I have finally started!

First thing to be written is the latest to happen. For years I have been contemplating digitally scanning all my journal entries and keeping them stored that way as well as the physical copy I have. So this morning, a day in which I will have no class due to student advisement for course selection for next semester, I began to do just that. I scanned in nearly two years of entries, though I was hardly journaling over those two years, and I also scanned in the inserts (sometimes I write on little sheets of paper and put those in my journal) all the way up to March 4th, 2013. For me, properly using technology in and of itself is quite an accomplishment. As I was finishing up for the day, an elderly man came over and asked if I was using the scanner. Immediately feeling insecure for inconveniencing someone else, I told him I was just finishing up. He said not to worry, and we ended up chatting for about 15 minutes about how school (he is a retired Doc, and studying a Masters of Theology here at SNC) and life and the future. It was really interesting.
My second story involves my Christianity and Cultural Diversity class. We were in the process of discussing revelation, and truth. Prof. Brecht reiterated the teachings of a theologian stating that if we accept something as revelation, we must also accept it is true. She expounded saying that in order to accept a revelation, we must therefore live it. Using me as an example to illustrate observation versus experience, she said that she knew me; my name, that I am open, intelligent, friendly and a Mormon. Sitting there in my purple suspenders and bow tie and Calvin Klein shirt, I gently waved from my back corner of the class room as people turned to look at me. She then stated that, even knowing that, she really doesn't understand me at all; what are my deepest hopes, fears, and dreams? What was I like as a child? How do I get along with my girlfriend? It was this last statement, that caused me to burst out a partially stifled laugh. Prof. Brecht looked up at me and asked "Is there something inherently wrong about that question?" I responded, as thoughts of how often my mom makes fun of how remarkably single I have been for nearly three years, while crossing my legs and gently waving my hand like a Jane Austin character attempting to 'poo-poo' a subject "Yes, but don't worry about it." Less than a second later, I realized the absolute femininity of my response, at which point I turned to my fraternity brother sitting next to me and whispered, complete with unintended lisping and a higher than normal octave "Oh my gosh, I think she thinks I'm gay now!" I had a pretty dang good laugh about it for the rest of the day. It was a really fun way to start my day!
Continuing along the lines of fun Professor stories, my Econ Professor, and my adviser, was writing up on the board regarding how theory and application of international trade do not always (and actually hardly ever) reflect each other. He wrote "increasing tariffs can like start a tariff war." The entire class, as they copied the words into their notes, started to laugh. I read the sentence out loud in a complete Valley Girl voice, and Marc, a French born German immigrant, started laughing along with us. He continued the lesson, and even used an example. He turned to a starting defensive lineman for the St. Norbert football team and said "If I slap Dan in the face, what would he do" Without skipping a beat, I responded "Kill you." Dan just leaned back in his chair with a smile as the class again broke out laughing. It may have been the most fun I have had in a class.
My workouts continue to progress. Just the other day, my cousin joined us, and the workout was tough enough that a) he puked (SCORE!!!) b) he asked me the next day if he should be so sore that he can't move c) I was sore. This is new for me. I am consistently sore following these workouts, and I do not know why. Although, I did increase my three rep max on Squat from 185lbs to 275lbs over a week... probably simply because I haven't done squat since 2009. Oh well, big PR for me! Also, the sprints are kinda fun, but definitely challenging.
Oh, since it is advisement day, I think I should probably talk about class selection. Firstly, I hate the Gen Ed Program. It is sooooooo freakin' upsetting! Second, continuing with Gen Eds, I hate having to take a science lab. Most people get this done in their freshman, maybe sophomore year. I am finishing it my very last semester of college.Which brings up point C... point Three.. point Thirdly?... anyway, I have been able to efficiently plan my course studies to allow me to graduate following my standard 8 semesters of collegiate studies. These semesters included an over abundance of near useless classes, including some overdose of social science classes and three gym classes. But, baring any failures, I will have a degree in hand come the end of May. Boom sticks!!!
Now, to throw in my football section, for some bad news. The Mariners fell at home to the Untouchables on Saturday. The officiating was absolutely horrendous. The two biggest calls were for a touchdown for the Untouchables where the receiver obviously pushed off, AND only had one foot come down in bounds, but they called it a TD. Second, following an INT overturned by penalty, after using the WR screen effectively most of the game, out DB broke perfectly on the play, picked the ball off, and ran it in for a TD. As he was running down, a flag came out. They called illegal hands to the face, gave the ball back and gave them 15 yards. No one even knows who the call was against. Oh, well, on to next season.
BYU beat Boise state, too. That looked like a dang good game! And in less than two weeks, BYU at Madison. I can't wait to go to Camp Randall!!
Also, ENDER'S GAME COMES OUT THIS WEEK!!!!!! OMIGOSH OMIGOSH OMIGOSH!!!!!!
And on that overly subdued note, good day to you all.

