the two, I would say that Colorado’s loss was a bigger surprise. They lost at home. To San Jose. I’m giving this one to Chicago.
Chivas USA at Los Angeles Galaxy
Yeah, LA is technically the home team, but since both of them play at the same field, it’s a home game all around. I don’t think LA will win.
San Jose Earthquakes at New York Red Bulls
San Jose is starting to prove that they are a team. They beat Colorado at home last weekend. Colorado has been up and down this year. New York has been a little confusing so far this season. I think that they had a victory last weekend and then lost it. I still think that they are going to win at home.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Glabrous
So, I’m sitting here trying to think of something to write about. I’m looking in the direction of my word of the day calendar for inspiration. Today’s word is glabrous (the “a” is pronounced like the “o” in “odd” and the “ous” is pronounced like “us”).
Glabrous means smooth; especially having a surface without hairs or projections. It’s generally used medically to refer to skin that has never had hair (like the palms), but it can also be applied to bald areas.
This, strangely enough, got me thinking about comb-overs. Now, I’m not bald, nor does it look like genetically I will ever be bald, so I cannot speak from experience. Personally, I would rather shave my head than have a comb-over. What is it about men that they think they are fooling the world by combing a longer section of their hair over the area that is glabrous? And ladies, what are you doing letting your husband/boyfriend/distant friend walk around with a comb-over? You look just as ridiculous as he does! You are the accessory to a crime!
So, this blog entry, random as it may seem, is a cry to the men and women out there to please, please stop comb-overs for good! Because believe me, none of us are fooled. Just shave off your hair and then everyone will think you are a bad-@$$ (like me!) for having a shaved head. Believe me. Look at the voluntarily bald men out there: Matt Reis (awesome Keeper for New England), Vin Diesel (grrrr!), Jason Statham (Handsome Rob), Bruce Willis (Yippee-Ki-Yay, Mr. Falcon) and more basketball players than I can name.
You’ll be better off…we all will.
Glabrous means smooth; especially having a surface without hairs or projections. It’s generally used medically to refer to skin that has never had hair (like the palms), but it can also be applied to bald areas.
This, strangely enough, got me thinking about comb-overs. Now, I’m not bald, nor does it look like genetically I will ever be bald, so I cannot speak from experience. Personally, I would rather shave my head than have a comb-over. What is it about men that they think they are fooling the world by combing a longer section of their hair over the area that is glabrous? And ladies, what are you doing letting your husband/boyfriend/distant friend walk around with a comb-over? You look just as ridiculous as he does! You are the accessory to a crime!
So, this blog entry, random as it may seem, is a cry to the men and women out there to please, please stop comb-overs for good! Because believe me, none of us are fooled. Just shave off your hair and then everyone will think you are a bad-@$$ (like me!) for having a shaved head. Believe me. Look at the voluntarily bald men out there: Matt Reis (awesome Keeper for New England), Vin Diesel (grrrr!), Jason Statham (Handsome Rob), Bruce Willis (Yippee-Ki-Yay, Mr. Falcon) and more basketball players than I can name.
You’ll be better off…we all will.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Have I got a long way to run?
I’m going to tell you a story. A story about a girl named PJ and her quest to become a runner.
The story begins about a year ago, but if I were to tell you all about that, you would be incredibly bored. Let’s focus on one day in particular – Saturday, 19th April 2008. This is the day that PJ finished a 5k in less than 29 minutes.
PJ was encouraged by her company to participate in the 5k as part of the Corporate Challenge. For four months she trained. She upped her running time. She upped her running distance. She even went three whole weeks without using chocolate.
The morning of the race, PJ was completely refreshed. She had slept excellently the night before in her sleep number bed (40). PJ wanted to be early for the race, in case something happened. She hates being late.
She got up and got dressed, pulled her hair back, brushed her teeth, and made sure she had her bib. It was still dark when she and Gabby left their hotel.
The race started at 7:30am. She ran at a fairly quick pace. She felt really good her first mile. The second mile was a little more difficult, but doable. The third mile did not go as well. Gabby kind of slowed her pace down, so PJ was forced to as well. PJ thought it was better, though. She had been wondering during most of the latter part of mile 2 when it was going to end. She was starting to worry she was not going to make it through mile 3. And to top it all off, she lost her headband.
When they got into the finishing chute with people cheering and holding signs, she felt refreshed. Then she noticed that Gabby, who had been lagging, was ahead of her a little. So she said, “Ready?” and off went Gabby. PJ knows she can’t match Gabby in a sprint, but she was pumping her legs just as quickly as she could. As they drew to the finish line, PJ was about even with Gabby. The results (http://www.racecenter.com/results/2008/slc5k08.htm) proved that she had kept up. They had both finished at 28:51 taking 707th and 710th places. They finished in the top 25th percentile of 3,020 runners/walkers/jugglers/superheroes.
