I want to also share a quick video forwarded to us by our son, Ben. It will give you a smile to start your week. Laurel and Hardy, dancing Santana:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkZGg0qNdCc
Looking together in the same direction.
Sea otters hold hands while they sleep so they don't drift apart.
Monday, July 30, 2012
BRC/Tony's Run Group; Laurel and Hardy dancing Santana
A quick picture of run group showing the age range, pets, and variety of walking wounded. Anyone can be a runner, even me.
I want to also share a quick video forwarded to us by our son, Ben. It will give you a smile to start your week. Laurel and Hardy, dancing Santana:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkZGg0qNdCc
I want to also share a quick video forwarded to us by our son, Ben. It will give you a smile to start your week. Laurel and Hardy, dancing Santana:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkZGg0qNdCc
Sunday, July 29, 2012
There are no fake runners.
"I often hear people say, 'I'm not a real runner.' We are all runners, some just run faster than others, that's all. I have never met a fake runner." - Bart Yasso
Today was one of those days. I've never run slower in my life. I could have walked twice as fast as I ran. But I did it anyway. With my new GPS watch, I now know how slow I really am.
Shared from Run4Beer
Shared from I'm Not You
I saw an interesting comment on Facebook which said to 'Like if being Vegan makes you happy." I loved that. Being vegan does make me happy. Maybe it is just due to feeding my body more nutrients, or maybe it is because I am not taking in hormones and chemicals reflecting pain, terror, and suffering, but it works for us.
I also recently saw a bumper sticker reading "Vegans are fighting the war on terror." I liked that, too.
Dean had chemo on Friday. It takes almost the entire day now. He is still fasting the day before and day of chemo and it seems to be working well. He doesn't have nearly as many side effects that some people have. He is experiencing a new one, however, which they warned him about. Drinking anything cold or even touching something cold, as something from the refrigerator, causes an intense short burst of pain. That symptom only lasts a few days, though. Weird, huh! His Doctor has told him not to jog, run, or take long walks so that he doesn't get the massive blistering of his feet this time around. He did take a long bike ride today which he enjoyed, but he really misses the jogging and losing that level of fitness.
Side note---I do fast when he does, solidarity fasting---but only for 24 hours. I think that is a reasonable limit for me. It is an interesting experience. I feel hungry at times, sure, but it is a good kind of emptiness. I like it. It reminds me how often I walk around feeling stuffed unnecessarily.
Today was one of those days. I've never run slower in my life. I could have walked twice as fast as I ran. But I did it anyway. With my new GPS watch, I now know how slow I really am.
Shared from Run4Beer
Shared from I'm Not You
I saw an interesting comment on Facebook which said to 'Like if being Vegan makes you happy." I loved that. Being vegan does make me happy. Maybe it is just due to feeding my body more nutrients, or maybe it is because I am not taking in hormones and chemicals reflecting pain, terror, and suffering, but it works for us.
I also recently saw a bumper sticker reading "Vegans are fighting the war on terror." I liked that, too.
Dean had chemo on Friday. It takes almost the entire day now. He is still fasting the day before and day of chemo and it seems to be working well. He doesn't have nearly as many side effects that some people have. He is experiencing a new one, however, which they warned him about. Drinking anything cold or even touching something cold, as something from the refrigerator, causes an intense short burst of pain. That symptom only lasts a few days, though. Weird, huh! His Doctor has told him not to jog, run, or take long walks so that he doesn't get the massive blistering of his feet this time around. He did take a long bike ride today which he enjoyed, but he really misses the jogging and losing that level of fitness.
Side note---I do fast when he does, solidarity fasting---but only for 24 hours. I think that is a reasonable limit for me. It is an interesting experience. I feel hungry at times, sure, but it is a good kind of emptiness. I like it. It reminds me how often I walk around feeling stuffed unnecessarily.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Phamaly
Last night we went to the musical "Little Shop of Horrors" put on by Phamaly (the Physically Handicapped Actors and Musical Arts League). It was fantastic! It was held in a small, intimate venue in the round so all seats were near the action. The performances were all top notch, especially Audrey, Audrey II, and Seymore. Loved it. Kate took me there for my upcoming birthday. We will really have to go to more plays by this wonderful theater company. All actors/musicians are physically handicapped in some way but their performances are truly amazing. The live band was the best I've ever heard.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Don't give up.
shared from Slow is the New Fast
Powerful inspirational true story from the 1992 Olympics.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZlXWp6vFdE
shared from I <3 to run
Thursday, July 26, 2012
"Death in America is largely a foodborne illness." Dr. Michael Greger
Here is a new video by Dr. Michael Greger, a physician and author specializing in clinical nutrition (see website Nutritionfacts.org for daily videos). In this 59 minute video he discusses the past year's research studies published in peer-reviewed scientific medical journals regarding diet and the leading causes of death. It is well worth your time to at least know what the research is showing to make educated choices. Dr. Greger does add humor to his talks.
http://nutritionfacts.org/video/uprooting-the-leading-causes-of-death/
http://nutritionfacts.org/video/uprooting-the-leading-causes-of-death/
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
"There will be a rain dance Friday night, weather permitting."---George Carlin
We had a short thunderstorm last night with maybe 20 minutes of glorious rainfall. It was much needed, and I hope moved on to drought-stricken farms. Normally, I hate thunder and lightening, but this time the thunder was a beautiful rolling echo as lightening lit up the darkness. It was comforting. It has been so long since I have heard rain on the roof. Who knew that one could miss that sound? We didn't get a lot of rain, but the air smells fresh this morning. Rain, rain...come again another day....please.
