10/31/2008

It is Football Friday night, but it is not the usual Friday for high school foot ball. This is week 11, or many teams' second season, and the playoffs commence this week. It is rather disappointing that Columbus Grove's football team had a very lackluster season, because cheering as your team plays in the tournament, is rather fun, but at least there are several local teams in the playoffs. I may even make it to a game or two in the next few weeks. High school sports are awesome. I really need to get into coaching somewhere, because not having that direct feeling of competition is driving me nuts. Watching sports live helps, but I constantly find myself being strategical as to what I would do if I was the coach or player. I find myself often disputing what the coach does. I can't help it, competition runs through my veins.

10/31/2008

Heather sent me that recommendation letter today from Bishop Hartley high school, in Columbus. It is simply dazzling. Thanks to her.

10/31/2008

It is simply amazing how much last night felt like a Friday night I guess it is a prelude to basketball season, which is coming up here soon. Watching volleyball is really exciting once you get into it and fully understand what is going on behind the scene. I do not claim to know what the coaches were thinking or strategy last night for, either team, last night for either school, but like in basketball it sure is fun being a coach from the stands. Maybe that is just my sports, or competition, enthusiast mentality shining through. The schools that I watched were St. Henry versus Huron in the first game, and LCC played in the night cap but I did not stay for that one. As it turns out though LCC won the second match of the evening. I did not associate Huron as the place I went to in early September for the catholic retreat, but as discussing things with Frank afterwords, at Frickers, it dawned on me. Huron got out to a first game victory, but that success was short lived as St. Henry won the next three consecutive ones. However, I did get to meet several coaches and fans from both teams, and I do not want to sell short how it was wonderful meeting everyone. But the key contact hat I made was with Tony, their athletic director. I met Lynn afterward at Frickers, and I spoke to her at the University of Findlay prior to that in her occupational therapy course.

10/30/2008

The swift shifting of temperatures from cold to warm or warm to cold seems to be evident this time of year. I am well aware of both extremes as living in Northwest Ohio has been a staple throughout my whole life. I am 29 years of age, significantly younger yet older than some friends, but please do not think I have lived a sheltered life. Clearly I have not. Many vacations have been taken, and I've taken vacations, at different time with m family that have covered most of the United States. I have been blessed even with several opportunities to vacate this country Northward. I have no desire to go to our sour neighbor of Mexico. Needless to say, I have never been out of North America, and I have consistently had a home base in the Northwest part of The Buckeye state. This year displays the flux of temperatures more so than I ever recall. It is in the 20's on the Fahrenheit scale now, and I hear it is supposed to reach the 60's by today or tomorrow. Forecasts always are logically based hypotheses though so they can never be certain until they actually happen. Usually, though, they are relatively accurate. I have taken a Meteorology course in college (OSU), though and this rapid changeis rare. Call me weird if you choose, but I feel some unfamiliarity here. For instance, I do not know how to dress in this quickly changing weather.

10/29/2008

I feel relieved this evening, because I spoke with Heather (the Public Relations guru from Bishop Hartley-- who by the way could make a healthy income singing:-) this afternoon. I feel relieved as she said the pictures and letter would be on their way this week yet. I felt the least bit apprehensive about the mailing of that info since I was left out of any conversation about the letter in over a week, but now I feel more relaxed. Heather is a very busy person, and it took hearing that we are still on the same page to put me at ease. She introduced to a great website. Then our conversation flipped to karaoke, as she sang a little song to me. She quickly became defensive when comments were made about her little tune. But in all honesty she can sing much better than I, because could not carry a tune even before my accident. I pit anybody who listens when I sing:-).

10/29/2008

Today (Wednesday) I am going to get a hair cut. Where am I going to get it cut is a question that taxes many people's minds when its time to get a trim. There are at least three places I could get it done in Columbus Grove alone (or maybe two), and I could go to any nearby to accomplish the task. That is just considering the specialty shops. I virtually always get my hair done at the same place with the same barber. The best things come from home, I am almost certain you have heard that saying, and my Dad is my regular haircut person. That kind of limits my hair style to one look (unless I were to shave my head), but that is the style I prefer. It is very economical too, and while it would cost $10-$20 at a parlor my chops at home are free. Free fits in everyone' budget. I know many things you can get for free look tacky, but that is not a concern that I have. My Dad does haircuts, like he does everything else, perfect! At least that is how I feel about my Dad. I really look up to him, as most people look up to their parents. Dad is my role model, or idol, and I believe everything he says.

10/28/2008

I also met a very beautiful person named Jeannie. We met after eating a late lunch. I think she is from near Cleveland, and she was here on business. It was cool, because we both were thinking similarly. we met for a reason and I hope we can explore why a little more. Making contacts is critical in what I hope to do, that may be why, but I think our meeting may hold a more significant importance. But what do I know??? We'll see.

10/28/2008

I talked to a friend, Jessica, tonight at the hospital. I saw many different people tonight and I do not want them to think I am belittling them in any way. It's just the highlight of my evening was talking with Jessica. I also saw Abbey and Joe in the cafeteria. Joe is a fun guy to talk with even though we have many different outlooks. And I spoke with Christy briefly when she was on break I made plans tonight for Thursday and Sunday. I guess Sunday is up in the air, and I possibly planned for Saturday too but that is even more up in the air yet.

10/28//2008

It is Tuesday, and we know that means I get a chance to help certain people at the hospital and network at the same time. It really is a lot of fun to work with Gerry. At the same time having ample opportunity to meet and help new people is awesome. I would not trade my position for anything. I am also excited about getting all pumped up about watching the St. Henry lady Redskins volleyball team compete in regional semifinal action at Liberty Benton on Thursday at 6:00.

