tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21112642836698755762024-03-13T06:33:33.117-06:00Giddyupjoehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-78487378751648470662013-04-05T10:49:00.001-06:002013-04-05T10:49:20.445-06:00Sugar content... You'd be surprised.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Sugar; treats or food?<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzXG-mmfajsGaGDp75BwbbY0hS-shGje1Ld3WYqOoa1gKFUk35-Fph90hIG6lzw2qDDoFSWwpJ82SNG12LLgA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Yesterdays treats have become today's food. </div>
joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-24347796202521199042013-02-22T15:12:00.000-07:002013-02-22T15:12:04.053-07:00Another Sugar Visual... makes you think<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/DarcO6S17eQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-71986559513607457322013-02-13T10:41:00.002-07:002013-02-13T10:41:51.300-07:00Visual of Sugar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwbmcXt2ZCSVeSUXdvWMIUJij6ThLGWE5AnlhrQZlKxy25BmbPUzXUGlLifJ5_iASM2wpYolsl1CC-8w2vctA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I know I have spoken about sugar in the past, but I thought this visual might help us understand how much sugar as become part of our daily lives. I believe it has a profound negative impact on our health. Remember, this is an average. </span><span style="text-align: center;"> More to come.</span></div>
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joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-18246678910886123972012-10-15T10:49:00.000-06:002012-10-15T10:49:35.413-06:00In the presence of an Angel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Recently while flying home, I overheard a woman speaking behind me. She was talking to the airline attendant. She politely called her by name. She asked the airline attendant if she would be so kind as to watch over her throughout the flight. The airline attendant happily agreed. Every time she spoke there was "please, thank you and excuse me". I was so touched by her spirit. She spoke openly to those around her. Asking how they were. How was their day. Where they were going. She would make kind comments to the airline attendants as they passed by. She made kind comments to fellow passengers around her. It became clear to me and all surrounding her that there was not a bone of guile in this young lady's body. She was kind. She was polite. She was truly interested in others. She brought a smile to my face. She was an angel. She also happened to have special needs. </div>
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I was touched as I watched and listened to her interact with those around her. Just being around her made me want to be a better person. I was inspired. I thought, how would it be to see all people, not some but all as God sees us - with pure love. 1 Corinthians 13:2 states, "And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing" What is Charity? Later this scriptures describes it as, "Charity suffereth long, and is kind' charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up...doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth...beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things...charity never faileth" This young lady was and is indeed Charity. </div>
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I believe we come across people in life for a reason. I was placed in the path of this young lady, this angel for a reason. As the saying goes, "A rising tide raises all ships". Being around this angel, I felt I was lifted in my life as I seek to improve my charity towards others. </div>
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joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-26504412750135072752012-10-01T12:51:00.000-06:002012-10-01T12:51:32.492-06:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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It has been quite a while since I last blogged. I have actually had a blog written for months but have simply sat on it. Now is the time to start my blog again. The focus as you will see is one of my newest dreams which is to climb the Seven Summits, http://7summits.com/ of the world. I would like to invite you to join me as I blog about my training, thoughts, impressions, victories and some challenges that will accompany me along this journey. Welcome to my first blog. Again, note that I wrote this blog several months ago. This will be followed by another blog shortly afterwards.</div>
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<b>Movement</b></div>
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I believe that as human beings we need to be moving forward in life. Newton sums it up with saying that a body at rest remains at rest. A body in motion stays remains in motion. I believe that for us to achieve our God given potential we need to set and achieve goals. Stretch. Much like a muscle, we must exercise our dreams. Not just dream, but to act on those dreams. Dreams without action are like a wish. For this reason I push myself. I do Ironmans, endurance events in biking and running, extreme skiing and rock climbing. </div>
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<b>Action</b></div>
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Recently I decided to dust off a dream I have had for years. That is to climb the 7 Summits of the world. This means the highest summit on each continent. Kilimanjaro in Africa, McKinley in North America, Acancagua in South America, Elbrus in Europe, Vinson in Antarctica, Carstensz Pyramid in the Australia region and the mother of all mountain tops, Everest in Asia, the highest point to stand on this earth. Why you may ask? This will give me years of goal setting and goal achieving. A dream to work at. Staying in motion. Pushing my human limits. Leaving no regrets. </div>
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<b>Overcoming</b></div>
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It is at moments where we want to give up and quit where we grow the most. These moments define who we are - if we let them. The key is, "allowing them" to help define us. I believe life is not meant to be easy. I am not against modern conveniences. I love them as much as the next. But it seems like we want a luxury for everything in life. As a society we seem to be looking to make life easier. We want a remote for everything, Some new gadget to...well make like easier. The truth is, life is not easy. It can be tough. I think it is meant to be tough. Greatness is forged through adversity. I did not make these rules. Through the journey, we become who we are meant to become. All too often we attempt to skip the journey. I welcome the journey. I am not always grateful for that which pops up on the journey but I welcome it. </div>
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<b>Happiness</b></div>
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It is easy to get caught up in the "bling" of this world. Thinking we need to constantly have more in order to be happy. Don't get me wrong. I am not against material goods. But does it cause us to be happy? I think we will all agree that it does not. When pushing my human spirit I am reminded that it is truly the simple things in life that create lasting memories and bring happiness. Something about being in the lonely moment at mile 16 in an Ironman having already accomplished 2.4 mile swim, 112 miles of biking and now knowing there is still 10.2 miles to go. You have time to reach within yourself and think. Contemplate this journey we call life. What is most important? At these moments I am drawn to thoughts of my wife, my children, my faith in God, friends, my parents etc... Interesting that at these moments in time, material possessions do not occupy my mind. </div>
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<b>Why? </b></div>