Our son once told us the story of the naming of his minister's daughter. They had waited a long time to adopt a child, and on receiving a baby girl, they named her Jorah, which is Hebrew for "first rain or autumn rain." In Israel, at the end of the drought season with the return of the rain, people drop what they are doing and run into the street shouting "Jorah!" What a beautiful story, and what a beautiful name for a long-awaited child.
On the home front, Dean's foot is gradually improving. He still wears sandals to walk, but has less of a hobble. He continues on the IV antibiotics for a couple of more days, and will then resume chemo and chemo meds, and the cycle will begin all over again.
Listen to the Who singing "Reign O'er Me." Only love can make it rain.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDbAtWpoA6k
Listen to William Close performing the same song with his EarthHarp last night on America's Got Talent.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/383981#x-4,vclip,1,0
Our son once told us the story of the naming of his minister's daughter. They had waited a long time to adopt a child, and on receiving a baby girl, they named her Jorah, which is Hebrew for "first rain or autumn rain." In Israel, at the end of the drought season with the return of the rain, people drop what they are doing and run into the street shouting "Jorah!" What a beautiful story, and what a beautiful name for a long-awaited child.
On the home front, Dean's foot is gradually improving. He still wears sandals to walk, but has less of a hobble. He continues on the IV antibiotics for a couple of more days, and will then resume chemo and chemo meds, and the cycle will begin all over again.
Listen to the Who singing "Reign O'er Me." Only love can make it rain.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDbAtWpoA6k
Listen to William Close performing the same song with his EarthHarp last night on America's Got Talent.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/383981#x-4,vclip,1,0
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
The need for change bulldozed a road down the center of my mind.---Maya Angelou
Shared from Dare to be Different
Ahhhh. Peace. Shared from My Yoga Online.
When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family. Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world. ~Author unknown
Monday, July 23, 2012
I am turtle.
I broke down and bought our first GPS running watch....a Garmin Forerunner 210. It is a basic model that will tell us how far and how "fast" we run or walk. I have used it twice now. It confirms what I already knew.....I am turtle. I desire to be a faster turtle, however.
Dean's foot is a little better. He hobbled off to work today, is wearing sandals, and hopes to keep his foot elevated as much as possible. Fingers crossed. He has not been able to exercise....not a good thing.
The gentleman in the picture completed a 100k (62 mile) ultra at 83 years of age
Shared from I <3 To Run
Saturday, July 21, 2012
In the face of hate, live back.
The week has really gotten away from me. Sorry about that.
As you have heard, there was a tragic shooting at a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, shortly after midnight on Friday morning for the opening of the new "Batman" film. 12 died, 58 others were injured by a well-armed and armored man. It is another shocking event in our increasingly violent world. I would like to share a blog from the Denver Post Newspaper by a Democratic Senator from NE Denver. I found it comforting. What we can do in the face of hate:
http://blogs.denverpost.com/opinion/2012/07/20/face-hate-displayed-aurora-theater-shootings-love/21847/
As a side effect from one of Dean's chemo meds, he broke out in multiple huge blisters on the soles of both feet. This happened a week ago, and he has been having a huge problem with walking. One foot is especially bad, and yesterday his doctor thought it could be a fracture, or a blood clot, or an infection. So xrays were done, no fracture. Ultrasound was done, no clots. Despite his blood counts being absolutely normal and him having no fevers, he is now on IV antibiotics. Home health care was here this morning dropping off the supplies which we will administer. He is stuck sitting with his foot elevated, and often iced, with extreme difficulty in walking. I am angry about his being subjected to another treatment-caused disease, and am using great restraint in not going into a rant about the ineffectiveness of cancer treatment in America and how it does more harm than good. The third leading cause of death in America is from iatrogenic causes, defined as illness caused by medical examination or treatment.
The highlight of my week was "Diva night" at my local running store, the Boulder Running Company. 350 women were there and stayed for 4 hours for a modeling show, food, music, free raffles of wonderful prizes, discussions with a dozen or more vendors, and big discounts. I didn't win anything, but got a couple of pairs of free running socks, flip flops, and a candle in my goodie-bag. It is always a huge party. I think the Boulder Running Company-Littleton is the very best marketed business I have ever seen! As I have mentioned before, they offer running groups (Sat. morning, speed, and trail), a walking group, boot-camp fitness, yoga, zumba, and they sponsor a racing team. The clothes, shoes, and gear they carry are casual as well as for running and yoga, and also for pets. They have turned themselves into a one-stop fitness shop and their staff is fantastic. (And no, I do not work for them, I am just one of their happy customers.)
As you have heard, there was a tragic shooting at a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, shortly after midnight on Friday morning for the opening of the new "Batman" film. 12 died, 58 others were injured by a well-armed and armored man. It is another shocking event in our increasingly violent world. I would like to share a blog from the Denver Post Newspaper by a Democratic Senator from NE Denver. I found it comforting. What we can do in the face of hate:
http://blogs.denverpost.com/opinion/2012/07/20/face-hate-displayed-aurora-theater-shootings-love/21847/
As a side effect from one of Dean's chemo meds, he broke out in multiple huge blisters on the soles of both feet. This happened a week ago, and he has been having a huge problem with walking. One foot is especially bad, and yesterday his doctor thought it could be a fracture, or a blood clot, or an infection. So xrays were done, no fracture. Ultrasound was done, no clots. Despite his blood counts being absolutely normal and him having no fevers, he is now on IV antibiotics. Home health care was here this morning dropping off the supplies which we will administer. He is stuck sitting with his foot elevated, and often iced, with extreme difficulty in walking. I am angry about his being subjected to another treatment-caused disease, and am using great restraint in not going into a rant about the ineffectiveness of cancer treatment in America and how it does more harm than good. The third leading cause of death in America is from iatrogenic causes, defined as illness caused by medical examination or treatment.