As she has been scouring the results today, PJ notices that she beat most of the people in her company. That gives her a little surge of pride. PJ was also informed that of the companies participating in the Corporate Challenge, 4Life had the most sign-ups.
PJ wants to say congratulations to Gabby for a hard-fought victory. Rematch?
She also wants to congratulate everyone who completed an event on Saturday. Way to go!
The story begins about a year ago, but if I were to tell you all about that, you would be incredibly bored. Let’s focus on one day in particular – Saturday, 19th April 2008. This is the day that PJ finished a 5k in less than 29 minutes.
PJ was encouraged by her company to participate in the 5k as part of the Corporate Challenge. For four months she trained. She upped her running time. She upped her running distance. She even went three whole weeks without using chocolate.
The morning of the race, PJ was completely refreshed. She had slept excellently the night before in her sleep number bed (40). PJ wanted to be early for the race, in case something happened. She hates being late.
She got up and got dressed, pulled her hair back, brushed her teeth, and made sure she had her bib. It was still dark when she and Gabby left their hotel.
The race started at 7:30am. She ran at a fairly quick pace. She felt really good her first mile. The second mile was a little more difficult, but doable. The third mile did not go as well. Gabby kind of slowed her pace down, so PJ was forced to as well. PJ thought it was better, though. She had been wondering during most of the latter part of mile 2 when it was going to end. She was starting to worry she was not going to make it through mile 3. And to top it all off, she lost her headband.
When they got into the finishing chute with people cheering and holding signs, she felt refreshed. Then she noticed that Gabby, who had been lagging, was ahead of her a little. So she said, “Ready?” and off went Gabby. PJ knows she can’t match Gabby in a sprint, but she was pumping her legs just as quickly as she could. As they drew to the finish line, PJ was about even with Gabby. The results (http://www.racecenter.com/results/2008/slc5k08.htm) proved that she had kept up. They had both finished at 28:51 taking 707th and 710th places. They finished in the top 25th percentile of 3,020 runners/walkers/jugglers/superheroes.
As she has been scouring the results today, PJ notices that she beat most of the people in her company. That gives her a little surge of pride. PJ was also informed that of the companies participating in the Corporate Challenge, 4Life had the most sign-ups.
PJ wants to say congratulations to Gabby for a hard-fought victory. Rematch?
She also wants to congratulate everyone who completed an event on Saturday. Way to go!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Emelless Week 4
I’m kind of shocked about how the season is going so far. There is not one distinct team that is showing they are champions. It’s kind of throwing me off. DC and Columbus played last night, and DC lost. At home. To the Crew. I don’t know what to expect from this weekend’s games…but that won’t stop me from pretending I do…
Real Salt Lake @ Toronto FC
The kick-off for this game is scheduled for 10:30am Mountain Time. Gabby and I will be fresh off the Salt Lake City 5k (which I will win). The watch party is at Baxter’s and we are gonna be having some brunch. Because of that, it’s going to be a great game, even if we lose.
Both RSL and Toronto won their games last weekend. However, I would have to say that Toronto’s victory at LA was not as impressive as Real’s. Toronto managed to score 4 goals, but they also allowed 3 goals. Real scored the same number of goals, but Nick Rimando kept a clean sheet.
Playing Toronto at home for their season home opener is not going to be much fun. Their fans are crazy. Despite that, I still think that Real will manage to win.
New England Revolution at New York Red Bulls
Poor New England. They are looking frazzled right now. They were defeated by Colorado last weekend, but I guess Colorado is looking fairly impressive right now. New York was also upset last weekend. I have yet to see New York play this season, but I have seen New England. I think being at home will be to the Red Bulls’ benefit. I think New York wins.
San Jose Earthquakes at Colorado Rapids
San Jose. Poor guys. They really need a win to get them going. They managed to hold Chicago to only one point last weekend, which I found impressive. I don’t; however, think they have much a chance of beating Colorado at home. Three more points for Colorado.
Houston Dynamo at Los Angeles Galaxy
I’m really disappointed in Houston’s performance so far. They have yet to win a game and they are allowing a lot of goals. That being said, LA has allowed even more. I think this game will be determined not by the team that scores more goals, but by the team that allows more goals. I think LA lets more past. Dynamo victory.
Kansas City Wizards at Chicago Fire
Kansas was playing well at first. They were shocking us all, I think. Chicago has yet to lose this season. Their playing isn’t altogether impressive, but they are going to be at home. I give this one to the home team.
FC Dallas at Chivas USA
When these two teams played three weeks ago at Dallas, they played to a tie. I am going to have to say that the home field will work to the advantage of Chivas. They were nearly unbeatable there last year. I say Chivas will clinch the victory.