10/27/2008

It hailed today. If watching little ice balls bounce off the road does not make you think of winter I don't know what would. The forecast is calling for flurries tonight, but I would doubt it really will.

10/27/2008

Today is the last Monday of October, and that does not mean a whole lot except:
1) Next Tuesday is the day of the election of our new president. I pray that we make a good choice (even though there is not much to choose from.) It will be a crazy day from a media standpoint, as critiques are done as election results come in. There are bound to be people happy and those outraged with the results. It will without a likely, I think, come down to a recount in many states, because the election will be too close. Both candidates will claim they won. I would not be surprised if the one declared the winner is not for a few weeks.
2) Next Wednesday I give a brief presentation to the Delphos Rotary Club. I hope to make some contacts that will serve as gateways and give me a chance to present to more high schools. It brings great satisfaction to impact lives. I am talking with a Hartley student, who I ironically met about a half year before I gave a presentation in the Columbus school, about my speech, and she is saying what I hope occurred. She says that I made a huge difference in her life and she hopes I get to more schools this year. A boy, who is also a sophomore at Hartley, expressed similar responses.
There obviously is a lot more going on in November, but I will get more to them as they occur.

10/26/2008

I got home and to bed late last night, but I set my alarm clock for 7:30 this morning. And no I am not insane but wanted to attend early mass this morning, because the Knights of Columbus were serving a breakfast afterwords. Therefore I only got around four hours of sleep in last night. Man was I glad I went to the breakfast this morning! I sat at the end table with some Dickmans and Ellerbrocks. Ashley, from TKO sports bar in Findlay (who I just talked to this past Thursday), is the niece of the Dickmans! We had a great conversation at our table. Needless to say I was very tired most of the afternoon, and being Sunday I had to catch some must needed rest while watching football. I missed parts of the games, from slightly dozing off a couple of times, but it was relaxing. I will likely tire relatively early tonight, but I can always flip the world series game on as I fall asleep. As you can clearly see sports play a large role in my life. I am super excited about high school basketball season, which is just around the corner. In fact I just spoke with my friend Chad, who is the Varsity Girls Basketball coach, in his first head coaching season, at Columbus Grove high school this year. He was busy preparing practice schedules, and the Grove girls are likely to have a high quality team this year!

10/26/2008

The Buckeyes lost and Penn State won. End of story. Last night I had great fun in Findlay but also was disappointed with several reactions I received from several people that I met last night. I did not explain myself to some, and they went on assuming I was plastered drunk. Oh well, those are the perils I endure. That's the way I talk (always) just deal with it!. If I do I know you can!

10/25/2008

Today is the day Penn State plays THE Ohio State University in Columbus (which is somewhere Joe Paterno has never on in nine or ten tries,) and I am hoping that continual losing streak remains in tact. Originally I was going to maybe go to this game, but that was before Penn State became a notable title contender (now ranked number three in the nation with Ohio State ranked nine.) I still had every intention to get down there and maybe not even get a ticket and hang with newly established friends instead, but I am hoping we can make that work for the University of Michigan weekend instead. Michigan weekend is approximately three weeks into November. The fact that Joe Paterno has never won a game in Columbus, with more than several attempts is astonishing, given his legendary status for most wins by a college coach ever. Bobby Bowden is close though, and I cannot stand hm or his Florida State Seminole squad that continues to play a cake schedule year after year. Even though I would like to see Ohio State win (I am a Buckeye- OH...IO), if OSU is destined to not have a perfect ending to their season I would hope they take their loss this weekend. Losing to Penn State would be much easier to swallow than falling in defeat to Michigan. That is because I have so much respect for Joe Paterno as a person and wish him well, and I want to see him put Bowden in his place. Still, maybe it is a given since Ohio State is my Alma mater, GO BUCKEYES!

10/24/2008

Watching Grant mimic everything his older brother, Andrew, do is hilarious. Grant is like a mini Andrew in nearly every situation. It is kind of funny. Adults must be careful what they do or say though, because he mimics and repeats everything.
I am tired today since I was out and up late last night and early this morning. Sleeping is hard to get while knowing my nephews are here. Since they live in Cincinnati and I don't see them every day I feel it necessary to play with them.

10/24/2008

After going to Findlay tonight i became OfficeMax that we will not b going to the PSU at OSU game Saturday in Columbus. Instead I will be watching the game in Findlay with the guys. That leaves me feeling both good and bad. One one hand I will not get to hang with Heather from Bishop Hartley (or Jen), but that also means we may go to the Michigan finally (and Mike may g with Brian and I.) Maybe I'll meet up with Heather for that game? Who knows? James is going to be inFindlay Saturday, and it has been a while since I've seen him. I saw Ashley working at TKO's Sports Bar. She is awesome!

10/23/2008

My nephew Grant seems so determined to get his way. At times he may be labeled as stubborn, but he just likes things to be done his way. I can only hope that when he becomes more intelligent, older, and wiser that his perseverance stays constant. Memories from when I was two years old are nonexistent to me, except through a few pictures, but odds are that I was similar. Maintaining that stubborn like attitude will be critical towards Grant overcoming any obstacle hat stand in his way, overcoming any injury that may occur, or wing the big game. Everybody, in my opinion, should have that mentality to try at all costs. You cannot succeed if something is hard yet you do not even try. You may succeed I guess by luck, even the blind squirrel finds food (nut), but awaiting the improbable seems irresponsible. Those who say "I can" or "I can't" are usually right so you may as well try! If you fail yet tried your hardest... then I argue that you took the first step to success. Failure may be defined as the first step to success the next time. In sports losing is not only bad, but it can help you improve your game so you win your next game or match.

