Quest For Adventure

"Manliness" by John Brooks

2009-08-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

"Our first object in life should be, not to be farmers, lawyers, statesmen, clergymen, merchants, soldiers, but to be men, possessing more than mere craft-knowledge—having healthful, supple, strong, graceful bodies—minds which delight in observing, reading, thinking, criticizing— and hearts which love. . .Let us see: a man with an open, intuitive mind and heart is intelligent; he feels and acknowledges that his education is unfinished; he ever goes on improving and becoming more God-like; he has sympathy with all other souls. . .Every wise man keeps his mind and his heart open to the reception of truth, new thoughts and fresh loves;A man of decisiveness is a powerful man, and if he is wisely decisive, he is a thoughtful man, is respected, is useful, and is his own master. "

U2 Singer Bono's Ode to Mary: National Catholic Register

2009-07-05T14:12:00.001-07:00

U2 Singer Bono's Ode to Mary: National Catholic Register

Posted using ShareThis

Who knew you could do so much with Sheep...

2009-07-03T19:31:00.001-07:00

The Bravery and Courage of War

2009-06-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

The one "good" thing that comes from war is the possibility of bravery, courage, camaradarie , and fellowship that follows among the soldiers who fight side by side. None of this is more evident in the Band of Brother's Series. Those men from basic training to the end of the way sacrificed their lives for one another, their families back home, their country, and for peace. What they faced and what soldiers face is something people who do not experience war can never imagine and experience. We owe our soldiers the respect and honor they so rightly deserve for fighting to protect those who live in the country they serve. Here is to the men of the US Armed Forces and Thank-You.

Here's Your Sign...

2009-06-26T08:24:00.001-07:00

Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King

2009-06-08T13:55:00.001-07:00

Last Tuesday the much anticipated release of Dave Matthew's Band "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King" was out in stores. I, like many others, purchased the album on have my comments and review on it song by song:

1. "Grux" the opening song is an saxophone instrument remembering the late member LeRoi Moore-appropriate way to remember the man whose saxophone gave life to so many DMB songs

Comparable Song: "Kit Kat Jam" "American Baby Intro"

2. "Shake Me Like a Monkey"
Quotable Lyric: "Come on everybody make me lose my mind ,Everybody get together gonna make love shine"
This is one of the couple of fun, playful love type songs on the album; one of the many references to "monkeys" on the album;

Comparable Song: "Tripping Billies"

3. "Funny the Way it is"
Quotable Lyric: "Funny the way it is
Not right or wrong
On a soldier’s last breath
His baby’s being born"

This song cries "justice," the ironies of the world in which we live in -how one person is enjoying life, but at the expense of someone's' worries or troubles. I think it is a very moving song to listen to and makes people aware of the world we live in-which Dave himself is accustomed to doing in his songs.

Comparable Song: "Typical Situation" "Everybody Wake Up" "American Baby"

4. "Lying in the hands of God"
Quotable Lyric: "If you feel angels in your head
Teardrops of joy run down your face You will rise"

"I don’t know whether it’s a song about being lost or being out of your mind because you licked some cactus or swallowed some mushroom somewhere and turned your head upside down. It could be “Hey! (hey), You! (you), Get off of my cloud.” It could be a lot of things. I like songs that just create beautiful images and that’s why I don’t want to talk about the lyrics because I just think it’s perfect. Some of the songs have to be open."

Comparable Song: "Rhyme and Reason" "Warehouse"

5. "Why I Am" (my top 3 on the album)
"Quotable Lyric:One to make you smile
It's why I am still a stake in the wood pile
It's why I am still here dancing with the GrooGrux King"

Another tribute to Moore whose nickname was the "GrooGrux King;" another upbeat playful song that is catchy-a way for Dave to get out his multiple personalities...the imagination of an 8 year old wanting to be many things..."I really liked Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King because it sounds sort of like a fairytale, more like an old story."

Comparable Song: "Lie in Our Graves" "I Did It"

6. "Dive In"
Quotable Lyric: "Wake up sleepy head I think the sun's a little brighter today
Smile and watch the icicles melt away and see the water rising"

Kind of a "Carpe Diem" seize the day song, but at the time also realizing that the good times will end one day to take advantages of those good times...a hint of death in the song as well...the Chorus is definitely uplifitng mix of guitar and drums.