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One could argue that I can do this without climbing the 7 Summits of the world. I will not doubt there are other ways. But I have learned in my life that when I have a dream building inside of me, I need to act. It is in the "acting upon my dreams" that growth happens. It is in the space between exhaustion and feeling of defeat that we have breakthroughs and once again help define who we are. So I take on challenges that will truly do just that - challenge me. I have done 8 Ironmans, Century bike races, a 206 mile bike race, Relay foot races, soon to enter the world of Ultra Marathons and obstacle course events. Next - the 7 Summits. </div>
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So here I embark on this quest. A quest that will take years. Years of goal setting and goal achieving. Trial. Growth. Gratitude. Defeat. Reflection. I will stay in touch along the way. Giddy Up 7 Summits. </div>
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<b>Update</b></div>
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As I mentioned, I wrote this several months back. Since then, I am humbled to announced that one summit has been conquered. Kilimanjarao - the highest point on the African continent. 1 down 6 to go. I can't wait to blog about it. I felt this blog needed to go in order so you will hear shortly about this experience with my 16 year old son Cayden and my good friend Lance Schiffman. Lance will be joining me on this awesome 7 Summits journey. Wooohoooo. </div>
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joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-32600753808635434892011-12-20T08:15:00.000-07:002011-12-20T08:15:57.517-07:00One Christmas present is free - Time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A</i></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><i> </i></b></span></b><b><i>few days ago I was racing out the door for the airport. This is not uncommon for me. However, our 2 year old daughter wanted to show me her doll. She was chatting with me only as a 2 year old can. So sweet. But I was too busy for her. She kept following me as I was finalizing my suitcase all the while chatting away. The time came for me to leave the room and go to my car. I'll never forget as I walked out the room and as I glanced over my shoulder I saw our little Principessa sitting on the floor, doll in hand looking at me as I walked away. My heart dropped. She just wanted to spend a few moments with me and I was walking away. I got to the stairs and I felt I needed to turn around. The flight will be there. I will make it. But I can't miss this opportunity. I went back and picked up my daughter and had her show me her doll. Although brief, we had some daddy/daughter time and then I went to the airport. To think I almost missed that wonderful moment in time. </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>I am all for presents at Christmas time. I think it is a wonderful way to express our gratitude to our friends and loved ones. However, I think in many cases, giving the gift of time may be just what is needed. And it is free. Going for a walk. Talking about the day. Playing a board game or a video game. Or simply talking about a little doll. So during this wonderful Christmas season I propose we try to find ways to give of our time. It is so rewarding for all involved. Merry Christmas!</i></b></div></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-91421213590235147452011-10-05T15:42:00.000-06:002011-10-05T15:42:46.907-06:00Random act of kindness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>My triathlon coach did the St. George marathon this past weekend. After the race he told me that he got a PR, (personal record). I was so happy for him. It wasn't until the next day that I found out from a friend of mine that he also performed a wonderful act of kindness. With approximately 50 yards left a runner in front of him hit the wall and collapsed. Without a thought, my coach stopped, helped this stranger to his feet and with his arm around him continued until both of them crossed the finish line. When I heard my friend had done this, the wise words of Jesus Christ came to my mind, "as I have loved you, love one another." These words are as true today as they were 2,000 years ago. I believe in human kind. I believe it is in all of us to help each other. And it is random acts of kindness like this that inspire us to be better people. </b></div></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-58125063486531070362011-07-06T14:53:00.000-06:002011-07-06T14:53:34.603-06:00The small and simple things in life...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>My dear mother turned 75 years of age a few weeks ago. She was born in Italy and immigrated to Canada around the age of 20. My father decided to through a birthday party for her in her home town in Italy. We brought the kids for this once in a lifetime experience. It was amazing. We met family, many for the first time. We went with my mother and visited Venice and ate gelato in Piazza San Marco. We went to Verona and saw a coliseum that started to be built while Christ walked the earth. We saw the Romeo and Juliette wall. One day, due to travel schedules, we had breakfast in France, lunch in Monaco and dinner in Italy. In France we saw the Louvre, Eiffel tour and the Arc de Triumphe. And when our 9 year old was asked by a man at the airport on our return what was his favorite memory of the trip? His answer, "playing with his cousins".</b></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</span></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b>I am not saying that we should not have taken advantage of the amazing sites that Europe has to offer while we were there. I am not saying there is not value in learning about the history of these great countries. But, it does make me think that sometimes, just maybe we try to make life more complicated then it needs to be. My experience tells me that it is most often the simple things in life that bring us the most joy, happiness and memories. For example, it was a warm evening for us in Utah on the eve of our nation's Independence Day. My boys asked if I would sleep outside with them. Due to my travel schedule I have not been able to have a camp out with them yet this summer. Okay, so a tent would not be involved. A fire would not be had. No marshmallows. Simply, a warm summer night sleeping out under the stars. We had a blast.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b>I need a lot of work in this department as I am running a million miles a minutes in life. However, it is nice to be reminded that small and simple things are in most cases that which make a lasting impression.</b></span></div></b></span></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-4672809772117286342011-06-03T09:41:00.000-06:002011-06-03T09:41:12.456-06:00How our attitudes can change in the snap of a finger - if we allow it.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><!