10/23/2008

Hauling some wood will be a part of this morning. This wood is not like getting most firewood, but it is significantly easy to do. You see my cousin Clint has to be out of his sold house by tomorrow (Friday), and he has some wood that has never been burned but is stacked along his shed. Clint will no longer have any use for it. Dad has to go to work today, but that is not until this afternoon. Therefore this morning Dad and I are going to go gather and transport it to our house. Lisa and the boys are going to take care of some errands today but will be back here this evening. Grant, the middle child, is so very cute. He talk now, and he takes after his uncle since he does a lot of it. His talk is much cuter than my dialect though. Grant talks like the little kid that he is. I think it is also magnificent to see his thought process.

10/22/2008

My Sister, Lisa, is coming home this afternoon, and my three nephews and Godsons, of course, will be with her. Andrew is in preschool, which I like to think is glorified baby sitting, a few partial days per week, and when he gets out early this afternoon they will head this way. I am anxious to see the rapid growth that they have done. Little kids seem to show their growth more so than do adults, and this will be a great time for me to bestow a positive influence. Rob will be doing some work on the house while the kids are not around, so he will not be making the trip this time.

10/22/2008

Work yesterday was slow, and I am not sure if volunteering should be considered work (but it is.) I guess I am volunteering at the same time certain employees do, and they do the same types of things as I do. Therefore volunteering can very well be classified as work. I met Abby again. Really it was the second time that I specifically talked to her, but ho is to judge when we officially met. She works in the cafe, and yesterday Abby was working in stir fry. That was the first time I tried stir fry at the hospital, and I must say it won't be the last. The stir fry was exceptional. After work I went to the Knights of Columbus meeting at my Church (St. Anthony's.) It was not a good night for cards, as I lost a couple of dollars, but it was fun. That is hard to believe that it was fun losing money, and it is more fun when you end up ahead, but as stated on an earlier post the winning or losing of money is not what makes playing solo so enjoyable for me. Cards is about the social aspect, and the people that you play with make or break the amount of fun had. I spoke with Dave last night, and we are possibly going on a trip to Columbus this weekend. He may be going with a group and I may go along. I am hoping to meet up with some Bishop Hartley employees.

10/21/2008

Today is a very busy day. As usual I volunteer at St. Rita's Medical Center today, but it starts getting hectic before that. Initially I must get my flu shot down in the volunteer office. It is not really necessary that I receive my flu vaccination today, as they are being offered at the hospital all week for volunteers, and I suppose I could choose another location on another day. However since I will go to St. Rita's today for volunteering anyway it seems logical to get my flu shot today. Some would argue that it would be more effective and last longer if I would wait a few weeks. But I feel better killing two birds with one stone (speaking hypothetically) is the best way to go. Rather than make an extra trip sometime, even though it would be local (it still takes gas), I may as well do it while I am already there. I then am scheduled to meet a friend, Jeff for lunch. He is a fun guy to be around. Then volunteering comes around. Helping others is something I take pride in, it gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and so volunteering is mandatory by my standards. I then have a K of C meeting. Somewhere in the whole day I hope to get in touch with Jim.

10/20/2008

I just spoke with Heather, who is the public relations and marketing guru (I forget her official title) at Bishop Hartley high school, a bit ago. I am really really excited about everything she had to say. Hopefully she can do some marketing for me and get me into some high schools in the Columbus area. I do not want to be a burden to her though. She seemed all happy to do this for me, and I think she really wants to help me out. People like Heather are great friends to have. Apparently she hangs around Jen on occasion. Jen is another employee at Bishop Hartley that I met, and hopefully we'll all be able to see each other this weekend in Columbus to watch the game. If I can manage a way down to C-bus we'll definitely have blast.

10/20/2008

It's Monday morning, and the back of my right leg really hurts. It feels like my calf muscles are inflamed, and it hurt all day yesterday, too. Odds are efficient stretching was not done after exercising on the elliptical Saturday early evening. I went to Brian's place Saturday to watch football (starting with the Ohio State game.) After the Buckeyes dominated and before we went to BW's it was cold in the basement, and so I ran a bit on the elliptical to give me a warm up. The problem was that I'm not familiar at all with taking a leisurely stroll, and I have not been used to taking a gentle approach to working out. Therefore a furious 15 minute workout was done, because I did not want to work up a sweat (since we were going out) 30 minutes was not done. My frantic pace gave me a good energy burst, and I warmed up rather efficiently. Afterwards stretching was even done, but apparently I did not do a thorough job. Now is when the biggest consequence is felt. It does not really matter, ad I'll just have to work through it. I will do a workout on the exercise bike later today. I think that will not use my calf muscles very much. Riding bicycle usually works your hamstrings more, I think (and hop:-). I'll be sure to take it easy.

10/19/2008

Tonight I went to a family gathering over at my aunt's place near Gilboa. It was interesting, as it always is when our family gets gets together. That statement is true regardless of whether I am talking about immediate or extended family. Let me be totally honest here. I just like being around people, but when the association is with family there is usually humor involved. Judy told me she had talked with Nate, who is a Sophomore at Bishop Hartley high school in Columbus. She said he said that he thought I did a very good speech last Wednesday. He thought the humor parts were fun to see.