Comparable Song: "Raven" "Digging a Ditch"

7. "Spaceman"
Quotable Lyric "All the people are on parade
Thought I saw a spaceman trying to get laid
Doesn’t everyone deserve to have the good life"

This is a very interesting song lyrically...Dave goes in many directions here to keep the listener entertained on a path of some sort to figure out the meaning of the song-the banjo gives it a "Southern Cajun" feel that is present throughout the song-also hints at a playful love song...

Comparable Song "Rapunzel" "Hunger for the Great Light"

8. "Squirm"
Quotable Lyric "Above all things if kindness is your king
Then heaven will be yours before you meet your end"

"Dave: ““[New sax player] Jeff Coffin played an eastern scale thing, a beautiful solo, one of my favorite things on the record. ‘Squirm’ was written after Roi had passed on. Otherwise, every saxophone solo moment on the album is LeRoi. Carter had a drum groove that was pretty awesome but he originally did it over the top of this lilting, melancholy song. And I was like, ‘This drum groove is too good for this song! So I took that drum groove and wrote this new song over the top of it. That song is one of the most joyful songs on the record, if not the most joyful, just because I think it’s sort of “be yourself.” It’s a song about peace and about acknowledging those things we have in common. For me, I have the image of a convention hall, almost like some strange church, where you go to learn that you’re just a naked monkey! And it’s not the only simian-themed moment—I went monkey-crazy on this album. I may be the only monkey I know, but I tend to think that I’m not. I watched monkeys all my life and I don’t see that the difference is that remarkable. " Couldn't put it any better...

Comparable Song "Last Stop" -musically "Big Eyed Fish" "Warehouse"

9. "Alligator Pie (Cockadile)" (my top 3)
Quotable Lyric "Grace is all i'm asking
When will grace return
Remember how I feel in those days of the summertime
Then Stella smiled
Stella said daddy when you gonna put me in a song?"

Dave mentions his two girls, Grace and Stella, in this song which is another catchy upbeat song with a strong drumbeat and electric guitar, violin-DMB mixing it all together-that "Southern Cajun" feeling...searching for help and meaning...while Dave mixes in his "voice jams" into it to his jig that he does on stage...a fun song

Comparable Song "Grace is Gone"-lyrically "Ants Marching" - musically

10. "Seven"
Quotable Lyric "Mama told me boy someday a girl will take your mind
And then you'll know I never knew but I do now"

Another more "serious" love song with some inuendoes and insinuations in it to a love song...just gonna leave it at that

Comparable Song "Rapunzel" "Stand Up

11. "Time Bomb"
Quotable Lyric "No one would believe it
Except for all the people
Watching as you fly away"

A dark song searching for meaning and truth a mix of electric guitar-a more "rock" song than what listeners are accustomed to from DMB

Comparable Song: "What You Are" "Halloween"

12. "Baby Blue"
Quotable Lyric "Holding tight to the legs of all your angels
Goodbye my love into your blue eyes
In your blue world
You and me forever"

True Love song...it was as if Dave put lyrics to a poem...all that is needed to say

Comparable Song "Crash" "So Right" "Steady as We Go" "Lover Lay Down"

13. "You and Me" (my top 3)
Quotable Lyric: 'With eyes closed we're gonna spin through the stars
Our arms wide as the sky we're gonna ride the blue
All the way to the end of the world"

Another love song..very upbeat and playful-almost another version of stay lyrically and musically...just a great song to listen to as if you and your sweetheart are sitting out in a field on a blanket as if nothing else in the world matters...

Comparable Song "Stay" "When the World Ends" "Satellite"

Dave's Explanation of Songs from AntsMarching

Hope You enjoy the album as much as I do! "DMB's Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King debuts at No. 1 on The Billboard 200 with 424,000 copies sold in its first week of release"

An unexpected source of Courage and Manliness

2009-06-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

This from The American Catholic, who I have found, has very interesting historical articles from important times and events and how Catholicism played a huge and oftentimes unexpected role...

