9/30/2008

I worked (volunteered) at St.Rita's Medical Center Today. But prior to volunteering I had lunch with Jim. A few new people were met and networking was done. I learned something about editing pictures while I was helping up in the audio/visual department. Jil is in charge of that department, and it seems to me that some of the work would be rather monotonous. But some of the work seems like it would be fun, too. Working at the front desk was exciting as it usually is since many people were interacted with, but this time was extra special for I ran into (not literally) Grant, his girlfriend, and Jessica. I had not seen Grant since last basketball season, and prioe to topday I had never met his significant other. He is a fun guy to be around, and joking around with him is always the bomb. He had a USC sweatshirt on and it disturbed me. I seem to recall Grant always liking them, but I never can figure out why an Ohioan would root for any other than The Ohio State Buckeyes. Oh well, at least he does not root for Michigan! Jessica is a nurse at St. Rita's, and she helped take care of me when I spent four days in the hospital when I had high blood pressure problems. Man... I really respect nurses, maybe I should have went into that field, because they have great opportunities to help people. I think I found my calling though, and great opportunity exists to help people through my motivational/inspirational presentations. My schedule for the upcoming months is slowly, but surely, becoming busier. Ideally I would like to speak across this nation. I believe that it will happen, and with each presentaton the word will get out.

9/29/2008

As stated before, playing cards is a characteristic that I developed when I was a little kid at my Grandma's house. Really though one could say it is in my genes (even when I am wearing shorts-LOL:-), because my parents both have fun playing cards. I guess my Dad is the more avid card player, and it is his side of my family that can most likely be found playing cards in any setting. Since I have fun with cards I guess it suggest that take more after my Dad than Mom. Playing cards is something I love and and could be classified as an avid fan of. The other half of me loves watchinh or particioating in competitions and sports, and it's not too often that these two things I really like to do happen simultaneously. That is why yesterday sticks out in my mind and will be remembered for a long time, because I was able top capture the NFL while getting a card fix (like one can be fxed one drugs:-). It is not really a laughing matter, but drugs and cards can both be addicting although I do not practice the former. By moving the table, both closer to the sink and angling it cockeyed, we were able to watch the football games onj television as we played cards. Not too many people would see it as fun, but I used that setup in the afternoon and evening. I had some friends over in the afernoon and uncles in the evening. It was great, and I'm certin the table will be situated accordingly in the future. I looked forward to the planning of yesterday as well as had a blast partaking in it, and some people would say it is a sickness. I say that itgoes along with being a Schroeder!

9/28/2008

Well Saturday night was very interesting to say the least. I went out to eat with Ashley at the Texas Roadhouse, and I really think they have the most economical and best tasting food in the Lima area. Sure food might be a little cheaper at some fast food joint, but the taste and atmosphere are much less undesirable than the Roadhouse. The service at Texas Roadhouse gets a gold pendant as I see it. Not only did I have the company of my friend Ashley, but at the table next to us a group of people from literally around the globe was seated. Even though I am an introvert (yeah right:-) they were visited and met by me, and we had a friendly conversation. Two of them were from Italy, and the other four were from California. I am a very sociable person, and I even was asked to pose for a picture by the California lady who was also a teacher. So I had my picture taken with the husband (probably in his mid 30's,) and they all received my business card. That was exciting since I love distributing my cards, and even though they may not use them I feel good about getting my end of the story out. There was some hope about speaking out west. I'm always an optimistic guy. After that I went to a friend's. I was delighted to see Kimberly, Nicole, and the new Mrs. Schroeder (Courtney.)

9/27/2008

Going to the football game at Wayne Trace last night was exciting for a number of reasons. Primarily since I got to spend time with Tom O. Even though the actual game was rather lackluster time spent with Tom O is always fun. We had a lot of fun before, during, and after the game. I nearly finalized a speaking gig at Wayne trace, as I spoke directly to their principal (Mr. Wilson) and five members of the student council. Justin was the senior president and he said I would be speaking to the Wayne Trace high school later this school year.The date is yet unclear but will be in April, and I feel very comfortable accumulating a busier schedule. Feelings were different, because usually things are more up in the air when an initial encounter with a school is had. I felt reassured about speaking there. Networking is something that I enjoy greatly and is done no matter where I go. Along with the distribution of my business cards, I also get to talk to many people. Anybody who meets me soon realizes that I love to talk, and I do a lot of it. I also went over to the visitor side before the game and met some contacts from Tinora. Hopefully I left a good impression with their math teacher, because she will be my cohort in an effort to speak to the HS there as their principal was not in attendance. After we got back ho,e (Columbus Grove) we had some pizza and watched the sports report up at the American Legion.