Good luck to all those participating in the events of the Salt Lake City Marathon.
Real Salt Lake @ Toronto FC
The kick-off for this game is scheduled for 10:30am Mountain Time. Gabby and I will be fresh off the Salt Lake City 5k (which I will win). The watch party is at Baxter’s and we are gonna be having some brunch. Because of that, it’s going to be a great game, even if we lose.
Both RSL and Toronto won their games last weekend. However, I would have to say that Toronto’s victory at LA was not as impressive as Real’s. Toronto managed to score 4 goals, but they also allowed 3 goals. Real scored the same number of goals, but Nick Rimando kept a clean sheet.
Playing Toronto at home for their season home opener is not going to be much fun. Their fans are crazy. Despite that, I still think that Real will manage to win.
New England Revolution at New York Red Bulls
Poor New England. They are looking frazzled right now. They were defeated by Colorado last weekend, but I guess Colorado is looking fairly impressive right now. New York was also upset last weekend. I have yet to see New York play this season, but I have seen New England. I think being at home will be to the Red Bulls’ benefit. I think New York wins.
San Jose Earthquakes at Colorado Rapids
San Jose. Poor guys. They really need a win to get them going. They managed to hold Chicago to only one point last weekend, which I found impressive. I don’t; however, think they have much a chance of beating Colorado at home. Three more points for Colorado.
Houston Dynamo at Los Angeles Galaxy
I’m really disappointed in Houston’s performance so far. They have yet to win a game and they are allowing a lot of goals. That being said, LA has allowed even more. I think this game will be determined not by the team that scores more goals, but by the team that allows more goals. I think LA lets more past. Dynamo victory.
Kansas City Wizards at Chicago Fire
Kansas was playing well at first. They were shocking us all, I think. Chicago has yet to lose this season. Their playing isn’t altogether impressive, but they are going to be at home. I give this one to the home team.
FC Dallas at Chivas USA
When these two teams played three weeks ago at Dallas, they played to a tie. I am going to have to say that the home field will work to the advantage of Chivas. They were nearly unbeatable there last year. I say Chivas will clinch the victory.
Good luck to all those participating in the events of the Salt Lake City Marathon.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
I'm old
After our Jimmy Eat World concert last night, I feel incredibly old. My reasons will be listed hereafter:
1. I don’t understand how teenagers dress. What is attractive about skinny jeans? Nothing! Not even on skinny people do they look good. What’s up with converse sneakers? Those shoes make everyone’s feet look like a size 15. It’s not only their clothes, it’s their hair. It’s all crazy colors that don’t make any sense. There were so many oddly dressed people there last night that I wanted to take pictures of. And why do these people dress like it’s 1985? It was not a good decade for style people! Why are you trying to hearken back to it?
2. I don’t think a mosh-pit is fun. It’s uncomfortable for everyone involved. You are pushed, stepped on, and generally sexually-harassed without being about to do anything about it. Why this is considered a good idea is beyond me.
3. After standing for over five hours, I complain. My feet hurt. My back hurts. I just want to sit down or go to bed.
4. I don’t like screaming in my music. I don’t mind loud music. I like to turn up the volume when I am listening to a song I love. I don’t feel the same about loud music I don’t know. Dear and the Headlights, who opened, were not good. When your instruments are so loud they drown out your screaming; your music sucks. Paramore was good, but she yells a lot in their songs, rather than singing. I can only listen to Paramore for a few songs before I get sick of them.
5. Everything teenagers do bugs me. There were a lot of stupid kids at the concert last night. They generally do everything that common sense would prohibit someone with half a brain of doing. I’m convinced that they are just idiots. I’m also glad that I am no longer in that category.
So, there you have it. Isn’t it great when a someone of 24 sounds like they are 40?
1. I don’t understand how teenagers dress. What is attractive about skinny jeans? Nothing! Not even on skinny people do they look good. What’s up with converse sneakers? Those shoes make everyone’s feet look like a size 15. It’s not only their clothes, it’s their hair. It’s all crazy colors that don’t make any sense. There were so many oddly dressed people there last night that I wanted to take pictures of. And why do these people dress like it’s 1985? It was not a good decade for style people! Why are you trying to hearken back to it?
2. I don’t think a mosh-pit is fun. It’s uncomfortable for everyone involved. You are pushed, stepped on, and generally sexually-harassed without being about to do anything about it. Why this is considered a good idea is beyond me.
3. After standing for over five hours, I complain. My feet hurt. My back hurts. I just want to sit down or go to bed.
4. I don’t like screaming in my music. I don’t mind loud music. I like to turn up the volume when I am listening to a song I love. I don’t feel the same about loud music I don’t know. Dear and the Headlights, who opened, were not good. When your instruments are so loud they drown out your screaming; your music sucks. Paramore was good, but she yells a lot in their songs, rather than singing. I can only listen to Paramore for a few songs before I get sick of them.