"The men of the 5th Ranger Battalion could barely keep from laughing when they first saw their chaplain, Captain Joe Lacy, a week before D-Day. These were young men, in peak physical condition. Father Joe Lacy was old by Ranger standards, knocking on 40, overweight by at least 30 pounds, wearing thick glasses and short, 5 foot, six inches. He was described by one Ranger as “a small, fat old Irishman.” No way would he be able to keep up when they invaded France.

On the trip across the Channel to France, Chaplain Lacy told the men: “When you land on the beach and you get in there, I don’t want to see anybody kneeling down and praying. If I do I’m gonna come up and boot you in the tail. You leave the praying to me and you do the fighting.” A few of the men began to think that maybe this priest was tougher than he looked.

On June 6, 1944 at 7:30 AM, LCA 1377 landed the Rangers on Omaha Dog Green Beach, the first landing craft to land on that section of Omaha Beach. Father Lacy was the last man out just before an artillery shell hit the fantail. Everything was chaos with the beach being swept by German artillery and small arms fire. Wounded men were everywhere, both on the beach and in the water feebly trying to get to the beach. Father Lacy did not hesistate. With no thought for his own safety he waded into the water to pull men out of the ocean and onto the beach. He began treating the wounded on the beach and administering the Last Rites to those beyond human assistance. On a day when courage was not in short supply men took notice of this small fat priest who was doing his best under fire to save as many lives as he could. While his battalion led the way off Omaha Beach, Father Lacy continued to tend their wounded and the wounded of other units. For his actions that day Father Lacy was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the second highest decoration for valor, after the Medal of Honor, in the United States Army. "

Life Lessons

2009-05-23T08:13:00.001-07:00

Good article in this week's Sports Illustrated written by Tony Dungy on Michael Vick. I am all for giving people second chances-God does (the power of Confession). If I was an owner of an NFL team or GM-I would still be hesitant of signing him. Mike and Mike brought up an interesting spin on this as well-how is it different for guys who are convicted of abuse or who have wedlock children any different? Granted what Vick did was on a major and publicized scale, but is it really all that different? The moral issue is the one that comes into affect here-how do you want to be viewed with the team's fans and the public-don't forget for whatever team takes a chance on Vick would have to deal with PETA (not many people would want to do that). It would be nice to see Vick get on with a team and turn his life around. Dungy makes some good points that can not only be applied to Vick, but to everyone and getting second chances in life as well-and we only have God to thank for all the second chances He gives us in life.

""What you learn in life is the same thing you learn in football," I told Michael, who was scheduled to be released from prison this Wednesday to serve the final two months of his 23-month sentence in home confinement. "You have losses, and you have to rebound from them. The key thing is, How do you bounce back from a defeat?"

Waymon Tisdale 1964-2009
"You don't change because things come in your life. You get better because things come in your life."

Carpenter back on the Mound

2009-05-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

It was nice to see Chris Carpenter make a successful return last night from the DL and pitch 5 strong innings shutting the Small Bears down and leading the Redbirds to a 2-1 victory last night. Now let's not get too excited-it was only 5 innings and roughly 70 pitches, BUT it will hopefully provide some stability and if Wainwright is back to form then the pitching staff should look as formidable as it did the first month of the season.

"I know that if I'm healthy then my ability has a chance to come out, and I have a chance to give my team a chance to win," Carpenter said. "Unfortunately I haven't been healthy a whole lot. And that's all that concerns me." ..."My stuff has always been the same," Carpenter said. —To be honest, the biggest concern was if (the nerve) was going to have the ability to get strong and fire again. Fortunately, it has. It takes a lot of work. And I continue to do that in between starts and everything else. It's a never-ending process."...

As for the offense....all I can say is it will be nice to have Ludwick and Ankiel back in the line-up. It looks as if Rasmus is slowly turning the corner (he has a history for starting slow) and if Barston (Brian Barden/Joe Thurston) can get out of the rookie funk they are and at least bat .27o then the offense should start to produce.

"When people say, 'How is Albert (Pujols) a great player?' you give examples. When someone asks, 'How is Chris Carpenter a great pitcher?' you can use this as an example. You can't do what he did tonight unless you're great," La Russa said.