10/19/2008

I went out in Findlay Saturday night, and I had a blast. I was the designated driver, and the fact that I choose not to drink alcohol because of the effects it has on my blood pressure medication make it an easy choice. Alcohol is way overrated anyways, and fun is not defendant on alcohol consumption.
I met Dean's girlfriend, Lisa, tonight, and she seemed like a quality individual. It is astonishing that such a great person would fall for Dean (I am only kidding:-). Dean is great guy. The weird thing is though that Dean's only brother is married to a Lisa and that is my sister's name.
I'm excited that Ohio State actually looked like a powerhouse team this afternoon against the Michigan State Spartans. Next week is Penn State, and then we will see if the Buckeyes are really any good.

10/18/2008

The Redskins ended up losing to The Delphos St. Johns Blue Jays last night, but I had much fun at the game. Seeing friends galore from both schools was exciting. Greg was even there with his two boys Alex and Jeffrey. Greg works with the EMS crew, and he is the spouse of my friend Melissa. We talked to her via cell phone, but she was not brave enough to go out in the cold. That is scary! She is in her mid thirties and the weather was not bad at all, and I am inching closer to 30 (ever so slowly though I'll add) and do not want to feel like that when I am her age. Greg along with the rest of the squad won the 50/50. It got divided amongst eight people I believe, but they each took home over $200. An interesting couple, from Indiana, and their daughter were also met. I met a lot of people, both old and new friends, last night. After the game I went back to the Legion in Columbus Grove and sat with Tom's crew. That made me feel right at home. Columbus Grove won their third game of the year last night by a score of 28-0, and I was not even there to see it in person. I was very happy to go to Delphos though,and it was a nail biter. The final score was 21-19, and both teams scored three touchdowns. The difference maker turned out to be the extra points.

10/17/2008

Just a quick note, but it is a significant one. I hear that Columbus Grove and Bishop Hartley square off in battle on the football field next year. That is just a rumor I heard yesterday, and I'll be sure to check into it. If that happens I hope that I can attend, because it would be nice to reconnect with friends made earlier this week.

10/17/2008

Tonight I am going over to Delphos to see St. Henry battle St. Johns in high school football. I have quite a few friends from St. Henry and many affiliated with St. Johns high school, but I'll ultimately be cheering for St. Henry. I'll wear Redskins paraphernalia and stand on the visitors side of the field. GO SKINS!!! Hey it is all in good nature high school competition fun. Some would say that is bantering, but it is just rivalry. I wish well to both teams and hope to see a good game.

10/17/2008

Brian now has cable...again... so last evening we shot billiards in his basement while watching football and baseball by flipping back and forth. Even after we were done playing pool we stayed down there, because his big screen television upstairs is broken. It is beyond repair, but I do not think that a new one is all that necessary. His basement is set up real nice, and Brian's television down there is plenty big. If I were in Brian's shoes I would not replace the enormous screen television upstairs, but he is his own person (like everyone is his or her own) and he'll make his own decision. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, and I just stated my two cents. Frugal is a good word to describe me, but Brian seems to be more free with his money. I would not trade shoes with anybody, because I love my life (it is meant to be this way.) Besides the other person may have athletes feet, or some type of foot fungus, so I would wanna wear their shoes...LOL! We were watching the ALCS (baseball) alternately with college football, and I left when the game was in the seventh inning, and Boston was trailing 7-0. I was astonished to see that they came back to win 8-7. Boston still trailing 3-2 in the series, but who knows what may happen. Being a sports enthusiast makes even baseball (which can be slow moving at times) exciting.

10/16/2008

I know it is Thursday, but I just thought of something from Tuesday that I wanted to share. As I was volunteering at St. Rita's and was helping a random lady find her way around the hospital, and she told me it was nice that I did not let my disabilities stop me from helping others. She was talking down to me like I was mentally challenged. Every so often I get that. People that do not know me nor have ever held a conversation with me mistake my cognitive and physical abilities. It is accepted and something I do not get all bent out of shape about. I love my life and God let that unfortunate car accident happen a little less than 11 years ago, but He also gave me the determination to get through it all. My life is destined to be this way, and I love my life not wishing to switch life position with anyone. His ways are ALWAYS best. Normally I jump in and correct people like the lady Tuesday, but I was busy and let her go on thinking I was challenged. Focused on getting my message out there to different groups The front desk was swamped, busy was the scenario, and landing a speaking gig had already been tried moments earlier. Anyways I was saving my voice for Bishop Hartley on Wednesday. That just paints the picture of when I am in places where a mass array of new people (ones that do not know or have not met me) are.

10/15/2008

My time spent at Bishop Hartley today was rewarding, and besides being rewarded with the opportunity to impact lives through speaking I made new friends also. And contacts were made for future presentations as well. I finally got to meet Stefanie (the guidance counselor who initially contacted me in regards to speaking there.) She was awesome, and I hope we can make this a yearly happening. Meeting her was only the tip of the iceberg as far as meeting new people, old friends, and those who may be beneficial in my speaking adventures. I also met Heather, hopefully that can be a lasting friendship, and she is employed by the school. I'll also mention just one more school employee, even though there were many (but I do not want to forget one), and that would be Randy... also known as coach Randy. He is affiliated with the basketball program, and it is no surprise that I hope to help him in the future. Unfortunately other duties prevented him from making it to my speech. Finally I saw Jerry and Doug in the presentation room at one point or another. The former I met up in Huron in the beginning of September while the latter is the son of a principal of St. Henry high school. Oh and I must not forget to mention Holly and her boyfriend. She is helping me with my autobiography, and I am very happy and very appreciative that she took time out of her busy schedule to see what I do. All other people who were a part of my day but not mentioned here (you know who you are) thank you! My parents are awesome people, and a big thanks to them for their help and support.