--StartFragment--> <br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p>A few weeks ago I started my day in St. George Utah knowing that I was going to swim 2.4 miles, cycle 112 miles and finish with a marathon of 26.2 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>It was a beautiful day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sun was rising over the mountains as about 1500 of us started our swim in the Sand Hollow Reservoir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The swim went about as I planned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I came out feeling quite good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I jumped on my bike and started my journey of 112 miles with 6,000 feet of elevation climb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The temperature started rising and topped out around 92 degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had come from riding my bike in 40-50 degree weather so I certainly was not prepared for this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wind picked up and caused a bit of grief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was my stomach that was my problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to the hot weather my stomach started wreaking havoc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time I dismounted my bike I was not able to process any food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made it about 3 miles and my stomach said, “time out”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ended up walking quite a lot of the marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was either that or I would pass out and end up with a trip to the hospital to wake up with an IV in my arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">I went through a range of emotions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My father, mother, mother-in-law, wife, kids, and several friends were in attendance cheering me on which made me embarrassed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing I could do better,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was mad at myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was ashamed as I watched people of all ages passing me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just walked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew I would finish but with a time that was not pleasing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><div style="text-align: center;">Around mile 9 or 10, I saw a lady coming the other way starting her first lap of the run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had a prosthetic leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two things happened: a. I was suddenly inspired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This woman was my new hero.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To accomplish an IRONMAN is tough enough as it is but with one leg?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My hero.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B. I felt selfish with the negative thoughts that had been consuming my every being while walking the marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My negative thoughts then turned to gratitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So my time was not what I expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what if I was walking most of the marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had so much to be thankful for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of complaining about the heat, I was noticing how beautiful the sun was as it was setting on the red rocks of St. George Utah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started noticing and expressing gratitude to the countless volunteers who were giving of their time to make our grueling day the best experience possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I soaked in the music played by the band that was on the run route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also started talking to the fascinating people who had come from all around the globe to join in what is haled as the toughest IRONMAN competition in the world. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By around mile 23 my stomach improved enough that I ran the remainder of the marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt so good to run down the street and cross the finish line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>To the thousands of people there cheering us on, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">To my family and friends who were there supporting me, I adore you and sure appreciate the sacrifice you made to be there for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to the woman who not only inspired me but everyone who came in contact with you, I say, “God bless you!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world is a better place because of people like you who chose not to let life’s challenges stop you. You reminded me of the great potential that we all have and you helped changed my attitude in an instant. </span></div></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-69792700966380845212011-04-17T22:26:00.000-06:002011-04-17T22:26:13.535-06:00Training logSince my public commitment for the ironman things are going well. I certainly will not have a PR (personal record). In fact it may be my worst one yet. But I am going for it. <br />
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I joined a group who did some training. This was nice as I usually train by myself. We swam in a pool on Friday night approximately 3.5 kms. Then Saturday we rode 125 miles and I ran 5 miles. Good long day. It was hot. I got a bit burned but the sun felt good. Rock on! Commitment - it truly is liberating. :)joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-70206219963676453532011-04-01T14:01:00.000-06:002011-04-01T14:01:32.517-06:00Commitment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">In March I had the opportunity to speak at a distributor run Spring<br />
Forward Event for XANGO. My speech was centered around the theme of<br />
"Commitment", and I myself would even make a very challenging self<br />
commitment from stage. Commitment really is liberating. I believe as humans<br />
we want to commit. We need to commit in order to progress and accomplish<br />
our dreams. I was inspired by the following quote, and shared it with the<br />
audience: <br />
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"The irony of commitment is that it's deeply liberating - in work, in<br />
Play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal<br />
critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around<br />
as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the<br />
barrier to your life."<br />
-Anne Morriss<br />
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I made the commitment to do an Ironman competition this year, publicly, in<br />
front of a large audience. (So no going back). I was nervous to take on<br />
this challenge, knowing that once I said it, that I would have to follow<br />
through. It would be challenging, my travel and business schedule were not<br />
going to be friendly to me training. All of the "but"s and "if"s started<br />
piling up in my head...mountains of cannot, should not, and will not. For<br />
months I had been training for an Ironman but was not fully committed. My<br />
coach kept asking, "When are you going to officially commit?". I never<br />
gave an answer. was my "out". If I did not officially commit then I could<br />
still back out. How often in life do we take this approach? I know I do.<br />
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But in the end, I threw those voices aside, and took that step. I made my<br />
commitment.<br />
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I recently read in the book Aspire by Kevin Hall, and was inspired by the<br />
following quote:<br />
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"the moment one definitely commits oneself then Providence moves too. All<br />
sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have<br />
occurred...unforeseen incidents, meetings, and material assistance which<br />
no man could have dreamed would have come his way".<br />
-William Hutchinson Murray.<br />
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I found the above quote to be very true, that all sorts of things began to<br />
occur that might not otherwise would have happened. I have been traveling<br />
extensively throughout this past month, and found that I was able to fit<br />
in my swims and workouts. I found that I was able to still train,<br />
regardless of my rigorous schedule. Things are beginning to fall into<br />
place, and I believe it is because I took that step. I took that step, and<br />
made a commitment.<br />
