Runnin' Redneck

Lessons From An Oyster

2010-07-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

I learned something today ( no smart comments , OK ? ) ...ever wonder how an oyster

"gets to market " or "becomes marketable" ?

An oyster starts its life as microscopic larvae called "spat". Cool name , huh , "spat" !

Within 2 weeks of the "spat" leaving the home oyster bed it grows a shell & sinks to the bottom.

A powerful foot enables it to crawl around & eventually attach itself to a hard clean surface , known as a "culch".

It expels a cement - like material & rolling over , presses its left shell into the bottom & therefore gives up any further movement. From that location in the oyster bed , it stays for 2 to 5 years when it becomes "marketable".

Not much different w/ us is it, really ?

We start our lives as microscopic beings...grow & develop over time & hopefully , one day...become "marketable".

How do we reach the "market" ??

Hopefully we find our place after "wandering around" for some time period & " anchor down" to the Foundation , where we give up our independent movement & become "marketable."

How long does the process take ? That is the million dollar question. It certainly varies w/ individuals & the conditions w/ which they exist.

That is not for us to determine however...we are to pursue "developing" in our own location by being anchored to the Foundation & letting Him feed us more & more etc.

I trust that you are anchored to the Foundation to grow...just as the oyster must be to become "marketable". Settle down & settle in ...allow Him to feed & nourish you some you may someday...attain "marketability."

Phillipians 2:12-13

Merry Christmas...( Just Don't Drag Me Into It )

2009-12-13T04:35:00.000-08:00

I wish I could claim that phrase as my own..but I can't !

It hits on so many angles that I thought it was worth trying to "blog" about since it has been months that I have written anything.

What is w/ people & X-mas ...why can't it be Christ-x ?

Do people that don't celebrate the birth of our Savior ( on that day ) go to work if they have the day off ?

If you want to celebrate other "holidays" or Festivus that's fine....why does mine have to take all the "P.C." hits ?

Why do folks get all worked up over the secular but don't give a flip about the spiritual ?

Take the time this Christ-x to "induldge" in the spiritual miraculous birth of our Savior....& induldge in the joy of friends & family too.....because you see:

" It came w/o ribbons ! It came w/o tags ! It came w/o packages or boxes or bags " ! And he puzzled & puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something that he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas perhaps, means a little bit more."

You see even the Grinch "got it" !!!

Merry Christ-x !

" Urgency & Redemption " .......# 54

2009-08-23T14:55:00.001-07:00

My son & I are HUGE Game Day fans.....can't wait for college football to start ! But that is a minor issue today.

There has been a tragic loss @ Sullivan South High School. Senior Jake Logue passed away during a game Friday night w/ Knox. West.

I didn't know Jake nor do I know his family , although we have had two that graduated from SSHS.

The outpouring of the community is overflowing.....as well as I am sure , questions from all kinds of folks that have been touched by this tragic event.

I am not here to answer questions......I feel heavy hearted like most of you..........but obviously Jake impacted many lives.......he spread the Gospel.

I am here to tell you what I do know is true:
That Jesus Christ is Lord of ALL.....He wants to save you from an eternity seperated from Him. He wants you to spend eternity w/ Him. There are only two choices......

Lee Corso says it best perhaps: "A sense of urgency & redemption"..............

But you must not forget dear friends, that a day is like a thousand years to the Lord & a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise to return as some people think . No, He is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to perish , so He is giving more time for everyone to repent.

2 Peter 3:8-9

" The " Genuine Article

2009-08-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

I remember ( barely ) , my high school days & sporting a pair of Levi's 501's the Genuine Article as the ads used to say. Nothing could compare to the fit & durability of the ol' 501's.

Makes me ask the question: What happened to the "genuiness" of people today ? We live in a world of quick fixes for this & short cuts for that & surgery to fix Lord knows what all......is anything genuine anymore ?

I really am enjoying the new car ads.....since the economy has slowed , the car dealers have scrapped "the dog & pony" show ads for ones of sincerity , in which the music is slower & more mellow & they promise reward cards & as always they have your best interest @ heart ! Whatever !

What about our beloved TV evangelists ( not all , by any means ! ) that promise you your destiny for "sewing your faith seed" & mailing in for a prayer cloth for a small offering of course ?

Furthermore , how about the "Fairy Tales" that our beloved government & elected officials promise us ??? Give me a break..................

Are ya' just sick & tired of "plastic-isity" ( new word !) ?? Lookin' for the real deal , something authentic , The Genuine Article ??

What about Jesus ....the Original ,who was & is & forever shall be ?? He is the real deal , the 501 that promise peace that passes all understanding. He doesn't promise " quick fixes " or " short cuts " , BUT He does promise a transformation or "surgery" like no other !

Try Him on today if you don't know Him as your Lord & Savior.......I promise , He will not "fade away" like that old pair of 501's !!!

John 14:6

I am the Way , the Truth & the Life......no one can come to the Father , except through Me.

"Lookin' for Inspiration"

2009-06-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

That is just exactly what I was asked the other day. A friend of my wanted to know when I was going to do another blog & told me that he was looking for inspiration ! Scary....!

I have thought about it since , & I wonder where do we look for inspiration ?

