Goodbye 2007

Finished the year with an 8 mile run down Banklick Rd and back. My usual neighborhood run; a fitting end to the year and a good place to begin 2008. Clocked the run on my IPOD+ from Nike. It actually works pretty well, surprisingly. It will be interesting to see how it works over the long hall.

Cooking a boneless pork loin as I type for New Year's Eve dinner. Linda and I are expecting Charie, Ciara, Matt and Aiden's already present and accounted for. Christmas was wonderful I had hoped to be able to post some pictures but Buzzy (Aiden) managed to erase the disk in the camera. I don't know how he did it but he loves gadgets and just went to town pushing the buttons!

Sunday evening we had dinner at the house. I fixed a standing rib roast with all the trimmings. Ian and Rieko came up from Arkansas, Colin and Melanie, Ciara, Matt and Aiden were here for the evening. We exchanged gifts after dinner. Monday we celebrated Christmas at my sister Susan's house in Park Hills. It was spectacular. Most of the family here in town were there. We wrapped things up with Christmas brunch after Mass and then a low key dinner at Matt and Ciara's house.

Work New Year's day, the first of a string of 6 work days in a row.

Christmas Tree Trimming with Aiden

Aiden visited with Grandma and Grandpa overnight. He woke up about 05:30. Waaaay too early! But after playing with his musical "turtle" for awhile he fell back to sleep and got up for good around 07:40. We made pancakes but picky eater wouldn't eat them opting for two bananas and some yogurt.

Morning weather was uninviting: heavily overcast, rainy but relatively warm. So, I went for a run. Surprisingly it was not too bad. I was wet but not cold and despite the wind I enjoyed it. Ran for about 90 minutes or so.

This afternoon Matt and Ciara came by to get Aiden but since they were all going to stay for dinner he decided to take a nap and spend the afternoon with us. While he slept we put up the Christmas tree and set up Aiden's train beneath it. Overall it was a great day.

Muddy Tuesday at EI

Ran with friend Jeff this morning at EI. 36 Hours of rain left the trails wet and muddy but because they're very well drained it wasn't as bad as expected. It was comical, however, to see the skid marks of the deer on trails.

It was cold and very breezy but the crystal blue skies made everything spectacular. It was a great run. Our muddy trail shoes tell the tale.

Day After Thanksgiving

A very lazy day. Slept in past 7. Got up and made a few journal entries. Ate breakfast (once again enjoying my cinnamon rolls). Cold and overcast outside with a very faint dusting of feather weight snow. Journeyed down to Abode on the northeast corner of 5th and Scott St. in Covington to look for bar stools to go with the new "breakfast bar" in the remodeled kitchen. Ended up we found just what we wanted, ordered, bought and paid for them on the spot. Came home. Ate lunch. Hung out at the house for the rest of the day.

Looking forward to seeing Aiden tomorrow afternoon. He spent Thanksgiving in Dallas with Matt's family. We missed him.

Cemetery Sunday

What a beautiful morning. Cool. Partly cloudy. Linda walked I ran. The trails in the cemetery were in fantastic shape. Check out the pictures.

Saturday Afternoon Run

What a beautiful afternoon. Sun shining, blue skies sketched with wispy clouds, a persistent light breeze and temperature in the 50's; it just doesn't get any better. Ran about 8 miles out the front door and down Banklick and back. About 90 minutes or so for the run.

Aiden flew to Dallas with Ciara and Matt this afternoon. Ciara just called to tell us they arrived. She said Aiden was "an angel."

We'll be going to Max and Erma's tonight for "burgers and beer."

Monday With Aiden

A very nice day. Started with a run out the front door of 91/2 miles (according to the IPOD+ device that I'm finally using from last Christmas). It's kind of nice to have some "independent" confirmation of my distances/times. Now however I'm really sore. I don't think it was the distance but my new shoes coupled with the run in EI yesterday morning.

The weather is unseasonably warm this afternoon. This morning was cool in the 50's and generally overcast with a stiff breeze. Now the sun's out most of the time but the strong breeze remains. I think the temperature is in the mid 60s. Jacket weather.

I came home from my run and made a chicken stew with a chicken I cooked in the crockpot on Friday but didn't eat. It's really a soup more than a stew but it's got lots of grains and veggies in it.

I picked up Aiden at about 11:00 or so and we stopped at Remkes for salad. I realize now, however, that we forgot some fixin's so we'll probably have to go back. After lunch we played outside and I was able to get some good pictures of the "little devil."