The highlight of my week was "Diva night" at my local running store, the Boulder Running Company. 350 women were there and stayed for 4 hours for a modeling show, food, music, free raffles of wonderful prizes, discussions with a dozen or more vendors, and big discounts. I didn't win anything, but got a couple of pairs of free running socks, flip flops, and a candle in my goodie-bag. It is always a huge party. I think the Boulder Running Company-Littleton is the very best marketed business I have ever seen! As I have mentioned before, they offer running groups (Sat. morning, speed, and trail), a walking group, boot-camp fitness, yoga, zumba, and they sponsor a racing team. The clothes, shoes, and gear they carry are casual as well as for running and yoga, and also for pets. They have turned themselves into a one-stop fitness shop and their staff is fantastic. (And no, I do not work for them, I am just one of their happy customers.)
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Veganpalooza 2012
I was able to listen to many of the interviews over five days at the Veganpalooza 2012 Vegetarian World Summit. It was well worth my time.
It was encouraging as most of the 32 speakers see hope for the future, that eating a plant-based diet is a rapidly growing (no pun intended) phenomenon. It is getting close, but may not be too late to save our planet.
I'll skip the statistics about water usage, destruction of rain forests, animals killed, human lives lost to unnecessary disease....you've heard them all before; but here are some of the sound bytes I picked up:
Real men eat plants, Real men are compassionate. Men have to man up. Women have to woman up. Excuses are like belly buttons. Everyone has one.---Rip Esselstyn
Being vegan changes you. In becoming vegan you find your heart cracks open. You no longer need the walls around your heart to protect you from the suffering of animals. The blinders come off.
There is a huge vegan section at every grocery store. It is called Produce.
A vegan plant-based diet is not a matter of deprivations. It is a matter of abundance and joy.
What is good for our body is good for our soul, good for animals, and good for the planet.
Violence has three components: perpetrators, victims, and bystanders or witnesses. The bystanders have the most power to stop the violence. With animal torture and suffering, 98% of humans are perpetrators. 2% (vegans) are bystanders who must become advocates for change. (Dr. Will Tuttle)
Veganism is growing rapidly in popularity. 5% of the world are vegan or vegetarian. Once we get to 10% or so we will reach a tipping point, as defined by Malcolm Gladwell as being the moment of critical mass.
The meat industry is like the old Soviet Union. We will wake up one day and it will just be gone. It is totally useless. The stone age didn't disappear because we ran out of stones. (Philip Wollen)
Folly is defined as acting against our own best interests.
Human health is not contingent upon animal suffering.
Flesh avoidance has been practiced for many centuries. It is not new. It was first mentioned by the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras around 500 BCE.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common. It is present in 40% of the adult population in general, not just in vegans.
EVOLVE! Campaigns
It was encouraging as most of the 32 speakers see hope for the future, that eating a plant-based diet is a rapidly growing (no pun intended) phenomenon. It is getting close, but may not be too late to save our planet.
I'll skip the statistics about water usage, destruction of rain forests, animals killed, human lives lost to unnecessary disease....you've heard them all before; but here are some of the sound bytes I picked up:
Real men eat plants, Real men are compassionate. Men have to man up. Women have to woman up. Excuses are like belly buttons. Everyone has one.---Rip Esselstyn
Being vegan changes you. In becoming vegan you find your heart cracks open. You no longer need the walls around your heart to protect you from the suffering of animals. The blinders come off.
There is a huge vegan section at every grocery store. It is called Produce.
A vegan plant-based diet is not a matter of deprivations. It is a matter of abundance and joy.
What is good for our body is good for our soul, good for animals, and good for the planet.
Violence has three components: perpetrators, victims, and bystanders or witnesses. The bystanders have the most power to stop the violence. With animal torture and suffering, 98% of humans are perpetrators. 2% (vegans) are bystanders who must become advocates for change. (Dr. Will Tuttle)
Veganism is growing rapidly in popularity. 5% of the world are vegan or vegetarian. Once we get to 10% or so we will reach a tipping point, as defined by Malcolm Gladwell as being the moment of critical mass.
The meat industry is like the old Soviet Union. We will wake up one day and it will just be gone. It is totally useless. The stone age didn't disappear because we ran out of stones. (Philip Wollen)
Folly is defined as acting against our own best interests.
Human health is not contingent upon animal suffering.
Flesh avoidance has been practiced for many centuries. It is not new. It was first mentioned by the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras around 500 BCE.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common. It is present in 40% of the adult population in general, not just in vegans.
EVOLVE! Campaigns
Monday, July 16, 2012
Perfection is a moving target.
For a belated Father's Day gift, Kate and her friend Nathan took Dean to a target range to shoot handguns, which Kate, Dean, and I have never ever done. Nathan is a hobbyist and owns 3 handguns. He is an excellent gun safety teacher and knows the history of his guns. Thanks to Kate for taking us, and thanks to Nathan for the excellent instruction.
It may sound strange for 3 vegans like us to try shooting guns, but we feel that aiming at paper targets is an okay sport or hobby, whereas aiming at animals definitely is not. It was a fun morning and a real learning experience.
We shot a Smith and Wesson 22 revolver, a colt 38 6-shooter revolver, and a colt 45 semi-automatic, so we started out small and went up in size and power. It was an interesting morning, if nothing else just to people-watch. I couldn't believe how crowded with people the range was, and early on a Sunday morning no less. Also, I have a new-found respect, or is it fear, of the power of these things.