"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs," Carpenter said. "That is a fact."..."He's the nastiest pitcher I've faced all year," said Cubs first baseman and cleanup hitter Derrek Lee....

Let's sweep those Small Bears tonight!

Congrats to Albert for being named the #1 player in MLB by Sporting News.

Technology and the "Fall of Communication"

2009-05-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

Now, I am not going to go into a big rant about how Communication has changed over the years from Abraham to now where we have instant communication-texting, blogging (Yes, call me a hypocrite), and tweeting (not Tweety Bird), etc. With that said in a ways communication can enhance people's lives-making them easier and more efficient, but sometimes doing it the old fashioned way is the easiest and most efficient-like making a phone call, etc. Too make a long point short, as great as this new-wave of communication and technology is, it has also led to the lack of or downfall of simple speech, grammar, and communication of people. This article "Defining Discourse Down" points out the problem of communication and how he defines it as "Discourse" as we know what communication is today.

"When has any debate in the last 150 years evoked memories of Lincoln-Douglas? And how is Twitter versus America’s most remarkable letter-writing first family a fair fight?...It’s not that we are all suddenly morons. This is not going to be some elitist rant on “if only everyone could be smart like me and my friends.” Likewise, the problem is not the banality of the world around us. There is plenty to discuss, dissect, and disagree on. The problem is not even that television has robbed us of the ability to communicate in complete sentences (though it certainly hasn’t helped). The problem with our discourse—are you ready for this brilliant insight?—is that some people are jerks and some people are too nice...."

This is a very interesting read and makes some good points.

Nice to see the Cardinals actually get a lead and win the game last night. Pineioro hopefully showed the rest of the pitching staff, that when you don't walk batter and serve up meatballs, good things happen to pitchers-a complete game 9 IP, NO WALKS, 5 K's, and 17 groundball outs-a 4 pitch 4th inning, and retired the last 14 batters. Hopefully with Carpenter coming back tonight we can get the ship back sailing in the right direction-and with Ankiel coming back as well. Go get em Redbirds!

Some investing tips

2009-05-13T05:21:00.001-07:00

If you had purchased $1000 of shares in Delta Airlines one year ago, you
will have $49.00 today.

If you had purchased $1000 of shares in AIG one year ago, you will have
$33.00 today.

If you had purchased $1000 of shares in Lehman Brothers one year ago,
you will have $0.00 today.

But---- if you had purchased $1000 worth of beer one year ago, drank all
the beer, then turned in the aluminum cans for recycling refund, you
will have received $214.00.

Based on the above, the best current investment plan is to drink heavily
& recycle.

It's called the 401-Keg.

Thoughts...

2009-05-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

Then, I realized that this kind of thinking is Exactly, what has caused lot of the problems in our world today.

We try to keep God in church on Sunday morning....Maybe, Sunday night.

And, the unlikely event of a midweek service.

We do like to have Him around during sickness..... And, of course, at funerals.

However, we don't have time, or room, for Him during work or play....

Because.. That's the part of our lives we think.... We can, and should, handle on our own.

May God forgive me for ever thinking..

That there is a time or place where.

HE is not to be FIRST in my life.

We should always have time to remember all HE has done for us.

Yes, I do Love God.

HE is my source of existence and Savior.

He keeps me functioning each and every day.. Without Him, I will be nothing. But, with Christ, HE strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)

Easy vs. Hard

Why is it so hard to tell the truth but Yet so easy to tell a lie?

Why are we so sleepy in church but Right when the sermon is over we suddenly wake up?

Why is it so easy to delete a Godly e-mail, but yet we forward all of the nasty ones?

Of all the free gifts we may receive, Prayer is the very best one....

There are no costs, but wonderful rewards.... GOD BLESS!

Notes: Isn't it funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell..

Isn't it funny how someone can say 'I believe in God' but still follow Satan (who, by the way, also 'believes' in God).

Isn't it funny how you can send a thousand jokes through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing?

Isn't it funny how when you go to forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it to them

Isn't it funny how I can be more worried about what other people think of me than what God thinks of me.