Picture time? But my hair is a mess!

This past Monday, a member of the St. Norbert College Admissions office came charging into the cafeteria, and announced to the entire area that I was in "Everyone of you, get down to the river now. We are taking photos for school publications!" I looked at Alex deadpan and said "But my hair is a mess!" Well, he pleaded again before rushing off, and I decided to go along, so I ran some water over my mop of hair, ran my fingers through it, and headed to the river. It was fun, but also really awkward. I was walking around campus with people I hadn't met before with a man yelling "Laugh more! Have fun! Be more animated! Go back and do it again!" in a firm yet friendly tone.
In more important news, the Manitowoc County Mariners won the Central Division Title, and earned a first round bye following a 42-0 win over the DC Braves. We will take on the Untouchables out of West Bend at home (in Two Rivers) Saturday, October 26th, with the winner advancing to the League Championship game! I am so excited for this! The last game we had against the Untouchables was also the last one we lost. Since then, our offense has begun to click, our running game has really gotten going, and our defense has been dominant! Since giving up 35 points in our first 2 games, they have only allowed 44 in the last 7, and scored 8 touchdowns themselves, and the special teams has added 3 touchdowns of their own. I am really excited for this match up!
I recently started working my way through the complete works of Jane Austen. I read Pride and Prejudice at the beginning of the year, but after watching the Jane Austen Book Club (which I absolutely loved!!!!), I decided to read the rest. I am currently working my way through Persuasion, and it is wonderful. I love her characters!
I am also working out on a more regular basis thanks to the White Russian, Maksim. We work out three nights a week, and we are working on getting more guys to join us. I need to start some sprint workouts, though, because I really don't feel as fast as I used to be.
Hrmmmm, what else? Go Pack go! On Wisconsin! Go BYU!
Ta-Ta!

Dunno what THAT was about!

So just now I tried to log into my profile, and Google told me I didn't have access. Confused, I entered the web address again, and I was directed to a site titled "Mega site of bible studies & information." No freaking clue how I got directed there.
Anyway; I lied. I am so not back in my groove. I am falling asleep while reading again, which is bad, because  I have a LOT to read, so I really need my eyes open. Football practice was moved, so my Wednesday night is changed completely. My Professor for my 6-8 class just changed up the time on me, and now I can consider going to Zumba (I haven't done Zumba in FAR too long). Right now I am rather out of sorts.
Here is the good news; the sunrises have been spectacular! This morning, I woke up a minute before my alarm, slowly got out of bed, and turned my alarm off once it buzzed. Wondering what the weather was like, I took a peek out my window, and was instantly awake. The air was dark, shadowed and only slightly misty, but the sky over Old St. Joe's Church was a beautiful tapestry of light, coral pink, fading from east to west. I eagerly jumped into the hall to look out the east facing window, and there was the Fox, restful and serene in the shadow of the trees. The sky was gold and red above the foliage, and a small group of clouds broke the light into radiant beams as the sun crept up, and over the woods.
It has been like that almost every day this week; light of thick gold blanketing the fresh fallen leaves, thin mists that are imperceptible under 100 yards, but hang in a ghostly veil on the distant buildings, and such quiet. Walking through campus just before the red orb of the sun peeps over the leaves is such a calming and meditative experience. I have really loved and enjoyed the last week of mornings.
And on that note, it is time to read for one of my classes again... and hope I don't fall asleep.