5. Everything teenagers do bugs me. There were a lot of stupid kids at the concert last night. They generally do everything that common sense would prohibit someone with half a brain of doing. I’m convinced that they are just idiots. I’m also glad that I am no longer in that category.
So, there you have it. Isn’t it great when a someone of 24 sounds like they are 40?
Friday, April 11, 2008
MLS Week 3
My second weekend predictions were a little better. I called the NY and DC victories (like they were hard), as well as the Chivas victory over RSL. I guess that one is a given, too.
Chicago Fire at San Jose Earthquakes
I can give you two certainties about this game: 1. Chicago will wipe the floor with San Jose. Sorry, San Jose. 2. Blanco will fall down a lot. Stupid Blanco.
Chivas USA at Columbus Crew
I think that even though Chivas will be at Columbus, they’ll take the three points. Columbus won their first game, but it was against Toronto. They’re back to old form after losing to New York last weekend. They’re good, but not great. Chivas, quite simply, is great.
Colorado Rapids at New England Revolution
I am worried about New England. Twellman and Ralston are going to be out for the greater part of two months. They won their first game against Houston. They lost their second game against Chicago. Then on Wednesday they beat Kansas City (which Gabby said was the sloppiest game ever). It’s all over the place for them right now. I’m hoping they beat Colorado. I think the home field advantage will be beneficial.
Houston Dynamo at Kansas City Wizards
Kansas City was quick to get six points, but then lost to New England. Houston lost to New England and was only able to manage a tie against Dallas. They have both been taken down a few pegs. Houston is a good team, but don’t seem too keen on proving it, lately. I’m having a really hard time calling this one. Let’s give it to the home team.
New York Red Bulls at FC Dallas
Dallas almost beat Houston on Sunday, but lost their lead. It was a pretty amazing game, anyway. New York had a great game against Columbus last weekend. Angel has not scored yet, but I’m sure he’s eager to; and lead New York to victory.
DC United at Real Salt Lake
I guess being mad at RSL is not really justified. I said at the beginning of the season they need time to get going. Not to mention, they aren’t historically a team of victories. Every time I think they will win, they lose. And often, when I think they might lose, they win. I’m expecting a Real loss. (Maybe then they will win.)
Toronto FC at LA Galaxy
I have a feeling this game is going to be very boring. The bulk of the time will be spent commenting on Beckham and all the fans that are out to see Beckham and all the celebrities in LA watching Beckham. (Look, Kobe Bryant!) This will be an LA victory, but like all their playing of late, I’d wager it will be unremarkable.
Chicago Fire at San Jose Earthquakes
I can give you two certainties about this game: 1. Chicago will wipe the floor with San Jose. Sorry, San Jose. 2. Blanco will fall down a lot. Stupid Blanco.
Chivas USA at Columbus Crew
I think that even though Chivas will be at Columbus, they’ll take the three points. Columbus won their first game, but it was against Toronto. They’re back to old form after losing to New York last weekend. They’re good, but not great. Chivas, quite simply, is great.
Colorado Rapids at New England Revolution
I am worried about New England. Twellman and Ralston are going to be out for the greater part of two months. They won their first game against Houston. They lost their second game against Chicago. Then on Wednesday they beat Kansas City (which Gabby said was the sloppiest game ever). It’s all over the place for them right now. I’m hoping they beat Colorado. I think the home field advantage will be beneficial.
Houston Dynamo at Kansas City Wizards
Kansas City was quick to get six points, but then lost to New England. Houston lost to New England and was only able to manage a tie against Dallas. They have both been taken down a few pegs. Houston is a good team, but don’t seem too keen on proving it, lately. I’m having a really hard time calling this one. Let’s give it to the home team.
New York Red Bulls at FC Dallas
Dallas almost beat Houston on Sunday, but lost their lead. It was a pretty amazing game, anyway. New York had a great game against Columbus last weekend. Angel has not scored yet, but I’m sure he’s eager to; and lead New York to victory.
DC United at Real Salt Lake
I guess being mad at RSL is not really justified. I said at the beginning of the season they need time to get going. Not to mention, they aren’t historically a team of victories. Every time I think they will win, they lose. And often, when I think they might lose, they win. I’m expecting a Real loss. (Maybe then they will win.)
Toronto FC at LA Galaxy
I have a feeling this game is going to be very boring. The bulk of the time will be spent commenting on Beckham and all the fans that are out to see Beckham and all the celebrities in LA watching Beckham. (Look, Kobe Bryant!) This will be an LA victory, but like all their playing of late, I’d wager it will be unremarkable.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
What's to come
I’m a pretty big failure when it comes to the blogging this week. In my defense, I’ve been really busy at work and at home. I have a huge registration due next week and I, of course, couldn’t get any of it finished until this week. I’m very smart.
