Blassiter's Blog

Another Extraordinary Day at Mount Vernon

2011-07-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

I don’t think anything can top today. Quick recap: Constitutional Convention lecture by Gordon Wood, trip to Gadsby’s Tavern, trip to Washington’s gristmill and distillery, and sipping whiskey on the piazza at Mount Vernon at sunset. Ahhh!

Longer recap: Gordon talked about the importance of the Constitutional Convention and George Washington’s role in it in 1787. As a reminder, the United States was a “confederation” at the time of the convention in 1787. The problem facing the country was the fact that the federal government had no powers. This was especially critical since there were no trade regulations or a way to deal with foreign countries. We were basically humiliated by other

countries because we had no power. James Madison, John Adams, and even Thomas Jefferson (who would’ve preferred stronger states rights) knew it was time to meet to change the government. But they needed one man to join…George Washignton. The problem was that Washington promised to stay out of public life. And, as we all know, Washington always keeps his word. Madison convinces him to be the president of the convention. Washington reluctantly accepts. (Letters between Washington and Madison show that Washington asks about the “executive” in his plans.Madison’s response is “I haven’t given it much thought…”) During the convention, Washington says very little. He knows that he is such a beloved and respected figure that WHATEVER he says will be taken as gospel. He knows his importance and influence. But he says hardly anything. Can you imagine a leader today doing that? Having power, but completely restraining it! The other interesting fact about the convention is the fact that they kept it secret from the public during the duration. No grandstanding. No going on Fox News to get public support. No tweets. It would be impossible today. At the end of the convention, the Constitution is created and General Washington becomes President Washington.

Our group went to Gadsby’s Tavern today where Washington would frequent when he ventured into Alexandria. Interesting facts: taverns food prices were set by local magistrates, all taverns had to have areas for patrons to sleep if they drank too much, and George Washington first had a “birthday celebration” at Gadsby’s. We then went to the gristmill and distillery. The mill was amazing. When Washington was President, one of his jobs was to sign all patents that came through. He saw a design for a mill from a guy in

Delaware named Evans that took the work of 6 people and reduced it to 2. So, Washington, being the smart businessman he was, hired Evans to make him a mill. Today at Mount Vernon, the mill is the only operating Evans mill in existence. It was so impressive. Four stories of gears, grindstones, water wheel, elevators, grain, flour, and barrels. He used part of that mill to produce flour to ship to Europe and also to make whiskey. He was the most profitable whiskey producer in the states when he passed away in 1799.

The people here at Mount Vernon have been

tremendous. The access we’ve had has been unprecedented. Tonight after dinner, after all the tourists have gone home and the gates locked, I drank whiskey with my colleagues while sitting on George Washington’s back porch at sunset. On the piazza. At the Mount Vernon mansion. I sat where George sat, drinking what George drank, enjoying company like George did, watching the geese fly over the Potomac like George saw, enjoying life like George enjoyed. It was the absolute highlight in a week full of highlights. Something I’ll never forget.

The two “G.W.”s

2011-07-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

We had another full couple of days here at Mount Vernon. Sometimes I feel like my head is going to explode with the amount of knowledge that his been poured into me by Gilder-Lehrman and the nice folks here at the President’s home.

Gordon Wood is an extraordinary man. He’s an extraordinary man in the sense that he is, well, ordinary. Let me explain. Gordon Wood is one of, if not THE, most influential and learned

scholar of the American Revolution. He is mentioned by Matt Damon in Good Will Hunting. He appears in front of Congress regularly to talk about preservation of American history. He is the Professor of History Emeritus at Brown University. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, Bancroft Award, and National Humanities Medal. And do you know what we talked about at lunch today? Parents of students who demand too much, baseball, and beer. He is a “regular” dude. Well, a regular dude with an encyclopedia of knowledge.

The last couple of days in lecture, Gordon spoke more about the significance of the American Revolution and George Washington. Both of which were also extraordinary. Again, the significance of Washington turning down power after the war was over was amazing. He just wanted to back here, at Mount Vernon, and be a farmer. But more importantly, he wanted this republic to thrive. He wanted the people to rule. Gordon explained the difference between a republic and monarchy very succinctly today. In a monarchy, the people are subjects. They are “subjected” to laws and rulers. In a republic, people are citizens. They participate in government. It sound so simple, but it is, in actuality profound. Republicanism changed ALL of society. People were not longer subjects. This takes place in all facets of life, including family. John Locke, a huge proponent of republicanism, speaks about parenting during this time explaining that parents should try to use affection with their children to earn their respect. I parent the way I do because the Revolution was successful. Mind blowing. One of the most amazing points I understood this week (and I have about 15 pages of notes so far), is that when studying history, one must consider the people who we read about don’t know their future. In other words, the Founders didn’t know that they would succeed. Washington didn

’t know that crossing the Delaware at Trenton would start to turn the tide of the war. Jefferson didn’t know that writing “all men are created equal” would spurn equality movements over time. Lincoln didn’t know that the Civil War would be successful. But, they did these things anyway because it was the right thing to do.

Over the last couple of days, I’ve had the unique opportunity to explore Mount Vernon with tour guides and without. I’ve “met” Dr. James Craik (George Washington’s personal physician) and Nelly Custis (George Washington’s granddaughter). I’ve also had the opportunity to see a small part of George Washington’s farm and slave quarters. I’ve learned so much about the man. Quick review…

Dr. Craik was Washington’s personal physician since the French and Indian War. He believed that Washington’s biggest victory in the Revolutionary War was the fact that he insisted his men be inoculated. When he was younger, Washington caught small pox in Barbados (his only foreign visit) and survived. He r

ealized that if people got small pox and survived, they weren’t susceptible to the deadly disease again. The colonist army was inoculated. The British army was not. Thus, more British soldiers died because of small pox.

Nelly Custis told stories of her “grandpa-pa” with us over dinner. She spoke about how her grandfather treated her and her brother. He always followed his Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation that he wrote as a young lad. She also spoke about the visitors that came to Mount Vernon and how Washington was a great host and never turned down a visitor.

Down on the farm, I learned what an innovative farmer George was. He was one of the very few farmers that did not grow tobacco in Virginia. Sacrilege, right? He decided to try his hand at wheat using a 7 year crop rotation cycle, which was not standard. The problem with wheat is the fact that it is a very laborious crop to cultivate. So, Washington built Virginia’s first treading barn. Pictures to the left. The idea is horses would walk in circles in the upper part of the barn on 18 inches of wheat stalks which are placed on top of a wooden floor with slats 1 ½ inches apart. The horses would then be able to

separate the grain from the stalk while the grain fell to the floor below to be collected. Now, what did he do with the grain? Make flour? Sometimes. Washington became the largest maker and distributor of whiskey in the United States! Genius! Everybody in Virginia was making tobacco. What goes good with a nice cigar? A fine whiskey.

I could go on and on about what a great man Washington was. And, honestly, his home is gorgeous. I would recommend a trip here to anyone who visits the east coast. I’ve included lots of pictures on this blog for your pleasure. Enjoy…that’s what George and Martha would’ve wanted anyway.

First Full Day at Mount Vernon

2011-07-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to say that the people of Gilder-Lehrman and Mount Vernon keep us busy. We had a packed day today.

Lecture by Gordon Wood about the Coming of the Revolution

Discussion of Lecture

Lecture by Ed Lengel, Editor in Chief of George Washington Papers

Discussion of Lecture

Lunch

Tour of slave quarters at Mount Vernon

Guided tour of George Washington Museum by the curator

Dinner at the Mount Vernon Inn

Lecture on historical documents

Phew! Brain explosion must be next…

Of everything we talked about and learned about today there are a couple of points I wanted to write about.

Gordon Wood made two very big claims today…George Washington is the greatest “founding father” and President and the Revolution was the greatest single event in American history. He realizes he is in the minority in these opinions by his colleagues, but he also gave some real evidence.

First of all, Washington stood head and shoulders above the other fathers because the founders saw him that way. Adams, Jefferson, Madison, and Franklin may have differed in opinion with Washington, but they all practically worshipped the guy. Why? He had TRUE modesty. He knew his strengths and weaknesses and admitted them. He basically said to the country, “Use me as you may.” He didn’t seek fame. He listened more than he talked. He was a detail oriented idealist. He turned down power. Think about that. After the Revolutionary War ended, he resigned his position as Commander in Chief. What other ruler from the same time period or before did that? Could you see Napolean winning a war then turning in his sword? No way. He knew a monarchy would be bad for the country. I’m sure I could write a ton on Washington, and I probably will over the next few days.

Why was the Revolution the greatest single event in American history? Why was it greater than the Civil War? The American Revolution changed, not just government, but society. Society saw themselves vertically in the 18^th century in relation to others. It was a hierachical society. People were more concerned with their relation to people “higher” and “lower” to them because that was how they were wired. But the founding fathers changed this. They wanted a republic. Furthermore, they knew it would spread. They knew that other countries would follow because they knew that the highest values of the Revolution (liberty, equality) were right. In fact, it was the Revolution that created slavery as a problem. In other words, before the founders began talking about the ideas of equality and liberty, slavery was never debated. It was what it was. Back then, you had a high social status then you are granted political office. Now, if you hold a political office, you have a higher social status (examples: Washington, Clinton, Obama) The idea of equality, which was born during the Revolution, has fueled EVERY major movement of this country since the Revolution (slavery, women’s suffrage, civil rights, workers rights). Think about that. Mind blowing. Equality wasn’t spoken about before the American Revolution.