As I type this he's napping and hopefully will continue to sleep for a while longer.

BTW the fall colors while somewhat muted are really quite nice. Just take a look at my pin oak in the background.

First Hard Freeze

Ran the neighborhood, approximately 4 miles on Saturday morning: 35 minutes. Sunday's run was in the late afternoon down Banklick for about 6 miles or so and 55 minutes.

Sunday we re-organized the kitchen. The demo is finished. Now we're waiting on the drywall finishing and new countertops and sink. The floor will have to wait until after the first of the year.

Ciara, Matt and Aiden were over last night for Family Sunday Dinner. We're looking forward to a Family Sunday with everyone; maybe Christmas.

Cold and clear this morning with a heavy coating of frost over everything. The sun's now up and warming things up. I can steam coming up off the jungle gym in the neighbor's yard. Today's Monday with Aiden and we'll be off to Roncker's Running Spot for new running shoes then we'll drop down to Lunken to check out the airplanes. We also need to run by the grocery and we might stop off to see Grandma at work.

Check out our little "giraffe."

Saturday's Long Run at MAF

Three Hours and Fifty Seven Minutes: 17 miles or so.

Met Jeff at MAF and was joined by Joe, Bonnie and Suzelle also. Joe and Bonnie did 1 loop, Suzelle 2 loops, I completed 3 and Jeff finished up with 4. It was hot. It was humid. The last loop was tough. My joints were aching; especially those in my feet. I was really trashed after the run and pretty dehydrated but recovered pretty well and feel relatively good today.

MAF on the 1st Day of October

Ran trails this morning with Jeff. A wonderful fall morning. The trails were in excellent shape. The rain we got last week had tamped down the dust making the trails nice and firm but not muddy. Temps were in the low 60s with a nice breeze. We ran for an hour and a half and a nice pace. Looking forward to Saturday when we'll attempt a long run.

Picked Aiden up after the morning run and we went to Wal-mart for groceries. I bought a roasting chicken which sounded like a nice change of pace. I'm going to roast some carrots and probably bake some sweet potatoes to go alongside. Aiden's now napping. He was so tired at the store. I had to give him my cell phone to keep him awake and occupied on the drive home. I don't think he called anybody but I did hear something talking to him at one point.

Today's Run at EI

It's hard to believe that conditions could be worse than they were yesterday but sad to say they were. In less than 20 minutes on the trails I was dripping wet and worn out from the heat and humidity. It's a real drag trying to get a decent workout completed in these conditions. We need rain in the worst way and we're supposedly going to get some today in the form of "possible" thunderstorms. The sad thing is if we don't get any today we're not going to get any for the rest of the week. On a more positive note it's at least supposed to get cooler.

Aiden's napping through lunch, Linda should be home from work shortly. We plan to eat lunch then walk in the graveyard. Yeah, I know...but it's pretty and Aiden likes the ducks.

First Day of Autumn at EI

I hate to complain about "good" weather but I'm tired of the relentless heat, humidity and lack of rain. The trails are dry, dusty and littered with withered brown leaves. The trees look pathetic and the plants worse. My run this morning was enervating. I'd planned on a slow easy run of 2-3 hrs but ended up struggling to finish a slow run of 1.5 hrs. It was a good workout even though I struggled. I was fortunate to see a small box turtle and a few deer along with the usual complement of birds and squirrels.

Stopped over to see my dad this afternoon. He's still laid up with "the gout." His right great toe is inflamed and swollen but it is slowly getting better. Aiden was with me for the afternoon (Monday's with Grandpa) and he was pretty good but had several "time-outs" because he kept pestering the pictures and other knick-knacks hanging around instead of playing with his toys but he was really just being a toddler.

Ian was scheduled to do his final check ride today. I hope it went well. Haven't heard from Colin in a few days. Matt and Ciara are at the house while their place is having the hardwood floors resurfaced.

Monday Morning Run at MAF

As I pulled into Mt. Airy Forest this morning I see proud as a peacock an 8 point buck. This same buck will be seen later on the trails standing proudly in the sunlight displaying his amazing physique. Part of his harem was just ahead. I never tire of seeing these semi-tame beasts.