10/15/2008

I went to bed early yesterday evening, both because I was tired from the hospital yesterday and I wanted to get a good night of rest before I go to speak in Columbus, but I should have known that sleep is not really a commonality when it comes to my world. And to make things worse I am really excited about today's events. Whenever I'm scheduled to speak in the next day, or do something big and exciting, my resting time is reduced from five hours to merely three or four hours, and last night was no different from that standpoint. I did not plan on writing much on here today, as explained yesterday, but what is a guy supposed to do! I laid in bed fully awake for nearly and hour, and the apprehension about not being rested enough to perform well only builds. So I figured I will just get up and type to possibly alleviate the feeling and hopefully get a few more hours of sleep. Matters are not helped, and sleep is not made easier, recollecting about the awesomeness of my friend Abbey, whom I met this weekend over near Indianapolis at my cousin's wedding. It bugs me to no end that I do not know how she spells her name. Even though she now lives in Chicago, I cannot get over how fascinating her demeanor was to me. I have never met someone who was so easy to talk to and had it all. I'm getting a bit sleepy again, and hopefully sleep will soon follow. If not no need to worry, because I've played this game a few times before (goodnight!! :-)

10/14/2008

Its Tuesday and I am at the medical center. After I agreed to help Chad , the new Columbus Grove girls basketball team's head coach, with some stats it threw a wrinkle in my volunteer schedule for a few weeks in December. I took the initiative to try getting my hours adjusted for those weeks. Mark will get back to me on the adjustment. I wanted to attempt switching early that way I will still be able to volunteer on those days. Volunteering at Saint Rita's hospital is something that I enjoy doing.
On another note I am speaking at Columbus Bishop Hartley , and due to the early departure time I will not have much of a chance to write on this tomorrow. The same lack of typing time will likely exist tonight also, as I make final preparations and hit the sack early. I need to be well rested so I can give an excellent presentation to these students.
I got refills on my blood pressure medication today. Having a Walgreen pharmacy right here, on the first floor of the hospital, is very convenient for me. Since I am here every Tuesday it saves a trip to town.

10/13/2008

I love hot food. I am talking about spices that are hot. However I am a wimp when it comes to extreme warm/hot liquids or foods. My mom on the other hand is accustomed to drinking near boiling water. I take after my dad on most things, but I like to get up and talk in front of many people. That trait I get from mom. Although even Mom does not like to talk in front of everybody always so I guess that is something I picked up on myself. Sorry about sidetracking here... back to spicy foods. Neither Mom nor Dad are very affluent with extremely spicy foods, and when salsa is used in any food around home it is always the mild variety. Like tonight we had fajitas with a mild zing to them. Although I would much rather have hot sauce, Mexican foods are still my favorite. When I make it to a restaurant on the weekend I prefer a hot sauce. When I am ordering food I always chicken out on going for the hottest sauce, but I usually go for 1 step down.

10/13/2008

I have a busy week starting tomorrow (Tuesday). Today is Monday though, and it is not typical beginning of the week at all. We decided to rent the rug doctor from up town to steam clean our carpet in various rooms in our home, including the basement.It usually gets done one day a year(1/365 is not a very good probability.) And the year we redid the living room and got new carpet we did not steam it. Dad always runs the machine, and I am a good person to help move furniture around. Every year since I have been around we have moved the couch, chairs, and end tables into the kitchen for a couple of days while the carpet dries. This year we left the sofa and love seat. I think this is third different sofa and chairs set that we have been through in my day, and I am not sure whether we change a lot or it's a sign that I am getting old. I think it must be the former, because I just met an intriguing woman this weekend and we are both in our 20's, and she did not seem old at all. I really do not feel old either, because I am not, but I have endured much these last ten years.

10/12/2008

WOW last night was exciting. Of course it was fun seeing many relatives, from my mom's side, that I do not come in contact with near as frequently as the Schroeder side of the family, and it was great o see my cousin Chad get married to Bethany. It seems like they are such a good match for each other. Even though Chad informed me long ago that I would know most most of the people at the wedding, and the reception would be filled with people that I am related to, it was quite the opposite. At the reception hall is where I met possibly the nicest, prettiest, and most interesting person that I ever did meet. Her name is Abbie (SP?-- could be Abbey, Abby, or something else?), and she is friend of Bethany. She was very nice, and she did not seem taken aback by my dialect at all (although I am, but I am also one who likes to be critical of myself, constantly seeking improvement.) I'll be honest with you, it was her physical beauty that first caught my eye, but after getting to know her a little bit it became clear that her beauty was much deeper than her appearance. She lives and works in Chicago, although her hometown is Indianapolis, and I am yet intrigued from meeting her. I also met her father, Ace, who was given my contact info, also, and I really hope to have contact with them later. However, since Chad told me I would not be meeting new people I did not have my business cards with me, but contact info was scribbled on a napkin for each. I enjoy every opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and network, but last night was simply awesome. I was shocked to see a friend, Stephanie, who is the daughter of my former coworker, Bob. She is apparently dating one of my cousin Chad's friends.

10/11/2008

Last night was very interesting as far as not having plans before getting a bight to eat. I had a chicken sub from Pizza 101. Now their pizza does not compare to the quality of the Pizzeria, but their deal on submarine sandwiches is excellent. Pizza 101 has larger subs with more toppings, and on Thursdays they even have any sub for $4.00. Erica and Ella work there, and they are seniors who will be key components on the basketball team this winter. Speaking of basketball, I hung out with Chad last night, and he is going to be the new varsity girls head coach this year. He asked me if I would keep stats for him this year, because analyzing stats is what he is big on. Chad knows of my understanding of the game of basketball and feels I would be of great benefit.