Not that there’s anything to report on. It’s business as usual.
I’m very excited for this upcoming weekend/week. We have a lot of stuff going on in the next nine days. First off, we have the excitement of the weekend. I love the weekend. This Saturday we have a soccer game, and that is the last home game we have until the last day of the month. We better make it count.
The following Monday, we are going to the Jimmy Eat World concert! I am so excited. They are one of my top three bands, and the only one of them I have yet to see.
The weather is improving, so I’m excited for the warm weekend.
Next week is Spring Break for Alpine School District and my family will be gone. Secretly, I like it when they are away and I have the house to myself (or mostly to myself).
Then next Saturday we will be running in the SLC 5k. Gabby is back to health and I’m sure pounding the pavement (or treadmill because of the bad weather). I think we’re going to kill ourselves trying to beat one another. We’ll probably run at a normal pace for the first 2.9 miles and then get into a crazy sprint for the last 0.2 miles. She will win, if that’s the case. She can run faster than me at an all out sprint.
So, I’m sure you’ll hear all about all that’s coming up. Sorry there isn’t anything that has already happened to talk about.
Not that there’s anything to report on. It’s business as usual.
I’m very excited for this upcoming weekend/week. We have a lot of stuff going on in the next nine days. First off, we have the excitement of the weekend. I love the weekend. This Saturday we have a soccer game, and that is the last home game we have until the last day of the month. We better make it count.
The following Monday, we are going to the Jimmy Eat World concert! I am so excited. They are one of my top three bands, and the only one of them I have yet to see.
The weather is improving, so I’m excited for the warm weekend.
Next week is Spring Break for Alpine School District and my family will be gone. Secretly, I like it when they are away and I have the house to myself (or mostly to myself).
Then next Saturday we will be running in the SLC 5k. Gabby is back to health and I’m sure pounding the pavement (or treadmill because of the bad weather). I think we’re going to kill ourselves trying to beat one another. We’ll probably run at a normal pace for the first 2.9 miles and then get into a crazy sprint for the last 0.2 miles. She will win, if that’s the case. She can run faster than me at an all out sprint.
So, I’m sure you’ll hear all about all that’s coming up. Sorry there isn’t anything that has already happened to talk about.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Run for your life
And I totally did.
Friday night I could not sleep. I was afraid that I would oversleep and then Gabby would be waiting for me at the meeting place and I would not show up. And after I paid $20 to run in the Provo City 5k, I was not about to be late.
So, I woke up at about 5:40 Saturday morning, got myself ready and ate some fruit. We met at the appointed time and headed over to the race area.
The race started at 8:30 so we had a lot of time. The website said that it would start at 8:15 (which kind of made me angry when it did not). Anyway, just after 8:30 the cannon fired and off we went. Gabby and I set a comfortable pace. For some crazy reason I run faster than her outside. Inside, I cannot keep up with her, but outside I have to hold back to run with her.
So we completed the first mile easily. We seemed to be right about the middle area of the runners. I was feeling good. I wasn't breathing too heavily. The second mile, they decided it would be funny to throw a hill in the run. Now I understand that a little challenge is good, but man. So we start up the hill and I notice I'm pulling ahead of Gabby. It was at that point I realized, I had to speed up to make it up the hill or I would end up walking. I quickly burst the rest of the way up the hill and slowed myself down to wait for Gabby to catch up.
She didn't. We had completed the second mile and I was waiting for her to come along, but she did not. I knew that I had less than a mile to go, so I decided to just break off. I ran from that point at my pace. The race ended with a lap around three sides of Tabernacle Park in Provo. When I was on the second side, I challenged myself to pick up the pace and see how many people I could pass. When I came in the finish line, I looked at the clock, but it did not occur to me to look at the clock.
I walked around and tried to get the feeling back into my legs. They felt like Jell-O for a while. Then what seemed like no time at all, Gabby came through the finish line. She actually looked at the clock and said she had made it in thirty minutes. I was shocked.
Never in my life have I been able to run less than a ten minute mile. Even when we were in elementary school, I was not fast. When we were able to see our times a while later I was shocked. I ran the 5k in 29 minutes and 5 seconds. To see our results, click here: http://www.run13.com and go to the results section.
I am exceedingly proud of myself. I am also very excited for the Salt Lake City 5k that we will be participating in on April 19th. I am hoping to be able to beat my time of this weekend. Until then, I am sure I will keep training and hoping for the best.
Friday night I could not sleep. I was afraid that I would oversleep and then Gabby would be waiting for me at the meeting place and I would not show up. And after I paid $20 to run in the Provo City 5k, I was not about to be late.