9/26/2008

Last night was great! Before we watched the University of Southern California, currently ranked number one in the country, lose to a not ranked Oregon State team we went to Uncle Bucks to play cornhole and socialize a little bit. Actually I turned out to be as bad at that game as I am pool, because balance was the biggest issue. At this bar where you throw is in loose stone, and you step over a large wooden border onto a flat greenish surface to toss the been bag towards the target (while attempting to land the bag on top of the wood plank.) Actually there is a small circular opening where you are supposed to try landing the bag, and this game is definitely not foreign to me but the setting was. Or at least that is what I attribute my lack of competitive play to. Like most anything in my life these last 11 years, since my tragic car wreck, it seems to be harder, but those are the cards I've been dealt and I'm playing with them. Life goes on. There I saw my friend Katy. We had a good lengthy chat that ended with tears on her end, but she insisted they were tears of joy. Afterward Brian and I headed to TKO's, which is a new wing and things sports bar across the drive from BW3. The food there is impeccable when compared to any similar bar I have ever been to. We met our friend Mike there. Jen was the hostess when we arrived. And when she left Ashley took over. Now she is the niece of Jerry and Connie, who are in my church, and I know their family very well. They are the parents of Brad and Michelle each of whom I know from basketball at Columbus Grove. I actually recall seeing Ashley at one of Michelle's high school games several years ago. The memory is faint, but Ashley remembered seeing me there, too. It is rather odd for anyone to forget me if we've met. And I'm not saying that in conceitedness at all, because when people meet me 99% of them do not forget. My dialect and gate are slightly abnormal, and I've got a miracle of a story to tell. Let's put it this way: if you don't believe in miracles after knowing me something may be wrong with your perception on life! Hopefully I'll make it to TKO's again to see them in the near future.

9/25/2008

Thursdays are typically kind of slow for me during the day, but they typically pick up in the evening hours. Tonight is no different, besides the fact that every single day is maybe a little bit better than the day before, and I'll more than likely will head to Findlay tonight. Some people just cannot figure out why I am so upbeat and happy so much. I can sort of see how somebody could view my situation that way, but I don't fall in that way of thinking. Sure it is sometimes nice to reminisce the past with friends about happy times, and occasionally looking toward the future is nice, too. That is especially relevant when planning a vacation or preparing for an unforeseen catastrophe with a first aid kit. The same is true when preparing your car and including jumper cables. Reminiscing or thinking too far ahead is a waste of time. We live in the now, and the present is what you should be living to your potential. I will likely head to Brian's to play pool and then later we'll head to the sports bar to watch USC's unusual Thursday night college football game. That game does not start until 9:00 so I'll be home late. It's funny that I still enjoy shooting billiards with Brian, because he dominates me at shooting eight-ball. He does not ever let up, and I would not appreciate him if he did, but Brian usually wins no problem. Why do I enjoy losing so much you ask? I do not like losing anything, but I view each game as a game I am going to win. I am an optimist and although it is a rarity I do win sometimes, but I always seek improvement. I try my hardest and do improve, so in essence I win most games..... don't ask Brian about that though. He might not agree:)!!!

9/24/2008

I feel all happy and energetic today. I know I am usually happy and energetic, but this morning the feeling is at an extreme. I worked yesterday at the hospital, and I made some new contacts and possible places to speak. So what's new about that you ask? Absolutely nothing as my main objective whenever I go anywhere and meet people is to positively impact their lives. It is awesome that I can use the happenings in my life to help others. Then I had a K of C meeting, which was very constructive, but after the meeting we played a little cards. Usually the four person card game, named solo is the highlight of any evening (well that and the social atmosphere had amongst the players.) But last night was not like most nights. True that I did lose a few dollars playing, and usually I am more successful than that yet after I returned home is when the highlight of my evening occurred. I had met earlier, via computer, a girl who seemed very interesting, Ashley, and we IM back and forth for a while. That was awesome, but then she called and we set up to meet at the Texas Roadhouse this coming weekend. She is from near Van Wert, attended Lincolnview HS before college, and her sister heard me speak at that same high school in April of 2008. I love eating at Texas Roadhouse, and I'll get to see Ashley, too. I am so very pumped up that I dd not fall asleep very easily last night.!.