10/10/2008

Tonight I am planning on hanging out around Columbus Grove, because I am going to Indiana tomorrow for my cousin's wedding. So tomorrow or Sunday I will likely write little on here. That starts off a busy week with a number of notable events.

10/10/2008

Unbelievable that is what last night was, because I went out in Findlay and met a ton of cool people. First I met Candice at Ralphies bar and grill. That is a fabulous restaurant, and their chicken chunks are to die for. I know the slogan is a famous candy slogan, but it applies to Ralphies food too: I bet you can't just eat one (chicken chunk that is)! When mixed or topped with your favorite choice of items they are to die for. You can get a large or regular order, and honestly they make Ralphies my new favorite place to eat. I may have been extremely hungry, but I do not think that made a difference. I plan on hanging out with Candice next Saturday evening. I also met Susan (Susie- oh my Susie Q) and Rachel at Uncle Buck's bar. They were awesome people to meet. Susie and I teamed up for a game of cornhole, which we nearly won against Brian and Ryan. Being honest I ripped it up and dramatically improved from last week's debacle. Susie and I also tore up the Karaoke stage,together with Susie, later, and we sang "I got You Babe," by Sonny and Cher.! It is classic. Todd (the soup man) was also a very cool fellow, whom Brian took to his house which was right on the way (actually it was on our left:-) back to Brian's house. Later ladies and gents...

10/9/2008

Well... I am at Brian's place waiting for the cable people to come. My doctor's appointment went well. My blood pressure was 120/70, which is normal. The bad part about the visit was that the doctor was about an hour late seeing me. I had to sit in a freezing col exam room with ants and my undershirt, no sweatshirt or jacket, for nearly 40 before the doctor showed up. It was ridiculous!!!!

10/9/2008

Normally sleep, for me, only comes in five hour spurts, but last night happened o be different. Different is good by most counts, as I'm sure you've heard the popular saying that different s good, and I am in agreement with that statement. The key word here is MOST. That implies that there are exceptions to the rule. I did sleep six hours last night, but the bigger difference is that Fairpoint Internet and cable services stopped working around midnight. Whether that is correlated with more sleep or not I do not know, but we have had many problems with that cable company lately. I am particularly excited about going to Brian's house around noon today. It is not an unfamiliar happening that I drive to Findlay for something, and I do not have a definition, or reason, for why I feel like that. Oh well we'll just see how it plays out. One thing I do know for sure is if there is a college football game tonight it will be seen by us. The last two weeks on Thursday evening I did drive to Findlay anyway, and since I'm going to be there all afternoon already going out is a given. I am usually Brian's designated driver, because I don't drink beer anymore (with my blood pressure conundrum.) That reminds me I have a Dr. appointment this morning so it is time to get cleaned up. Laters...

10/8/2008

My friend Wayne is not very reliable or dependable. Even when he worked at The Ohio State University he always had things in a disarray. When he says we are going to do lunch next Thursday I do not necessarily believe that until it actually happens. Is that fair? Wayne is not someone I would trust to do any important task for me. I don't know if the reason he no longer works at the Lima branch campus had anything to do with his irresponsibility or not. I would guess that it does, but that is all it would be, a guess.
In other news I spoke with Michelle that I met at the retreat in Huron, but she will cal again this weekend.
Tomorrow I have a Dr. appointment regarding my blood pressure at 9:30, in Lima. Dad will likely go to that with me. And afterwords I'm heading to Brian's house in Findlay, because somebody is going to show up there to work on his cable while Brian is at work. I'm sure we'll grab some dinner and watch some Thursday night college football, while I am in Findlay. I do not want to drive to Findlay only to house sit, and I know that I won't be heading that way this weekend.

10/8/2008

I practiced and prepared information today, for my speech that I am giving next Wednesday, Oct. 15. I mainly just tested my slide show to see if it works which it did, and made sure my backups work too. I'm ready to go.
Today a former counselor at college, Wayne, is coming and we're getting lunch somewhere.

10/7/2008

One presidential debate left, but we'll have to hear both sides do a little more telling falsehoods. The media will be full force for another month. Insane!!!

10/7/2008

I met some very interesting people in the cafe at the hospital today. I actually spoke with an author guy today by chance. He was having lunch with Walt, who is one member of hospital administration. I like to talk and Walt knows that, but I first asked Walt if it would be okay if I said a few words. He obliged, so I started to talk. It turns out that this guy, John, is a specialist in Custom Publishing and Content Marketing, and that plays well into my hands. Especially after I spoke with Holly this morning. She is going to be working on her thesis fairly hardcore until mid March, which is great, but that means helping me will take the backseat currently. She will start working with me in March. I am happy for that, because I do not want to interfere with her graduate program. Jennifer and Abbie (SP?) are two more people I met today. Life here at St. Rita's is awesome, because networking is something I love to do.
I also spoke via email with Mr. Wilson today, and he confirmed me as a speaker to Wayne Trace high school this spring time. I've got so much pulling in my favor right now, and it is great. Jennifer seems initially like the nicest person that I have ever met. Abbie is nearing Justin in her ability to prepare my sandwiches at the hospital... in the cafe. We'll see how she does next week, and just maybe if she keeps producing she'll reach that number one slot.