Is it in activities? I know that being an "obsessed' runner that I often find inspiration while running , especially when I see someone that may be handicapped etc.

Is it w/ people ? Do you find inspiration in others ? Often folks give us comfort & joy.

Is it in your job ? Some find inspiration through helping others in their jobs.

What about church ? Are you looking for inspiration there? A song , sermon ,a particular pastor ?

The list goes on & on as I know there are things that inspire each of us differently.

Make your own list...think of things that inspire you or how you may be an inspiration to others.

Heaven forbid....it may be your own blog !

Acts 2:28; You have made known to me the path of life;You will fill me w/ joy in Your presence .

THANK- YOU !!

2009-05-24T05:10:00.000-07:00

Monday is Memorial Day....I am in the majority of looking foward to a day of relaxing & grilling. The MAJORITY ( myself included ) seldom mentions or thinks about the reason that we observe the Holiday.

I have not spent one day in military service....I am not so sure that maybe all men should have to serve , but that opens "cans" that I don't want to open !

Just think perhaps of all of the freedoms that we enjoy in this country. We even have the freedom to express our views even if we don't like a particular freedom !

Having freedoms & a sense of security in this country is due largely to the sacrifice of our veterans & their families both past & present.

So regardless of where you stand on the present situation.....thank a soldier. Remember the sacrifices they are making for us. Maybe for an added benefit you know a WW II vet ..they are about all departed from us , but if you get the opportunity , you can enjoy a history lesson like no other !!

So SOLDIERS........THANK -YOU !!! & may He protect you & guide your ways.................

Boston Re-Visited & Mom's

2009-05-09T07:39:00.000-07:00

I warned you last time.....Boston Part 1 ( Maybe)...well I ain't through yet ! !

I promise these are the last few "Observations" from Boston !

I like "OSHA safety meetings" better in Boston than any safety training that I have EVER attended. ( See pic or look @ Article in Boston issue of Runner's World about Bill Rogers)

I missed my mark there , but you know what ? It was an experience of a lifetime !! Bucket list Stuff !!

I saw tons of inspiration out there...single amputees , double amputees , wheel chair athletes & even blind runners.....you know what ? Ain't many excuses to alot of folks !

Finally...I am thankful that I was able to participate....BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE !

Now for a change of subject matter ( thank goodness , some of you are saying ! )

I mentioned last time that support was huge for me......let me tell you about my #1 supporter.

The lovely lady w/ me in the pic is my wife of 24 years. She is my best friend & life partner. She has been w/ me though thick & then , good times & bad.

She has weathered the loss of her father when she was 13 & her mother passed away 5 years ago. She has been by my side through testicular cancer , job losses & changes & sometimes poor judgement.

She is a MOTHER of the highest calling to our two young adults ( now ! ) & is a compassionate , persistent , resilient woman.

She is a lover of the LORD JESUS , people , her children , her dogs & sometimes even me ! She is a worker , a great runner & a "zero to redneck in about 5 seconds" girl if deemed necessary ! She is just as beautiful on the inside as on the outside.

I am blessed beyond measure to be married to her & I am thankful that we "keep on trying" even after the tough days & arguments ! As I have been known to say..." I defintely out -punted my coverage !"

So thank -you Denise for loving me....through all the crap & more.....you ARE my favorite "Runnin' Mom" !!!!

I LOVE YOU !!!!! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY !!

Proverbs 31:10-12; Who can find a virtuous & capable wife ? She is worth more than precious rubies. Her husband can trust her & she will greatly enrich his life. She will not hinder him but help him all of her life.

Thoughts on Boston ( Part 1..maybe )

2009-04-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

The running of the 113th. Boston Marathon is over..
( see http://www.baa.org/ ) & the rest they say, is history. The closest finish ever in the Women's race & Americans Kara Goucher & Ryan Hall earned 3rd. place finishes.

I finished in 3:45:35..( we are obsessed w/ time ! ) & had an absolutley incredible experience. I missed my goal , but I was pleased w/ the effort for the day.

I thought , for this edition , that I would just write a few thoughts about the trip ....nothing profound necessarily.....just my take on things. Here we go.......

Encouragement from friends & family , no matter what the form....is wonderful.

A friend that sacrifices his time for you ( see picture ) is a friend indeed. ( Sidenote..Mark my friend ran 3:12 :12 last year & stayed w/me this year ! )

A marathon is very physical , very mental & borderlines stupidity @ times !

I thought of all sorts of things & people around miles 21 - 23....most of you were there w/ me ....thanks !!!

There is no difference between crowds of screaming women be it Wellesley or hometown !

Seeing family after finishing was a welcomed sight.....funny how that works !

Athlete's Village can be subject to interpretation !

Lot's of friendly peeps from Hopkinton to Boston.....support all the way. They know running in Beantown .

On a given day , you may just not have it !!! ( 5 Crank gels & water every mile does not ensure a "goal" finish ! )

Coffee is truly GOD created !

A warm hug from your wife & coffee are GOD created ! ( Thanks honey ! )

Runners, when assembled together probably annoy the crap out of everyone else !

Downhills are no longer something to which I look foward.

Hills after downhills are difficult.

I am a new fan ( sort of ) of Citgo ...

Fenway Park is awesome from the outside...