<br />
There are obstacles before us all, but if we commit, we will find that<br />
things gradually do begin to fall into place. Having goals keeps us on<br />
track to achieving unbelievable things. But to achieve these goals, we<br />
must very first commit.<br />
</div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-1724000530294116352011-02-19T22:21:00.000-07:002011-02-19T22:21:24.540-07:00You never know<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Recently I received a message from my wife about a sad story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our son was getting his haircut and the hairdresser explained that a few clients before him a woman was getting her hair done and received some horrific news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her husband was traveling overseas and was killed in an accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told her hairdresser that she just lost the love of her life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart goes out to her and her family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is tragic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t help but put myself in her shoes and wonder how I would handle this situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has got me thinking quite a lot about the love I have for my wife and kids and other family members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do I live my life in such a way that my family knows of my love and concern for them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it is good for us all to do a check up on ourselves so that there would be no regrets.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A few days ago I was sitting on a plane next to an elderly couple who are clearly still in love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were cuddled next to each other gently holding each other’s hands enjoying a conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was pleasant to watch and experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t believe either of these people have any doubt of their love for one another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just never know when God will call us home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> So I think we should leave no question in the hearts and minds of our loved ones how we feel about them. </span></div><!--EndFragment-->joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-73603268216300318632011-01-30T12:53:00.000-07:002011-01-30T12:53:10.210-07:00Get back up<div style="text-align: center;">This past Thursday I had the opportunity to go to Sun Valley Idaho with my boys Cayden and Ethan. Cayden was in his second slope style ski competition. Ethan joined me and we skied together for the day. Cayden was so thrilled to be in the event. In his practice run, he landed wrong and got what is referred to as bad 'shin bang'. It is basically bruising your shins. It makes it tough to ski and especially to do any jumps. Although sore, he stayed on the hill supporting his other team members. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The following day was a half pipe competition and when I asked if he was up for it, he said yes. He would keep it easy and knew he wouldn't do well but wanted to go through the motions. It reminds me of the Confucious quote, </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." </span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">How true it is. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Although he did not perform as he would have liked, I am proud of my son for getting back up and entering. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So what did he learn? </div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Being his first half pipe competition ever he learned a bit of what the judges are looking for. </div><div style="text-align: center;">2. He gained experience by just being in it and going through the motions</div><div style="text-align: center;">3. He learned by going the extra mile.</div><div style="text-align: center;">4. He learned to get up after falling. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Falling is part of life. But as Confucious reminds us that we must get back up. Greatness is forged through adversity. It has always been that way. It is up to us whether we grow and learn from the adversity that is put in our path in life. Well done son. </div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-74243258294262741362011-01-10T11:52:00.000-07:002011-01-10T11:52:20.451-07:00Sometimes it is the small and simple things...<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I am at the airport on my way overseas looking at a Halo action figure. You may ask, what is that all about? A 40 year old man with a Halo action figure? Allow me to explain. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Yesterday, our 9 year old son handed my wife and I a little 2 inch size Halo action figure. It was multi colored; red, white and green. I said, "thanks son" put it down and continued with my day. He gave one to my wife with red and white colors. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Last night, we were reading before bed and he asked where my Halo action figure was? I apologized saying I was not sure. He then explained that he had taken parts from several of his action figures and put together red, green and white to represent one of his favorite countries, Italy because that is where Grandma Morton is from. The one he made for Caryn was body parts of Red and White which represented Canada where Caryn and I are from. I quickly realized that he had not only worked hard on this present for me but had put quite a lot of thought into it. I asked if he knew where it was. He brought it to me and told me it was for me trip. I now am carrying in my pocket my Italian Halo action figure. Caryn currently has the Canadian Halo action figure.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;">At first it seemed to me to be a small action figure like the many other toys lining our toy room. Small in size? Yes. But in meaning it was huge. I am so grateful I had a second chance to be reminded that it is often times the seemingly small and simple things in life and make such a difference. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;">So the next time your child, grand child, niece or nephew hands you a toy, there may be more meaning than you expect. </span></div><!--EndFragment-->joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-79840198776108115052010-12-27T12:45:00.000-07:002010-12-27T12:45:58.596-07:00A new perspective can make all the difference<div style="text-align: center;"><b>I showed up at the gym today to go swimming. As is common there was a water aerobics class going on taking up 2 or the 3 lanes of the pool. My first impression when this happens is, "darn, not again". Of course I am focused on myself and MY workout which causes these thoughts and emotions. But as I observed this group of people working out, my attitude changed and I thought how great it is that THEY too are working out. Being active. Striving to fight gravity that pulls us to a sedentary lifestyle. Setting goals. Socializing. All of the reasons why I enjoy exercise. It made me happy that we are all doing what we love to do. The 3rd lane was open so I jumped in and did my swim workout. </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Some times I think we are so focused on ourselves that we overlook others. I know this is the case with me. We are all working our way through this crazy thing called life. We are trying to not be part of the statistics of poor health that plagues our nation. So, if you have similar emotions, join me as I start the new year with a resolution to share, appreciate others, have more patience, and cheer each other on to greater health. </b></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-34084596562637887212010-12-18T14:18:00.001-07:002010-12-18T14:49:11.214-07:00What