10/7/2008

Adrian Peterson did not perform exceptionally well for my team last night, and his efforts of scoring points for my fantasy football squad would be considered poor. Oh well, I was on a bye week. it did not make a huge difference, but I would have liked to maintain a solid points lead.
Today is a busy day. I volunteer at St. Rita's today, but this evening I have a Knights of Columbus meeting in the church basement. You know what that means... I will probably have an opportunity to partake in solo, which is a card game. Hopefully I win a few bucks. I do not play cards for high stakes. It is more of a social time, and we leave the high stakes gambling to Las Vegas patrons.

10/6/2008

The blood drive was a huge success. Even though my Iron in my blood registered too low again to give, I saw a number of people that I knew already but had not seen for awhile. First I saw Chris, whom I haven't seen since the last blood drive. I also saw Beth . She was in my classes at The Ohio State University. The last time I saw her she was pregnant. At that time I gave her a big stuffed teddy bear for a baby gift. She told me today that her daughter loves it and always sleeps with it. I also saw my friend, Len's father in-law, and he had not been seen since the wedding. Also I talked to several Kalida high school seniors who were there. I actually spoke to them when they were grade seven.
Tonight is Monday night football, and I'm excited since possibly the most accredited athlete playing, Adrian Peterson, is starting for my fantasy team. With that said I would be happy if he just tore it up tonight. The cool part is hr plays for the Minnesota Vikings, and I like to see them do well. The Cincinnati Bengals are my favorite team and they seem to get outperformed each and every week. There has not been a whole lot to cheer about with Cincinnati or Minnesota, have just one victory between them, but I am a loyal fan. Therefore, I am always proud to be a Bengals fan even though more often than not they are not very good. I may as well weather the storm (rough years) with hopes of a good season to come!

10/6/2008

I am going to give blood today in Kalida. That's a town about six miles from Columbus Grove heading West. Last time I went there to give blood I was turned away, because the iron level in my blood was too low. At least I think that is what it was. Regardless, it was the thought that counts.
I was going to haul Gerry, who volunteers on Tuesday's with me at St. Rita's Medical Center, to get his car worked on in Glandorf. I was going was going to watch Monday Night Football at his place and go to do my volunteer hours at the hospital on Tuesday. However, unfortunately he canceled the whole deal on me this week, and it was going to be fun. Oh well, hopefully another week real soon he will feel up to it.

10/5/2008

I went to cousin Mark's house to watch football. Of course it is more than watching football... it's social time!

10/5/2008

I hope to talk to two influential people in my life today. I hope to speak with Michelle from Connecticut about speaking. I also hope to talk with Holly who is helping with my book. Actually getting a book out there is good publicity for my speaking career. I just hope we get that book finished before it's time to push my speech for next year.Having a book would naturally increasse the number of presentations I'm allowed to deliver.

10/5/2008

We watched the game at the Landing Pad last night. They have good food, and the service is significantly better under new ownership. The restaurant used to be called Wings and Things, and the food orders took forever to receive. I do not know who the new management is, but they are more friendly and make me feel welcome in the establishment. Today is a day filled with NFL football.

10/5/2008

I am going to early Mass today, as I do most weeks. Last night was successful, the buckeyes won in Madison against Wisconsin, and it was Jim Tressel's 20 some consecutive Big 10 regular season away game win. That alone is a nice size feat. Ironically, I was at their last regular season Big 10 road loss, and that was the game in Happy Valley, PA against Penn State three years ago. It is a trip that will never be forgotten, but not because of the outcome! I've got to run...later...

10/4/2008

I am going to Findlay to watch the game with Brian and Mike this afternoon. By the game I mean Ohio State at Wisconson, and kickoff from Madison is not until this evening.
I rode the bike for about 30 minutes this morning, and I do not mean leisurely ride, because as you know I cannot go easy when it comes to aerobic workouts.

10/4/2008

I got my solid five hours of sleep last night, which is becoming rather routine for me. Last night was different though. Different is when I have very vivid dreams. I think it all stems from my accident, as that was a changing milestone in my life, and the detailed dreams have only occurred twice before last night. The first dream I had: I was laying in my bed and my cousins and friends, Mark and Christine who did in fact visit me often after my accident, were standing at the foot of my bed talking to each other and pointing at me. I first try waving at them with my left then right hand, then try making a verbal hello to them, but all attempts at communication failed. I honestly tried moving my hands and I cannot. That was a freaky feeling. Secondly, years later comes dream number two: I was driving a car, I had no recognition of where I was besides behind the steering wheel, and I just see this pole coming at m. I try everything to try to escape collision, but as I was running out of options I just duck my head and cringe to lessen the impact effects. I woke up before ever making contact with the pole. After both of these first two dreams (similarly to last night's dream) I awoke in a frantic ad worried state of mind, sweating profusely, and I was all worked up. It takes a few seconds to realize it was merely a dream. My dream last night: I am just lying there and I feel this excruciating pain in my left thigh bone (femur), and as I was waking and jumping out of bed I could still feel the extreme soreness in my upper leg. As I was rapidly going to open my bedroom door and call for help I realized it was just a dream, and I needed to use the restroom anyways. All three of these dreams are believed to be a direct result from my accident, but since all three of them occurred just one time in the last ten years, they are not really that much of a problem. But maybe I have more of them that I am unaware of, because maybe that contributes to my inability to get a sound and restful evening of sleep.