I guess enough for now.....perhaps I will write more thoughts next time because .....we tend to be OCD & annoy the crap out of people .

As Charlie says..."Run like you stole something" ! NWSC / KTR out of here...for now !

Ecclesiastes 7:8; Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride.

Stop the Bleeding !

2009-04-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

If you are an avid sports fan or play sports , surely you have heard the saying " stop the bleeding" . There is even a "slaughter rule" in High School ball where the game is "called" if a team is ahead by a certain margin in the latter innings. Thank God for efficiency huh ?

I grew up playing alot of golf ( remember that golf spelled backwards is "flog" ) & we used to say that alot, when someone started to choke ie. "stop the bleeding".

This weekend the Masters is being played..." Sunday @ Augusta " & also it is Easter Sunday.

What if someone had been there to "stop the bleeding" ? There would be no Easter bunny ? No Peeps ? No flippin' Chocolate Bunnies ?

No my friends, if there had been someone there to "stop the bleeding" , there would be no eternal hope for mankind. Think about what the Man has done for us. He willingly went to the cross for our sin to offer us eternal life. He rode into town on a "prophesied donkey" in a parade knowing this was His death march. He knew the "slaughter rule" was about to be invoked.

What are you doing to celebrate Easter ? Hiding eggs ? Biting the ears off of the chocolate bunny ? Putting on your Sunday best " brand new" Easter outfit so you can attend church before Christmas ?

I pray that we all celebrate the Risen Christ , the One who conquered sin & the grave ! He holds a place for all of us . All we have to do is really accept His offer & believe that He is who He says He is.

Color eggs , eat Peeps , buy a new wardrobe.....but DON'T leave Him in the grave & out of your life !

Hebrews 9:22; In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed w/ blood, w/o the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness .

Eat Your Spinach !

2009-03-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

" I'm Popeye the sailor man , I'm Popeye the sailor man , I'm strong to the finich , 'cause I eats me spinach ,

I'm Popeye the sailor man".

I enjoy learning things about nutrition etc. , things that may help me be a little healthier & maybe run just a little bit longer ( in life , not faster ! ) , so I have been discussing "eats" w/ some friends.

We @ the NWSC/KTR logged 23 miles yesterday , a "plod" as I often refer to it ...but thank God the last one for this marathon. I (we) have been running a month now w/o our founding member.....I miss him dearly.

He & his wife have been away , while she recovers from surgery ..a long battle w/ Ulcerative Coloitis. She is doing well...a runner ...she will be back.

My friend's wife has had a hard time , but guess what...w/ some exercise & some proper nutrition , she is gettin' "strong to the finich" ! We are thankful indeed !

My point is this....if you are able & willing ....exercise & eat properly as often as you can. I am not a dietician , however I am witnessing what is happening as my friend's wife gets stronger !

You will feel better , look better ( well some of ya' !) ...but most of all your quality of life will improve over the long haul .

But don't forget the "Bread of Life" & oh yeah......eat your spinach ( or yogurt ! )

Take care of yourself...there are people that are countin' on ya' to "lace 'em up" & "KTR "!!!

1 Timothy 4:8 ; Physical exercise has some value , but spiritual exercise is much more important , for it promises a reward in both this life & the next .

Don't Do As I Do , Do As I Say !

2009-03-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness...how many of us can recite that phrase from childhood , even adulthood ? I can say from my experience , that I have been well versed in the area of "all talk & no do" !

This was made even more apparent to me this past week...humor me while I give you some history from the week.

I received a few compliments last week , ( thanks Chuck , Sean & Deb) on my previous entry of the "Runnin' Redneck". I appreciate those very much , but quite frankly I folded under my own tent a few weeks ago & it caught up w/ me ! I am not going in to details (sorry nosey people!) , but suffice it to say , I was "called out" about giving accolades to folks.

So what am I going to do about it ? I admit it is hard for me sometimes...I only want to say nice things to certain people & not so nice things to those w/ whom I think that I can "get away w/ it".

So I confess...thanks to those that made me aware not only of what I said , but of the pressure of being a world class blogger w/ a following in the hundreds of thousands ! Ok, so I stretched it a bit !

Anyway , I say that to say this...sometimes it is "one step foward & two steps back" for me , but I am intent on improving all the while as I fail. Thanks to you whom complimented "the blog" & also thanks for constructive criticism...you know even I need it every now & then !

Proverbs 9:7-10; Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get a smart retort. Anyone who rebukes the wicked , will get hurt. So don't bother rebuking mockers; they will only hate you. But the wise; when rebuked , will love you all the more. Teach the wise, & they will be wiser. Teach the righteous & they will learn more.

Braggin' Rights

2009-02-22T17:10:00.000-08:00

Everyone enjoys some accolades every now & then..a good ol' pat on the back , an "atta boy" if you will.

Contemporary Christian artist Nichole Nordeman says it this way in her hit song "Legacy" :

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me & I enjoy an accolade like the rest..You can take my picture & hang it in a gallery of all who's who & so -n -so's that used to be the best @ such & such , it won't matter much..I won't lie it feels alright to see your name in lights ,we all need an "atta boy" or "atta girl"...