The weather was relatively cool (low 70's) but still very, very humid. The posted pictures are my friends Jeff Gabbard and Suzelle Snowdon prior to the start of our training run around 09:00 this morning. Surprisingly I was not as sore as I would have anticipated given my back to back to back runs over the past 3 days. I was fatigued but then again our pace was a little faster this morning then it was on Saturday; we ran more of the hills this morning. It's always a treat to have someone to talk with so kudos to Jeff and Suzelle for inviting me along. Thanks to Jeff for such a good picture of Suzelle and I.

Happy Grandparents Day!

Mass at 8:00 then Aiden took his grandparents to breakfast at First Watch. It rained overnight and things are moist. I hope it doesn't get to hot. Things will be very steamy indeed. Plan some easy hill running today.

Watching Michigan Choke (Again)

Started the day with a long run at Mt. Airy Forest with Jeff Gabbard. Temps relatively cool but the humidity was oppressive. I drank 3.5 liters of gatorade and water and was still dehydrated. 13 miles and 3hrs. Now, late in the afternoon I'm really feeling it. Fortunately just general aches and pains. We'll see how I feel in the morning.

Going to Barleycorn's for B and B. Anticipate being joined by the usual suspects: Charie, Colin, Matt, Ciara and Aiden.

Bushwacking in the Evening

Linda and I decided to investigate the walking trail at Doe Run Lake last evening. It was an adventure; more than we had planned but we survived. The path was predominately single track particularly the last half. It generally follows the lake perimeter and is in relatively good shape until you get to the far end of the lake when it deteriorates into almost no trail at all. It took us about an hour to complete the circuit. We did see something that neither one of us had seen before. I can best describe it as a "knot" of fish. They looked like carp. All were 1-2 feet long and they were circling around each other on the surface. There must have been 30 or 40 or more of them and we could see it continuing from the other side of the lake fifteen minutes later.

Earlier in the day I had run at EI for 2hrs. It was a good run. I did a circuit of sorts on the intermediate loop and advanced loops 1 and 2. I've concluded that loop 3 is too much of a pain because it continually loops back on itself and has more difficult footing. It also takes to long to complete. I guess my favorite loop is loop 2 because I can do an interval pick-up on the last half mile. I did see a pair of fawns. I suspect it's the same pair I've seen several times in the past. My favorite turtle also made an appearance.

Morning at Idlewild

Had an early run at England/Idlewild this morning. It was hot. But for a trio of mountain bikers I had the trail to myself. The trails are dry, dusty and littered with withered brown leaves that in any other year would still be on the trees. Even the weeds are wilted and dying. The creek is a dry gulch. The only thing I can think about is what the trails are going to look like when we do finally get some rain (we're a foot behind for the year). I didn't see any deer today; I guess I didn't make enough noise. I did, however see two turtles. Curiously I think they're the same turtles I've seen in the past. They're on separate trails. One has yellow spots, the other red. It was a well spent 1hr:45min!

After running I picked up Aiden and he and grandpa had some quality time until grandma got home for lunch.

Labor Day

Worked the weekend. It seemed to go on forever. I usually resign myself, put my head down and just get it done but for some reason this weekend was different; I really just didn't want to work. I did however get through it without difficulty. The fireworks last night were spectacular (on television). We didn't bother with going up to Devou like we did two years ago. We did however have a local show; we viewed the fireworks from St. Cecilia's Festival from the deck and they were impressive. It was a nice evening.

Linda, Charie and I did the trails at EI this morning. It was warm and humid but a very nice morning despite the heat. Numerous bikers and even more were coming as we finished up for the day. I ran for about 80 minutes or so. Saw a couple of young fawns and tried to capture their pictures with my cell phone. I'll try to download them later.

Looking forward to having Colin and Melanie, Ciara, Matt and Aiden, Charie, Aaron, Aubrey (?) over for a cook-out this afternoon. I'm brining some chicken now. We'll also have some pumped up mashed potatoes and coleslaw. I've got lots of cold beer and Matt's supposed to bring some Margarita mix.

18 Month Old "Carmudgeon"

A great weather weekend. Didn't do much of anything productive but after 5 days in a row of work I deserved a day to do nothing. This picture is a favorite that never stops me from laughing. I can't recall whether Aiden was about to cry, laugh or just get mad but it's a wonderful expression.

Spent the morning at the store then got two scoops of mulch for Charie. Aiden's now taking his nap. I managed to keep him from sleeping this morning. It would be nice to get him to just napping once.