A real player: Rick Ankiel

2009-05-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

Rick Ankiel took a nasty spill into the outfield wall at Busch Stadium after making a magnificent catch Monday night against the Phillies (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDlckYPRSAQ). Ankiel had to be carted off of the field on a stretcher and it did not look pretty. Ankiel left the stadium giving the fans and his teammates the thumbs up and was in good spirits at last nights game.

"Ankiel didn't shy away from watching the replays on television Monday night and Tuesday. "I watched it about 35 times," he said. "It was just like I imagined. It was scary to go through it."

But though Ankiel knew how the crash came out, he hardly could help but thank those lucky stars Tuesday night.

"Absolutely," Ankiel replied, when asked if he felt fortunate.

"I thought, 'This might be it.' I'm lucky to be walking today. Anything from here is a plus."

Not long after he was hurt, Ankiel was texting teammates, including right fielder Ryan Ludwick, from Missouri Baptist Hospital.

"He was hitting the right letters and making jokes," Ludwick said Tuesday..."

"He's already made a lot of good plays out there. It's pretty impressive for someone who's never played out there how quickly he's picked it up," Ludwick said. "He's Superman."

Well, not quite. But surviving that crash suggests that Ankiel must have some otherworldly power — because if his head had turned out as bent as his cap, he wouldn't have been reliving the moment Tuesday night."

From teammate Jason LaRue:
“The most significant part of what we all I saw, I think, is that it shows Ank doesn’t play with any fear of running into the wall. He’s going to make the play. He plays without fear. He’s a gamer.”

This is why Cardinal Fans love Rick Ankiel-he works hard, comes to the ballpark everyday, and gives it his all for his team. The man is a rare athlete being able to go from Major League Pitcher to a major impact Outfielder who reminds Cardinal Fans of all of those catches that Jim Edmonds made throughout his career. It is also nice to see that an athlete realizes the position he is and how lucky he is in a circumstance like this. Modern Athletes have the biggest egos and think they are above "normal people," but an incident like this reminds them of their "mortality." Nice to see that Ankiel realizes that and will still put forth the same effort the next game and the rest of the games he plays in his career. Get better Rick and help the Cardinals win!

Truly Adventurous

2009-04-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

From Catholic Exchange:

Mark 4:19

And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

What makes life exciting? What really grabs your attention? Do you have a goal in your life that causes you to smile when you wake up in the morning? Is making money the most important thing in your life or knowing that you have changed lives for Christ? One evening in New York, Steve Jobs, the CEO of Apple Computer entered into a discussion with John Sculley from the Pepsi Corporation. Jobs goal was to lure Sculley over to Apple. Sculley resisted and seemed to communicate that no amount of money would lure him over. Finally, Jobs said to Sculley, “Do you want to spend your life making sugared water, or do you want to help us change the world?’ Shortly after this conversation, John Sculley was hired as the new leader of Apple. What is exciting? To hear Jesus say, “Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men.”

Pujols reaches a Milestone

2009-04-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Albert Pujols' seventh-inning grand salami yesterday led the Cardinals to an 8-2 victory over the Small Bears. It put him over the 1,000 RBI mark for his career and just further cementing his place as the best baseball player in the game...I would be very willing to say by the time he is done, he may be the best ever...

"I hit that ball really good, I'm not going to lie to you," Pujols said. "That's all I got. I hit that ball as good as you can hit a ball. I'm just blessed that I put a good swing on it."

Pujols followed Stan Musial, Enos Slaughter, Jim Bottomley, Rogers Hornsby and Ken Boyer to become the sixth player to reach 1,000 RBIs with the Cardinals. Saturday's slam moved him past Boyer into fifth place on the franchise's all-time RBI list.

"I think you understand you're in the presence of a once-in-a-lifetime kind of hitter," said shortstop Khalil Greene, who contributed a double to the Cardinals' three-run fourth inning against Cubs starter Sean Marshall. "Technically, I don't know if you could improve on anything in terms of balance, plate discipline, power ... everything. He's not just a dangerous hitter. He's phenomenal. There aren't too many guys who can take one pitch into the upper deck, then take a 0-2 slider the other way for a double down the line."

Reaching 1,000 RBIs in his 1,257th game, Pujols has turned the home stand into his personal turkey shoot. Admittedly out of sorts during the team's road trip to Phoenix and Chicago, Pujols returned home to make an adjustment he would not disclose. The essence is a recovered ability to punish pitches to all fields, as proved by an opposite-field home run Thursday and Saturday's line out to right field.