I ended up agreeing with James Brady, that for target shooting, it's okay. For defense of the home, that is why we have police departments.
It may sound strange for 3 vegans like us to try shooting guns, but we feel that aiming at paper targets is an okay sport or hobby, whereas aiming at animals definitely is not. It was a fun morning and a real learning experience.
We shot a Smith and Wesson 22 revolver, a colt 38 6-shooter revolver, and a colt 45 semi-automatic, so we started out small and went up in size and power. It was an interesting morning, if nothing else just to people-watch. I couldn't believe how crowded with people the range was, and early on a Sunday morning no less. Also, I have a new-found respect, or is it fear, of the power of these things.
I ended up agreeing with James Brady, that for target shooting, it's okay. For defense of the home, that is why we have police departments.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Gotta Dance
Do you remember the "Where the Hell is Matt?" videos with a dancing Matt Harding? Well here is where Matt has been since 2008 and 2006. Just feel happy today and take a little time to watch these videos, and maybe dance around a little. Feel warm and fuzzy about humanity and smile.
from http://www.wherethehellismatt.com/
Where the Hell is Matt? 2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwe-pA6TaZk
Where the Hell are Matt's 2012 Outtakes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4quCAG4eCc
Where the Hell is Matt? 2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY
Where the Hell is Matt? 2006
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNF_P281Uu4
"You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth."
William W. Purkey
from http://www.wherethehellismatt.com/
Where the Hell is Matt? 2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwe-pA6TaZk
Where the Hell are Matt's 2012 Outtakes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4quCAG4eCc
Where the Hell is Matt? 2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY
Where the Hell is Matt? 2006
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNF_P281Uu4
"You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth."
William W. Purkey
Saturday, July 14, 2012
The smallest feline is a masterpiece.---Leonardo da Vinci
Farewell to Kate's little Ralphie-cat. Thank you Ralphie for gracing our lives for fifteen years. Thank you, Kate, for sharing him with us. We loved the little guy. Kate, you were the best friend Ralphie could ever have had. He was one lucky kitty.
"There are no ordinary cats."---Collette
"A catless writer is almost inconceivable. It's a perverse taste, really, since it would be easier to write with a herd of buffalo in the room than even one cat; they make nests in the notes and bite the end of the pen and walk on the typewriter keys."---Barbara Holland
"There are no ordinary cats."---Collette
"A catless writer is almost inconceivable. It's a perverse taste, really, since it would be easier to write with a herd of buffalo in the room than even one cat; they make nests in the notes and bite the end of the pen and walk on the typewriter keys."---Barbara Holland
Friday, July 13, 2012
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. ~Lao Tzu
I have been listening to a teleconference: Veganpalooza 2012 Vegetarian World Summit. 32 audio interviews are being aired from Wed. through Sunday. These are highly enlightening interviews with physicians, researchers, writers, nutritionists, and other experts in their fields.
I heard an interesting statistic yesterday in one of the interviews. American's eat ONE MILLION animals every hour. This is something to think about. The number is so large, I can't even get my mind around it. It cannot be sustainable.
EVOLVE! Campaigns.
I heard an interesting statistic yesterday in one of the interviews. American's eat ONE MILLION animals every hour. This is something to think about. The number is so large, I can't even get my mind around it. It cannot be sustainable.
EVOLVE! Campaigns.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Only one shopping day left 'til tomorrow.---author unknown
 |
| The lovely Cash, the dog I got to take. |
 |
| Seeking shade as we assemble before our outing, with Ellie Mae, Agave, Gander, and friends |
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Rocks 4 Sale
I don't belong to a gym, use weights, or have a personal trainer, but found this link very helpful. It shows how to fix your form and correctly do 10 different exercises. Hopefully you will find this helpful, also.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/10/how-to-exercise-triceps-dip_n_1659434.html?utm_hp_ref=healthy-living#slide=1001886
Good news for vegans.....Arian Foster, running back for the Houston Texans, is now vegan. Tony Fiammetta, a Dallas Cowboy, is also fueled by a plant-powered diet. Go Texas.
http://www.onegreenplanet.org/news/arian-foster-nfl-running-back-is-now-fueled-on-a-vegan-diet/
P.S. When we were out walking in our neighborhood this weekend we met 3 little tykes trying to make a little money. No, they were not selling lemonade. Their sign: "Rocks 4 Sale." They had bags of regular, everyday, picked-up-off-of-the-ground pebbles. I wish we had thought to carry a little change with us to make their day and foster their wonderful imaginations. It still makes me smile.....Rocks 4 Sale.
EVOLVE! Campaigns.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/10/how-to-exercise-triceps-dip_n_1659434.html?utm_hp_ref=healthy-living#slide=1001886
Good news for vegans.....Arian Foster, running back for the Houston Texans, is now vegan. Tony Fiammetta, a Dallas Cowboy, is also fueled by a plant-powered diet. Go Texas.
http://www.onegreenplanet.org/news/arian-foster-nfl-running-back-is-now-fueled-on-a-vegan-diet/
"People feel so strong about meat and milk. I wish they felt this strong about peace." ~Arian Foster (running back for the Houston Texans who announced last week that he's become a vegan)
— with Michael Edward Quinn.
(EVOLVE! Campaigns)
P.S. When we were out walking in our neighborhood this weekend we met 3 little tykes trying to make a little money. No, they were not selling lemonade. Their sign: "Rocks 4 Sale." They had bags of regular, everyday, picked-up-off-of-the-ground pebbles. I wish we had thought to carry a little change with us to make their day and foster their wonderful imaginations. It still makes me smile.....Rocks 4 Sale.