the?So I was running on my treadmill yesterday and nearing the end of my workout. I needed to keep going...blood was pumping...a little over a mile to go...speed was picking up so I did not want to pause or break it up in any way. Somehow I had clicked on to one of these "following the stars" kind of trashy shows. Basically tabloid type television. Sweet Baby Moses,I want my 10 minutes of life back. They spent 10 minutes on a debate of who is more of a super star and why between Justin Beiber and Lady Gaga. They had a panel of "experts" who debated this very "provacative" issue. How could my day continue without this highly stimulating discussion? They were teasing for after the commercial break on a heated discussion on the Kardashian's Holiday Card. And they are special why? I should have stopped my workout and just changed the channel but again I was in the groove. I would rather have my eye balls tatooed with a ball point pen than to go back to that show. I WANT MY TEN MINUTES BACK!!!!joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-14902719426553814662010-12-17T13:24:00.002-07:002010-12-17T13:24:44.085-07:00What is the Spirit of Christmas?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><div class="post-body entry-content" style="font-size: 110%; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 100%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Have you ever wondered about this spirit of Christmas that we speak about at this time of year? I think I discovered it in Taiwan.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Several years ago, right before Christmas I was in Taiwan for business. Taiwan is not a Christian country so I was pleasantly surprised to see symbols of Christmas in the airport, listening to music, stores and hotel. At first I thought, "yet again commercialism takes over the real meaning of Christmas.". But then I noticed symbolism that I did not normally notice. For example: the evergreen tree representing everlasting life of Christ.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlkxr5ZmeI/AAAAAAAAAEY/2xT3Qa9aG5A/s1600/rockxmastree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #999999; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlkxr5ZmeI/AAAAAAAAAEY/2xT3Qa9aG5A/s320/rockxmastree.jpg" style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Candy canes representing shepherd's crook. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmSMeVoaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/67x-WIsrjX8/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #999999; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmSMeVoaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/67x-WIsrjX8/s1600/images.jpeg" style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px; position: relative;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; color: #0000ee; text-decoration: underline;"><br />
</span></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Lights...the light of Christ. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlma03yMWI/AAAAAAAAAEo/zgEmFbL_szE/s1600/ledxmaslights22-75x75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #999999; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlma03yMWI/AAAAAAAAAEo/zgEmFbL_szE/s1600/ledxmaslights22-75x75.jpg" style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px; position: relative;" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Star...the star of Bethlehem. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmq1bFNtI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lwh5DjfOOiY/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #999999; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmq1bFNtI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lwh5DjfOOiY/s1600/images-1.jpeg" style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-top: 5px; position: relative;" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Songs with messages of Christ's birth. And so forth. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here I was on the other side of the world noticing much of the symbolism that I had forgotten over the years and I was feeling the spirit of Christmas. While I was thinking about this, I was reminded of a scripture in the bible that reads:</div><br />
"That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.". John 1:9. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">If all of us are born with the light of Christ, is it possible that the Spirit of Christmas is the light of Christ burning a little brighter in all of us? Consider this. During the Christmas season we are singing songs about God and Christ. We are giving gifts. We are spending time with friends and family who we don't normally see which in many cases leads to softened hearts and forgiveness. We are looking at the symbols all around us from lights to trees. What is happening? Again, I think it is the light of Christ burning a little brighter within each of us.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So next time we look at the commercial aspect of Christmas, let us remember that even that is still releasing the Spirit of Christmas. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas!</div><div style="clear: both;"></div></div><div class="post-footer" style="background-color: #f9f9f9; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #666666; font-size: 90%; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: -2px; margin-right: -2px; margin-top: 20px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px;"></div></span>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-22481994611249799352010-12-06T13:49:00.000-07:002010-12-06T13:49:14.031-07:00Stupid calories take 2<div style="text-align: center;">I know it can be obnoxious to always be counting calories. </div><div style="text-align: center;">However, if we don't who will do it for us? Certainly not the restaurants. We are so conditioned to think a good deal means ginormous amounts of food. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Consider this. I have a restaurant calorie counter on my iPhone. (by the way, I highly recommend it. Quite eye opening. Scan through this and there will be no doubt why being over weight and obesity is such an epidemic in our country). Before I dive into this, I am not anti restaurants. I love going to restaurants. I am simply saying, we live in a land of abundance. We have choices. If we decide to go to Chilis restaurant for our lunch break and we get a burger with fries, here are a few options:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Ground peppercorn burger with bleu cheese: 1520 Cal, 88g of fat, 120g carb, 55 g of prot, 12g fiber</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Southern Smokehouse Burger: 2080 Cal, 127 g of fat, 141 g carb, 91 g of prot, 10 g of fiber</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Want to try a quesadilla? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Quesadilla-jalapeño steak: 1520 Cal, 102 g of fat, 99 g of carb, 63 g of prot, 7 g of fiber</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let's go with a salad</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Range is from 140 cal for a house salad (i would imagine this is with no dressing) to 1400 Cal for the Quesadilla Explosion salad. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow! You get the point. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Stay tuned for other stupid calorie discussions. Remember, it starts with each of us making wise decisions.</div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-62337409980910184102010-12-03T15:00:00.000-07:002010-12-03T15:00:39.880-07:00What is the Spirit of Christmas?<div style="text-align: center;">Have you ever wondered about this spirit of Christmas that we speak about at this time of year? I think I discovered it in Taiwan. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Several years ago, right before Christmas I was in Taiwan for business. Taiwan is not a Christian country so I was pleasantly surprised to see symbols of Christmas in the airport, listening to music, stores and hotel. At first I thought, "yet again commercialism takes over the real meaning of Christmas.". But then I noticed symbolism that I did not normally notice. For example: the evergreen tree representing everlasting life of Christ.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlkxr5ZmeI/AAAAAAAAAEY/2xT3Qa9aG5A/s1600/rockxmastree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlkxr5ZmeI/AAAAAAAAAEY/2xT3Qa9aG5A/s320/rockxmastree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Candy canes representing shepherd's crook. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmSMeVoaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/67x-WIsrjX8/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmSMeVoaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/67x-WIsrjX8/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0000ee; text-decoration: underline;"><br />