So, I woke up at about 5:40 Saturday morning, got myself ready and ate some fruit. We met at the appointed time and headed over to the race area.
The race started at 8:30 so we had a lot of time. The website said that it would start at 8:15 (which kind of made me angry when it did not). Anyway, just after 8:30 the cannon fired and off we went. Gabby and I set a comfortable pace. For some crazy reason I run faster than her outside. Inside, I cannot keep up with her, but outside I have to hold back to run with her.
So we completed the first mile easily. We seemed to be right about the middle area of the runners. I was feeling good. I wasn't breathing too heavily. The second mile, they decided it would be funny to throw a hill in the run. Now I understand that a little challenge is good, but man. So we start up the hill and I notice I'm pulling ahead of Gabby. It was at that point I realized, I had to speed up to make it up the hill or I would end up walking. I quickly burst the rest of the way up the hill and slowed myself down to wait for Gabby to catch up.
She didn't. We had completed the second mile and I was waiting for her to come along, but she did not. I knew that I had less than a mile to go, so I decided to just break off. I ran from that point at my pace. The race ended with a lap around three sides of Tabernacle Park in Provo. When I was on the second side, I challenged myself to pick up the pace and see how many people I could pass. When I came in the finish line, I looked at the clock, but it did not occur to me to look at the clock.
I walked around and tried to get the feeling back into my legs. They felt like Jell-O for a while. Then what seemed like no time at all, Gabby came through the finish line. She actually looked at the clock and said she had made it in thirty minutes. I was shocked.
Never in my life have I been able to run less than a ten minute mile. Even when we were in elementary school, I was not fast. When we were able to see our times a while later I was shocked. I ran the 5k in 29 minutes and 5 seconds. To see our results, click here: http://www.run13.com and go to the results section.
I am exceedingly proud of myself. I am also very excited for the Salt Lake City 5k that we will be participating in on April 19th. I am hoping to be able to beat my time of this weekend. Until then, I am sure I will keep training and hoping for the best.
Friday, April 4, 2008
MLS Week 2
I think it’s kind of official. I cannot pick teams. Both of the teams I gave the win to yesterday lost. How’s that for accuracy? I’m really disappointed in you, New England. San Jose…you probably don’t need me to reprimand you.
My awful stats so far will not stop me. So, I present the weekend games:
Columbus Crew at New York Red Bulls
This is not only the Red Bulls home opener; it’s their first game of the season. I’m sure that they are eager to come out of the gate running. They now have Juan Carlos Osorio as their coach, and we all saw what he did in Chicago last season. Columbus is coming off a victory, but it’s against Toronto (which isn’t saying much). I say NY wins.
Toronto FC at DC United
DC lost last weekend to Kansas City, but they did the same thing last year. They are still the more impressive team of these two. Toronto is going to have to work really hard to get anyone to take them seriously. DC victory.
Colorado Rapids at Kansas City Wizards
Both teams won at home last weekend. Colorado beat the Galaxy 4-0 and Kansas City beat DC 2-0. I’m having a really tough time picking a winner between these two. So, let’s call a tie and give them each a point.
Real Salt Lake at Chivas USA
Our lovely RSL are playing at Chivas. They have never had a victory against Chivas at the Home Depot Center. That being said, they are playing remarkably well (if one game is a determining factor) and Chivas don’t look quite as impressive as they should. They were only able to come from behind and hold Dallas to a tie last weekend. I’m of course voting for a Real victory, but I think Chivas might take it. I really hope we don’t end in another tie.
FC Dallas at Houston Dynamo
Again the lone Sunday game; this time it’s the Lone Star State Rivalry. Dallas lost their edge to Chivas last weekend. Houston will be angry about their New England loss. I think Houston wins.
My awful stats so far will not stop me. So, I present the weekend games:
Columbus Crew at New York Red Bulls
This is not only the Red Bulls home opener; it’s their first game of the season. I’m sure that they are eager to come out of the gate running. They now have Juan Carlos Osorio as their coach, and we all saw what he did in Chicago last season. Columbus is coming off a victory, but it’s against Toronto (which isn’t saying much). I say NY wins.
Toronto FC at DC United
DC lost last weekend to Kansas City, but they did the same thing last year. They are still the more impressive team of these two. Toronto is going to have to work really hard to get anyone to take them seriously. DC victory.
Colorado Rapids at Kansas City Wizards
Both teams won at home last weekend. Colorado beat the Galaxy 4-0 and Kansas City beat DC 2-0. I’m having a really tough time picking a winner between these two. So, let’s call a tie and give them each a point.