EVOLVE! Campaigns.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Sunday, July 8, 2012
"People are watching."
On Facebook today Runners World. posted an essay by Marc Parent, who writes the "Newbie Chronicles" blog every month. This essay was entitled "Why Run" and gave his personal compelling reasons for running. I really enjoyed some of his points.
1) Running makes you beautiful. I agree that at least it makes you feel beautiful. We all need to feel this. There are no ugly runners, he says, and I agree. A body in motion is a beautiful body.
2) Weight: "Show me an overweight longtime runner and I'll show you an aardvark. Both are hard to find." This one gives me hope, or at least the promise that someday I can get a free aardvark out of the deal.
3) Health, vitality, and well being. This one is self-explanatory. Research studies constantly reveal the wonders that running can do for our bodies, our health, our mood, and our very survival. We all desire long-term survival and the best quality of life possible. Running can help give us that.
4) Inspiration. Self-inspiration is a good motivator. "Running is not a private activity. People are watching. Show someone what it's like to want something. Lace up and give them something to believe in."
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-520--14403-F,00.html
Marc's reasoning got me to thinking about my own personal compelling reasons for running. What is going to get me out the door, especially this winter when it gets cold and snowy? In addition to his list, here are some of my ever-evolving reasons:
A) Companionship. Dean and I run together once or twice a week. Why? Time together. We go to run group, I admit, partly for the free stuff they give away in their prize drawings, but mostly to meet like-minded people also trying to improve their health and be the best they can be.
B) Nutrition. When being physically active, my body cries out for healthy food and for a high nutrient diet. There are no more junk food cravings. I trust my body as it is smarter than I am.
C) Accomplishment. Marc is correct, running is not exactly fun for most of us, even if we don't "super-hate" it like he did at first. It is always work. After every single effort, however, I feel better and I can say to myself: "I did it, this was really hard today, but I did it."
D) Stress relief. I am a calmer, more peaceful, better person after a run.
E) People are watching!
![The-Iron-Angel
50 Life Secrets & Tips
[Click here to read the original post!]
Memorize something everyday.Not only will this leave your brain sharp and your memory functioning, you will also have a huge library of quotes to bust out at any moment. Poetry, sayings and philosophies are your best options.
Constantly try to reduce your attachment to possessions.Those who are heavy set with material desires will have a lot of trouble when their things are taken away from them or lost. Possessions do end up owning you, not the other way around. Become a person of minimal needs and you will be much more content.
Develop an endless curiosity about this world.Become an explorer and view the world as your jungle. Stop and observe all of the little things as completely unique events. Try new things. Get out of your comfort zone and try to experience as many different environments and sensations as possible. This world has so much to offer, so why not take advantage of it?
Remember people’s namesso that they feel appreciated and for your own future benefit when you want something from that person. To do this, say their name back to them when they introduce themselves. Then repeat the name in your head a number of times until you are sure you have it. Continue to use their name in conversation as much as possible to remove any chance of forgetting it. If you’re still having trouble, make up a rhyme about their name: “Dan the Man” or “Natalie flatters me.”
Get fit!It’s ridiculous to think that we have one body, one sole means of functioning, and people are too lazy to take care of themselves. Fit bodies lead to better health, confidence and more success with romantic endeavors. I’d say those are 3 very good reasons to get in shape.
Learn to focus only on the present.The past is unchangeable so it is futile to reflect on it unless you are making sure you do not repeat past mistakes. The future is but a result of your actions today. So learn from the past to do better in the present so that you can succeed in the future.
Even more specifically, live in THIS moment.Even 10 minutes ago is the past. If you live purely in this moment you will always be happy because there is nothing wrong in this split-second.
Smile more often.Whenever you get a grin on your face, your brain is releasing serotonin, the happy hormone. Smiling is the natural way to force yourself to be happy. Many people even smile for five minutes straight in the morning to get themselves in a great mood for the day. It is a very powerful tool that is utilized less and less as we grow older and need happiness more than ever. Just remember that while happiness leads to smiles, smiles also lead to happiness.
Drink water.Hydration is tremendously important for overall health. Soda has absolutely ZERO nutritional content; it’s like pouring a punch of sugar and syrup into your cup. Instead, fill it with life-replenishing water. It may taste plain at first if you’re coming off of a heavy soda-drinking streak, but you’ll soon find yourself addicted to it. 10 glasses per day is optimal, how many have you been getting lately?
Don’t take life so seriously!Learn to laugh at the little things and this whole “existence” thing will be a whole lot easier. Be amused by your mistakes and failures and be thankful that you learned your lesson and won’t mess up like that again. And most importantly do things that you enjoy! Life is not strictly business, it can be mixed with pleasure.
Think positive thoughts.When you find yourself thinking a negative thought, stop it immediately by any means necessary. Slap yourself in the face, yell something positive at the top of your lungs or jump up and down. Do whatever it takes to get back to a positive mindset as such is essential for continual happiness and success.
Read books.No explanation needed.
Get in the sun.Superman was completely re-energized when he flew out to space and soaked in some rays and you can do the same right outside your front door (if you live in a constantly dreary place, my apologies). The sun feels amazing: your entire body will be coursing with warmth and life.
Help others.I’ll just give you a plethora of reasons why this is a MUSTHelping people has a ripple effect. If you help someone they will feel more obliged to help someone else, and so on.
Pay it forward
You grow by giving and helping others. It can change you in ways you never expected
Your relationship with that person will become stronger
It’s the most fulfilling thing you can do on this planet. It not only feels amazing physically, you also feel like a good person
You might be able to call in a favor later when you need some help
Karma (if you believe in it)
Because there are more people in this world than just you
Set aside a specific time to worry each day.Ponder all of your problems and anxieties during that time so that they will not distract you during work or moments of pleasure. This way you can be extremely efficient with your time and avoid focusing on negative things as much as possible. If you get all of your worry out of the way and have the mental fortitude to keep from reverting back to them, you will be much happier on the daily.