10/3/2008

I went to visit at my Uncle's tonight, and it is always interesting to hear what the people from a generation above me think about certain situations. It is possibly the only venue I am ever at where I do not do much talking, being with a group of my dad's siblings. Even though I tend to agree with most of the discussion. I feel odd about leading a conversation with my superiors. You know me though, I put my own two cents in once in awhile.
Columbus Grove's football team added another loss to their dismal season. It was an expected loss as they played Delphos Jefferson and they're undefeated. Jefferson is one of the best teams in the area. Grove has a rather poor team when it is compared to most teams from the past decade. I'm looking forward to basketball season. That's usually the case with me though, even when Columbus Grove has very much success in football.

10/3/2008

Vice presidential debates are not much different than presidential ones. Last night Palin and Biden squared off in their first debate. It was a battle of Republican an Democrat parties, respectively. I will not address my opinions on who will be my vote to hold the executive office on this blog. All I will say is that neither party van be believed. That's politics though. Politician will say whatever they deem necessary to get votes. It does not make a whole lot of sense to get all worked up over the presidency, because I will only have one vote in November. Its not right for me to campaign for any particular candidate, because somebody might get offended. Everyone of voting age has the right to vote for whomever they want, and if they are well informed that is exactly what they should do. The situation tastes sour when a non voter complains about the person holding office. If no vote is cast you have no right to defame the one elected. I would campaign only if I was running for public office, an some day I will probably do that. I'm not talking about nationally, because I do not want to experience what politicians must go through. But some day I will hopefully run for a local position in my ton or county. I do like to meet people and talk in front of groups. I like to be one who helps others, but I want to do things the right way and not be so pressurized by party affiliations to get votes.

10/2/2008

Thursday evening was the night of the big NWC volleyball match between CG and LCC. The game was in Columbus Grove and it was the fullest I have seen the Columbus Grove gym in awhile. I do not think it was a sellout but seating was scarce. The match between Lima Central Catholic had both teams raise money to help raise awareness and to fight breast cancer. Both teams put a solid effort toward fighting cancer by raising significant funds. The Bulldogs sold more volleyballs, but the T-birds won the match rather convincingly (taking 3 of 4 games.) Ultimately both teams experienced great success by fighting cancer. They volleyed for a cure.
Before I went to the game I ate up at pizza 101 where I saw Todd, the CG boys high school basketball coach, and his family. They live in Ottoville but came to Grove toe eat before they went to he battle of two undefeated volleyball teams. I got to meet his wife, Carla, daughter, Becka, and son, but I forget his name. His daughter is four years old, and the son looks to be almost two. They were very cute! The best part about meeting him was that he told me I would likely have a chance to speak to the boys' team in November... before the season commences. Details about the talk and a date were not yet figured out, but the planning excites me. I am a sports enthusiast, as you know, but high school basketball is the greatest to me. Someday I would like to coach.

10/2/2008

Some things just puzzle me. Granted they puzzle me because I want to know everything. Like for instance I always like to know names of people I meet. I think it is some sort of sickness I have. Most people I know go through a regular day not knowing somebodies name, and they just let time pass not knowing. Imagine we are in a restaurant, or something, my friends can nonchalantly let time pass without knowing anything about the people who are seated next to yo. Or say you are at Cedar Point, or the like, and you are waiting in line for some ride for a while. The line snakes back and forth for a while, and the same people are seen after each turn. Oppositely of the person or people I am with I feel the need to learn names. The same goes for people that I meet everyday, no matter where I go. I feel knowing everybody is important, and it probably is not. The problem is, that even though I get complimented frequently for knowing every ones' name, the truth is that I forget often. Information overload! What am I getting at? I think because I want to know all about everyone and everything that plays a role in my life (irrelevant to whether it is a significant or an insignificant one), I do not sleep very long at one time. Like last night I didn't hit the sack until after midnight, but I am up bright eyed and bushy tail by 5:30. I am always concerned with happening in my life and the people that I know. It aggravates me to no end how people can sleep in to late hours of the morning. I am really not angry or mad at them, its more a jealousy thing, and I wish, at times, I could experience such a deep relaxation for so long. Oh well...

10/1/2008

Today I helped with the drilling of wheat in our field. We do not really own that much land (app. 45 acres between dad and his brother), and it is more or less a recreational hobby that they both enjoy. A bystander could easily tell that they are not farming to make a living by the use of old farm equipment and tractors.

10/1/2008

September is of 2008 is over and done with. There are many games (all levels) and situations (in my life) that could have gone the other way and maybe turned out bright. There are some happening or life situations that turned out excellent. Either way, bad or good results, I am happy with my life. I may even miss some of the negative aspects of life or overlooked them, but I am usually fully aware of what happens in my life. However occasionally the bad may slip through the cracks of awareness, because I am so focused on optimism that the dim becomes transparent or invisible. The bad situations or things in my life, although a few are not seen, are viewed as learning experiences. Mistakes or mishaps are do not necessarily have bad outcomes, but approaching the right way can be beneficial. Using your mistakes as learning experiences can lead to a more prominent future than if the mishaps had never occurred. Many things can be paralleled to sports, and it is my opinion that playing or staying very interested in sports can be abundantly rewarding. It does not matter whether or not you win the game that reflects on your life but whether you grow as a person. It seems kind of cliche but is true. Take for example Ohio State's big loss to USC last month. It could end their season, but with the right mindset it can make them a better team. Just like Todd, OSU's former starting quarterback, can turn losing his job to a talented freshman to be even more successful. Everything can be good, and I urge you to be more positive. Do not dwell on misfortunes or success from yesterday. Do not ignore them but learn from yesterday's happenings. The past is over and done with. You can make giant strides of improvement in your life by focusing on the now!