I took a tour of the slave quarters today. In fact, the room we eat meals in here were once slave “cottages.” So, did the Founders screw up that one? Yes. But what did George Washington do? He was the only Founder and the only President of the first 5, who freed his slaves upon his death. His fellow farmers in Virginia thought he was crazy to free them upon his death. His slaves were the best taken care of in all of the country. He NEVER separated families. He encouraged marriages. When his personal servant (Billy Lee) was crippled, he had him trained as a shoemaker so he could have a skill and be able to make a wage once he was freed. He also gave him a pension of $30 a year upon Washington’s death. What other masters did that? None. Could Washington have done more? Possibly. But he still did more than his contemporaries.

I have learned a lot and it’s only day one. I can’t wait to see what else I’m going to learn tomorrow. Good night.

Me and George

2011-07-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been quite a while since I’ve blogged, but I needed an outlet to process all that I am experiencing. I have received a grant from the Gilder-Lehrman foundation to study the life of George Washington while staying at his Mount Vernon estate. Pretty cool, huh? In fact, I’m writing this from the “quarters” on his estate. It’s not even on the tour map. I figured I’d every night while I’m here as kind of an online journal.

The Gilder-Lehrman foundation has been set up to help foster a love of American history by students by teaching teachers through the use of primary documents. I have had the opportunity this last year to work with several educators in my district and county to broaden my understanding of American history. It has been great!

Part of my learning for this trip was to read from two Pulitzer Prize winning authors, Gordon Wood and Joseph Ellis. In His Excellency, Joseph Ellis covers the life of George Washington and was a great read. In The Radicalism of the American Revolution (which won the Pulitzer Prize), Gordon Wood talks about how radical the Revolution truly was. It wasn’t just a breakaway from Britain to form a new nation. It COMPLETELY changed society, not just government.

The best thing about this trip is the fact that Gordon Wood is our lecturer. A Pulitzer Prize winning, Brown University professor gets to teach me, and about 20 other teachers from around the country, about George Washington. I’m so excited. Tonight at dinner he said, “You all are the teachers. I’m just a professor. I profess things. You teach children. You mold them and make them.” Very humble. Much like George Washington.

Simpler Living

2009-07-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I have really enjoyed about this trip has been learning about what its like to live somewhere other than the greater LA area. I have spent my life in southern California, and though I love it, I have learned that there are drawbacks. For example, when driving 15 miles from our friends' house in Shawnee, KS to downtown Kansas City, MO it took...wait for it...15 minutes! We left at 6:00 and got there at 6:15. No way we could do that back home.

Traffic is just one example. Another thing I loved was spending the 4th in a small town. We stayed at our friends (Emily and Brian) Victorian house. The town, as well as the house, had history and a great little downtown area made up of shops and bars and restaurants. There were no carbon-copy franchises or mega-shopping centers in the downtown. Just places with history and character owned by local people. I thought it was great when we entered a little knick-knack shop and Emily hugged the owner and asked how their granddaughter is. It's just something you don't get in a larger city. To celebrate we went to Brian's childhood friend's home which overlooked a small lake. Their neighbors made put together a little 24 minute firework display over the lake complete with a c.d. of patriotic songs handed out to each house to play with the show. We drank wine, enjoyed company, and watched the homemade firework display. It was great.
I also enjoyed seeing all of the farms along the way. I realized that there are people who actually live in these places. Families who work their places day by day. We got the opportunity to go to a working farm in Kansas City area. It is called the Deanna Rose Farmstead and allow kids to come experience what life is like on the farm. They teach how to milk cows, raise chickens and goats, experience what native americans did, and even ride horses. The boys had a blast!
Another aspect of small town living that I liked was the loyalty to sports teams. Yes, a bit shallow, I know. But when we stayed in Des Moines, there was Iowa Cubs stuff everywhere. We went to a game. Now, mind you, it is a AAA team. The place was sold out and we had to get there early just to get a close enough parking spot. Also, in Indianapolis, every store, and I mean EVERY store, has Colts stuff in it. Signs, cups, shirts, jerseys, hats, and even barbecues.
Anyway, we are having a great time and are looking forward to our friends, the Vandegrifts, to get here and hang out for a few days.

Things I Don't Want to Forget

2009-07-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

There are moments that shape you as an individual. Whether the moments are tragic or celebratory or comedic or painful, they make you who you are. Then there are the moments in between. Life is full of those moments. This road trip has not been life-altering (yet) or even unforgettable. But we, as a family, have had some great moments. Comedic moments, too. I thought I'd write down some of the events that I don't want to forget even though they can seem mundane or uneventful. They are moments that the sands of time will probably take away from my memory at one point or another, but once written in word will be less likely for me to forget.

When I rode the ski lift with Wyatt in Steamboat Springs and he said, "Dad, dis is pretty cool."

The rodeo in Steamboat Springs when Wes wanted to talk to a "real cowboy."
When the lady at the timeshare told me that the hot springs are clothing optional after dark. (Keep that in my head for a return trip!)
The awesome pizza place where we dipped our crust in honey.
The waitress at the bbq place that kept calling me "hun" and told the boys to put their peanut shells in their pockets.
Wes and Wyatt picking out cowboy hats at the store so they could be like the rodeo guys.
Going down the alpine slide with Wyatt in my lap while he said, "Wee!" the whole way down.
Seeing the baby deer just outside our room eating the grass.
The beautiful drive from Steamboat Springs to the I-70 seeing some of the most wonderful nature I've ever seen.
Having great bbq with our friends in the art district in Kansas City.
When Wes and Wyatt flirted with the girl behind the counter of the candy store.
Wes and Wyatt both being afraid to jump in the pool at the beginning of our vacation, but now are old pros at it.
Wes actually being excited when I told him about President Eisenhower and World War II when at the Eisenhower Museum.

Singing "Everythings up to date in Kansas City, they've gone bout as far as they can go" over and over with Carrie because we can't remember the rest of the words.
Walking in downtown Kansas City with Wyatt sitting on my shoulders shivering because he and Wes decided to play in the fountains and we had to walk several blocks to get to our car.
Wes and Wyatt putting their buckets on their heads at the Iowa Cubs game because they didn't have hats. (To which Carrie responded to me, "You must be so proud.")

These are just a few of the events that have been so much fun to experience. Since we haven't even made it to our final destination yet, I'm sure there will be many more moments.

American Idle (Threats)

2009-06-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

You have either been the victim of one or the instigator. I'm talking about idle threats. There are the typical ones:
"You better stop crying or I'll give you something to cry about!"
Or, "Wait till your father comes home. You're going to get it!"
Or, "If you don't pick up your toys, you won't see the light of day until you're 18!"
When driving across the country with two young boys, no dvd player (see previous post), and thinning patience I have found myself uttering threats that I know I would never follow through with. Apparently, Wes and Wyatt know this, too.
For example, as we were driving from Utah to Steamboat Springs the other day, we stopped at a view point of the beautiful Utah desert. (No joke, it was actually beautiful, see picture below.)
Carrie and I wanted to get a simple picture of the boys overlooking the beautiful view. Pretty simple task, no? Before we snapped the first picture, we told Wes, "Get your hands away from your face." and Wyatt, "Look at Mommy's head not the ground." So we took the first one...
Wyatt looked at his shadow and Wes is squinting, but looks like he's sitting on the pot. After reviewing it, we told the boys to try again. But again Wes was playing with his hands and Wyatt was looking at anything but the camera. Theat number one came out: "Boys, if you don't do what we ask we will get back in the car right now and not rest."* So, picture number 2 was taken:
This time Wes is again squinting, but Wyatt looks like he is sitting on the pot. After some more threats, "Boys! If you don't both smile at the camera we won't go swimming when we get to the hotel! You don't want that to happen, do you?"* So, we decided to do a different pose with them standing up.
Again, Wyatt sees something on the ground that is much more exciting than Carrie's camera and Wes looks like he's seen a ghost with his raised eyebrows. I was beyond frustrated! Remember, we have been driving in a car all day long and all that comes with that...bickering boys, slow rv's, intermitent rain, hotel quality coffee, etc., So, the next threat was from me. "Boys, if you can't do this I am going to drop you off at the top of that cliff, drive back down here, take a picture of mom and I, and then come back and get you!"*

Well, maybe it was not that dramatic. But the point was made. I was serious and the boys knew it. After some tears, Carrie telling me, "Really, Bill!?!" and some kinder, gentler words, we got the picture we were hoping for.
Several more hours were spent in the car. The threats were less severe ("Wes, give that toy to your brother or I'm throwing it out the window!") and we survived the 7 hour trek to Steamboat Springs. It is beautiful here and I will post more about it later (think rodeo, ski lift, and bbq).

*The Lassiter family does not endorse nor regularly use the parenting styles illustrated here. Maybe some of it was made up, maybe not. You'll never know.

First Stop, Excali...uh, Saturn Dealership?!?