The Emperor's New Groove

So I am easing back into this whole school thing, and I think I am assimilating myself quite well. And no, I do not consider myself an Emperor... I am simply a Lord.
I got a 96 on my first Econ test in 2 and a half years, and my History Professor conceded a debate to me before I even opened my mouth (but I won with my argument anyway, stating the US did not win the Cold War). I have gotten used to take home tests, something that I don't think I had ever had before. I am getting in a good amount of reading, bouncing between the Book of Mormon and The Miracle of Forgiveness (which has turned out to be an all around awesome book, and I have quoted from both in my Comparative Religions class). I have a new work out partner for at least 2 nights a week, a breakfast buddy, and am starting 6am work outs with some friends Tuesday and Thursday mornings. I am branching out socially, and meeting new people... real ones, even! I have been streaming Suits through USA Network and Sleepy Hollow from Fox. My football team is 6-2 after a 40-17 victory this weekend (the offense finally put up more than 21 points, tacking on 33 with a defensive fumble recovery for a touchdown). I am eating healthier than I was this summer (turns out that cottage cheese is a pretty good substitute for salad dressing. I eat about 15 such salads a week). I've lost 10 pounds this year. The terrible blisters in my feet are almost wholly healed. I attended church in Beloit, then Stake Conference in Green Bay (new Stake President), and then was back in Sheboygan in consecutive weeks. I have had fun conversations with friends about haircuts, babies, cars, fantasy football, real football, running, and relationships. My car battery died, and after getting a jump the car works a little better (Bam-Bam now dings at me to let me know that my door is open. Fancy that). I watched Atlantis and some of the characters reminded me of a couple friends (hope no one is offended). I was compared to Clark Kent, and then Jerry Seinfeld at a dance. I have found a new person to quote random movie lines with :) I just now found out that the school library does not have any Nicholas Sparks books in their inventory :( I met two freshman who don't watch movies or read >:( I dreamed I got locked out of my room >:() 
To make a long story short (too late), I think life is going pretty darn well as of late.

The Football Fantasy

I'm afraid I may be that guy. I am trying to view every game through the minute statistics that govern the games that millions of Americans play every week. Fantasy football has driven our culture to think it is a failure for a QB to throw for fewer than 300 yards and 3 TDs because we wont get the 30 points we're hoping for. If a running back cruises for 98 yards, we throw a fit because we need the bonus points for those next 2 yards putting them over 100. I am currently sitting in front of a computer hoping that Vernon Davis gets at least 15.93 points more than Russell Wilson (who I am also trying to trade for) while bemoaning Trent Richardson getting less than 8 points the same weekend my opponent had three pass catchers combine for a smidge over 83 points. Do I need to get angry? Do I have any control over this? Nope. Do I need to get angry that the Packers middle of the field is horrible porous? Can't do anything about it, so why get angry? Can I learn to catch a football better? YES! Can I stretch my hamstrings so they stop giving me fits, develop the quad muscles needed for quick start-stop explosive power? Indeed I can. Can I I work on developing quicker feet, leading to faster physical reaction to a hole in the defensive line? Absolutely. And yet, I continue to sit, changing tabs every minute or so hoping that by keeping myself locked into the game, I will somehow help bring my team victory. I have no impact on their lives, though. I do have a book to read, though. Five actually (I am adding Atlas Shrugged to the list because I want to read it after the conclusion of my research paper). And a couple text books and articles on the Cold War. That impacts my life. Let's give that a try. So here is the deal. I am posting this blog, then closing out of my fantasy tab, walking away from the computer, and spending the night reading.

Research and Running

I have found that it is very difficult to read a book while running. I did it on my first cross country course my freshman year of high school, but I can't think of a specific time since then. For that matter, it is rather difficult to read most anything while exhausting oneself by way of a sweat pouring workout. This is not good news for the masses of former high school standout athletes who are no longer a part of well structured and organized teams. They are now in charge of their own personal scheduling, and for the large portion of this group that goes to college, school work is more pressing than getting in the 20 minutes in the gym. And, let's face it, school work isn't very high on the list either. For me, I was very slack in getting in my work outs my first two weeks being back at college. This was particularly bad news given that I had signed up for a Tough Mudder to take place at the end of the second week of classes. I am pleased to announce that it was a rousing success, as far as I am concerned, and very much so look forward to doing more in the future. However, I noticed significant degradation in a number of measurable categories of fitness. So what can be done about the lack of time most people seem to feel they have?
I for one was left to choose between reading the text books for my class discussions, compiling a research bibliography, reviewing economics journals, deciphering the theological rants of staunch Jews and Christians, and reviewing the course syllabus for a new instructor and giving my advice on the challenges and strong points of the layout of the class versus trying to find a convenient time and place to soak the floor in sweat. By doing the former, I get to spend more time on the ever distracting internet. I get to stream Gaelic Storm via youtube. I get to check my fantasy teams and update my monotonous life on facebook and blogspot. I can hop over to the little 'bistro' they have in the library and get my snack on. The options seem much more varied by going to 'study' as opposed to going to work out.
The best solution I have found is a workout based around breakfast. For me, I do not have motivation to get up until 7 am because the cafeteria doesn't open up until 715. However, when I have someone to workout with, my determination to rise early increases substantially. And then it simply depends on your desires; strength gain? 3x3-5 on the bench (or variations thereof) and the same on the deadlift. Total workout is 25 minutes. For more toning and weight loss, a 3 set circuit working predominantly with kettlebells and dumbbells. Focusing solely on cardio? Bike sprints (30secs sprint, 90 seconds relaxed pace. 8 reps), or treadmill tabata (9-11mph, 10-15 degree incline. Run 20 seconds, then hop onto the side rails for 10 seconds. 10-20 reps). Total time is usually not more than 20 minutes. Full body training for most any activity? Pick 3 heavy weight exercises, 3 body weight, and three high rep variations of workouts, and then cycle through each one 2 or 3 times with a sprint between each exercise. 20 minutes.
So, for me, this begs the question; anyone busy mornings?