Late Morning Sunday

A bright and sunny picture of Aiden on a late August evening with temps in the high 90's. He's nice and cool from playing in his "pool."

Seven, Seven, Seven

What a beautiful day here in Independence. Hot, sunny and dry.

We started the day with a walk in the woods along the mountain bike trails at E.I. Linda persuaded me to walk with her and I'm glad I did it was enjoyable. Saw two young deer. We tried to discover how Linda got lost the last time she walked there by herself.

After we finished Ciara called. Matt was at the house with Aiden so we went home got Aiden and went to the store. When we got back from the store (about 12:30) I got dressed and ran my 8 mile route down Banklick and back. It was sunny, breezy and hot but not as hot of some of my runs last year in the morning. The difference was humidity.

Aiden's taking a nap. We'll likely go to Mass at St. Pat's and then home to grill chicken for dinner.

This Morning's Ramblings

Went to Lauren and Adam's wedding Saturday night. It was Episcopalian and for the life of me if I had been dropped from space into the church I might have had a hard time determining it wasn't Catholic! The bride was beautiful and Ciara looked spectacular. Aiden didn't enjoy it much; the two of us spent most of the wedding outside playing with rocks in the garden. At least he was content. The reception was held at the Ft. Thomas Armory and was really well done with no expense spared (it seemed to me). Linda and I left about 20:30 with Aiden; he was pretty worn out.

Sunday, after we dispatched Aiden to his mother (around noon), Linda and I went over to EI and ran (Linda walked) the trails for an hour or so. This time she didn't get lost. There were a lot of folks riding and quite a few walking. It was as close to "crowded" as I've seen things. It was hot and very humid but quite nice. We got home about 15:30.

Carl and Marysue came for dinner that evening and we served "smashed potatoes," flank steak from the cadillac grill and grilled zucchini with onions and peppers. It was a nice evening.

Monday I did the "circuit" at EI. It took close to 3 hours. The heat and humidity took its toll but I was pleased that I managed to complete it for the first time and did it without a face plant. More importantly I think my PF is finally healed; no pain in my feet. Now the quads on the other hand were hammered. We'll count this as my weekly long run.

As I type this it's overcast and there is the rumble of thunder in the background. There was a brief period of rain but now that's stopped without even wetting the ground. We plan on getting a load of mulch and continuing the work on our landscaping today. It should be hot and humid once the overcast clears.

Lunchtime in Independence

It remains dry and hot. The wind becomes a blow torch later in the afternoon. The humidity, though, remains low so things aren't unbearable. In fact, they're quite nice. My lawn is brown and I don't care because I don't have to cut the grass.

Ran the trails at E.I. on Sunday for about an hour. I'd guess it was about 4.5 miles or so. It was cool on the trails and there was a nice breeze most of the time despite the tall vegetation and trees. Surprisingly I didn't see many bikers. Linda walked and got lost. We had agreed to meet back at the car after an hour and she was gone for well beyond an hour. Worried, I went back down the trails to find her and she was nonchalantly walking up the hill. Oh well.

Monday I did my first long run in a long time. Started on the levy. Ran across the Purple People Bridge and down through Freedom Park into the East End and Lunken then back to across the Suspension Bridge, over the Licking, across the Taylor Southgate Bridge, along the Serpentine Wall finishing up by going back across the P.P.B. 3 hours in all. I guess it was about 15 miles or so.

This morning I worked in the yard then went for another run concentrating on hills. Spent about 1hr and 10 minutes or so. It was hot but there was a strong breeze.

Glorious Morning in Independence

It's cool outside. After many days of no rain we've been blessed with small amounts of rain over the past couple of days and things are really perking up. You notice it particularly in the trees; they've become bright green again with a newfound injection of rain and nitrogen from the lightning of thunderstorms.

I finished my deck, well almost finished it, it's usable but I need to continue screwing down the deck planks and then there's some sanding and other finish work needed. Overall it really looks nice and adds close to 120 sq feet of surface area to use. It really makes a difference.

Aiden's been sick for the past couple of days. Ciara took him to the doctor yesterday and he's got a sore throat. Cultures were negative; but he's had a fever and been listless since Sunday night. We watch him today so I hope he's feeling better. The poor little guy!

Haven't heard from Colin for a few days. I'll have to try and hook up with him later today. Ian and Rieko are in their new home in Little Rock, Arkansas and I presume that Ian has started his IP training on the C130-J.