2009-06-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

We headed out on our trek yesterday morning with a sense of wonder and adventure. The car was packed and because Carrie did a great job shoving everything in to the suitcases, we were able to get the boys' bikes in the car.
Things started out great with our first bathroom stop a mile and half down the road. (Wes: But I didn't have to go at the house. Wyatt: Me too! Me too!) But once we really got down the road, things were great. We were having a great time in the car pointing out the finer points of the "high desert." (Wyatt: Look, Dad! Chuck E. Cheeses! Wes: Ooh, and a Red Lobster!) I was shocked they had a Red Lobster in Victorville. A couple hours down the road and the boys were getting cranky. We decided it would be a good time to pop in a movie on the dvd player. After a few minutes of haggling between brothers (Wes: But Wyatt...I really like Tom and Jerry. Wyatt: I don't...mwow, mwow.) they picked Ratatouille. We got headphones out, movie in, pushed play, and nothing. No picture on the screen, no sound, no nothing. The screen was extremely hot, but no movie started. At a rest stop, we tried everything. Turn car off, then on. Leave car on, unplug all power sockets. Pray. Nothing worked. Our dvd player (which is one of the reasons we bought that car) was shot.
Here are the reactions of the family as we slowly realized there would be no movies on this road trip.

Okay, so it wasn't that bad. The boys were pretty good, but we still have to get half way across the country and any form of entertainment for a 3 and 6 year old would be great. We cruised into Las Vegas Saturn (which, apparently, is now Las Vegas Kia). The helpful guy there told us he could install the new dvd player...in 5 days when it gets there. As thrilling as 5 days in Vegas with kids sounds, we passed and headed to WalMart to buy a portable dvd player...mostly for our sanity. It was past lunch time, so...
That's right! I am eating a homemade baloney sandwich IN a Wal-Mart parking lot. I'll be accepting my Joe Dirt Award at this year's White Trash Gala.
So, we got a dvd player and case and headed for the next surprise for the boys...Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. Wes was a little excited when we told him.
This place was really fun. The boys enjoyed looking at all the cool sea life. They even gave us these devices you hold up to your ear and listen to information. Wyatt shushed me a couple times because "the lady is talking to me!"
The boys' favorite was the lionfish, of course.
After a fun time in Mandalay Bay, we decided to go check into our hotel. We got in no problem and got ready to go to the pool only to be told that the pool was closed because of a thunderstorm. We told the boys not to worry that after dinner we would head to the Lion Habitat at the MGM. That, too, was closed when we ventured over there. So, we decided to pacify them by going to the Coca-Cola store and have some root beer floats. Those always make a guy feel better.
After a quick stroll back to our "castle hotel" we went to sleep.
Day 2 of our road trip was much less eventful. We made it to Richfield, UT and are staying at a REALLY nice Holiday Inn Express. The pool was great and we had it to ourselves. We had dinner at a roadside diner and can't wait to get to Steamboat Springs tomorrow. Seriously, what could possibly go wrong?!?

Lanch in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1....

2009-06-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

We are just about ready to head out. I can't believe how much preparation it takes to go on a road trip, but I think we got the basics covered.
Clothes...check
Car washed and cleaned out...check
80 pouches of fruit snacks...check
Deck of cards for hotel stays...check
Tom-Tom GPS...check
42 hour book on c.d...check
The boys are super excited. We got them some cool USA pillows to use while we're on the road. We also told them today that we are going to be staying in a castle during our first night's stay (the Excalibur in Vegas). Wes stated, "That's great! I hope we get to meet the King!" Maybe I'll let him peek at an Elvis slot machine!
Wyatt got so excited today that he got into the suitcase declaring that he was ready to go!
So, our bags are packed, the cooler is full, our hopes are high, and ready to roll. First stop, Las Vegas...

The Adventure Begins...almost!

2009-06-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's been a few months since I last posted. However, I felt it was my duty to begin an educational string of posts. I'm here to educate anyone who is crazy enough to drive across the country with their family by chronicling my adventure.
Yep, we are driving across country this summer...with a 3 and 6 year old! Our journey will begin at our home in Fontucky, CA. We will stop in Las Vegas (THE family destination) before heading to Richfield, UT. Why Richfield? They have a nice Holiday Inn Express there! From there we will head to Steamboat Springs, CO for a few days. Then off to Illinois with stops possibly in Kansas or Iowa or Missouri or wherever we want. In Illinois we will spending time with our friends Brian and Emily in a little town called Morris (I think named after the cat from the 1970s commercials). We will then go to Indiana for a couple weeks with possible mini-adventures to Cincinnati (for baseball games) and other tropical destinations.
On our way home we will be stopping in Kansas City (for an Angels/Royals game) and (drumroll, please) a 3 night stay in ARKANSAS! Oh, man, I can feel the excitement.
So, if you want to be entertained this summer, tune in. We will be updating frequently and showing lots of pictures. Wish us luck...we will need it!

I'm Calling You Out!

2008-03-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and turned on the television. On it was NBC's coverage of the LA Marathon. I can't believe it was a year ago that I ran that thing. It was great to see all the people at the starting line, the familiar backdrops of Los Angeles, and normal, everyday people trying to accomplish something great in their lives. I will never forget the feeling of finishing my marathon last year. It was a feeling that is indescribable (you can read about it on some of my earlier blog postings).
It got me thinking about doing it again. Yes, I said it. I am thinking of running another marathon. Maybe it's the nostalgic feeling I got from watching the coverage on the television. Maybe it's my way of fighting off old age. Maybe I'm just plain crazy. But a seed has been planted.
And here is my challenge to anybody who reads this. Run the Disneyland Half-Marathon with me in August. That's right. I'm calling you out! If a fat dude like me with a bum knee can run 26.2 miles, ANYBODY can run 13.
I have already signed up for it. August 31st. I will begin training in May. I want my friends and family to run with me. As exciting as finishing the LA Marathon was last year, the race would have been much better had I had the accompaniment of my friends. So, who's with me?
A couple selling points - you run THROUGH Disneyland with everybody else. It is Labor Day weekend so you don't have to worry about going to work the next day. You run THROUGH Angel Stadium (which will be great in a year in which they will win the World Series again!). It won't be hot because the race begins at 6 a.m.
So, here's a few people I am calling out specifically...
Kyle - Put down the pizza and do this! You wanted to run the LA Marathon last year, but didn't. This a good chance for you to make up for it.
J.J. - your brother and sister-in-law are already running it. You 2 can Step Up! (Yes, a play on words!)
Jimmy - a chance for you to drink only water and not have people make fun of you. Plus, since you live close to me, we can train together.
Kevin Reynolds - Remember the comment I made to you about bragging about playing "real sports" instead of the Wii? Now's your chance to shut me up.
Ryan Lane and Kevin Siana - Finally a chance for you two to determine who's fastest once and for all. I'll even bring a football and pass it to you at the finish line. Person who catches it gets bragging rights for life.
Anybody from school - we can train before and after school together at the park and throughout the summer. We can even put a challenge together ala Biggest Loser for finish times.
I have laid out the gauntlet. Who is ready for the challenge?
P.S. There is also a 5K "fun run" for anyone who can't do a full 13 miles, ladies.

The Magic of Disneyland

2008-02-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

As you may have read on Carrie's blog, we took the family to Disneyland this weekend. Wes, Wyatt, Carrie, my mom, and my grandpa all spent three days in the Magic Kingdom.
I have so many memories of Disneyland as a kid. We would go twice a year...once on Labor Day and again around Christmas. I remember the first time I went on Matterhorn the first Electrical Parade I saw, the first time I met Mickey Mouse, and the first time I spit on people from the skyway. What was great this weekend was experiencing some of those "firsts" from a dad's perspective.
We've been to Disneyland many times in the past, but it was different this time. I think it was different because there were four generations of my family present. My grandpa talked about the things he remembered the first time he went: the stagecoach ride, Autopia, and the tea cups. My mom talked about the things she remembered as a child: riding the tea cups on my grandpa's knee, E-tickets, and running free on Tom Sawyer's Island. We thorougly enjoyed ourselves!
One of my favorite moments came on Saturday night. I remember as a kid sitting on Main Street waiting for the parades to begin. I would dance with the Disney characters in the middle of the street then plop down next to my mom and wrap up in a blanket. The lights would go down and the music of the Electric Parade would come on. That cheezy, synthtic music that you had to clap with. Wes and Wyatt got to experience that for the first time. I absolutely LOVED watching Wes' eyes light up when he first saw Mickey and the gang on the first lit up float. Then came the blue fairy, the train, those weird catepillars and mushrooms, the cheshire cat, Pete and his Dragon (remember that movie?), and, of course, the salute to America float. Wes was in awe of the technological advances of the 1970's, especially the way the turtles talk. Almost like Crush in California Adventure!
However, my favorite moment had nothing to do with a parade or a ride or a meal. My grandpa wanted to go to the water front to watch the boat. We wheeled him down there next to Wes in the stroller. The two Wesleys sat, side by side, watching the ducks and the boats and the people on Tom Sawyer's Island. I happened to get a picture of it and plan to have it framed someday. I asked Wes what he was doing with Papa Wes down by the water and he replied, "Nothin'. Just watching stuff with my Papa Wes. He likes to watch stuff like me."
It was great weekend all in all. We went on rides, saw shows, ate at Goofy's Kitchen, got Pluto and Goofy's autographs, got pictures with all sorts of characters, and had lunch at the Blue Bayou.
Disneyland is a magical place for all children. But it is just as magical, or even more so, when you see it through the eyes of your own child.

New Kid Back on the Blog

2008-02-01T19:17:00.000-08:00

After an extended absence from the blogging world, I decided to get back in the game. And what event/subject has wrestled me from my semi-retirement? BEERFEST 2008!