Return of the Super Super Senior!

Return of the King sounds much better, but my familial claims to regency died out centuries ago, so I will settle for my actual titles, which also consist of 'weirdo' and 'Best Co-non-worker', titles that I feel are fairly accurate.
The news since my last post; I am old, back at school, loved by huskies, and forgetful and forgettable. These stories will play out in no particular order, so just try and enjoy them.
I will start with the tale of the Husky. I had a lunch appointment during my unemployed week of August 19th-August 23rd, and I decided that a walk would be a lovely thing for me. I left my house about an hour before lunch was to begin. It was a beautiful day, with the sun beating down and hardly a cloud in the sky. I am not one that is generally partial to such days, but after spending almost the entirety of summer indoors, I was welcoming of the change. I was just over a mile from home when a dog comes running down a driveway in my direction. As is my standard reaction when this occurs, I immediately dropped into a crouch, my weight balanced on the balls of my feet, hands up ready to defend myself from the immanent attack of the... oh, wait, that is my reaction when a squirrel pounces. Dog; stop moving, gentle voice, hands at my sides. So this gorgeous girl comes toward me, tongue lolling gently out, and moves right past me to the terrace where she proceeds to perform her draining duties with utmost efficiency. Deciding she was a good dog, I began to walk away, but after only a few steps I glanced back to see the dog had finished, and she seemed to think it was a good idea to cross the street... cause why not? Well, the car that was barreling down the street disagreed, but there was naught I could do as I saw this magnificent creature about to be splattered by an SUV. Luckily, the car had good brakes, and began to slow immediately, and the dog broke into a trot, and no one as amiss. I thought it lucky, and continued to walk with a new idea that maybe it wasn't such a good dog after all. So I proceed down the street, when the husky saunters back in front of me, crossing the street yet again in front of traffic. Then she does it again, and again, and again. She ended up crossing the street (for those who are counting) 5 times in less than a block. I was getting dirty looks from drivers for a dog that I was in no way connected to. Well, I decide I need to lose the dog, so I cut through a park, and the dog happily runs to the playground where chillins and parents are playing. I can't even see the dog anymore when I start to leave the park, but as I begin to cross the street, I look over, and there is the pretty little thing running full throttle towards me. She follows me for nearly a mile, so, in desperation, I call every local number I can think of asking for the digits of the Sheboygan Humane Society. I finally get a hold of them, and as this poor, confused puppy wandered down the middle of Superior Avenue, I begged the call lady to send someone to get this dog. With the help of a polite woman named Anne, who pulled over after nearly hitting the dog, the dog was eventually returned to its owner, and I was able to arrive only slightly late to my luncheon.
Moving on to point two; memory. I know that I am forgettable. I left my wallet in my parents car and didn't realize it until I made it all the way back to school and couldn't swipe in to my dorm. I almost left for Sacrament meeting without putting my pants on while on my mission. I neglected to bring my book with me on an 8 hour round trip via coach bus... and then discovered I had forgotten that I moved it to another pocket. I cannot remember ANYONE'S names. Okay, if I was dang good friends with you, I got this, but I at least remember that I should remember their names. I am now back at school (to be embellished later) and have run some people that do not remember me. On the whole, many are friendly and welcoming that I am back, but there is a particular instance where one person seemingly refuses to think back to when we used to talk. I wonder if I offended her... then again, all we had in common was an affinity for Disney movies.
So I am a twenty four year old, and my first day back at school, a junior, who is a Mentor, comes up to me in the cafeteria, asking 'So how is your first day?'... ummmmm, wasn't exactly sure how to respond, but Alex is a nice kid, so I let him down slowly. I was wondering if I would be able to pass myself off as a freshman, and even 6 years older than most of them, I guess I can!
Well, I have put off my homework far too long. Anyone want to research Spanish Imperialism for me? Anyone? No?... okay...