It's been awhile since I have mentioned the NWSC/KTR group...thought I'd give it a rest. Yesterday we had a nice 10 miler , enjoyed the day & good conversation as well as a nice running pace for our marathon training.

We even had an award presentation to our newest member Charlie. He earned the "Ten Ball" award...( we have another name for it , but not here ! ) ...he earned the award a week prior on a 20 mile jaunt , only a few days following some surgery ! After that we new he needed an "atta boy" ! He was overcome w/ emotion..( not really !) .

What about you ? Have you passed out accolades to someone lately ? Maybe expressed your appreciation to someone for a kind deed or something nice that was said ?

Although "temporary passings in this world" , we all enjoy a little praise from our peers. Look for someone to encourage this week...see what smile comes to their face...

Check out the song "Legacy"....I think you will agree..

"Workin' @ the Car Wash"

2009-02-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

Looks like the car wash business was booming this past weekend. Snow & ice a few days previous , w/ below normal temps , left everyone & their brother searching for a place to get their vehicles "presentable".

I drove around for several minutes in search of a line free location w/ a bill changer that actually worked ! As I said before it seemed to be the "thing" to do on this beautiful weekend.

After "almost giving in" to the fully automated type , I decided to try one last location..my patience & all around good humor were about shot !

When I pulled in I had to fall in line , & after a few moments a bay that had been "down" was now repaired & the owner told me to "come on in" ! When I pulled in , he told me that I had a free wash ( Amen) because he had to use money to fix the problem. Just goes to show that "patience is a virtue" !!

I noticed all types of vehicles of course...old & new...scratch & dents & those that looked as if they had just been driven off of the showroom floor. You know , when they came in covered completley in grime & salt..they weren't very attractive. After the dirt had been "washed away" even an old beater looked "presentable" !

So it goes...a little snow & dirt & grime, a car wash to make it "presentable" ( even though scratches & dents remain ) & the cycle continues on & on . Even though the seasons change , the grime appears & has to be "washed away" to be made "presentable" all over again...........

Psalm 51:7 ; Clean me w/ hissop , & I will be clean: wash me , & I will be whiter than snow.

" Life's Been Good to Me So Far..."

2009-01-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

I like that song by Joe Walsh...cool lyrics & tune ! What does that have to do w/ anything ? I really don't have a real "deep answer".

But I do agree that "life has been good to me so far". I have been thinking about & discussing w/ friends , what observations & / or comments that we have "so far" in 2009.
Here are a few.....feel free to comment & add your own! Disclaimer...some of these make no sense !

What is the difference between a town & a city?
Is an afton or an ascot a type of scarf ?
Why is the government taking the same approach to " stimulus" that got us to this point ?
Why is it that in the U.S. , God is not unbelievable , it is that we ( the Christians ) are unbelievable.
How did I ever run w/o a Garmin ?
Why do I run anyway ?
What tax rate will our kids be paying ?
Will I learn to allow the Holy Spirit to enpower me ?
Why do I take so much for granted ?

The list could go on forever......I hope that you will think of the "deeper" things & not just about the "material" things as much this year. I look foward to 2009.....& all the things that it has in store !

I left this pic on here this time because it seems that we are looking for aliens !

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2; There is a time for everything , & a season for every activity under heaven..........

Gimme Time !!!

2009-01-21T17:00:00.001-08:00

I know , I know it has been 2 weeks since an installment of the Runnin' Redneck. My creative juices ( that is debateable) have slowed since last time...maybe it is due to be a year older !!!

That being said...I hope to have something to say this weekend. I have had inputs from my "inner circle" & hopefully will post some thoughts later.

I appreciate your reading & comments !

Later on.....

Places to Go & People to See ??

2009-01-02T09:43:00.000-08:00

I have always been somewhat of a flexible type of person...a friend of mine summed it up best I think..."flexible with options" ! I like that quote because on most days it fits my lifestyle.
My career has lent itself to that & honestly made me a "go where I think I need to go" individual......@ least until now !!

We had a wonderful CHRIST-mas season here (try to remember Christ every day) w/ lots of excitement exchanging gifts & seeing family etc.

We (the wife & I) had decided to "tone it down" this year w/ the gifts for ourselves & save our "dough" for a trip this spring. Well @ least in theory !!

I have been "Jonesing" (coveting a friend of mine's actually), a Garmin Forerunner for quite some time. This is the latest running gadget that keeps track of mileage , pace , calories , on & on , but the "shackle" is the GPS feature.

This handy dandy gizmo is the same GPS tool that some folks have been using in their vehicles, just in a much smaller package.

Now , thanks to the Forerunner I have become completely "anal" about running ! I pride myself ( that in itself is a problem ! ) in being somewhat of a "purist" on my runs. No Ipods...no fancy gadgets...just a good watch & me & whatever elements God gives us for the day.

But now.....oh my goodness !!! How far have I gone ? How many calories did I burn ? How was my heart rate.....Did I finish too quick ? The list goes on & on & on....

This thing is now "controlling" what was once a somewhat unstructured , organized event in my life ! So now I am a slave to the Forerunner....."flexible w/ options" has turned into "we have to go 2 more tenths" ....or something to that effect ! My runs are now dictated by the "gadget" .....