A quick history of Bill and beer, first...I wasn't a big drinker in high school, like some of my friends. And when I did drink, it was usually a wine cooler or Lynchburg Lemonade or something like that. I tried beer sometimes. In fact, on my 21st birthday in Las Vegas I bought different kinds of beer (strawberry beer, Sapporo, and honey wheat). I was barely able to swallow them down. At some point, after I turned 21 I came to the realization that I can't keep ordering appletinis, purple hooters, and strawberry margaritas the rest of my life without being accused of having a vagina. So I gave myself a challenge. I said that for 3 months, whenever I went out to eat, I could only order beer or water to drink. No buttery nipples, no rootbeer shnaps, no Malibu and Coke. I wanted to be a man. And the rest, my friends, is downhill. I started to enjoy beer after the first 2 months. It was cheaper AND more filling than an Alabama Slammer. I started to love beer.

I've tried different kinds over the year. My favorites in the past have been Corona, Amber Bach (I even named my softball team "Amber Balk"), Fosters, Blue Moon, and the great Jeremiah Red from BJ's.

Last weekend I took a trip to Japan, the Himalayas, Croatia, Belgium, Germany, San Luis Obispo, Jamaica, and other places. I tried 19 different beers at BEERFEST 2008. This was the first, in hopefully many more, annual festival of beer. The best thing about it was the fact that not one of the people who attended, including myself, drank too much. When drinking dixie cups of beer, it is hard to create a buzz. All in all, I learned a lot about my personal tastes and the tastes of some of my friends. I am not an IPA fan, as my friends Kevin and Ian are. Croatia makes a really crappy beer. Red Stripe (it's red beer!) is a great summer beer. And my favorite was the one I brought, Blue Moon. Apparently, even though I was drinking beer, I can still be accused of being a woman when adding an orange slice to my beer. ("You can't fruit the beer, man!") Hey, I like my beer fruited, so BACK OFF!

I want to thank Kyle for hosting this historic event and for all those who participated! It was a great time and I look forward to doing it again!

8 Random Facts about Bill

2007-07-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

Apparently there's a new "phenomenom" in the blogging realm. It's called a "MeMe."

The Meme Rules:

1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

1. My nickname. During my last year in little league my coach nicknamed me “Truck.” I even got a shirt with my nickname on it. I was called “Truck” for the first couple of years of high school. One of my teachers even called me it because he heard another student call me Truck. My coach nicknamed me Truck because he thought I ran like a Mac Truck…really slow at first, unable to make sharp turns, but once I get going, I can’t stop easily. Just how I run in softball now.

2. I cannot remember any parts of the songs I sang in the musicals I was in in college, but I CAN remember the one line I had in my fifth grade musical…”I, Lyndon Baines Johnson, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States and preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States, so help me God.” I have enjoyed watching inaugurations ever since.

3. In college, I could not grow a goatee. I tried, but failed miserably with little strands of blonde hair here and there. I thought I should try to dye my pitiful excuse for a goatee to make it more noticeable. JET BLACK was the flavor of choice. Unfortunately, I did not read the instructions on the can which asks to “test the product on your arm to make sure you are not allergic.” Sure enough, my goatee was black, but the skin under it and all around was red, swollen, and chapped. It looked as if I had a bad sunburn on my chin and upper lip.

4. I can’t sleep in cars or airplanes. I don’t know why, but I have never been able to. So, when JJ and I drove to Oregon from school I wasn’t that upset that he slept for 12 hours of the car ride in the middle of the night. I wouldn’t have been able to sleep anyway.

5. I have 16 chest hairs. Just counted them because, hey, that’s random and I wanted to know.

6. My 12th birthday, October 12, 1986, I chose NOT to go to Magic Mountain, but to watch the Angels clinch the pennant. As it turns out, I should have gone to Magic Mountain. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the ineptitude of the Angels, they were ONE STRIKE away from going to the World Series. Donnie Moore gave up a homerun to Dave Henderson which tied the game and the Red Sox won that game and the next to go on to lose to the Mets in the World Series (thank you, Bill Buckner). That memory has stuck with me a long time, which is why I teared up (yes, I admit it), when I got to see the 2002 Angels beat the Yankees, Twins, and Giants for World Series trophy. It made that season so much sweeter!

7. I cooked dinner for Carrie and had my friend, Damian, dress up like a waiter for our first date. Poor D-dog. He had to wait in the bedroom of my apartment and read magazines, occasionally coming out to refill our glasses. I definitely owe him big time!

8. When I am stressed, I apply my hand to my forehead at my hair line. If you ever see me with the front part of my hair sticking up, be nice…I’m stressing out!

Now for those who I want to see random facts about...

Carrie - surprise me with something I don't know
Dave - you are pretty random, so it should be good
Jen - Are you more random than Dave?
Smarts - One of my favorite "random" stories is of Kyle breakdancing on the corner in Canada...I'm sure there's more tales to tell...
Lanes - Wondering if your old neighbors will be on your list.
Vandes - Almost bought a shirt for Stef with one word on it in Denver. The word was "RUCKUS."

That should fulfill my quota since the Smarts count as 6, Lanes are at 4, and Vandes are at 4+.

Presidential Courage

2007-07-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

I just finished a fascinating book called Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and how They Changed America 1789-1989. I have always been interested in American history and, in particular, the Presidents of the past. (I am related to President Grover Cleveland.)
In this book, the author (Michael Beschloss) highlights how American Presidents have, at crucial moments, made courageous decisions for the national interest although they knew it might be jeopardizing their careers. It also shows the human side of these presidents (George Washington, John Adams, Andrew Jackson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan). These men were not perfect. Some were egotistical. Some made “back room deals.” Some were racist. Some vacillated while making these decisions. But, in the end, these Presidents made difficult decisions that have stood the test of time and have made America a better country. In Andrew Jackson’s words, these Presidents were “born for the storm.”
I intend to write 3 different blog entries discussing this book and the conclusions I have drawn from it. I invite you to dialogue with me during this.
So, let’s start with a three word question: What is courage?
It’s easy to see courage in the soldier on the battlefield who must carry out orders that may get him killed. But what about others who don’t necessarily put their lives at risk?
In the book, the author talks a lot about Presidents who made decisions that were greatly unpopular at the time, yet made a huge difference in the grand scheme of things. Both George Washington and John Adams made decisions for peace that were so unpopular at the time that people were seeking for these men to die. I find this absolutely fascinating, especially in the case of George Washington. The Revolutionary War hero was elected by Electoral College in 1788 and 1792 UNANIMOUSLY, yet a few years later was very unpopular. Why was he unpopular? He negotiated a peace treaty with Great Britain because he knew that the American army was so depleted that it could not take on the Redcoats again and win. In his home state of Virginia, Revolutionary veterans made toasts that stated, “A speedy death to General Washington.” John Jay, who bargained with the British for the treaty and for whom it is named after, stated that he could walk the 15 states at night by the light of his burning effigies. Easy to say that Jay’s Treaty was very unpopular. But in the end, he knew it was right. He pushed it through Congress and set a Presidential precedence that a President should not just preside. Martha Washington stated that Jay’s Treaty hastened his death. President Washington was content to let history provide his reward and wrote, “The arrows of malevolence, therefore, however barbed and pointed, never can reach the most vulnerable part of me.”
Similarly, John Adams, who was always worried about the comparisons to Washington, became very unpopular by granting a peace treaty with France. It actually cost him the election in 1800 when his political rival, Thomas Jefferson, won. News of peace with France, without costing the United States anything, arrived after the election. Peace had been achieved with France, relations with Napoleon Bonaparte were opened, and it led to Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase. Adam’s treaty with France spared his young country a confrontation that might have threatened its survival. None of this would have happened if Adams had been too timid to defy his own party, the Federalists. It was Adams quote, “GREAT is the guilt of an unnecessary war,” that many people today echo regarding our country’s current war. He dreamt that his tombstone would read not about his role in waging the Revolution, but, “Here lies John Adams, who took it upon himself the responsibility of Peace with France in the year 1800.”
There are other acts of courage that this book points out. President Lincoln deciding to enact the Emancipation Proclamation, which could have made reconciliation with the South and re-election impossible. He was attacked by his friends and stated, “God knows, I have at least tried very hard. And to have it said by men who have been my friends that I have been seduced by power!” President Theodore Roosevelt taking on the big industry leaders, like J.P. Morgan, who controlled his party. His cousin, FDR, standing up to Hitler by supporting Great Britain before the United States was involved in World War II. This was in stark contrast to the isolationist mentality of most Americans at the time. President Kennedy finally enacting the Federal government to help the civil rights movement.
After reading about these controversial decisions, I have come up with some conclusions about courage. Courage is doing the right thing no matter the cost. It is going through a course of action that is right while overcoming fear. This fear could be fear for your well-being or fear from major consequences. You may never know whether your action was right. Kennedy had doubts and did not live long enough to see his civil rights bill pass through Congress. FDR wasn’t around for the end of World War II. But these decisions were right. They were courageous.
You don’t have to look to a President to see courage or a courageous decision. Courage is found in the adolescent who turns down pot when his friends are all doing it. Courage is seen in seen in the child who jumps into the pool the first time overcoming her fear.
After President Truman went against his advisers and racist Americans to acknowledge the new country of the Jews, Israel, he stated that the ultimate test of any Presidential decision was “not whether it’s popular at the time, but whether it’s right…If it’s right, make it, and let the popular part take care of itself.”