9/23/2008

I have a lunch meeting today at the hospital with Mark, then I meet Jim, and I am also scheduled to volunteer. That bodes well for an exciting day. I just may see some contacts or future hosts for speaking gigs. I'll have my business cards with me just in case.
Watching the Monday night football game last night with Dad was exciting. I have to marvel at the announcers and media. Favre is the quarterback for the Jets now, and his illustrious career sets precedence for quarterbacks of today's players. Like last night the quarterback for San Diego (Rivers) was said to have posters of Favre in his room years ago, and he idolized Favre and other greats while he grew up. Favre is in fact a living legend, but he may have already had his successes. Based on last night's performance his days are in fact numbered. It may just be his unfamiliarity with learning the new offense for New York, but if he truly has declined that much it is a shame. Why would you not rather leave the game you love (NFL) while on top than prolong your career with a subpar performance on a subpar team. It may have just been a fluke, and the Jets may be very successful this year. Afterall, it was his deciision to unretire, because he loves the game of football. The man's inategrity should njot be in question for he plays with heart and soul. It's too bad all players had his intensity and determination. Sports would be a better place if all professional athletes played with the sasme tenacity that Farve does and salary or popularity were not so important to so many players. Brett Favre truly is an excellent role model for todays youth.

9/22/2008

Typically Mondays are not that rough for me, as the common perception says they are for many people, but today is a little different since I have a cold. I am definitely an unique individual. Whereas most like to sleep in until noon after a rough night, I cannot even fathom what it would be like to sleep that long. I am an early riser no matter what time I hit the hay. Rather disappointing, however, it feels after you are out until like 2:00 A.M. and then your biological clock tells you to get up at the butt crack of dawn (7:00 A.M.). Like finding fossil in your backyard it is rare for me to sleep greater than five hours at any given time. When I stay somewhere else that is foreign to me, no matter how nice the settings are, it is usually worse. For instance staying in Huron, at the Sawmill Creek resort for the catholic conference, was a weekend filled with little sleep. The accommodations and lodging were fantastic at the resort, I would recommend it to anybody, and my schedule was full of various festivities. But although the setting was extraordinarily nice it was an unfamiliar scene, and thus I did not sleep more than three hours on each of the first two nights, but the days were so exciting that there was no time to feel tired. By the third night apparently I was feeling more comfortable with my room, because a whopping four hours of sleep was had. It was a fun weekend. The reason I am explaining this is to show what feeling under the weather is all about. I slept nearly seven hours last night, ate breakfast, and as I type this I am nearly falling asleep.
I guess it is time to lay down again. Have a good day.

9/21/2008

Today I watched professional football with my cousins. It was a fulfilled afternoon, but I have a cold, and I'm feeling not that well so I am not going to write that much. Goodnight all...

9/20/2008

Tonight after Dad came home from work, we played Sequence, and I lost three games to his one. Typically we would play a game of cards, but this was a little different. It's good to keep variety in my life. Sequence challenges your mind a bit, and I like games that require deep thought. I came out on the low end this time, but you can be assured that did not get me down. Next time will be different!
Tomorrow (Sunday) I'm going to Clint's to watch football, and that will be awesome. Good night everybody... 'm working breakfast at church tomorrow...

9/20/2008

As Kenny Rogers says, "Every hand is a winner, and ever hand is a loser...!" And, " The secret to surviving is knowing what to throw away and knowing what to keep." In his classic song, The Gambler, he sings about cards. Maybe he sings about being in a high stakes poker game while I am accustomed to playing solo, pinochle, or euchre, but nonetheless he is talking about cards. Small stakes gambling when playing cards is not uncommon or foreign to me. Is it strange that I know all the words to The Gambler? The answer to that question is yes for that song was popularized before my day, but cards have been a focal point in my life since early childhood. My Grandma Schroeder, God rest her soul, is credited and some would say responsible for putting cards up on a pedestal in my life, but I would say my parents helped by stoking the fire. As both of them can become fascinated with cards, and an outsider would be correct by saying ts in my genes. Finding a needle in a haystack would be m ore likely than have a week pass bye, in my life, without cards playing a role. Last night I played pinochle all evening after supper. I take cards very seriously, and like most things in life competition presents itself. The funnest game is solo because there is so much strategy involved, but 6 person euchre, with a double deck (pinochle), like last night is fun for a change also. I definitely like to take chances.There is a certain level of strategy involved there too.