Real Salt Lake at Chivas USA
Our lovely RSL are playing at Chivas. They have never had a victory against Chivas at the Home Depot Center. That being said, they are playing remarkably well (if one game is a determining factor) and Chivas don’t look quite as impressive as they should. They were only able to come from behind and hold Dallas to a tie last weekend. I’m of course voting for a Real victory, but I think Chivas might take it. I really hope we don’t end in another tie.
FC Dallas at Houston Dynamo
Again the lone Sunday game; this time it’s the Lone Star State Rivalry. Dallas lost their edge to Chivas last weekend. Houston will be angry about their New England loss. I think Houston wins.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
I am addicted to sugar...
... and in the grand tradition of children who can’t take responsibility for their own actions; I blame my parents. We grew up in a very sugar-saturated household. Our breakfast cereals were never Raisin Bran or Corn Flakes. No, we had Cocoa Puffs, Trix, Froot Loops, etc.
Mom had a candy drawer and there was always candy in it. Every major holiday we celebrated with candy. My friends used to love to come to my house because we had the best cereal and the candy dish always had something in it. We also had a ready supply of soda.
At the beginning of this week, I decided I was going to go the entire week leading up to Saturday’s race without chocolate. That may not sound like much to you people out there, but it is a lot for me. I have chocolate pretty much every single day. We still have a ready supply at home from Easter. I have a bag of M&M’s in my desk drawer. Chocolate is an essential part of my life. I also tried to extend this to sugar. It’s difficult to do.
Last night I could tell my body is going through severe detox. I got home and I felt extremely tired. The last thing I wanted to do was run. And those chocolate chip cookies my sister made the other night; they were looking so delicious.
I am trying so hard to be strong. And now I wonder, should I try and go longer without chocolate? Should I try and make it to the SLC Marathon on April 19th? Should I eat chocolate after this race and then give it up again the week before the SLCM? Am I strong enough to make it to Saturday?
All questions that will be answered Saturday morning, right now all I can tell you is; I would really love a cookie.
Mom had a candy drawer and there was always candy in it. Every major holiday we celebrated with candy. My friends used to love to come to my house because we had the best cereal and the candy dish always had something in it. We also had a ready supply of soda.
At the beginning of this week, I decided I was going to go the entire week leading up to Saturday’s race without chocolate. That may not sound like much to you people out there, but it is a lot for me. I have chocolate pretty much every single day. We still have a ready supply at home from Easter. I have a bag of M&M’s in my desk drawer. Chocolate is an essential part of my life. I also tried to extend this to sugar. It’s difficult to do.
Last night I could tell my body is going through severe detox. I got home and I felt extremely tired. The last thing I wanted to do was run. And those chocolate chip cookies my sister made the other night; they were looking so delicious.
I am trying so hard to be strong. And now I wonder, should I try and go longer without chocolate? Should I try and make it to the SLC Marathon on April 19th? Should I eat chocolate after this race and then give it up again the week before the SLCM? Am I strong enough to make it to Saturday?
All questions that will be answered Saturday morning, right now all I can tell you is; I would really love a cookie.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
MLS Report
I didn’t report at all on the games on Saturday. Gabby’s blog on the subject is more than sufficient. I will satisfy myself with saying that we have excellent seats. Most of the people around us are very vocal and it seems like we’ll be having a good time.
Well, my first weekend predictions weren’t very good. I got the Colorado win and the Columbus win, but I was off on the rest.
That’s alright. Real came out with a tie instead of a loss, which is good. New England beat Houston, not a bad thing.
Thursday night is a double header on ESPN2. I’m hoping to leave work a little early to try and get home and catch some of these games. I love to run while watching the Thursday night games.
New England Revolution at Chicago Fire
The Revs win at home on Saturday was a pleasant surprise. I think that they are a very solid team who definitely worked hard enough last year to win the Cup. Even though Chicago is at home, I think New England is a better looking team right now—even without Taylor Twellman and Steve Ralston. I saw Chicago’s play last weekend up close and personal. They were not looking up to form. Blanco spent most of his time whining and the ref ignored him. He’s going to have to learn that in the MLS, dives are very rarely rewarded. I’m giving the win to the Revolution.
San Jose Earthquakes at Los Angeles Galaxy
San Jose is back, but I’m afraid they may not be quite the team they were before they were transferred to Houston. I’m hoping they can overcome the first year curse of expansion teams and not end up in the bottom of their conference. Something tells me a win over the Galaxy would be an easy one. After watching the Galaxy’s humiliating loss on Saturday, I’m feeling that the Quakes may take this game. LA has no depth. Even with only sixteen men on their roster, I have a feeling the Earthquakes can give them a run for their money. Here’s hoping it won’t be the last win they get this season.
Go. Fight. Kill.
Well, my first weekend predictions weren’t very good. I got the Colorado win and the Columbus win, but I was off on the rest.
That’s alright. Real came out with a tie instead of a loss, which is good. New England beat Houston, not a bad thing.