Yosemite Wedding

2007-04-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

The family and I got back from an AMAZING weekend in Yosemite! We were there for my buddy Dave's wedding. I cannot believe that I have lived in California my entire life and have never been to Yosemite. I do not know how anyone could go into such a beautiful place like that and not thank God for creating it! Simply breathtaking!
I was honored to be Dave's best man for his wedding. We spent a couple of days together, just the two of us, hiking around the valley. It was a great time (insert homophobic gay joke here) together. It was good for the both of us as I got to share "secrets of marriage" and got to hear how happy he was to get married to Jen. And as much as I complained, Dave, I really enjoyed you trying to kill me running up to the top of Nevada Falls. And, thankfully, no bears broke into my car!
The wedding itself was awesome! I loved the whole day! Some of my favorite memories was breakfast with the boys at the Awahnee, second breakfast at the Awahnee bar, the unbelievable background scenery of the wedding, the "photo sessions" in the elevator, and connecting with old friends (Peter and Angie and Rachel and Aaron). My only wish about the wedding day and time was that I wish it was longer. I cannot wait to see the photos from the amazing photographers who stayed at Yosemite and put up with the diva...Dave.
The day after the wedding (Easter morning), Wes and Wyatt awoke to find the Easter bunny left a little gift for them. Unfortunately, a little "visitor" to our room found the basket first and there were several candies missing! After breakfast and packing we took a little hike to the lower Yosemite falls. We ate lunch at the base of the falls and Wes refused to look at the water because the mist was getting in his eyes. After hiking back to our car and standing a mile away from the base of the falls, Wes stated, "Hey, look...there's a waterfall there!" Glad he took in all the nature and beauty around him!

The Spring Training Tradition

2007-03-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

It was dark days for baseball. Major League Baseball had just cancelled the World Series after failure to come to terms on a collective bargaining agreement with the players union. People took sides. How can anyone agree with someone whose average salary is a million bucks a year? On the other hand, how can anyone agree with owners who have been raking in tens of millions of bucks by keeping player salaries down? Greed vs. greed.

Many people swore off baseball at that time. I’m pretty sure I did, too. I even debated the issue with Dr. Webb in Advanced Communications class with Damian (which, incidentally, we won…the only debate Webb claims to have ever lost). I was mad at the owners. I was mad at the players. I was mad at the institution of baseball.

Then something happened. Something so profound that I had no choice but to embrace the national pastime again. I got bored over Spring Break. Yep, that’s how a 12 year tradition was born. Damian and I got in the old blue Honda Station Wagon armed with a Motel 6 book, a cooler of snacks and sodas, various phone numbers of friends who lived in the area, and not more than 60 bucks. We’ve been back every year since.

I’m sitting here at home, watching a spring training game on television. They didn’t have spring training games on t.v. when we first went. When we first went to spring training we walked up to the gate, bought our tickets, and ended up sitting right behind 3rd base. As the years went on more and more people started showing up in Arizona. Now it is more of a commercial thing than before. People flock to Arizona in March for baseball now. Damn bandwagoners! It’s okay, though. Let them come. Let them start their own memories and their own traditions. Just get out of my way in the beer line.

Here are the top 10 memories of spring training over the years…
10. “Blinding” Damian in the car with a bottle of Squirt.
9. Shooting a commercial for “The Gordon Elliot Show” in Mesa.
8. Having Bill Engvall copy my jokes.
7. “Wally World – Population 5!”
6. Convincing Eric Young to toss a ball to me only to drop it because I had 1 too many beers.
5. Sneaking warm beer in a cup from Circle K in a game then having Dave Hicks offer some to Jackie Autry.
4. “See…no tan lines.” “Thank you.”
3. Watching Marty turn into Tommy Lee in the hotel room.
2. Eating chicken wings at Hooters with none other than baseball god, Mike Wolff.
1. Being asked to get off my “f*&$ box” by Mike James.

To traditions and more memories.

Marathon Man

2007-03-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. I have so many thoughts and feelings about this weekend. Most of what I’m feeling right now is soreness. I mean it! I did not expect to feel THIS sore. All last night I’d say to Carrie, “Man I’m tired. I feel like I just ran a marathon or something.” I’ll probably lose one to three toenails. I have a blister the size of Texas. (I don’t have ANY chafing or sore nipples…thanks Body Glide!) It aches to get up. It aches to get out of the car. I’m not sure if I’ll ever see the upstairs of our house again. I feel like an old man…well, an “older” man. But, more importantly, I’m a marathoner.
Instead of giving you all a play-by-play of my 6 hours on the road (which I’d be willing to do if you asked), here are the top 10 things I learned while running my marathon…
10. The smell at the starting line of the race is a cross between banana, icy-hot, and diarrhea. (No kidding! I think some people “went” before the race started! Gross!)
9. For some reason, the race organizers make the miles between 21 and 26 longer than the other miles. (Can you believe that!? Those jerks!)
8. You should always have your first name on your shirt so you can hear strangers cheer for you. (It was GREAT to hear people say, “Go Bill!” and “You can do it, Bill!)
7. The minute after you cross you say to yourself, “I can do this again!” Then the adrenaline subsides, the pain begins and you say to yourself, “I’ll NEVER do this again!”
6. Having friends and family at the race makes a HUGE difference. (Thanks Curriers and Armstrongs! It was great to have you guys there to support me and to help Carrie. Ooh, and thanks Carrie and boys!)
5. There are a LOT of kids that run marathons! (Every time I saw one, it made me faster because I didn’t want to be beat by a kid!)
4. Running a marathon makes you very, very, very, very hungry! (I haven’t eaten so much in the last three meals than I have in the last 3 weeks!)
3. You become extremely angry when people say, “Almost there!” before mile 25. (I almost clocked a little girl at mile 14. Of course, I was in a neighborhood in LA where there were a ton of cops, so it probably wouldn’t have been a good idea.)
2. There are some WEIRD people who run marathons! (I saw a guy who ran backwards the whole time, another guy who was dressed like a medieval knight, and a girl who was painted gold.)
1. Finishing a marathon is one of the GREATEST feelings you can ever get! (Only 1% of the population has finished a marathon. Finishing is an unbelievable feeling. It might even be a better feeling than when the Angels won the World Series…that’s huge!)

Enjoy the pictures! They are me between Mile 18 and 19, the family after the race with my medal, me icing my knee, and my nasty toenail and blister.

Two Days and Counting

2007-03-02T22:04:00.000-08:00

I’m less than 36 hours away from running the marathon! Wow! I can’t believe it. I am very thankful for the support I’ve received from friends and family. So, thank you.
I am only a couple hundred dollars short of my goal for fundraising and I still have a month after the marathon to raise any more. Our school brought in over $1100 for LLS. Half of the money went to me for my fundraising. You can see the pics here of me getting taped to the wall for the “stuck for a buck” fundraising drive.

Runner/Walker #21597

2007-02-26T16:37:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe I’m only 1 week away from painful chafing, sore muscles, and aching feet! Yeah! I am actually really excited and got my sweet purple shirt yesterday. I am also really excited that so many of you have donated to help out the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I am only a few hundred dollars short of the required goal. We are doing a fundraiser at my school where students can buy 1 yard of duct tape for $1. They can use the duct tape to tape me and my principal to the wall! I’m sure I’ll make the goal with that.
I am a bit nervous, however. I have had a foot injury for close to a month now. I’ve had x-rays and tried to take it easy, but it is still there. This means that I might have to walk the entire 26.2 miles. That will be fine, but I’m sure I’ll be a bit disappointed. I’m just going to do my best to finish. I’ll post on Saturday my chip number so anyone can follow my progression during the race. In addition, I’ll have my cell phone with me if anyone wants to chat…I don’t know what it’s like to walk for 7 hours, so I might get bored.

Blackouts, Mimicking, and Foot and Butt Cheek Injuries

2007-02-16T17:59:00.000-08:00

So, we’ve had a pretty interesting couple of weeks at the Lassiter house. Two weeks ago, I ran 16 miles to prep for my marathon. I can’t believe it’s only a month away! While running (and the crazy thing is that I ran the entire 16 miles!) I injured my foot. I got x-rays and found no breaks, but it has been extremely painful to run. I’m hoping the ligaments or muscles that I strained will heal before the marathon. If anyone has any ideas as to how to cope with the pain, let me know. I am determined to finish the race, so please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
Okay, now to more important things…the Superbowl. I am really excited to see the Colts and Bears tomorrow. My in-laws live in Indianapolis and we have been inundated with Colts garb. The bummer thing is I missed one of the most exciting football games of all time (or so I’m told) when our power went out when the Colts beat the Pats. The picture is of the boys and me being extremely disappointed in not being able to watch the game. Huge props go to my mother-in-law, Linda, who kept me updated via cell phone as to the happenings of the game. She has really learned a lot about Colts football and told me stuff that even the best color commentators wouldn’t know (“Dallas Clark looks like he’s wearing a different kind of shoe than normal…I’m not sure is they’re working.)
Just in case you were wondering (and I’m sure you’re not), when a marathon runner applies Body Glide or some other anti-chafing material to his/her body, apparently they are supposed to take care of butt cheeks. Yes, I did learn that the hard way! I took care of everything else, but if you don’t lube up your bum, you’ll be bummed.
We have to be real careful now with what we say around Wes. He may not repeat what we’ve said right away, but he definitely stores it for future use. We’ve had two incidents in the past couple of weeks to illustrate this point. The other day we were getting things out of the back of the van. Some stuff fell out and Wes exclaimed, “Holy crap!” Knowing I had to step in and explain to him that was inappropriate, I did what every good father would do…I said, “Wes, we shouldn’t say that. Just because Mommy says that, doesn’t mean it’s okay.” I felt proud knowing that I corrected the situation. (Okay, so we both say that. But I knew that Carrie does say it occasionally so I blamed her.) A couple days later, we were walking in Target. Wes was eating popcorn and spilled a couple on the floor. He responded to this stressful situation by saying, “Frickin’ A!” At this point, Carrie stepped in and said, “Wes, we don’t say that! Nobody in our house (eyes glaring at me) will say that again. Okay?” Although, I knew he heard it from me and I felt guilty about being so loose-lipped, I was a little proud in the fact that he used it in proper context. I mean, come on…he dropped his popcorn, for Pete’s sake!