I really like the "gadget" though & am especially appreciative of it....but a word of caution....if you are a "recreational" runner or cycler, & purchase one of these.....don't say I didn't warn you of the "shackles" & thinking that you had "Places to Go & People to See" !

Happy 2009.......don't plan everything...allow some flexibilty in your life this year !

James 4:13-16: Look here, you people who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town & stay there a year. We will do business there & make a profit." How do you know what will happen tomorrow ? For your life is like the morning fog -it's here a little while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, "If the LORD wants us to, we will live & do this or that. Otherwise you will be boasting about your own plans, & all such boasting is evil.

Christ-mas Contentment ( Part 2 )

2008-12-24T13:44:00.001-08:00

....but Mary treasured up all these things & pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:19

"Treasured Up"....I wonder if that meant contentment @ the time ?

I wonder if she had any................................................

"IDEA" ????

Merry Christ-mas !

Christ-mas Contentment ( Part 1 )

2008-12-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

This has been & continues to be an interesting year.

Constant talk of economic woes , job insecurities , & overall
"Doom & Gloom" dominate the airwaves , television & the internet (thank-you Al Gore). I am looking for some relief from the onslaught of negativity.

Maybe my solution is to be found in the Nativity . What about a bail-out from the Christ - Child ? Do you think He could rescue us (me) from the "Money-Man" ? Do you think the Messiah gives a flyin' flip about our (my) financial & or material "woes" ?

These have been topics of minor discussion w/ some of my friends as well as members of the Ninth Ward Social Club. We often talk of "money matters" when we run & also during the business day (thanks C.J.!) . Usually we discuss things such as excess ( Hummers, for example) or wishing we had "this or that" payment finished etc.

However , I am thankful that the people w/ whom I am around the most are a content lot. Even yesterday , during a nice 10 mile effort w/ a couple of N.W.S.C. members , the topic of contentment reared it's head.

On the "home stretch", the former Cross-Country stand out Gwayne finds a "ten spot" less than two tenths of a mile from the finish ! I am sure this was not "luck" as some would deem it , however, I was a little "dis-contented" @ my friends fortune.

What makes you "dis-contented" ? How are you "envious" of another's position or circumstance ?

Try this "tip" as we enter the Christ-mas season........ask the "Holy One" for a "bail-out"....ask Him to give you the gift of "contentment" this season . See if He will not give you the gift of being free from envy & jealousy of other's possessions & positions & circumstances (even if it's finding $ 10.00 while running ! )

Try it.....it's OK to go ahead & open it early !!!

Phillipians 4:11; I am not saying this because I am in need , for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

** to be continued....

"Confrontation"

2008-12-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank the "Juice" ( O.J. Simpson for you "non sports" people ) for providing the basis for this edition of "The Runnin' Redneck".

I have never met O.J.personally , but I want to congratulate him for winning the "Quote of the Week" contest. This wasn't a public contest per se , but it did spark the creative "juices" ( no pun intended ! ) for me this time.
I have kept you in suspense long enough...& the winner is:

"...I thought I was confronting friends & trying to retreive my property".

Maybe O.J. should look in to ( in a few years) a career in politics. That could quite possibly be the best "spin" that I have ever heard in my relatively young life !

No problem "Juice" , when you have a little situation that requires some confrontation , just take a couple of "pals" & some guns & work it out !
Is it any wonder why God flooded the earth ?
Anyway......I digress !

What do we do when a situation arises that needs correction or confrontation ? Talk about it w/ others in a gossiping fashion ? Throw that person "under the bus" & have nothing further to do but "talk behind their back" ?

What should we do when a situation arises when we must confront ? Fortunately for us as followers of Christ , the Bible gives us instructions on how to handle those "sticky" situations .

It is , or probably will not be easy , however when followed , the situation will always work out to the benefit of all that are involved.

Per the Apostle Paul : Dear brothers & sisters , if another Christian is overcome by some sin , you who are godly should gently & humbly help that person back onto the right path. Gal.6:1

Do you think that is a more productive way ? Make no mistake however that Paul could bring some "heat" into the situation if it was warranted. " Oh really" you say ! ?

For further reading ( in case you are ever in need ) :
2 Cor.7 & 2 Cor. 11:22 - 27 & 2 Cor.13:2

Gobble Wobble Results

2008-11-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

The 10th. Annual or so Gobble Wobble was a success....a quality group of "Wobblers" this year braving the 25 degree frosty clear morning . Quality run w/ deer & rabbit sightings as well as good conversation.

Statistics as follows:
6436 yds. from the "tips"
Par 72
Time 46:26
"Good Times"

Happy Thanksgiving do the "Gobble Wobble"

2008-11-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you !

I have been thinking of a few things of which I am thankful..I guess this edition will be a bit of a "repeat" for most....you know , the typical "thanks" for family, friends , health, jobs, the list goes on to "infinity & beyond"!**

However , I realize that there is alot for which I am thankful. I am very thankful for my loving wife & our kids. I am thankful for my home & my job. I am certainly thankful for my friends...even when we "bust each others' chops"! I am thankful for my church family & my health. I am thankful for the country in which we live. On & on & on.......

Make a list or mental note for the things in which you are thankful . Really think about it ! Look all around....you will have no trouble finding all sorts of things in which you can be appreciative.