Be honest at all times.Lies lead to nothing but trouble. Being known as trustworthy is an excellent trait to maintain and essential to having integrity.
Sleep less.Fully adjusting to a new sleep cycle can take up to 21 days so don’t give up if you feel tired after switching to 5-hour nights. The “required” 8 hour/night is for normal people. If you’re reading THIS article on THIS site, you are not normal. So figure out how much sleep YOU really need and adjust accordingly. As enjoyable as sleep is, waking existence is much more fulfilling and efficient. IF this really sparks your interest, check out alternate sleep cycles with which you can be fine off of 2 hours of sleep per day.
Figure out what your goals and dreams are.So many people wander aimlessly through life simply go for whatever small thing they want moment by moment. Instead, decide what your perfect life consists of and begin to put the steps in motion to reach that place. The most satisfying thing in the world (yes, better than sex, much better) is overcoming a challenge and reaching a goal. We are the happiest when we are growing and working towards something better.
Start your day off right.Wake up and set aside an hour for personal development activities (meditation, self-introspection, observing nature, etc.) Do the things that make you feel blissful, optimistic and empowered so that you can set a positive tone for your day. I guarantee that once you start doing this, your days will be more enjoyable and fulfilling. Today is going to be the best day of your life. Duh.
Utilize ‘The Burning Method.’Whenever a fear or worry or complaint comes to mind, close your eyes and imagine writing down the thought on a piece of paper. Then proceed to light the paper and fire and watch it disintegrate. Even better, actually write it down and burn it. You won’t have any problem ridding your mind of the thought after doing this.
Travel.Anyone who has ever gone anywhere will tell you that traveling is one of the most exciting and life-changing activities that you can do. Observing a different culture will expand your mind while making you further appreciate the life you already live. This goes back to becoming an explorer: this world is your jungle so go explore! Who knows, maybe you’ll find a place you love so much that you decide to move. Imagine the positive repercussions a new environment could have on your life.
The Rubber Band MethodThis is the third and final way to rid yourself of negative thoughts (hopefully by now you have figured out that this is very important!). Place a rubber band around your wrist and snap it against your skin anytime a negative thought finds its way into your head. This classical conditioning technique associates a slight pain with negative thoughts like Pavlov associated food/salivation with the sound of a bell. Sounds a bit cruel at first but it only stings for a second, I promise. Plus the outcome, having only positive thoughts, far outweighs a little slap on the wrist here and there.
Learn to be unaffected by the words of others.Most people get very upset when they are called negative names by others, but there is a simple trick to overcoming this. Here it is: If I went up to you and called you a fire hydrant, would you be upset? Of course not. Obviously you are not a fire hydrant, you are a human being. The same concept applies to when someone calls you something that you know you are not. They are foolish for saying such things, so why would you react with such anger? The only exception is when someone calls you something that is true! In this case, you should thank them for alerting you to a weakness, one that you can now work on changing.
Develop the ability to forgive.Forgiveness is something that most people fail miserably at even thought it’s so simple. Grudges only bring more misery to those who hold them and prevent good relations with the target. YOU makes mistakes all of the time so why not have mercy when other do? Remaining angry feels horrible while forgiving someone brings a refreshing sensation to the mind and healing to the relationship.Be the person that makes others feel special.Be known for your kindness and sympathy.
Learn to lucid dream or to realize when you are dreaming so that you can control your dreams. Sleep feels good, but its rather boring and unproductive. With lucid dreaming under your belt, night time can be even more exciting than when you are awake. You can do anything: fly, travel to other planets, party with a celebrity, get intimate with your dream boy/girl, etc. Many lucid dreams have also reported being able to speak directly with the subconscious during dreams by demanding to be taken to it after becoming lucid. For those that know a thing or two about your subconscious, that is a BIG deal.
Visualize daily.It has been said and proven time and time again that what you focus on is what you get. If you complain all of the time, you will run into more of the things you complain about. The same goes for good things like health, wealth and happiness. So spend some time in the morning imagining yourself achieving whatever it is that you currently desire. Focus is key in this exercise, so choose a quiet environment where you won’t be disturbed. If you’re having trouble focusing and continually find that your mind has wandered to something else, read about meditation in the following life tip. There is a lot more to this concept, so check out the full article on visualization and the law of attraction here.
Meditate everyday for at least 20 minutes.In this modern world where everyone is so connected to everything else via cell phones, TV and internet, most people rarely enjoy the beauty of silence. The ability to quiet your mind and relax your body is an art and skill that everyone should develop. Simply sit somewhere, preferably in nature, and focus on your breathing or try to think about nothing. This is going to be extremely hard at first! You might find it boring or just plain impossible to think of nothing, but you will get better and you will learn to love it. Post-meditation, you will feel extremely clear headed and.. well, just plain wonderful. The only way to really understand this sensation is to try it.
Learn to control your mind.What kind of skilled human are you if you cannot even control your own thoughts? While the human mind is described as being a stream of consciousness, that does not mean you can’t decide where your stream flows. Techniques like meditation and the 3 ways to flush out negative thoughts will aid you immensely in learning to control your mind.
Learn to control your emotions.The only person that can make you unhappy is you! You are the one that decides to be affected by the words and actions of others. Realize this so that the next time you experience a negative emotion, you can find the strength within yourself to overcome it.