Half-way There...Almost

2007-01-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

I ran 12 miles yesterday. Holy crap! Just reading that is pretty cool. I actually did run 12 miles yesterday! Almost half a marathon! The funny thing is the fact that I am not as sore as I thought I’d be. Yes, I am a little tired and there are parts that are sore, but not as bad as I thought. One of the things that is sore is my shoulder…I have no idea why, either. I actually ran the first hour and 15 minutes without taking a walking break. Amazing!
Now, I did suffer a major injury last week when I ran ONLY 9 miles. Here’s the story. I showed up at my training at 7 a.m. on a brisk, New Year’s Eve-eve morning. I wore layers, just as I was told. I took my gels, just as I was told. I used Body Glide to prevent chafing and blisters in areas where I generally chafe and get blisters. I stay hydrated throughout my run. So, when I finished my run, I was surprised about the concern on the face of my coach. “Are you okay, Bill?” “A little sore, but I’m alright.” “No, are you OKAY?” “Uhh, yeah. Should I not be?” And then with her index finger she indicated the area in which she was most concerned with.
Let me back up and tell you how Santa disappointed me this year. I asked for one thing this year and one thing only…running gear. And although he did come through with non-cotton socks, an mp3 holder, non-cotton underwear, a water bottle, and a compass in case I get lost running (thanks for the faith, Santa) I didn’t get the protection I needed the most. So, yes, the following picture is the pain I felt and that crimson stain on my shirt is, in fact, my first “bloody Mary.”
Still looking for those Nip Guards! Thanks, a lot, Santa! And I have stuck up for you throughout the years! By the way, for future reference, bloody nipples and shampoo/soap do NOT mix.

Back In The Saddle Again

2006-12-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

After a couple of weeks off because of a back injury, I hit the streets again to train. I am a little behind schedule, but with some hard work I’ll be right back on track. This Saturday will be 8 miles and next Saturday will be 10. Wow! I can’t believe that 3-4 miles is a “warm-up.” Before this, I had never run more than a mile (and that was in high school when they made us).
On Thanksgiving, I got the opportunity to run in a 5K in Indianapolis. The temperature at the start was 27 degrees. It was a lot of fun! There were about 4,000 people running this. I realized that running in a group is much easier than running alone. It’s kind of a life lesson, I guess. Obstacles can be overcome more easily with the support and help of others. I appreciate all of the support from my friends and family. I truly could not do this with you all!
Okay, enough of the mushy crap! I had an “elderly moment” the other day. The other night before my softball game I was looking at the team we were playing and our team. My team is comprised mostly of colleagues and friends my age (30-ish). As I was strapping on my knee brace, I watched as the rest of my team “got ready” to play. I saw knee braces, ankle stabilizers, an elbow brace, and even stretching! In the other dugout I saw a bunch of 20 year olds grabbing their gloves and balls (heh, heh, he said, “grabbed their balls!”) and then taking the field with blatant disregard for their joints and extremities. Ah, the good old days! At first I got a little down, but I realized that time is the great equalizer. I’m sure in 10 years they’ll be doing the same thing. Of course, I might be looking from my dugout making sure my “new hip” feels okay.

Lance and Me

2006-11-12T18:18:00.000-08:00

I've actually hit a small roadblock in my training. I have been having fairly painful back spasms the last couple of weeks (too much carrying Wes and Wyatt around, I guess). My doctor has told me to take at least a week off of training. So, if I finish with a bad time, I'll blame Kyle! (Just kidding, doc. Thanks for the flexerol! I've always wanted to have hallucinations!) It is a bit disappointing, but I know I'll bounce back.
My in-laws have entered me into a 4 mile race on Thanksgiving Day. Should be fun...except the 35 degree weather! I think the sweat will actually freeze to my body. I'll REALLY have to protect the nipples with weather that cold!
Thank you all for your support. I've already received several donations and my letters just went out. You can click here to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and support me.

So I am really looking forward to running this marathon. I've remained positive and have kept my spirits up. When I've run 2 miles I've thought to myself, "I can do this 13 more times!" And I believed it. Until I read about the New York Marathon. One of the most premier endurance athletes in the world, Lance Armstrong, ran last week. You know Lance Armstrong, right? Testicular cancer survivor, record setting 7-time Tour De France Champion, world class athlete, endurance master, etc., etc., He was quoted after his recent marathon. It wasn't words of wisdom on how an average Joe should run a marathon. It wasn't inspiring commentary about the power of the human mind or body. He said, "It was the hardest physical thing I've ever done." And, "I can tell you, 20 years of pro sports, endurance sports, from triathlons to cycling, all of the Tours — even the worst days on the Tours — nothing was as hard as that, and nothing left me feeling the way I feel now, in terms of just sheer fatigue and soreness." Oh, crap! You mean Lance FREAKIN' Armstrong thinks a marathon is hard!!! I am screwed!
When I found this out, I was bummed. Then someone reminded me of something. A friend told me, "Yeah, but Oprah ran a marathon!" I feel a little better knowing that. I'm still holding out hope that Lance was having a bad day or had been smoking too much pot and drinking too much beer with Matthew McConahey (sp?) as of late to be in tip top shape. Maybe in L.A. I'll see John Madden or Horatio Sanz trying to run the marathon. That might help a little.

Do You Want a Bloody Mary? No Thanks!

2006-10-29T08:59:00.000-08:00

One of the great things about training with Team in Training is the fact that they not only help me with my training, but they provide clinics. There will be a clothing clinic, a hydration clinic, and others. Yesterday, I went to a shoe clinic. I learned all about pronation. Depending on how your foot lands when you run determines what type of shoe to wear for the marathon. I actually tried on at least 8 different pairs of shoes before I found the perfect fit for my “slightly over pronated gait.” I also learned that your shoe size should be a little big because your feet will swell on your longer runs. I usually wear a size 13 (don’t act like you’re not impressed), but saw that a size 14 fit me better for my run. However, different shoe companies shoes fit differently. A size 14 in a Brooks shoe was the exact same fit as a size 13 Asics. I just don’t want to lose more than 4 toenails during the marathon.
We also learned about clothing. I got to hear all about choosing the right bra because most of my team is women. Then the lady giving the clinic started talking about “bloody marys.” My interest peaked because I’ve always enjoyed a spicy, well-made bloody mary. She wasn’t talking about V8 and Grey Goose, however. Apparently, during the course of running longer miles your shirt rubs against your body. As it moves up and down it chaffs the skin. Specifically, men tend to get bleeding nipples (bloody marys in runners’ speak) during marathons. I knew about blistered feet, sore muscles, even leg rashes and swollen fingers, but bloody freakin’ nipples!?!? What have I signed up for? Not only do I have to run 26 miles, but I also have to watch out for my nipples? I know my legs will be sore, my body will be tired, my heart rate will be up, my breathing intense, but my nipples might bleed?!? Our trainer then told us not to worry, they carry a couple different things to combat bloody marys. No, not duct tape, although I’ve read that some people do that. Running stores carry “Nip Savers” and Body Glide. No kidding. Little rubber things that cover your nipples! Awesome! See, not only are you more informed, but you now have a Christmas gift idea for me! Maybe Santa will put a few Nip Savers in my stocking!

Kickoff to Training

2006-10-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the family and I went to the Team In Training kickoff event which kicks off the training season. I got to meet my marathon coach, Corrinne, who has run more than 10 marathons. I got to meet my “mentor” who was in the same boat I was 1 year ago…training to run her first marathon. I got to meet my team Rancho teammates who will be training with me over the next 5 months. I also got to meet my “honored teammate”, McKayla Wood.

McKayla is “6 and three-quarters” and has been diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). She is a regular little girl like the kids I see on a daily basis at school. She enjoys ballet, Disneyland, swimming, riding her bike, and Sponge Bob. The only difference is that she is living with leukemia. She is the reason, along with thousands of other children, that I decided to train for my marathon with Team In Training.
Leukemia causes more deaths than any other cancer among children. Every 10 minutes, someone dies as a result of these cancers. Team in Training raises money for research, patient and parental support, and public health official education. If I can make a small difference, I am willing to do my part. I will be asking my friends and family to help as well in the near future.
As far as the training goes, I am a bit ahead of schedule. Kyle and I ran 7 miles on Friday morning. Okay, it was only 6.6, but close enough. I actually felt pretty good afterwards except for some chafing. (Okay, I know…t.m.i.) My first official run with Team In Training will be next Saturday and will only be 2 miles. I think I can handle it. Thank you all for your support. I look forward to really get into this training. No, seriously, I do! Ask me if I still enjoy it when my “warm up” is 10 miles, however!