Morning Rambling with Aiden

OMG I haven't posted in weeks. This has got to stop!

Ciara and Matt are in Hawaii. They left (standby) with Delta on Tuesday morning. They called me about 18:30 or so to let me know they had arrived. We've talked to Ciara every evening when she checks up on Aiden. So far they've been doing a lot of snorkeling and are having fun!

Aiden's been a joy for grandma and grandpa. He's just a really happy baby who is usually always in good spirits. He's been napping, eating and sleeping well although last night for some inexplicable reason he woke up crying at 00:55. I found him sitting in his crib with crocodile tears streaming down his face. I cuddled him for a few minutes and he went right back to sleep without further episode. Bad dream? Cold?

The sun's shining this morning and it's very breezy. Pretty much like yesterday except the sun wasn't out as much. Temperature's about 50 right now but it feels warmer. I think that's because the ground is warmer than the air but what do I know. Linda's out shopping for flowers and I'm waiting for her to return so I can go for a run. Aiden's playing with his "rollerballs" on the hall floor.

I have to work this weekend then next week then a week of vacation. 30th wedding anniversary coming up in 2 weeks. Linda says she doesn't want to do anything special except remodel the kitchen and enlarge the deck!!!! I do plan on enlarging the deck the week I'm off. Ciara and Matt should be back home on Tuesday.

I think Aiden's antsy to go outside so I'll close this post for now.

Late Evening Independence

It was good to have the day off but it was too short. Back to work in the morning.

It was cool and rainy most of the day. Took Aiden to the Library for storytelling. I was the only Grandfather that participated. It was fun to see Aiden interact with the other toddlers. Wanted to go for a run but the rain nixed that.

Picked up Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" to read (I'll be damned if I can figure out how to underline). Also picked up a copy of Galway Kinnell's newest book of poetry. It has a CD with him reading all the poems also which is kind of neat. One of the lines really struck me and I wrote it down:

"....talking in ink to a piece of paper."

Happy Birthday Dianne

Today's my youngest sister Dianne's Birthday. Don't ask me how old she is because I can't tell you. I don't think she's 40 yet but she might be. Anyway I hope it's a good one for her.

Didn't run. Life intruded with too many things to do (looking at real estate). The Cookie Monster was with us for awhile until his G-ma Janie picked him up to spend the day with his daddy's family. She's a nice lady and Aiden likes her too (that's important).

We're off to church shortly for Palm Sunday ceremonies on Saturday. I expect church will be crowded. Then off to someplace for burgers and beer to cheer on "the Buckeyes" against G-town.

Saturday Morning Coffee

For some reason sleep was not satisfying overnight. A long drawn out day at work in which I didn't eat properly was followed with an eating binge before bed. Unfortunately that's a pretty common practice especially since my work days are so long but watcha gonna do? I frequently resolve to change this behavior but...

Anyway it's cool outside and overcast. Had some rain but it's stopped now. I'd say it's a typical spring morning. Plan to run today; I'd like it to be a long one followed up with half the distance tomorrow. We'll see how that goes. I'm supposed to watch the Cookie Monster for awhile today also but Ciara hasn't called yet. He's also supposed to go see his daddy today.

The Road

Just read on-line that Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" has just been selected by Oprah for her Book Club. It's a wonderful choice and should produce some provocative conversations. I'm particularly interested in hearing him interviewed especially since he's so blasted reclusive. He doesn't even give print interviews.

We had a monsoon today (well not really but it seemed like it). Anyway it rained and rained. Spoiled my planned run. Yes, I wimped out.

Got to prepare dinner.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Just got Aiden down for a nap. He just does not want to go to sleep. He fights you all the way and when he finally does fall asleep it's more like a catnap than a nap.

Walked in Highland Cemetery this morning with Linda and Charie. The trails were muddy and very slippery in places but it was a nice peaceful setting. I look forward to a trail run there some time soon.

Ran about 10 miles in yesterday's heat (80 degrees) and survived quite nicely. I was pretty sore and fatigued afterwards but have bounced back today. I'd like to run today but my better judgment suggests that a couple of days of rest would probably be better. I'll work tomorrow and then get back in the saddle on Tuesday and Wednesday. I really want to ramp things up for a fall ultra. It's going to take lots of planning but the start will be to build a strong base.

Saturday Morning and the Sun's Shining

It's a great morning.