Pujols stands nine for 19 with three home runs and 11 RBIs in the stand, lifting his average from .298 to .348 after managing two extra-base hits and one RBI on the previous six-game road trip."

Cardinals in First Place

2009-04-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

Manager Tony La Russa called him "the perfect player" after the game, and it was the offense he fueled that kept the Cardinals ahead in an imperfect game.

"There is nobody out there better," La Russa said. "He's in the (mold) of that generation like Mays, Musial, Aaron. He could hit in their league. He's one of the greatest."

"It's a big difference when everybody is right," Pujols said. "When Ludwick is swinging the bat great, Chris (Duncan), myself, Yadi (Molina), everybody needs to contribute. It's a whole-team effort. That's why I've got 21 RBIs. They're getting on base, and then I can get my pitch and do damage with it."

As teammate Skip Schumaker says, however, "Rick's the most incredible athlete I've ever seen, so nothing he does surprises me." Relative to his estimable predecessor as the Cardinals' center fielder, Ankiel liked the sound of "Edmonds-esque" when his play was compared to those made by Gold Glover Jim Edmonds.

"Ankiel-esque," the current center fielder said, smiling. "Oh ... I need one more?"

I think Ankiel's recent surge of power and play is the "Power of the 'Stache."

"Regardless, the Mustached American community applauds him and the Cardinals organization for its support of our people and we hope this is the beginning of a trend for the team.

Sadly -- and this is a little known but true fact -- Albert Pujols petitioned and was denied by Major League Baseball to shave his goatee into a true flavor saving mustache. MLB argued that as Pujols is already hitting .339 this season, adding a performance enhancing mustache would give him too much of an advantage and possibly endanger opposing National League pitchers."

Easter!

2009-04-13T07:49:00.001-07:00

The Easter Season is upon us! It is a time of rejoice and happiness as Jesus has defeated sin and death from his resurrection from the cross.

Here is a insightful video into the portrayal of Jesus Christ in media through film.

Happy Easter!

100th Post!

2009-04-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

This is my official "100th Post!!!" Am I an official Blogger now? Probably not because most of the things I put on here are random or just senseless ramblings, but to anyone who may actually read this, I hope you enjoy it and find it joyful to read.

Didn't think the National Championship game would be such a blowout. The Tar Heels only needed the first 10 minutes of the game and then it was over. Everytime Sparty made a mini-run, the Heels answered with Ty Lawson knifing through the lane, or Wayne Ellington hitting a silky smooth jump shot, or Danny Green doing the intangible, or Tyler Hansborough doing his Beaker Roy thing by rebounding and finding some way to get the ball in the basket. The Carolina Blue was a fun team to watch as they pushed the ball upcourt at will and put it to the Spartans for the 2nd time that season. Hats off to Tom Izzo though for getting his team there-they will be a force to be reckoned with next year.

The STL Cardinals welcomed Chris Carpenter back to the rotation yesterday after throwing 7 innings of 1 hit baseball (no earned runs and retiring 14 straight hitters at one point.)

"It was Chris Carpenter of old," pitching coach Dave Duncan said....Normalcy for Carpenter transforms the Cardinals' rotation into a potential monster...Emphasized Carpenter: "I said it two days ago, and it's been like this ever since I came here: I take the ball whatever the situation and I take it as long as I can until they take it from me. I don't make that choice." For a team that has missed him for most of two years, the choice is a welcome one. "

"It was fun to get out there and pitch, compete in a real game and give my team a chance to win," Carpenter said to the media that surrounded his clubhouse stall. "This was the first time in a long time I felt as good as I do now."All of the sudden, the Cardinals are a threat in the National League Central... Before Thursday, it was all on paper, or caught in a delicate cloud of ifs and maybes. Until now, it was pure supposition that Carpenter really would be as good as ever after all these exasperating delays, even if he did look so good in spring training."