9/19/2008

What is typically a good Friday night event to encompass each fall? High school football is the simple answer! Tonight I am doing family stuff though. High school athletics in general are fun to watch, and anybody who knows anything about me knows that competition fills the core of my being. The pinnacle of competition is evident in amateur athletics. That is because no one team is so dominant or pathetic, when compared to another in similar sized (as far as the number of students go) high school, that an upset or victory beyond the realm of occurring. The team members are not all perfect specimens of ability level, and it comes down to more of a coaching strategy. I'm not saying that upsets on a more professional level are inconceivable, because they do happen. But from my experience viewing I feel much more confident rooting for the win less high school football team than a team without a victory from the professional echelon.
Football on the college or pro level is my favorite to watch, but nothing beats high school basketball.
When speaking of NFL football, a game never passes that does not have some sort of fantasy football implication. Fantasy football is very popular in these United States, and t is also a game of enjoyment amongst my friends. Like I do not like to sit on my duff and let time pass bye in any aspect of my life, the same can be said of my fantasy football experience. I am always wheeling and dealing or picking up players to try assembling a winner.

9/18/2008

I just met Jennifer up tow, and she has some ties with Bluffton High School big wigs. Even if nothing comes out of it time meeting her was fun.

9/18/2008

Today is a fairly lackluster day as far as exciting new things go, although I did talk to a couple of different school contacts about speaking to their assemblies. All I can do is put my best effort toward doing my part of getting speeches set up. In fact my presentation has been entitled; The Rest is up to You. That applies to most things in life. Others can help you along your journey, and sometimes friends need to be there as a crutch or cane, but in the end the rest is up to you. When I falter my closest friends are there to set me straight again... or in my worst scenario completely direct me in the opposite direction. I have a very personal relationship with a few people, and those are ones that I feel comfortable turning to in times of crisis (hopefully that never happens-- but if it would I am confident that I could ease my tension through talking with one or more of those people.) They already know who they are so mentioning them would be both irrelevant and improper.

9/17/2008

Eating lunch with my for outpatient occupational therapist and current friend, Laura, was awesome today.It has been a little while so we caught up on each others lives. It is always a pleasure to talk with her, because she made such a significant impact on my life during the time following my automobile accident. I used to and still do , on occasion, refer to her as my drill sergeant! She knows that I'm just playing around as I often do, and we have a caring relationship like siblings do. Laura is currently working on her dissertation so we will eventually be able to refer to her as Dr. Laura (even though I call her that frequently now already:-). We ate at Steve's Dakota Grill where I met some interesting people.
After that I met Brian and we met up with Mike for dinner. everything went pretty smooth.

9/17/2008

Every time I stop to think about scheduling events it is realized that my calender is capable of becoming full of various things. Even though my job is speaking it involves much more than that. It's also about getting the word out about me to the proper contacts. Talking to and meeting new people is something I take very seriously and it is done much. Take for instance Tuesday as prime example. I volunteer, as you are aware of if you read this blog routinely, every Tuesday at St. Rita's Medical Center at the Guest Services Desk, and that is right down my alley (so to speak. :) It involves seeing everyone who comes into the hospital, through the main entrance to get tests done or to visit patients, but my social agenda is much more than that. I have friends all over the hospital, new ones are met every week, and I have to promote myself and what I do to anybody who I think would benefit from my story or knows the proper contacts personally. There are HIPPA laws set forth so I'm not permitted to talk about people I see while working. For instance yesterday I met somebody who was in my sister's nursing class and her friend. I distributed business cards and stated my objective. One person I met yesterday is friends with a youth pastor somewhere, and she carbon copied a letter that she wrote to this person ivolved wth teenagers at the Church. That is just a random contact I made, and there is many more. Most involve a posibility to talk to groups, which means I would have the opportunity to touch others' lives. That is ultimately what I seek.