Thursday night is a double header on ESPN2. I’m hoping to leave work a little early to try and get home and catch some of these games. I love to run while watching the Thursday night games.
New England Revolution at Chicago Fire
The Revs win at home on Saturday was a pleasant surprise. I think that they are a very solid team who definitely worked hard enough last year to win the Cup. Even though Chicago is at home, I think New England is a better looking team right now—even without Taylor Twellman and Steve Ralston. I saw Chicago’s play last weekend up close and personal. They were not looking up to form. Blanco spent most of his time whining and the ref ignored him. He’s going to have to learn that in the MLS, dives are very rarely rewarded. I’m giving the win to the Revolution.
San Jose Earthquakes at Los Angeles Galaxy
San Jose is back, but I’m afraid they may not be quite the team they were before they were transferred to Houston. I’m hoping they can overcome the first year curse of expansion teams and not end up in the bottom of their conference. Something tells me a win over the Galaxy would be an easy one. After watching the Galaxy’s humiliating loss on Saturday, I’m feeling that the Quakes may take this game. LA has no depth. Even with only sixteen men on their roster, I have a feeling the Earthquakes can give them a run for their money. Here’s hoping it won’t be the last win they get this season.
Go. Fight. Kill.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
No touch-backs!
Gabby, this will die here. You’re my only real bloggity-blog friend.
You're feeling: Good. I just finished breakfast and I’m taking a break from reading my e-mails to do this.
To your left: My plant.
On your mind: Soccer and work.
Last meal included: Breakfast-oatmeal with cinnamon coffee creamer (it’s so good, Gabby!)
You sometimes find it hard to: Apologize.
The weather: It’s really cold out, but I have put my coats away and refuse to wear them anymore.
Something you have a collection of: Snowglobes. Yeah, I’m a nerd.
A smell that cheers you up: Sagebrush.
A smell that can ruin your mood: Stitch’s ears.
How long since you last shaved: I shaved one leg this morning. He he.
Yesterday, The current state of your hair: Down, it’s straight and the ends are curled.
The largest item on your desk/workspace (not computer): Papers. I have stacks of documents that need to be submitted.
Your skill with chopsticks: I’m excellent. We learned how to use them in 9th Grade World Geography.
Which section you head for first in a bookstore: Usually fiction. I don’t like to read much else.
Something you’re craving: I’m so excited for the carb loading and for the meat loading that I will be doing for the race. I am making myself a steak tomorrow and we’re having pasta on Friday.
Your general thoughts on the presidential race: Why is this still going on? What does it even matter? Our personal votes don’t count and our system of electing a president is completely flawed. Whether I vote or not, doesn’t matter. I still will, though, because I want to get assigned jury duty.
How many times you've been hospitalized this year: Zero.
Favorite place to go for a quiet moment: Usually I go for a walk. I can think and I get a little exercise.
You've always secretly thought you'd be a good: Writer.
Something that freaks you out a little: Open sewer grates.
Something you've eaten too much of lately: Sugar.
You have never: Broken a bone.
You never want to: Go to jail.
You're feeling: Good. I just finished breakfast and I’m taking a break from reading my e-mails to do this.
To your left: My plant.
On your mind: Soccer and work.
Last meal included: Breakfast-oatmeal with cinnamon coffee creamer (it’s so good, Gabby!)
You sometimes find it hard to: Apologize.
The weather: It’s really cold out, but I have put my coats away and refuse to wear them anymore.
Something you have a collection of: Snowglobes. Yeah, I’m a nerd.
A smell that cheers you up: Sagebrush.
A smell that can ruin your mood: Stitch’s ears.
How long since you last shaved: I shaved one leg this morning. He he.
Yesterday, The current state of your hair: Down, it’s straight and the ends are curled.
The largest item on your desk/workspace (not computer): Papers. I have stacks of documents that need to be submitted.
Your skill with chopsticks: I’m excellent. We learned how to use them in 9th Grade World Geography.
Which section you head for first in a bookstore: Usually fiction. I don’t like to read much else.
Something you’re craving: I’m so excited for the carb loading and for the meat loading that I will be doing for the race. I am making myself a steak tomorrow and we’re having pasta on Friday.
Your general thoughts on the presidential race: Why is this still going on? What does it even matter? Our personal votes don’t count and our system of electing a president is completely flawed. Whether I vote or not, doesn’t matter. I still will, though, because I want to get assigned jury duty.
How many times you've been hospitalized this year: Zero.
Favorite place to go for a quiet moment: Usually I go for a walk. I can think and I get a little exercise.
You've always secretly thought you'd be a good: Writer.
Something that freaks you out a little: Open sewer grates.
Something you've eaten too much of lately: Sugar.
You have never: Broken a bone.
You never want to: Go to jail.
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