So, enjoy the week (a short one for most)...eat lots of turkey & all the trimmings , watch some football & parades w/ family & friends....slow down a bit & be thankful.

Oh yeah....if you feel so inclined...do a Turkey Trot or in our case..a "Gobble Wobble".....burn off some of that "thankfulness"!

See ya' next time...........

**Buzz Lightyear in "Toy Story"

1 Thessalonians 5:17 No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

"Feeding the Pig" or "Two Sides to Every Coin" pt.2

2008-11-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

Hopefully a few of you have read the last edition & looked up the scriptures to get an idea of what I was writing about. Perhaps, I even created some interest in wanting to know where I was headed w/ my thoughts.

I warned ya' that I like to ramble & this will be no different I suppose.

Since my last post..we ran our usual Thursday morning run & guess what happened....You got it ! I found 35 cents !! Feeding the Pig indeed !! To find more than a few cents @ a time is rare..but 35 cents... Sweet !! In case you are wondering...I didn't check to see if the coins were "heads or tails" ! I grabbed 'em up & took off running to catch my boys !! ( No one waits for change hounds).

By now you must be wondering where in the world is he going w/ this ? I will try & be brief !

I stated that I am no political guru & I readily admit that the Presidential Election did not go my way. I am no fan of bigger government & I disagree w/ Mr. Obama's "spread the wealth ideas" & I feel strongly about his voting record on abortion issues.........HOWEVER....

There are "Two Sides to Every Coin". I have stated in the past that I am a follower of Christ , so what side of the"coin " does that put me ??

1 Timothy 2:1-2; I urge you first of all , to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God's mercy upon them & give thanks . Pray this way for kings & all others who are in authority , so we can live in peace & quiteness , in godliness & dignity.

"Feeding the Pig" or "Two Sides to Every Coin"

2008-11-05T16:53:00.000-08:00

I am glad that the election is finally over !! Does it seem that this has been going on forever or what ? Now before you get all worked up & think this is going to be a political message.....I just say "hold on" & allow me to ramble for awhile.... !

A founding member of the "Kickin' the Rooster , 9th Ward Social Club" & I have a fondness for picking up change that we see while we are running. I thought that perhaps we were the only ones doing this until I read an article on http://www.runnersworld.com/ about the same subject . I was a little "miffed" that someone had stolen my idea , but hey...it's a free country ! I am rambling , but I warned ya' !

Anyway..I (we) have found several coins on our routes , always picking them up regardless of whether it is "heads or tails". Which brings me to another point...( I warned ya') that I don't believe in "luck", so I pick up my "finds" , against another members advice , bring them home & "feed the pig" ! I don't really know what I have"banked" over the miles, but it isn't enough to allow early retirement !

So I haven't gotten rich & I am picking up coins whether or not the right side of the coin is "up"...what does that have to do w/ anything about the election ? Glad you asked !!

I warned ya' that I was going to ramble....."Feeding the Pig" ....

1 Samuel 8:5 , 19-22: ......"give us a king like all the other nations have".
But the people refused to listen to Samuel's warning. " Even so, we still want a king " they said. " We want to be like the nations around us. Our king will govern us & lead us into battle".
So Samuel told the Lord what the people had said , and the Lord replied, "Do as they say, & give them a king". Then Samuel agreed & sent the people home.

Continued......next time , "Two sides to Every Coin".

My Turn or "Oh No..Thank-You " !

2008-10-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

I think I am suffering from mental block...this issue of "Runnin' Redneck" is going to be a short one ! It isn't that I don't have anything to say really, it's just that I am @ a loss of words because I have been somewhat humbled this week.

There were several instances this week in which some folks made a point to say that they appreciated things I had said or written etc. The fact that someone took time to say that to me this week caught me a bit "off guard".

For starters, I had a visit from a former co-worker ( who now lives in Missouri) that I had not seen in 16 years ! He had retired & wanted to see some people in Tennessee , so he just started driving & visiting etc. A friend of mine told me that he was coming to see me. He arrived & we visited for about 2 hours & he went on his way.
He thanked me for a note that I had written him when he left our company....made me think...my turn...Oh no , thank-you !

One of my close friends ( http://www.dinosenesi.blogspot.com/) just completed his first half - marathon. I have been just as excited about it as he was & we have been exchanging plans & how to deal w/ aches & pains & all of the "running stuff " , questions etc. in which he asked my opinion.
He did well in his "half "..hit his goal , & sent me an e-mail that thanked me for my help. Made me think...my turn ...Oh no , thank -you !

Lastly , another person that didn't give me enough points on the UT / Alabama game won the high stakes wager of a cup of coffee @ a great coffee shop in the area. After agreeing to the "points ", he complimented me on this blog ( imagine that ! ). Made me think...my turn...Oh no ..thank - you !

I admit that this hasn't been earth shattering , but allow me to say that these events struck me this week.
Would I take the time to drive a long distance to see someone ? Would I send someone a note to thank them for my input on my race ? Would I compliment someone on things that they had written that spoke to me ?

Thank - you for making me think this past week.....

Ephesians 4:29;.....Let everything you say be good & helpful , so that your words will be an encouragement to those that hear them.