9/16/2008

My how things can change, both with and beyond a person's control, in an instant. Sometimes hard work or lack thereof can effect things positively or negatively, respectively. Other times hard work does not result in success of what you are trying to do, by I''ll argue that you are a winner every time as long as you put forth your best effort. Now you may not ultimately win the game, match, or your goal is not attained, but you should feel the satisfaction of trying your hardest and experience the best that you are supposed to on that given day. Therefore coming out on the losing end of something can be a victory. I know that competition drives many people (including me) and it feels good to do better than the opponent(s), but things can be just as rewarding and beneficial even without coming out on top. The public automatically views the mentioned team as the loser, in actuality they did lose, but deep down they can still be a winner as long as they tried and learn from their experience. And I'm not talking about tee ball, where there is no score kept, because I feel I take all actions to be competitive.
Other actions are beyond individual control. For instance as of last night my sister and three nephews were scheduled to arrive here this morning due to lack of power at their home in Cincinnati, but two hours ago she called and canceled. The power was restored overnight even though power outage was expected until Saturday. That is both good and bad. They were just here this past weekend so they are not missed that much yet, but it is always a great time seeing my nephews. guess I am happy for them, because now they can return to living normally again!

9/15/2008

My sister and three boys headed back to Cincy late Sunday afternoon, and I guess their trip home was quite adventuresome as treacherous weather existed. We had some strong wind blowing here too. The yard around our house looked a holy terror this morning. We have many large trees on our property and there were many branches and walnuts blown all over our yard. We have about eight walnut trees and many other trees. Dad and I picked up and disposed of most of that junk today. Many places in nearby areas are without power. I guess we are luck for we have power. Although at least twice yesterday it did flash off. Speaking of being without power... my sister's home in Cincy is without power. She called and said that an estimate for power returning is not until Saturday. Yep that's right she said her and the boys will be back tomorrow morning. Rob is going to continue working, but Lisa took vacation. She is not scheduled to work until Saturday. The youngest boy and the one about two years old were okay without electricity, but Andrew (the four year old) is troublesome to keep occupied without television or computer, so for his sake I bet they are glad to come here.
One thing that I have noticed is, even though I am only the age of 29, I am starting to feel the effects of age, because after bending over to clean up the yard for so long my lower back is tired and sore.

9/14/2008

I have been in contact with the Membership Services Coordinator, of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. I'm letting them know of my availability to speak at a conference, but unfortunately all of the presenters have already been selected for this year. Mr. Robaszkiewecz, told me that I would be considered when planning for 2009 and 2010 events. That is all I can wish for at this point, because this year's conference is pretty much out of the question. I may be sounding overly optimistic, but that is just the way I am. Focusing on my current planned presentations and attempting to fill my schedule for this year are my main concerns, but it's nice to look forward to what may happen. The feeling experienced after I deliver a presentation is incredible.
If I can help others through my talk it is like topping on an ice-cream sunday (its all good.) I think that is why I survived the wreck and have made significant recovery thus far, so I can better lives.

9/13/2008

My middle nephew, Grant who is currently two years old, is amazing. I marvel at the way he thinks and talks. I know that all kids go through that stage at some point in their development, but it really had me in awe this morning. Grant was up as I was eating a bowl of cereal, and he sat on my lap making cute remarks and repeating everything I said. The other boys, Andrew (4) and Nick (5 mos.), are each adorable in their own way, and I love them all the same. It really is hard to fathom that I was actually like that at one time. That is debatable, because it was sort of like twice. Sort of but not really. When I came out of my coma I had to relearn how to talk, walk, and just about everything again. The recovery was really indescribable, because I knew how to do things but they were yet physically impossible. Looking at the broad picture I did have to learn to talk, but it was not like Grant. It sure felt, at that time, to be a very long recovery time, but hindsight tells me it really wasn't that long. The worse part was remembering doing various things but not yet being able to do them.