Yesterday was a mixed bag of clouds, wind and rain (fortunately late in the day). I picked Aiden up at Fiesta came home and tried to get him to eat something. That was a wasted effort because he just wasn't interested. So, Linda, Aiden and I went grocery shopping!

Aiden fell asleep in the car on the way home so we left him in his carseat while we put the groceries away. He stayed asleep. We changed clothes and drove to Mills Park for a walk. Aiden took a bottle while we pushed his stroller around the park. It was a nice warmup for my run.

I ran 8.5 miles (approximate distance from Mill to home). The run's a mixture of asphalt, concrete and long slow hills. I'm feeling it this morning as I type. My friend Jeff couldn't run this morning so I'll do another solo this afternoon when Linda goes to her "tea party."

I've started using Outlook for my e-mail and contacts and love it. Thanks to B-in-law Ron for showing me how to set it up. It's sooooo much easier to use than the program from zoomtown.

Earlier I posted that Alberto was toast. Well the only thing I'm surprised about is that it hasn't happened yet but it will. The pressure is mounting. This whole administration is self-destructing before our eyes. They have gotten NOTHING right in six years. The only thing we can hope for is that smarter heads will prevail somewhere.....congress? They're all self-serving liars!

Off my soapbox! Navel gazing is finished for this morning; off to breakfast!

Spring having Sprung

A very early morning. Up at 0415. Out of bed. Reading the papers (on-line) for about an hour then off to Starbucks for coffee. I ran out yesterday and neglected to stop on my way home for ground.

Saw an injured deer, struck by a car sometime before I passed. On my return trip it was no longer struggling but still alive sitting in the left hand lane.

Very warm this morning. In the 60s. Going to the 70s with rain later in the day.

Rainy Afternoon at 10553

It's warmer than yesterday but here comes the rain and wind; possibly thunderstorms. The day's going fast. Library in Erlanger this morning then to Matt House to get Aiden then to Independence Library to pick-up a book. Fed Aiden lunch. Now he's playing on the floor with his "rollerballs," staring out the storm door at the rain. I plan on working on Outlook this afternoon.

Maybe more later.

Cloudy, Cold, Spring Morning

Aiden awoke and got me out of my warm bed at 0653 this morning. He spent the night when mommy suddenly got tickets to go see Justin Timberlake. He was a tired little boy but awoke cheerful and hungry. He's playing on the floor with his "rollerballs." Once again they're all over the house and it will take me all morning to round them up. There's always one or two MIA. Now he's in the dark bedroom doing something.....I guess I'll have to get up and get him.

I didn't run yesterday which was probably a good thing because I was sore and tight most of the day. I fixed Thai Peanut Talapia for "fish thursday" and I was very, very disappointed. It was waaaaay too spicy and the fish was chewy and rubbery. However, I also made some risotto which was terrific. Today we'll have breaded salmon sandwiches with french fries.

Friday morning at the library with Aiden then home for a nap (or, maybe nap first, then library). Hope to get a run in this afternoon because I work the weekend.

Early Morning Rain

Yes, I was up later than usual last night and I feel it this morning. I rarely sleep past 6 but this morning I think I could have. As luck would have it, however, Linda had to get up for work so I got up too! (I have to make her coffee).

It's raining. Hard. Thunderstorms. I wonder if I can get a run in this morning? It's also going to be colder today (40s, even though it's in the 50s now). Probably will opt out just because I don't feel like dealing with the discomfort. If it was summer it might be different.

Politics: Alberto Gonzales is toast!

Plan on going to Wild Oats this morning. It's "fish thursday" so I'll try to find some fresh fish for this evening's meal. Actually, as I type I'm thinking maybe I'll go to the Fresh Market and check out their fish; they had an even better selection than Wild Oats the last time I went.

Music: I really, really like John Mellencamp's new disc "Freedom Road" and Lucinda Williams's "West."

Lou Dobbs is on Imus. Interesting.

Hope to see Aiden today. Ciara's supposed to come by the house today so we'll see.

Past my Bedtime

What a great day!

Waaaay past my usual bedtime but wanted to stay up late at least once this week. Maybe tomorrow too (I work this weekend) but can't wait to watch some basketball!

Ran today. It was Hot! and Humid! just like summer. Plan another run in the morning. Listening to Lucinda. About 8 miles.

Watched "The Secret" at sister Susan's this evening. She had a group of friends and family over. It was very interesting; enjoyed myself.