It's Official...I'm Going to Die, but I Have a Plan

2006-10-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

Well, eventually I’m going to die. But, after a recent visit to my doctor’s office, I have decided to slow down my imminent death.
Dr. “Smart” gave me the full work up (excluding the prostate exam, phew!) and reviewed the findings with me. I have high cholesterol, high blood sugar, some weird disease involving excess bilirubin in my blood, and I am overweight. Granted, most Americans have the same prognosis. But I have decided to do something about it.
In June, the family and I took a trip down to San Diego. While there I volunteered to help out in the San Diego Marathon. I was fascinated by all the people who finished who were ordinary people like me. They were people who wanted to accomplish something in their lives and they put their minds and bodies to that end. I was amazed. I mean, running 1 mile was difficult for me in high school, how in the hell do these people finish over 26 miles!?!?
After seeing their accomplishments, hearing my doctor, and getting encouragement from friends and family, I have decided to run the L.A. Marathon on March 4th.

Wow! Now that I have written that and posted it, it is official. No turning back! I will use this blog to keep you posted as I train for this event. Kyle Smart and I will be training together over the next 5 months. (Always good to train with a doctor! Of course, I’m not sure what he gets in the deal other than a grumpy, sarcastic patient, but now that I have his name in here, he can’t re-neg.) Below are my vital statistics before I start training. When I am finished with the race, I have another appointment to see if better diet and more exercise will have increased my rate of survival. I would appreciate your support and prayers as I embark on this journey.
Vitals:
Total Cholesterol – 257 H (normal: < 200)
Bad Choleserol (LDL) – 186 H (normal < 130)
Glucose – 106 H (normal 65-99)
Height – 6’ 2”
Weight – 217 lbs.
My goal is to get my cholesterol and glucose within the normal range and drop my weight 27 pounds. I was around 190 for a while, but slowly let the weight creep back up after I injured my knee.
I will keep you all posted as to my progression and how you can help. (Yes, I will be soliciting donations, so start thinking of your excuses now!)

Flags of Our Fathers

2006-09-28T18:51:00.000-07:00

I’ve always been fascinated with World War II. I am not an expert on the conflict and I don’t know all of the battles and reasons for the war other than what I learned in school. I think one of the reasons that I’m fascinated with it is the fact that both of my grandfathers fought in it on both fronts.
My grandpa Ed Lassiter was a “sea bee” in the Pacific theater. My grandpa Wes Smith marched across Europe with a mortar on his back. It is hard to imagine them as young men (10 years younger than I am now) doing their duty for their country. But they were there. They were young men, just becoming adults, doing what they had to do for their country.
Have you seen Saving Private Ryan? Do you remember the first scene of the movie? The old man, kneeling at grave marker in France, flooded with memories of his time in the war. I know both of my grandfathers carried those memories around in their minds. The brutality of conflict, the sight of injured friends, the smell of smoke and destruction, the pain of war.
Neither one of my grandfathers really talked about their time in the war. My grandpa Wes wrote a “book” about his time in the war called A Walkers Tour of Europe. It is not a descriptive best selling novel. It is just a recount of events that he participated. “On this date I was in London. On this date I was in Germany…” I have always wondered if he ever wanted to include more in his book, but doesn’t want to delve deeper into his memory to pull those memories out.

I read a book about a year ago called Flags of Our Fathers. (Clint Eastwood has written and directed a movie based on the book that will be released soon) It was written by the son of one of the flag raisers from the famous image that was captured on Mount Siribachi on the island of Iwo Jima. It was a fascinating book that captured the essence of the battle for the island and the battle in the minds of the men who fought in this battle. I just can’t help but to be in awe of these heroic men. It was the greatest generation indeed.
So, here’s my salute to those men and women who fought for our country. If you know a veteran, thank them. Tell them how much they mean. Thank them for their sacrifice and dedication. Thank them for the memories they hold on to that are too painful to recount. Whether they are 20 or 120, thank them.

Cynicism and the First Day of School

2006-08-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

I don’t know when it happened. I’m not sure if there was an exact moment or if it just occurred over time. But at some point in my life I became a cynic. I became jaded with certain life situations. My outlook on life had become negative.

I realized this a while ago, but today I really knew it.

School started yesterday. I was really looking forward to this year for many reasons. I will no longer be the vice-president of my teachers association which will free my time to concentrate more on my class. I was looking forward to giving my students more of myself this year. Then I had a conversation with a first year teacher.

I asked her how her day went. She said it was busy, but fine. And then she said, “I didn’t get to do a lot but go over the rules. I can’t wait to start making a difference.” Wait a second! Hold the presses! Make a difference? Oh, yeah! That’s why I got into teaching in the first place…to make a difference. After nine years of teaching, I had forgotten WHY I became a teacher.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think I’ve done a horrible job over the past several years. But I haven’t been doing the best I can do. I haven’t been trying to make a difference in the lives of my students day after day.

My mind has been clouded with other crap over the past few years. I became a cynic. I was the first one in the lunchroom to complain about my students. I came to work to socialize. I tried to “get through the year” instead of trying to “make a difference.” I was counting the days until school ended. I was in it for the wrong reasons.

No more. I have made the decision to make this year, my best year. I have made the decision to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

I say all of this publicly because I need the support of my friends and family to do this. Hold me accountable

Family

2006-08-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

We have spent the last few days with Carrie’s family. Being an only child of two only children, I am not used to having tons of family all around me. I feel like I kind of missed out on a part of something growing up. But, nevertheless, I am glad Carrie’s family puts up with me.
We went to Carrie’s cousin’s Ben’s wedding. It was a lot of fun. I realized that in being part of a big family, everyone has a role. The oldest sibling is the one with the plan (my mother-in-law). The oldest person has to make sure everyone is fed (Grandma Shirley). There is the comedian (JJ), the musician (Jesse), the fun-loving younger aunt (Jan), the hyper, but highly intelligent kid (Spencer), the one with the contagious laugh (Nancy) the cutie pies (Marnie, Tori, and Wyatt), and everyone else fits in somewhere. The point is that every family is unique in its own way and every family grows…and grows…and grows. The last time we got together for a family picture, there was no Wes, no Wyatt, no Kelly, no Tori, no Bethany, etc., etc. So when we got together for the family pic I couldn’t help but think that the next time we do this, there will be even more! (Of course, there will be NO MORE Lassiters!)
Okay, enough of the good feelings…I have a score update. The other night while trying to sleep I had a major allergy attack. Sneezing for 45 minutes straight! So, Wildlife (which includes pollen) 3, Lassiters 2. I hope those deer get out of the road the next time I’m driving because I play to win!

Crater Lake and Attack of Wildlife

2006-07-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

So, we headed out on Friday morning for my mom’s house at 6:30 a.m. We woke up at 5:45 to pack up and tear down the tent. While deflating the mattress, Carrie felt something twinge in her knee while kneeling on the ground. She thought maybe her knee was acting up or something. As I was rolling up the tent I discovered an 8 inch dead mouse that was underneath our tent. When I showed Carrie, she squealed, “Gross! What’s even grosser is that I think I killed it with my knee.” So far, Lassiters 1, Wildlife 0.
We drove the excruciatingly long drive to my mom’s and arrived at 6:30 p.m. to 64 degree weather. It felt great feeling cold. While driving we’ve been listening to an audio book of Eragon. It was written by a 16 year old kid, and is, so far, fantastic.
On Sunday, we drove another 6 hours to a lodge called Crystal Wood Lodge. It is a “pet friendly” place so my mom can have her dog with her. It’s an old homestead that was converted into a lodge. It has old furniture, tons of books about dogs, a spa, overpriced mementos (bug spray for 8 bucks), 12 Alaskan Huskies who train for the Iditarod, bird watching binoculars, a fly fishing tie desk, board games including “Dog-opoly”, and canoes to rent so you can get further bit by mosquitos…you know, everything you need in a lodge! It is interestingly place on the cusp of the forest and the wetlands of southern Oregon. We saw an amazing thunderstorm the first night we were there. Of course, being near a couple lakes we got eaten alive by mosquitos. Lassiters 1, Wildlife 1.

Monday morning we headed out for Crater Lake. As I was getting into the van, a wasp bit me on the leg. Lassiters 1, Wildlife 2. For those who don’t know, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. It’s the caldera of a volcano and is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. The water is bluer than blue. You can see the reflection of the surrounding area in the picture. Too bad Wes is squeezing out a fart in the picture! There was still some snow on the ground, so Wes got to make his first ever snowball.
We left this morning for my mom’s house, another 8 hour drive. Yeah! Upon reaching the 62 degree weather (eat your heart out Rancho people), I tallied our driving so far this vacation: 1826.4 miles driven, 31 hours, 43 minutes spent in the car, average speed of 52.9 miles per hour, 23.8 miles per gallon, and, as you can see from the photo of our license plate, over 10,000 insects killed! Lassiters 2, Wildlife 2. Keep posted, folks, the game ain’t over yet!