Take a class in speed reading.Books are full of information that can enhance your knowledge-base, vocabulary and yourself as a person. Speed reading is an easy way to get at this info faster so that you can have more time for other endeavors.
Relax!This one is for you work-o-holics out there (myself included). Yes, work is very important and productive but you need to take some time to chill out everyday or you are going to burn out faster than a candle with no oxygen. Additionally, you need to reward yourself for a job well done. What’s the use of doing all of that work if you can’t have a little fun from time to time anyways?
Work on making good first impressions.Practice a strong, firm handshake and the small talk that generally goes along with meeting someone for the first time. People won’t know what to think of you if you have nothing more to say beyond “My name is _______, nice to meet you.” Also make sure you remember names, as mentioned previously. Who knows, you may be going into business with or marrying this person you’re meeting for the first time if you make a good impression. Be sure and make an excellent one.
Learn to use your eyes to their full potential:
Make constant eye contact when in conversation. Looking away (especially down) is a sign of inferiority and unsureness. Instead, look at your conversation partner dead in the eyes and keep them locked on
Master the piercing stare. You know when someone looks at you and it feels like they can see into your soul? Well that’s not a hereditary characteristic, it just takes practice. Work on sharpening your gaze in the mirror. You’ll know you have it when it’s intimidating to continue looking at yourself
Master the one-eyebrow raise. This one isn’t necessary by any means, but hey, why not? Pick a brow to learn with and go look in a mirror. Raise both of your eyebrows but use your hand to hold down the brow that you want to stay down. This will probably feel very stupid at first but if you keep trying, you will eventually pin down the muscle you need to flex to get that one brow up
Be mysterious.Don’t let off everything about you and definitely leave out some major details. There is something both alluring and mesmerizing about someone that no one knows fully about. I’m not saying to confide in no one or to alienate yourself. Just think James Bond.
Come up with a life mantra.You know, like “Carpe Diem” or “Live life to the fullest,” but not as cliché. Make it something that really hits home with you so that you will actually stick to it. Make sure it’ not so specific that it rarely applies but also not so general that it’s not personal.
Get good at something.Call it a hobby or a passion, whatever it is, just get damn good at it. Your occupation does not count! Make it something that you can practice often enough to excel at. Examples: Magic tricks, surfing, ping pong, creating short films, and unicycling. It can be anything but I would recommend choosing something that: 1) You are passionate about 2) You can bust out at any moment to display your skills for any discerning crowd. My mind goes immediately to aerobatics and break dancing, but that’s just me.
Work out those abs.Above any other muscle group in the entire body, the abs are the most important. They constitute your core, the center point of your body. Your ability to balance comes almost completely from the strength of your abdominal muscles and balance is vital to performance in any physical activity.
Keep your brain sharp.The majority of people are stuck in ruts. They go to the same job everyday, hang out with the same friends and eat at the same places. While that may feel safe, it’s not the most stimulating lifestyle for your brain. Those synapses have been built up enough, so try something that you do NOT know how to do! Buy a model car kit, master the art of sudoku or crosswords, or go pick up another major at your nearest college. The point is you need to be learning new things to keep your brain honest. Form new synapses by forcing your mind to work in ways it has not worked before. Just like physical workouts, doing too much of the same exercise will eventually give no results. Switch it up!
Read something inspirational right before bed and after waking.This will set get you in a great mood for sleep and for the day. Read anything from a famous speech to your favorite self-improvement book. Try to read something that get’s you really excited in the morning especially so that you’ll leave your house beaming with energy and wonder.
Do what you love.There is a huge difference between making a life and making a living; which one are you making right now? So many spend their entire lives trying to make as much money as possible so that they can afford to do what they really want later. It makes no sense to settle in life until you’re 65 so that you can retire and do what you want when you’re already WAY past your prime. We only live life once so why wouldn’t you want to spend it pursuing your bliss? To do anything else would be a tragic waste of the freedom you are allowed if you are reading this right now. Follow your bliss and you will be a thousand times more happy than your retirement date and 40+ years younger.
Choose your friends wisely.You are affected far more than you think by the people you spend your time with. Do your friends share your values? Do they encourage you when you speak of your goals and dreams or do they scoff? Make sure the people around you are conducive to the lifestyle you want to lead or you will find yourself being dragged again and again into behavior that distances you from your desires. Friends with a habit of producing negative thoughts will especially hinder you. This can be a hard task to follow through with if you realize you good friend is one of these saboteurs, but you must be firm! Don’t let anyone get in the way of you being all that you can be.
Don’t burn bridges.By that I mean maintain your relationships with people even if you think you are never going to see them again. For example, if you are quitting your job, don’t chew out your boss before leaving! You might run into him/her again later and life and wish you had never severed ties so harshly. You never know when you might need the help of someone you knew in the past. Plus there is already too much hatred in this world, why add more towards the people you interact with?
Keep a journal/diary.It sounds like a very monotonous habit at first, but when you get into it, that little book will become a great way to organize your thoughts and track your growth over the years. Most of us already stay awake in bed at night pondering the events of the day anyways so why not document those thoughts in an organized fashion? That will allow you to look back and observe how your way of thinking has changed over time.
Read “New Pyscho-Cybernetics” by Dr. Maxwell Maltz.This book will explain why the content of your thoughts has such a profound effect on your life through religious, philosophical and scientific arguments. A must read for completely understand who this life thing works.
Learn to use and trust your subconscious/intuition.When you spend time in silence everyday, listen not for words but for a feeling that tells you to do something. Do not mistake your own reasoning and thoughts for those of your subconscious. If you can track where the thought came from, (this thought led to that thought which led to this thought, etc.) then it was not from your subconscious. Learning to accurately discern between the two will allow you to tap into knowledge that you don’t consciously have.