9/12/2008

Today is no typical boring Friday, because my sister and three nephews are coming, for the weekend, later this morning. I really like it when they all come, and it gives me ample opportunity to swarm the little guys with my love and guidance They may not always be happy about the things I do, but I know that in the long run they will be better off. I'm going to fill out the form today that was sent to me, from Washington D.C., to sign up on the speaker's list for youth ministry. 'm extra excited about that after my participation in the Catholic conference at Huron this past weekend.

9/11/2008

Today is the anniversary a big catastrophe in modern day American history. The twin towers fell on September 11 some years ago. Many lives were lost and much pain was endured. The wide belief is that terrorists are to blame for this act. America has moved on. We have a war on terrorism. If there are people who grieve excessively all the time, are hung up on terrorism, or live in constant fear of the next attack (hopefully there are none) then it is like throwing in the towel. When people live their live differently, in hatred, then in essence we have lost the war. That is exactly what terrorists want: us to change our way of life because of them. I know with loss of loved ones a great remorse is felt, but whats done is finished! Much the same is relevant when talking of injury or accident. Of course a grieving time is needed for loss of life or catastrophic injury, but we cannot let that dominate our lives forever. My sister asked of me how I am so happy all the time when I cannot do things as easily, good, or like I used to. The answer was simple; This is the way I am now, and there is no point or sense in dwelling on the past. It is over and done with, and we cannot go back in time to change things but can work for improvements in our future lives. It is a waste of time to cry over what's already spilled, but to change things to make them better for the future is ingenious.

9/10/2008

Today I spoke with a presenter and friend, Bob from this past weekend. He might have a few ins fo me. Jimmy also gave me a call, and he s going out with his dad, to California, to watch OSU play USC. They (USC) are currently ranked #1 in the country...Go Bucks!!!!

9/10/2008

When attempting to win the race your measure of success should not be determined by public perception or if you finish in first or last place, but by the hard work done to achieve your personal standard of excellence.

9/9/2008

I stayed fairly busy today/tonight at the hospital. We had an unusual case where a patients immediate family was upset when a brother of the patient came to visit. They are no longer in the hospital. That sort of relationship would never happen in my relation. To us the only thing more important than family is religion. Brother and sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins, and parents are great people to spend time with when they are in the hospital (but not in that order of importance. The parent child is the most critical to me. And friends also need to be visited. Let's just say that I owe many people lots of visiting time when they are in the hospital, back from when I was laid up for a significant period of time. Family, friends, and prayer are responsible for my getting better.

9/8/2008

I set a date for a presentation to Pandora Gilboa high school for Dec. 2 this afternoon. My speaking agenda is gradually becoming more full. Looking back on this weekend, in retrospect, I find that everything happens for a reason. Many great contacts were made and I no have more people to pray about or things to pray for. I had a great day at Cedar Point on Sunday also, but my body was made aware of how much fun I had today (I guess having so much roller coaster fun reflects negatively on my back. :-)

9/7/2008

Well today is the day:
1) I am leaving this resort named Sawmill Creek in Huron, where I believe I have made significant positive happenings in my life (both spiritually and personally), because the conference is over and roller coasters are calling my name. That is right I am heading to the best amusement park in the world, which just so happens to be right here in Ohio at Cedar Point. I made many friends (from all over the country) too many to mention everyone, but I'll mention just a couple of them. The first one is one (of the many) with whom I shared fun times yesterday. She has an adorable southern drawl, and it strikes my funny bone. Ruth is from I think Alabama and her dialect is justifiably southern. Really, commenting on the way some people talk is a bit rude and maybe should not have been done (hindsight is 20/20), but I am certain she was laughing with me. Maybe I live a sheltered life and need to explore other parts of this nation and globe more in depth so I have a greater familiarity with cultures and dialects. Ruth probably thinks I talk funny, too. That I accept. The other person I will mention has already been motioned these past couple of days and probably will talk about in future posts, because Michelle really helps me. She is like the sibling I never had. Oddly enough I do have an older sister who helps me grow and is a role model for me in many ways. I intend to stay in contact with Michelle and she will help tidy my ways, because she loves me. I love her too (as a friend), and we connect on a spiritual level. I have also met so many contacts that will help me get to that plateau where I can effect lives through speaking. Ultimately, I will take my speech across the country, and my motivational and inspirational message will open peoples' eyes.
2) Most of the National Football League starts.