INCOMPLETE

2008-10-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

I have had a rather boring week...sometimes that is a welcomed thing..mostly though even boring gets boring after a day or so.

I was "incomplete" for most of this week. My wife was away on business & I was left to " hold down the fort". Makes one appreciate our wives. We have been "yoked" for almost 24 years & I am truly " incomplete" when she is away etc.

Now, I will be truthful & say that I certainly enjoy time to myself , but I wouldn't want to have it that way too often. We are about being active together & going places together & basically just trying hard (w/ God's grace ) not to become a statistic. I am very thankful for her indeed !

For those of you that are married...I pray that you will be persistent in growing old together . My prayer would be that we would always realize that things will not be perfect, but we will persevere until the end.

So...this week, I hope ,will not be as boring....we are "complete" & looking foward to another time of learning ( whatever that may include) how to be good finishers !

Proverbs 31:10 & 11-12
Who can find a virtuous & capable wife? She is worth more than precious rubies.
Her husband can trust her, & she will greatly enrich his life. She will not hinder him but help him all her life.

What Did Ya' Lose This Week ?

2008-10-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

How did you finish the week? What did you lose this week?

Certainly the topic of most conversation has been the current "economic crisis" in our country as well as the world.
So...what did you lose this week ?

Thousands of dollars.....going to have to work another lifetime? Did you find yourself "lighter" this week....maybe not just in the hip pocket, but what about your weight perhaps ? Hopefully you didn't lose your keys or your favorite coffee mug or something of that nature !

I lost a couple of running days due to an unexpected visit from Achilles Tendonitis ! Please don't weep openly...!

We spend an entire lifetime trying to hold on to things don't we ? We work & save so as to not lose a retirement...we put keys in the "same ol' spot" so they won't be lost. We tag our pets...some tag their clothes ..the list goes on & on.

Our gain or "will to succeed "drives us doesn't it.....Really think about that....."DOESN'T IT" ?

If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul ? Is anything worth more than your soul ?
MATT. 16:25-26

ACL Baby !! ( I Dont' Mean Anterior Cruciate Ligament Either !)

2008-10-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

I am most happy to report that I ( we ) have returned safely from the Vortex , otherwise known as the Austin City Limits Music Festival.

Allow me to "set the tone", if you will.....Our son is a Senior in High School this year . He is a huge music fan & a very good guitar player ...particularly "Texas Blues" i.e. Stevie Ray Vaughn etc. , so w/ that being said , his wish for a graduation gift was to attend the ACL.

After much planning ( by my wife ,a former travel agent) & saving ($$) the time was upon us to travel to Austin,Tx. to this 3 day festival.

I am a fan of music & the city of Austin , however I was a little hesitant about this event.
We arrived Thursday & after a nice meal @ Magnolia Cafe ,we settled in to be ready for the concerts on Friday.We arrived @ the gates to Zilker Park & were "in" about 11:00 AM.

Oh my gosh !!! 45 acres of park space w/ 8 stages , food courts, art tents & porta-johns too numerous to mention! The music was ongoing & we took it all in @ a slow pace.
After listening to: ( I'll mention ONLY the ones I liked!), Eli Young Band, Freddie Jones Band & Jackob Dylan we left & headed out to eat.

Saturday brought more of the same ( Longhorns vs. Razorbacks also) & the music was great w/ John Fogerty , Black Keys & Allison Krauss & Robert Plant as well as others. I enjoyed alot of the music & alot I didn't care for @ all. Austin enjoyed the music & food & got to visit SRV's statue @ Town Lake Trail (awesome running place) & also visited a guitar shop where SRV shopped.

Well , to bring all of this to closure, I will say that I am thankful that I live where I do & that for the most part people are God-fearing folks here. I was surrounded down there w/ filthy language & the constant scent of "wild herb" burning ! It was a place to realize....just as Jakob Dylan sang..."Evil is Alive & Well" !

I am not w/o fault to be sure , but I was thankfully reminded of the price that Christ paid for all of us to have our sins forgiven & live w/ HIM eternally. I am thankful also of the time I had w/ my son to enjoy w/ him something that he really looked foward to doing.

So , no running wisdom this time (although Austin is A HUGE "running town" ) & I did visit a Run Tex store. To be sure , I was glad to be back in this "running town" , ready to rock & roll & most importantly .....clear out my lungs !!!

Romans 3:23: For all have sinned & fall short of God's glorious standard.

Friends, Lines & Porta-Johns

2008-09-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

What goes on in & around lines is a study in humanity . I enjoy being around folks ( for the most part) & conversation is a significant part of my career & social life.

I have enjoyed quite a few "conversations" this week. The subjects have ranged from the financial crisis , football, work related, this Blogspot (thanks to Bill , my P.R. director!) & of course during our running. It seems to me that we are defintely created to be "social creatures" to one degree or another.

I met some new folks this week @ a meeting & of course talked w/ old friends @ work & while running. I even had some brief conversation in the lunch line & of all places ,while waiting to use the Porta John ! BTW , have you ever been in that line ? !
Anyway , the art of conversation is becoming a lost art. Blame the Ipod generation or whatever you choose. We have simply gotten away from it @ times.