Develop a charismatic personality.You know, the kind of personality that is surrounded by people constantly and is the life of the party. Start visualizing yourself as THAT person. Maybe take a short course on dynamic speaking and learn some jokes. Take the time to learn some party tricks and sleight of hand. Most importantly, believe that you already are charismatic even if you fail at beign the center point of the next party. Lie to yourself constantly and tell yourself that you are more warm and gregarious than Ronald Regan. Belief is the first step! Reality will come soon after.
Love is all there is.If you truly want to be a master of life, let love be in your every action. Love your friends, family and enemies alike. This is the most difficult thing to do out of this entire list, which is why it is listed at #50. But if you accomplish this, you will be seen as a leader among everyone that allows hate, envy, disgust and all other negative emotions into their lives. Think Gandhi. Love is so rare in this world when compared to the massive presence of hate that by exuding love, you will immediately see yourself and the people around you change. Love. Love. Love.](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_v1osB-Zg-8RPfKGvwEN1nOWAq3gHPH1VST55JwBEQ-hqg3Asv9R564RyU67HS9jJ0F7jvMraRatH4wFIRAQ08KZzZ4pQQHJSjtNkWNbg1j7k8eOhSnQYlJ6aq5swWReA=s0-d)
1) Running makes you beautiful. I agree that at least it makes you feel beautiful. We all need to feel this. There are no ugly runners, he says, and I agree. A body in motion is a beautiful body.
2) Weight: "Show me an overweight longtime runner and I'll show you an aardvark. Both are hard to find." This one gives me hope, or at least the promise that someday I can get a free aardvark out of the deal.
3) Health, vitality, and well being. This one is self-explanatory. Research studies constantly reveal the wonders that running can do for our bodies, our health, our mood, and our very survival. We all desire long-term survival and the best quality of life possible. Running can help give us that.
4) Inspiration. Self-inspiration is a good motivator. "Running is not a private activity. People are watching. Show someone what it's like to want something. Lace up and give them something to believe in."
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-520--14403-F,00.html
Marc's reasoning got me to thinking about my own personal compelling reasons for running. What is going to get me out the door, especially this winter when it gets cold and snowy? In addition to his list, here are some of my ever-evolving reasons:
A) Companionship. Dean and I run together once or twice a week. Why? Time together. We go to run group, I admit, partly for the free stuff they give away in their prize drawings, but mostly to meet like-minded people also trying to improve their health and be the best they can be.
B) Nutrition. When being physically active, my body cries out for healthy food and for a high nutrient diet. There are no more junk food cravings. I trust my body as it is smarter than I am.
C) Accomplishment. Marc is correct, running is not exactly fun for most of us, even if we don't "super-hate" it like he did at first. It is always work. After every single effort, however, I feel better and I can say to myself: "I did it, this was really hard today, but I did it."
D) Stress relief. I am a calmer, more peaceful, better person after a run.
E) People are watching!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Establishing a new normal.
Running group was this morning....it has become a fun social occasion for us. We run mostly on our own since we are slow, but visit with other runners before and after. It is a fun way to start our Saturday, get to know new people, and to get exercise out of the way by 9 am. Runners are all really nice people!
We got rain last night.....big happy dance....and today we are experiencing a rare phenomenon called "humidity".
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| Dean at the water stop. |
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| Boulder Running Company/Tony's Run Group |
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Dr. Joel Fuhrman's Diseaseproof blog discusses establishing a new "normal". Wouldn't it be great if it was "normal" to eat a high-nutrient diet....to eat salads, veggies, fruit, instead of a pan of pizza, a bag of chips, or pieces of cake. Wouldn't it be great if it was considered "extreme" to eat a high-fat value meal or a chocolate cream pie? We all have to stop buying into the mindset that eating for health is extreme.
Marion Nestle's blog (www.foodpolitics.com) quotes Professor Sally Casswell from the School of Public Health at Massey University in Auckland in her letter to the journal, "The Lancet". More Americans need to start thinking this way.
"Do we really want to continue to live in a world where the oversupply and marketing of tobacco, alcohol, unhealthy processed foods, and soft drinks is tolerated simply to allow continuing profits for the shareholders of the transnational corporations producing and distributing them, while the taxpayer funds the health services and pharmaceutical response to the ensuing disease and injury?"
We need to just get angry at it all. For us it helped to define "food" vs "food-like". Food is real, unprocessed. Food-like is not. Food has nutrients, food-like does not.
"Food is an important part of a balanced diet."---Fran Lebowitz
(Thanks to Jeremy F., reposted from Facebook)
Friday, July 6, 2012
Mount Bierstadt
We hiked 2/3 of the way up Mount Bierstadt today. We will consider it a training hike, and will try to summit on another day. It is a beautiful hike, and relatively easy considering the summit is 14,060 feet in elevation. Dean got tired, though, understandably enough. Next time we will try it on one of his weeks off from chemotherapy. That will make a lot of difference. The clouds show a storm coming in.
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| at our turnaround |
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Happy 4th!
reposted from Brainyquotes.com
Happy Independence Day! We took a short but slow 3.2 mile jog at Deer Creek Canyon Park this morning. It was already extremely crowded and hot by 8am, but the beauty of the park is worth it. I caught my foot on a rock and took a fall skinning elbow and knee. There is a good reason why my parents chose not to name me Grace.
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| The view from 1 mile up. |
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| Dean finishing at the trail head. |
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| Bobble |
Our daughter is coming over for lunch and then we will all head out to a movie. You've got to love air-conditioning this time of year.
Have a great day.
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