</span></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Lights...the light of Christ. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlma03yMWI/AAAAAAAAAEo/zgEmFbL_szE/s1600/ledxmaslights22-75x75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlma03yMWI/AAAAAAAAAEo/zgEmFbL_szE/s1600/ledxmaslights22-75x75.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Star...the star of Bethlehem. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmq1bFNtI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lwh5DjfOOiY/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OWtNWDkgneE/TPlmq1bFNtI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lwh5DjfOOiY/s1600/images-1.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Songs with messages of Christ's birth. And so forth. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here I was on the other side of the world noticing much of the symbolism that I had forgotten over the years and I was feeling the spirit of Christmas. While I was thinking about this, I was reminded of a scripture in the bible that reads:</div><br />
"That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.". John 1:9. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">If all of us are born with the light of Christ, is it possible that the Spirit of Christmas is the light of Christ burning a little brighter in all of us? Consider this. During the Christmas season we are singing songs about God and Christ. We are giving gifts. We are spending time with friends and family who we don't normally see which in many cases leads to softened hearts and forgiveness. We are looking at the symbols all around us from lights to trees. What is happening? Again, I think it is the light of Christ burning a little brighter within each of us.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So next time we look at the commercial aspect of Christmas, let us remember that even that is still releasing the Spirit of Christmas. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas!</div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-42087352091043055062010-11-25T08:58:00.002-07:002010-11-25T12:04:33.516-07:00I am thankful for...My Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ<br />
<br />
My best friend and wife Caryn. She is my Queen. <br />
<br />
Our 3 wonderful boys Cayden, Ethan, Nathan and our little principessa Kelsey<br />
<br />
Whoever invented the garage door opener<br />
<br />
My XANGO partners, employees and distributors<br />
<br />
Our 2 dogs Odie and Jack Jack <br />
<br />
Whoever invented Air conditioning. God bless you<br />
<br />
The invention of the car jack. Think about it. <br />
<br />
The Wright brothers. Strange to think one can soar through the air in a metal tube from one end of the world to the other. <br />
<br />
Toilet paper. 2 ply more specifically. Need I say more?<br />
<br />
XM satellite radio. <br />
<br />
That our boys have such good friends. <br />
<br />
Snow and skiing. <br />
<br />
Nail clippers. <br />
<br />
Soap, shampoo and conditioner...and deodorant. <br />
<br />
Sun screen and SPF lip balm<br />
<br />
Sewage systems <br />
<br />
People willing to work in sewage. <br />
<br />
My favorite season autumn and favorite time of day; late afternoon. <br />
<br />
Note: I received a message from an anonomous person question why I put in sewage. Two things: 1. This message is intended to be somewhat random because of how much we truly have in life. The list is remarkably endless. Therapeutic to review. 2. For anyone who may question this: may I propose attending Scout camp for a week and use nasty, dirty porto-potties and I am sure it will be on your list. :):)<br />
<br />
This doesn't even scratch the surface but it is a start. Let's all be thankful for Our blessings in life. I believe gratitude is therapeutic. <br />
<br />
<br />
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-22543911121919810682010-11-23T01:58:00.001-07:002010-11-23T02:48:38.333-07:00Is there really a short cut?<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am in a hotel in NYC traveling back from an overseas flight and I am jet lagged. I can not sleep. What does that mean? Informercials a plenty. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I saw two informercials that seem to sum up how we approach our health here in America which is looking for the easy way out. The first infomercial was for a way to get the perfect abs. The message claims to look like the models in the informercial without any real work other than wearing a belt around your waist. No ab workouts necessary, just wear this belt. It's so easy. Is it really that easy? No. I am sure they had the actors use the product, but I venture to say that they spent a lot of time at the gym and they were on a very strict diet. For the vast majority of people we can not look like that without proper diet and exercise. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The other product I watched was a body contouring product. You know, the underwear that you wear under your close and claim that they can instantly give the impression of taking 10s of pounds off? I am not saying that this product will not be helpful to a select group of people. However, it tells me we are looking for a quick fix rather than getting to the heart of our challenge in America. What is this? In a nutshell, 1. How much we put into our mouth. 2. The quality of what we put in our mouths and 3. the level of activity we have on a daily basis. Simply put, it takes effort on our part. </div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-26599696447211810102010-11-12T16:16:00.000-07:002010-11-12T16:16:38.022-07:00Why do we take an elevator?<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had a choice the other day, like I always do of taking the elevator at the office or taking the stairs. I generally take the stairs but often take the elevator as well. I thought since I am in a hurry I would take the elevator but then decided no, I will take the stairs and just run up the 3 flights of stairs. Wooohooo, I was huffn' and puffn' when I reached the top. I made it quicker than the elevator and I felted better. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is the point, my heart rate was elevated, which meant my metabolism was kicking in and I figured I burned some calories. So how many? I googled it and found several sources. One was a person who tested it and came up with an average 150 pound person will burn approximately 4 calories climbing 1 flight of stairs. That is just walking. But what if you run it? Not sure yet. Stay tuned and I will eventually figure it out. :) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So why do we take the elevator? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Please Note, there are people who are simply not capable due to an injury or physical disability. Please do not misunderstand this blog entry. I am simply saying, if we are capable and able then why take the elevator? More convenient? In many cases. Easier? Most definitely. But we are also not burning calories in the process. Consider this quote from Cha Cha website: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Everything we do burns calories. Modern sedentary lives, combined with high-fat, high sugar diets, have contributed to a situation in which most people take in more calories than they burn, resulting in obesity." </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16px; line-height: normal;"></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Interesting. So what if we simply made decisions each day that will help with regards to our daily habits? I am not saying don't ever take the elevator but consider this. Let's say I take the stairs on average 3 times per day. That is approximately 12 calories per climb equaling 36 calories a day which we would not have burned. Not much you say. You are correct, not much. But that is 60 per week, 240 per month and 2,880 calories per year. That isn't much you say...but that is one simple decision. And I did not take into account going down the stairs and that is only 3 times per day. Stay tuned as I explore other areas that with a simple decision each day will add up.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Again, we tend to look to a pill to cure our ills but we overlook simply starting with ourselves. The human body and mind is an amazing thing. Ciao for now.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-59282464564030411572010-11-09T12:37:00.000-07:002010-11-09T12:37:50.037-07:00Stupid Calories<div style="text-align: center;">Why do we consume so many stupid calories?</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">We all know as an adult it is suggested that we should consume approximately 2,000 calories per day. My brother Gordon refers to many foods around us as "stupid calories". His point is, if we have approximately 2,000 calories we have to consume, then why waste them on calories that have no value? Interesting point. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">May I propose the following that would fall into this category. I want to first say, I am not anti-sugar. I am simply anti TOO much sugar. Holy Moly, we are out of control with our consumption of sugar. Consider this, "In the last 20 Years, we have increased sugar consumption in the U.S. 26 pounds to 135 lbs. of sugar per person per year! Prior to the turn of century (1887-1890), the average consumption was only 5 lbs. per person per year! Cardiovascular disease and cancer was virtually unknown in the early 1900's" <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 11px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 11px; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18px;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; color: #551a8b; text-decoration: underline;">http://healingdaily.com/detoxification-diet/sugar.htm</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #551a8b; text-decoration: underline;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #551a8b; text-decoration: underline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Before you reach for a soda, energy drink or whatever the functional beverage is, I recommend you take a look at this website. It will make you think twice. A little heads up, there are 10 teaspoons of sugar in a 12 oz. can of Coke. When was the last time you sat down and ate 10 teaspoons of sugar? There are also 140 calories in this drink. You may say, "That is not a lot of calories, I still have 1,860 calories left for the day". You need to ask yourself what you are getting out of those calories. Enjoy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sugarstacks.com/beverages.htm">www.sugarstacks.com/beverages.htm</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you desire to read further consider the following:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sugar affects the immune system. "The bottom line is that sugar upsets the body chemistry and suppresses the immune system. Once the immune system becomes suppressed, the door is opened to infectious and degenerative diseases. The stronger the immune system the easier it is for the body to fight infectious and degenerative diseases". Nancy Appleton Ph.D.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"The average person loses more than 90 percent of their immune system function within 15 minutes of indulging in this poisonous substance. This deficiency lasts for about 2 hours after the stress occurs". Dr. Stoll. Interesting to consider going into flu season.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Again, in today's world, we are shocked at how much obesity, heart disease and diabetes that exists and look to the magic pill. "Please cure us" is what we are saying.<br />
<br />
What we need to do in most cases is look to ourselves for change.<br />
Join me in my quest...</span></div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-8695439968381559672010-11-04T15:13:00.003-06:002010-11-04T16:56:52.764-06:00Why do we eat the way we eat?<div style="text-align: center;">In my quest for continuing to improve the health of myself and my family, I can't help but ask the questions, "Why do we eat the WAY we eat? Why do we eat WHAT we eat?" </div><br />
Obesity is an epidemic in America, obesity causes heart disease which is the number one killer (here) in the states. <br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/"><br />
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. The most common heart disease in the United States is coronary heart disease, which often appears as a heart attack. In 2009, an estimated 785,000 Americans had a new coronary attack, and about 470,000 will have a recurrent attack. About every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event, and about one every minute will die from one.”</i></span><br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/">http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i></span></div><br />
Diabetes is rapidly growing in our society which is also largely due to obesity. <br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsDiabetesTrends/"><br />
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death. It is also a leading cause for complications such as blindness, kidney failure, and lower extremity amputations (1). In 2007, the total cost of diabetes in the United States was estimated at $174 billion.”</span></i><br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsDiabetesTrends/">http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsDiabetesTrends/</a><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></div><br />
Do we ever stop and ask ourselves, why this is happening in a society that has so much? But is it any wonder when we look at how we eat as a society? <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I would like to invite you to join me as I seek to understand why we do what we do. </span></div><br />
<b>Example: </b><br />
Why do WE consume so many calories when we watch a movie at a theater? <br />
Why would THEY allow us to consume so much? <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This will be the first issue I address...</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Consider this:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>1. If you go to a theater and order a SMALL popcorn without butter, these are the nutritional facts; (facts found at livestrong.com, based on AMC Movie Theater Popcorn) :<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">serving size: 1/2 medium 42 grams<br />
calories: 225<br />
total fat: 11g<br />
carbs: 26g<br />
protein: 5g</span><br />
<br />
Movie Theater Butter Popcorn (now adding butter)<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">serving size: 1 small / 7 cups<br />
calories: 400<br />
total fat: 27g<br />
carbs: 0g<br />
protein: 0g</span><br />
<br />