Can't find rollerball 10 and 11. I just don't know how Aiden manages to get all 11 of them spread throughout the house. There are a finite number of places they can get to but I always have to really search. I had all 11 this morning. Now I have 9.

New Computer!

Matt came over and set up my new computer. It's sooooo fast! Download speeds are incredible.

Had Matt, Ciara, Aiden, Adam and Lauren for dinner. Colin couldn't be here. Missed Ian and Rieko but of course they're in Fayetteville so....Anyway we had chicken marinated in pineapple with baked potatoes and brocolli. It was quite nice actually. The day turned out to be even more beautiful than expected.

Checked out the trails in Highland Cemetery. They're runnable so I'll get there sometime this week for some exploration. Hilly but the single track is in a little better shape than that at EI.

First Sunday of Daylight Savings Time

I feel like I'm in church by naming this post as such!

A beautiful sunny morning. Is it going to be warm also?

Long run yesterday. Started in a misty rain and finished in the sun: 2hrs 35min. Certainly the longest run of the year so far. I was pretty sore and stiff afterwards but not near as much as I would have expected. I was telling Linda that I think the principle source of my PF is tight calf muscles so I'm working on stretching I've also started icing my PF after my run. Although it hurts like hell in the morning it feels OK when stretched out. I'll walk with Linda today. We're going to check out a new nature trail at the big cemetery in Ft. Mitchell. I can't recall the name but it can be accessed from the cemetery and also a trailhead off Highland avenue in Ft. Wright.

We went to church yesterday afternoon and went to Barleycorn's for dinner. We both had burgers and they were delicious especially when "washed" down by Smithwick's draft pints!

Looking forward to having our "Family Sunday" tonight. We cook dinner and hope family shows up: Colin, Ciara, Matt, Aiden, Charie, Melanie. They're all invited but don't always come. I think we'll see Ciara, Matt and Aiden at least.

Ian and Rieko are back from Bora, Bora. Talked to Ian yesterday afternoon. As usual, an eventful trip! They just can't seem to have normal travel experiences. More about this later.

Sunny late afternoon.....

Met my friend Jeff at 0800 for a trailrun at England-Idlewild park in Boone County. It was a beautiful morning with crystal clear blue skies and sun. The only thing that marred the morning was the noise from the airplanes leaving CVG. They are so loud you can't hear yourself think. Jeff shared his experience running the Mt. Mitchell Challenge; a 4o mile run up the highest peak in NC. This was his second year running it and he finished well. Great job, Jeff! After we exhausted that topic we got on to politics: he's right leaning and you know I tilt at windmills. It was a great morning.

Yesterday afternoon I did an 8 miler in the neighborhood. I still have pain from the PF in the left foot but it doesn't seem to be worse regardless what I do so I've just decided to put up with the pain and get back to it. Work tomorrow so I probably won't run; but the weekend is open season!

Can you believe we're going to DST already. I like EST. At least with the change you get that extra hour of sleep but Sunday we lose an hour and that really hurts. At least it's not my weekend to work; that would really hurt.

Had dinner with Matt, Ciara and Aiden at Panera Bread in Crestview Town Center last night. Their paninis are great. Linda visited with friends at Hoggy's.

Matt's building me a new supercharged computer and says it will be finished this weekend. I'm looking forward to the increased speed. My desktop is painfully slow especially when compared with the laptop!

Aiden's 368th Day

The sun was shining this morning but now it's blustery, overcast and cold. Snow flurries have been flying. Now, late in the afternoon I've finally got time to reflect on the week. It's been good. Work was tough. Running has improved. I managed about 90 minutes of trailrunning at EI on Monday. It was quite a contrast from my previous run there: patches of snow and ice but mostly mud. The sun was shining and it was cold but really beautiful. I followed Monday's run on Tuesday at Lunken. It has been a while since I've run there and I put in a slow 5 miles. My PF continues to bother me but it's mainly afterwards and in the the mornings. It doesn't hurt during the run so I've just decided to put up with the pain and pick up the mileage. Worked on Wednesday and Thursday. Ran yesterday in the neighborhood. Again, it was a beautiful day but very, very windy. Ran down Banklick to Bramlage to Wilson to Independence Station to Maher and home. It was about 8 miles or so. Life intervened today and I didn't get out for my run. Almost bought a new television today but Sears didn't have it in stock. Saved myself $1000.00.