9/6/2008

Mistakes, everryone makes them, but the keys to success are how you rebound from them. To make ever effort to fix the problem is the most you can do to rectify the situation. A constant dedication may be required, but it is feasible.

9/6/2008

I'm up very early this morning, and it is the final day of the conference. Hopefully I'll get to spend some time with, because she is a blast and is not leaving today, I think she'll be here. And I'm also hoping that...or else it's going to be a long afternoon!

9/5/2008

Well I found a computer here at the resort. The magic show was excellent tonight, because I was picked as a volunteer and added all sorts of twists to the card trick. Fr. (the magician) thanked me afterwards.. He said I was the most creative volunteer he ever chose. I was just being me. It's natural to ham it up and perform in front of audiences. My love for speaking to large groups definitely helps when I talk in front of people.
Maybe most importantly about this conference are the people I met. Sue and her parents ate breakfast with me this morning. I also saw Michelle this morning. She is awesome and so much fun to talk to. Tomorrow we're going out for dinner afteer Mass since the conference is officially over after Mass. Michelle will be my friend forever.

9/4/2008

Later today I head to a Catholic Conference up near Sandusky, and it culminates with a trip to Cedar Point on Sunday. That is where I'll meet my cousins. It should be a great opportunity to make some nationwide contacts. Therefore I will not have access to this blog at all until Monday of next week. Talk to you later.

9/3/2008

As you know I volunteer at the hospital on Tuesday's, but this was not just some ordinary Tuesday. I met up with Jim, an old friend since high school, for lunch and we saw his two friends. Even though that was the first time I really did anything with him since high school, and it was extra fun, but I meet old friends or new people practically every day but hopefully I can have lunch with Jim again sometime. When I was volunteering, later on in the day, that is when the real interesting time began. A Starbucks is located right in St. Rita's, and Christy works there. She has always worked there since I started and I usually say hello to her, but yesterday just seemed like so much fun for some reason. Maybe it was because we spoke about future speaking gigs, but I don't think that was it for we've talked about those before. For one reason or another I felt extremely comfortable talking with Christy. She is a very nice girl, and I wish her the best. I was very exhausted and tired at my volunteer job, I did not sleep that well the night before, but the jubilation I felt after the encounter with Christy got me through the rest of my shift. I hope she is there every day I am.
I am also getting really pumped up about having he great opportunity, that I do, to help others through giving my presentation in the near future.
Many cool things are happening in my life right now, and I can be proud of my hard work for many of them. Thee rest are meant to be that way, and I truly believe that God is awesome. It is my belief that God is responsible for everything n everyones' life, but you can believe whatever you want.

9/2/2008

Last night there was some college football on television, and when you no longer have the balance to play sports nothing beats watching them. And a football game is enjoyable to see regardless of which two teams are doing battle. Usually when it is two teams that I feel indifferent about battling my hope is that the underdog wins. Underdogs are determined by the public, and public opinion is insignificant. When you are attempting to achieve some task yourself, is mainly when other peoples' opinions are irrelevant. When I was in my wreck over 10 years ago popular opinion was that I would not even live, and then I was told to my face that I would never walk. When that was told to me I was 18 and stubborn as an ox, and the last thing I was going to do was accept others' opinions as fact. Ten years post wreck I am still stubborn as a mule, but I can run, walk, talk (a lot), and drive. That is why I cheer for the underdog I guess. The least favored to win can still experience success no matter which outcome prevails. That is why I like to see the underdog win when impartiality is felt between two or more opposing counterparts, because my life was not the favorite to succeed after December 6, 1997. But I keep on keeping on!!!

9/1/2088

I am very satisfied with my fantasy football draft. Having the number one pick got me started off good, and everything else just fell into place accordingly. The draft does not mean everything though, and there are no guarantee that my number one pick will outperform the last player taken off the board. It is probable but not certain. Like almost everything in life, there are not many guarantees. In fact the only guarantee that I know is; success is often more difficult without practicing and trying.

9/1/2008

It is officially Labor Day and that means two things: 1) It is now September, and 2) my cousin's are hosting the fantasy football draft. Both things point to football commencing.
I am also looking to start filling up my schedule with speaking dates. I do have a rough estimate and a good probability of speaking dates set up for a half dozen schools, but I only have one confirmed date thus far. The next 8 months are going to get busy.