2. Now let’s add some other ‘Movie-time-favorites:<br />
*32 Oz Fountain Cola<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">serving size: 32 oz<br />
calories: 350<br />
total fat: 0g<br />
carbs: 98g<br />
protein: 0g</span><br />
<br />
* Nutrition Information for Junior Mints (most movie theaters sell a 12oz box)<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Serving Size 40g<br />
Servings Per Container 8.5<br />
Amount Per Serving Calories 170<br />
Calories from Fat 30<br />
Total Fat 3g <br />
Saturated Fat 2.5g<br />
Sodium 30mg <br />
Total Carbohydrate 35g <br />
Dietary Fiber 1g<br />
Sugars 32 G</span><br />
<br />
<br />
So add this up:<span style="font-size: large;"> 400 </span>calories for a small buttered popcorn, plus <span style="font-size: large;">350</span> calories for a 32 oz Cola, you are looking at over <span style="font-size: large;">750</span> calories...add on a box of your favorite candies (Theaters mostly carry the medium to large candies, which triple calories) and you might be well over <span style="font-size: large;">1000 calories <span style="font-size: x-small;">(depening on your combination of food choices)</span></span> consumed during your favorite feature film. We must remember our<u> <b>RDA of calories is 2,000</b></u>. <br />
<br />
So again, why do many people do this? I appreciate the attempt to up sell me each time I buy some popcorn at a theater, but I will always get a small or a medium for me and whole family. When they try to up-sell me my answer is,<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>"No thank you, because then I would eat it."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> True? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Absolutely. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And how many people get small sodas anymore? It is not uncommon to get a 20+ oz fountain drink. Start adding it up. </div><br />
In the 1950s, would our parents order that much popcorn or that size of a soda? I venture to say it was not even an option. And we question why we have the obesity problem that we have? In asking the question Why do we eat the way we do at a theater; although it will vary from person to person, but one of the main reasons is because it is there, cheap, and we are up-sold to think we are getting a deal. We want our money’s worth but in reality we are harming ourselves. <br />
<br />
<br />
In today's world, we are shocked at how much obesity, heart disease and diabetes that exists and look to the magic pill. "Please cure us" is what we are saying.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">What we need to do in most cases is look to ourselves for change. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Join me in my quest...</div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111264283669875576.post-83641766796331622462010-10-16T02:26:00.001-06:002010-10-16T02:26:01.086-06:00My recap of the move EclipseI will start by saying, I am not a Twilight series follower. I was on a flight from Los Angeles to Taipei and I watched the newest movie in the series entitled Eclipse. It is one of the most successful movie series of all time hence I would watch it. If you have not seen it yet, not to worry, here in my recap:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you Bella - says the pasty white vampire handsome bo-hunk</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* No, I love you more</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* No, I love you more Bella...so much that I don't want to transform you</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you so much I want to transform into a cold hearted vampire</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* In comes dad who looks like Freddie Mercury. He says something like, "Despite the fact that this pasty white guy gets you home exactly on time from a date and he does not believe in pre-marital relationships, I want you to date the other guy who never wears a shirt and forces you into kissing him leading you to break your fist whilst punching him" Little does Freddie Mercury know that his daughter is caught in a love triangle with a vampire and a werewolf. The odds? A bazzillion to one. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you Bella</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* No, I love you more...please transform me. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* No....I love you more Bella and I am cooler because I have no shirt and I make every guy in the theatre completely feel inadequate with my defined muscles and 6 pack stomach. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* In come more shirtless werewolves (except for the female werewolves who had shirts which is good as that would not be appropriate) with one of the shirtless werewolves chewing on a chicken bone...which made me nervous because dogs are not supposed to eat chicken bones. Very concerning.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Bella says, "go feast pasty white bo-hunk (on what I am not sure. apparently he and the others don't feast on humans which I am indeed grateful. Maybe some animals? Where is PETA?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you Bella</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you more but now I am not sure if I love you more than the shirtless werewolf. What happened so wrong, or so right in Bella's life where she is faced with choosing between a bo-hunk vampire and a shirtless heart throb of a werewolf? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Seattle is being attacked by vampires that are somehow needing to attack Bella (I obviously missed why she is so important to this pack of vampires that they need to find her and destroy her)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Someone needs to carry Bella to the top of a mountain where it will snow and be very cold.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Naturally, in comes shirtless werewolf. He carries her up a mountain in his arms. I am sure causing every woman in the theater to swoon. Sparks fly. Choices Bella, choices. Werewolf with a ripped body or a vampire bo-hunk?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* She is freezing cold in the tent on the top of a mountain...it is a snow storm. Vampire can't help. In comes shirtless werewolf to jump in the sleeping bag with her to warm her up...naturally!! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* tender moment between werewolf and vampire whilst their damsel in distress sleeps warm and sound in the sleeping bag snuggled up to the werewolf - with no shirt. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* I love you Bella</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* "Wait, you are marrying the vampire who will suck the blood and life out of your body? I am so angry I need to go and kill something", says the shirtless werewolf whilst standing in the snow at the top of a mountain</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* "NO" cries Bella. "just kiss me". Ahhhhhhhh. What a moment. Now he doesn't go out and kill anyone. I will speak on behalf of the whole human race, or at least anyone close to the Seattle area at the time, thank you Bella for deflecting this killing spree. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* But the kiss was just to trick him to stop the killing. She still agrees to marry the bo-hunk vampire...or does she? We are led to believe this but the marriage does not actually take place in this film. I think there is more drama regarding this upcoming marriage. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">* All the vampires from Seattle are killed off and the werewolf still has no shirt. Even while he is nursing his wounds from the battle, his muscles are still intimidating every man watching. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The end</div>joehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00946514841089707334noreply@blogger.com2