As I type this Aiden is sitting on the floor in the kitchen staring out the sliding glass doors at the snow flurries, wind and a large flock of starlings swirling around the yard. He's just mesmerized. We're going to have a small birthday party for him tonight. Just a few of Ciara's friends, Colin and Melanie and Susan and Ron. We're going to have pizza and beer and of course cake.

Colin went back to work at Thielen this week. I guess it went well. He's been doing the job forever. Ian and Rieko went back to Bora Bora. They were supposed to leave yesterday so I presume they're there now but it's a loooooong way.

That's it for now.

Early Spring in Independence

It's still cold outside but it smells like spring. The sun is shining and it's very breezy. Most of the snow and ice from last week has disappeared. Yes, there are some remnants but for the most part it's gone. Hopefully we will get no more!

Just put Aiden down for a nap. This child does not like to sleep. He fights tooth and nail to stay awake.

I've been reading the WAPO stories on Walter Reed Medical Center and Army's woeful treatment of discharged or outpatient Iraq war vets. Like so much else that has come about from this disastrous excursion in "regime change," the treatment of the injured is just shameful. Fortunately the story is getting out there and making news so maybe some positive and deserving change will come about as a result.

Colin closes on his two family today. He built and installed a bed yesterday. I can't wait to get a look at the place since he's moved in. Plan on taking him out to dinner tonight to celebrate if him and Melanie are interested.

Afternoon with Aiden

What a difference a day makes.

Morning run at England-Idlewild. Spectacularly beautiful. The trees gilded in ice gleamed and sparkled as the sun rose on the horizon. Still cold but rapidly warming; today will be the last day to enjoy the snow and ice. The trails were carpeted in white but easily followed courtesy of a few mountain bikers who broke trail over the weekend. Surprisingly there were only a few downed trees from the ice. Overdressed and found myself shedding gloves, hat, neck gaiter. Only ran for about 30 minutes. Continue to have pain in my left heel so I'm trying to take it easy.

Listening to an old CD by Yes. Watching Aiden. Linda working. Clouds moving in; we're supposed to get some rain tonight and tomorrow.

Fun to watch Aiden play. It's terrific that he can amuse himself without my attention. Of course when he sees me watching him he immediately comes over and tries to get the keyboard or computer screen which is a nuisance.

Colin had a job interview today; haven't heard how it went.

Coldplay in the Morning

Clocks.

Also listening to Patty Griffith's new CD "Children Running Through" and Lucinda Williams' "Next."

It snowed overnight, again, and it's much colder this morning than yesterday morning. But, tomorrow it's supposed to start to warm up again. Into the 50s at the end of the week! I'm tired of winter.

Slept well. Linda and I will go to the mall this morning and walk for awhile before the stores open up. Colin's moved into his place over the past couple of days. I don't know if he slept there last night. Ian talked to Linda last night. I guess he's going back to Bora Bora. Still looks like he'll end up in Little Rock. They found some houses they like.

Snowy Morning In Independence

A beautiful winter morning. I love to watch the snow fall. It's not as cold as it has been and I'm sure everything will begin to melt tomorrow but for now I'm enjoying the view.

We've been following the sleep lady's advice with Aiden and surprisingly it's working; he's been sleeping through the night. It's really quite amazing. We give him his bath, a bottle and put him to bed by 19:30 then he gets his "dream feeding" around 22:00 or so. That's the amazing part, he doesn't even wake up he just holds the bottle drinks it down then rolls over for more sleep. He does wake up at o'dark thirty though (05:30). Linda got mad because I didn't "make" him go back to sleep. Heck, I'm used to getting up this early anyway so I just got up with him. He's been puttering about for awhile; I guess I'll feed him some breakfast in a few minutes if he wants but as long as he's content I'll leave him be. He's going to spend the day with g-ma Janie.

Very Cold Morning in Independence

One Degree. As I look out the sliding glass door over the deck the trees are coated with thick jackets of ice. It's ice that will likely remain for some time because it just isn't going to get warm enough over the next several days to melt. It is beautiful as the morning sun, low on the horizon, glances off it.

Aiden didn't sleep well last night. He's learning.

I'm still trying to figure out what to do with this blog, how much to write and what to write about. It is going to take some time but the potential is fun.

Under Construction

Cold. Overcast. Looks like snow, rain, sleet is on the way. Typical hysteria for local environs about coming weather. We'll see how this blog stuff goes.