I am thankful for conversation this week. I am thankful for friends that listen & talk back while we run or waiting in line @ a meeting. So, "thanks" ( you know who you are ! ), for the "words" ...even though you might have been bored or"pre-occupied" w/ something else !,@ least you "faked"it !!!

Seek some conversation, encourage someone, slow down & have some coffee on the porch ....it will be worth it to all !!

Proverbs 17:17: A friend is always loyal, & a brother is born to help in time of need.
Proverbs 18:24: There are "friends" that destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

The Trail of Blood,Sweat & Tears !

2008-09-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

Ok....I admit the title is not original, but there is an

element of truth to it ! BTW, I do remember the band Blood, Sweat & Tears.

Yesterday, a couple of members of the Kickin' the Rooster Ninth Ward Social Club & I participated (key word!) in the Bays Mt. 15 Mile Trail Run.

This is no "pattie cake" event....it is 15 miles of trails , some single track & plenty of rocks & hills.

Did I mention that there were HILLS ?

The day was humid, but otherwise perfect for a trail race. Plenty of fun was ahead for all !

The race starts w/ an immediate 4.5 mile plodfest up to a fire tower & then goes pretty much "solo backwoods " for the next 7 or so miles & comes back around a lake & finishes @ a wildlife exhibit.

It is some of the most beautiful country one can see in this area. The mountain views ( when you aren't gagging to breathe & can look up !) are spectacular. The backwoods are a welcomed "quiet place" where running is truly a pleasure.

I didn't have quite the day that I wanted, but the "boys" & I will be back ! ( remember Thin Lizzy!) I finished in 2:26, after running ,walking ,falling & praying & running again.

My friends Bill , Jon & David had a great race...finishing in the 2:37 area. Congrats to them ..the first time @ that distance for all !! We all had a hard working fun time , but there was a sense of accomplishment w/ this one.

I say all of that to say this:

I am a Christ Follower & I am in absolute awe on days like yesterday of His Creation ! The scenery was beautiful , the plants & wildlife were all on display. What about the human body ? What a "machine" !!! The man that won the race was 1:35 !!! All of those different created "machines" pushing themselves to their personal limits for the day. Makes one feel humble indeed !

Don't be in such a hurry that you can't check out His creation this week. We are truly blessed , if we have sight to see! Read Psalm 19 & check out verses on His Creation.

Psalm 19:4-5

The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it. It bursts forth like a bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run a race.

"You Started When it Was Raining"?

2008-09-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

"You started when it was raining" ? That was the question asked by a fellow "runner" that I talked to tonight @ the gym. As I mentioned previously we " runners" tend to be an obsessive lot...sometimes borderline idiotic i.e. "running when it started" !

It has been another terribly dry summer here...thankfully today we had a nice , much needed rain. Which brings me to our run this morning:

A charter member of the Kickin' the Rooster Club & I headed out this morning while it was raining steadily. ( Some members of our "club" were "no shows") attributed to the rain or simply being smarter...you decide ! The longer we were out , the harder it rained...it was a "soaker" & we were in the middle of it ! Now I realize that this is no great accomplishment , BUT , when is the last time that you did something that didn't make sense just for the heck of it ??!

Don't be afraid to "start when it was raining "....do something for the sake of the puddles !

Psalm 118:24 This is the day that the LORD has made , let us rejoice & be glad in it !

Taking Things for Granted

2008-09-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

"People that run " OR "runners" ( whatever the case may be ) tend to be obsessive about the sport. I know, I claim one of the above titles ( whatever the case may be ) , so I can say w/o a doubt that this tends to be true.

After yesterdays 10k, my Running Buddies & I ( all members of the Kickin' the Rooster Ninth Ward Social Club) , were re-hashing our times. What went right , what went wrong, how we felt, who we beat & who we couldn't believe beat us & "where did he come from"? & on & on...you get the picture !

As we were walking toward the water & fruit tents, I spotted one of our local Heroes . He is a young man about seventeen or so that is well known in the area. He had just participated in the 3k event & was talking w/ some folks as my freind & I walked by. The thing about this young Hero is that he is a double amputee...running on prosthetics ! He was enjoying the "congrats" from folks as they passed by.

My friend & I were whining & moaning about how we could have done better etc. , when I realized that we were missing the whole point of the moment. We take so much for granted ! Here was a man w/ prosthetic legs & I was whining about my race time. I bet he wasn't concerned about next time or how he could overlook the joy of the moment & instead focus on "getting better". He was taking it all in !!

What all do you take for granted ? Why not challenge yourself today to be thankful for the day & be content w/ what the moment gives ?

Focus on the race yes, but be happy you are able to run !!
The Apostle Paul put it this way: " ......I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances ." Phil. 4:11

Pretty Good Time !

2008-09-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Pretty Good Time for me today @ the 10k considering a summer cold & running on 1 & 1/2 lungs ! 42:45 (plodder's time)...8th in the age group...strong group this year w/ the top two under 40 minutes.

My lovely bride won her age group & brought home some hardware ! ( It's the training!)

Good turn out on a humid , overcast day. No one puked except my friend's daughter !

15 mile trail race next...Good Times ! This is a tough one !

New Adventure

2008-09-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

This is a new adventure for me....We will see how it goes & maybe have some fun & share some runnin' tales & stories !