"Camping" With the Lassiters

2006-07-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

We started our adventure at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning (yes, there is a 5:30 A.M.!). We threw both boys in the van and headed out at about 6:30, which was just in time for hellacious L.A. traffic (nice planning, I know). After several stops to “get our shakes out” we made it to the KOA in Sacramento at about 2:00 p.m. We had lots of fun getting the tent up in 100 degree heat, so the pool was perfect! That night we grilled some burgers, watched Scrubs on the computer (yeah, real camping), and got a good night sleep.
The next morning we headed into Old Sacramento. I think they call it “old” because of the dilapidated buildings, crappy parking structure, and year old cheese smell that permeated the air. Okay, so it wasn’t that bad, but still…
We went to the Railroad Museum. It was very cool. They had several old steam engine trains, fancy dining cars, and a collection of toy trains. I enjoyed reading about the construction of the transcontinental railroad while we were there. There was a sign marking the beginning of the western end of it in the museum.
After a quick bite to eat at Round Table, we went to another museum on the history of Sacramento and the Gold Rush. Here, the kids got to dress up in costumes from the Gold Rush era. Since I teach California history, this was especially entertaining for me. They had a really neat exhibit on the Sacramento Bee with an old style printing press. What was even cooler was that the guy running it was probably alive during the Gold Rush.
After a major temper tantrum (hey, I wanted one of those crushed penny thingies), we got back in the car and drove to “New Sacramento.” I wanted to drive by the Capitol building and give our beloved governor the 1 finger salute. The boys both fell asleep on the way over, so we drove by it and didn’t get out. The best part was getting caught in one of those circle loops like Chevy Chase in European Vacation. Only this time instead of, “Look, kids…Big Ben, Parliament,” it was, “Look kids…Capitol Building, Starbucks.”
We got back to the camp site just in time for the Frenchies to check in and headed straight for the swimming pool. (Why are there so many Europeans at KOA’s? I don’t understand it. It’s not a bad thing, but why go camping in Sacramento? Why not stay at the Hilton in Vegas or Anaheim or San Diego or anywhere other than Sacramento?)
At dinner time, when Wes was playing in the sprinklers to stay cool and we were dying of heat exhaustion, we checked the weather in Medford, OR which was our next stop. We saw that the temperature was going to be 104 degrees and 109 degrees for the 2 days we would be there. My mom’s house, on the Oregon coast, was another 4 ½ hours away and had a high of 71 degrees. We made the decision then and there to head up to her place…you can read about that adventure the next time you stop by this blog. Or you can check Carrie’s version.

Reinforcements Are Here!! (AIP part 3)

2006-07-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

The cavalry arrived at 7:30 this morning. My brother-in-law, Bryan, and his wife, Kelly, came over so we could all go to Disneyland for the day. It was so much fun. We met up with cousins J.J. and Ben and Ben's son Kyle. While we went on some of the "big boy" rides, Kelly took my boys off to Pooh Bear and to feed the goats. She was great!

I have learned a lot so far flying solo. I feel bad for having such a negative outlook on the whole thing. Yes, I'm tired from being up in the middle of the night with Wyatt. Yes, my patience has been tested when Wes demands things ("how bout....we play in the dirt. How bout...we not eat dinner. How bout...no bath, Daddy!). Yes, I haven't been able to keep up with Angels games. Yes, I have to do everything 10 times slower (get the diaper bag, get Wyatt, get Wes' shoes on, get him off his chair, get out the door together, lock the door while holding Wyatt, turn car on to run a.c., buckle Wyatt in his seat, buckle Wes in his seat, go back inside to get wallet I forgot, get in car, find Music Machine c.d. so Wes doesn't have a melt down, drive to store to get pepperoni). But you know what? I have REALLY loved this! I feel closer to my boys than I ever have.

I understand more fully why mothers try to postpone weening their children from nursing as long as possible. My favorite part about this whole experience has been feeding Wyatt with a bottle. He has never taken one before, so it was new for both of us. But I just love holding him in my arms while he stares up at me lovingly. It is a great feeling to know that I am the only person who can help him in this...Carrie's gone, he can't feed himself, there's only me. I can see how studies have shown how nursing mothers bond more to their children.

Okay, enough of the touchy feely crap! Thank God I have been a negotiator for my school district the last couple of years. It has given me some skills to parent since Wes is the master negotiator. I have actually used the interest based process this weekend. "You want to go on Pooh Bear ride, I want to go on Splash Mountain...Why don't you go on Pooh Bear with Aunt Kelly and I'll go on Splash Mountain with Uncle Monkey." Or, "I am interested in getting you fed a healthy lunch, you are interested in juice and cookies, how many pieces of chicken is worth a cookie? (Thank God he has no number sense.)"

Of course, Wes said it best tonight when on the phone with Carrie. Carrie said, "I love you, buddy. Have a good sleepy." To which Wes responded not with "I love you, too," or "Night-night," but with "COME HOME!"

"Dad's weekend, huh?" (AIP part 2)

2006-07-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

1 can of Spagetti Oh's
1 can of peaches
1 tub of ice cream
1 Boboli Pizza crust and sauce
1 six-pack of Heineken
1 toddler with dirt on his knees, arms, and face
1 baby with canned sweet potatoes around his mouth

I don't know how the checker knew I was parenting this weekend.

Okay, so I've gotten some slack about my previous post. FYI, it was 45 minutes (not 15) that it took my son to dress himself. Plus, you need to realize that Wyatt has never been away from Carrie for more than a couple of hours. In fact, he's never had anyone but her feed him. I'm the guinea pig with the bottle this weekend.

I've learned all about multi-tasking. Cook dinner for self, feed baby his bottle, nag Wes to finish his Spagetti Oh's, clean up mess in kitchen, take out trash, keep laundry going, keep watchful eye on Angels game (GO HALOS!), answer phone when it rings, eat my own dinner, entertain baby, and use the facilities.

This whole adventure would be a lot easier if Wyatt knew how to sleep on his own! Earlier today, he was asleep in my arms. I placed him in his crib and you would have thought I had castrated him with the scream he gave. He eventually fell asleep in my arms and slept for about an hour while I watched "The Brett Hart Story" on the Documentary Channel (did you know there was a "documentary channel?").

Right now, Wyatt has been crying for close to 20 minutes. Dude! Just go to sleep! I'm thinking ahead to MY night of sleep, which I feel will be short. (BTW, went upstairs right now and rocked him till he went to sleep.) The other thing I've noticed about kids and sleep is that they can fall asleep anywhere at anytime. Today, Wyatt fell asleep in his car seat at ToysRUs while Wes was throwing a tantrum about not touching toys. I can't fall asleep on an airplane after having been up for 28 hours.

I am attempting to watch "Syriana" and "Munich" this weekend while Carrie is away so I will end my blog for today so I can get started. Not sure what I'm doing tomorrow. Any suggestions? Something that a sleep deprivated father and his two boys can do.

Adventures in Parenting...(part 1)

2006-07-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

You can't call it babysitting. They're my own kids. So, for the next four days I am "parenting" my two boys (Ages 3 and 8 months).
I've never thought it was easy for my wife to do it, and I am sure that I will soon discover exactly how "un-easy" it is. As I write this, Wyatt is upstairs crying in his bed. He fights sleep like no other kid. I am sure that someday he will be like any other teenage boy and sleep more than a three-toed sloth. Wes is watching "Go, Diego, Go" (which might be where I got the three-toed sloth idea).
I guess the biggest attribute a parent needs to have is patience. It took Wes 15 minutes to get his clothes on this morning! He gets distracted ("Daddy, can you help m...hey, look at that elephant!"). I often wonder if that is just being 3 or if he is unusually distracted. Well, I better go...Wyatt is still crying...he might need his pacifier (either that or some horse tranquilizer!)

Why I Love Baseball

2006-06-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

People are passionate about a lot of different things. Some are passionate about art. Others are passionate about their job. Still, some are passionate about shoes (mostly women!). I love baseball! I've come up with the top 10 reasons why I love the game so much...

10. No better way to eat a hot dog than by doing it while watching a game.
9. My mom instilled a love of baseball in me while I was a young child (also the reason I love chili!)
8. It's difficult. "Hit a round ball with a round bat squarely."
7. The only sport where the defense controls the ball.
6. The history of the game: Ruth, DiMaggio, Aaron, Ripken.
5. The records. Numbers like 56, 755, 73*, etc.
4. Spring Training. Arizona in March, sitting in the sun, watching baseball, drinking beer, what else could be better?
3. Rooting against the Yankees! Have you ever heard the crowd chant, "YANKEES SUCK!" or "GO HOME YANKEES!" or "OVER-RATED!"? Yankee fans are jackasses. When the Angels beat the Yankees in the 2002 divisional series, it was great watching Yankee fan eat crow and leave the stadium early.
2. The Star Spangled Banner before the game begins.
1. The walk-off homerun. There is no more pressure place in sports than when your team is down by one in the ninth, two outs, man on base, 3-2 count....the drama, the pressure, the feeling of euphoria when your guy hits one over the wall.

The World Of Blogging

2006-06-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

Maybe it takes me a long time to catch on to new and exciting things, but this blogging thing is cool. It seems you can find experts on just about every topic: religion, politics, pop culture, beer, whatever. It is a neverending journey through the thoughts of friends and strangers alike.

The world is so much closer than ever before. It is, or seems, smaller. Take my wife and her family for instance...when she was born in Ethiopia some 29 years ago, her parents couldn't call back to the states to inform them of their new addition. They had to send a telegram (and, yes, every year on Carrie's birthday her grandma calls to tell about how excited she was on that cold day in February when she got the Western Union telegram announcing the birth of her first grandchild). Now, we could have set up a web cam in the hospital so that someone could watch the birth while it was happening (please don't invite me to watch that, friends. I have already seen 2 births and that is enough!)

I guess blogging is one of the ways that the world has come closer. Fun, entertaining, informative, thought provoking, and addicting. Enjoy.