Now here is what I don't understand...why weren't the Cardinals contenders before the season started. Sports Ilustrated picked them 3rd behind the small bears and the brewcrew-who have NO pitching. The Cardinals were in contention until the last month WITHOUT Carpenter; adding him and if he can give the Birds on the Bat 30 starts that will only make the small bears want to go into hibernation. I am still hesitant to say he is back to old from, but it sure did look like it yesterday...Here's to hoping that it can continue!

Good Friday is today and a time of reflection on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ...this Holy Week I have been reflecting on how when we sin it makes the Cross that much heavier for Jesus. It is a great motivator to think that to carry my cross and to resist the temptation of sin, I can help lighten the load of the Cross on Jesus. Let us reflect on the Passion and all that Jesus went through on that horrid day of days to see in our lives where we can meet him at the Cross offering thanksgiving for His Sacrifice and where we can offer up our faults and shortcomings and ask to share in the Glory that is to come.

Baseball 2009

2009-04-06T05:47:00.000-07:00

"Starter or not, Freese is ready for opening-day jitters."Something's wrong with you if you don't get those," he said.Ask the reigning league MVP."I always say there are three times that I get nervous in my career," first baseman Albert Pujols said. "One, is my first at-bat of spring training. Two, is my first at-bat opening day. And third is my first at-bat of the playoffs. If you don't have any pressure and you don't feel like you have that pressure, you aren't ready for the game." "

It's officially opening day (although the Braves did beat the Phillies last night) for Major League Baseball and here are my "expert" predictions.

AL East: Yankees

AL Central: Indians

AL West: Angels

AL Wild Card: Rays

AL MVP: Grady Sizemore or Josh Hamilton

AL Cy Young: CC Sabathia

NL East: NY Mets

NL Central: Cardinals

NL West: Dodgers

NL Wild Card: Phillies

NL MVP: Albert Pujols (David Wright 2nd)

NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy

World Series: Mets over the Rays

Listening to Mike and Mike this morning, I like Greeny picking the Cardinals to win the NL Central and Golic's pick for AL MVP and CY Young...

I know I drink the Cardinal Kool-Aid, but I still don't think enough people are giving them credit especially picking the Brewers to finish ahead of them-who do they have for pitching? If Carpenter stays healthy (I know that is a big if) and Wainwright gives them 30 starts-watch out small bears from the North Side.

NCAA National Championship Prediction: UNC 74 MSU 68

I would love to see MSU win though, I just think UNC will overmatch the Spartans. Tom Izzo is definitely top 3 coaches in the country.

Sports Happenings

2009-03-31T05:21:00.000-07:00

The Final Four is set: Michigan St. vs. UConn; Villanova vs. North Carolina

Michigan St and Villinova, definitely personify the team that gets hot during the tourney or is playing their basketball at that time. The Spartans should show people the strength of the Big 10 that they can take down the "better" conference schools. Villanova plays with grit and heart led by Scotty Reynolds who could take over a game when he wants to, but doesn't need to because Villanova is a good team. Also, with this being Michigan St.'s 5th Final Four and should cement Tom Izzo's place as one of the top 3 or 4 coaches in the nation (Coach K, Roy Williams, Jim Calhoun, etc.). UCONN and UNC have done it very methodical and have won by their strengths-UNC pushing the ball led by Ty Lawson and UCONN being tough inside with the athletes out on the wings.

"By winning Sunday, the Spartans clinched a trip to the Final Four for Walton. Had they lost, he would have been the first player since Izzo took over the program in 1995 to spend his entire career in East Lansing and miss the Final Four." ""Now he can say that to every person." Walton said, "(He can) look them in the eyes and not have to say, 'There was one player I did not get (there).' He can say, 'I got every player to a Final Four that gave his all. If you come and work hard for me, do what you're supposed to do, we're going to get you to a Final Four.'" Walton, who didn't always understand why Izzo made practices so tough, offered his gratitude Sunday. "He probably wants more for me than I want for myself," Walton said. "I love him. I'm pretty sure he loves me the same.""

Championship game: Michigan St. vs. UNC in a rematch from UNC's pounding of Michigan St. at Ford Field in December
Prediction: Much the same except a much closer game with UNC getting it's second national championship in 5 years and capping off Tyler Hansborough's great college career.

This is official: Tiger Woods' knee is healthy and watch out after coming from 5 strokes behind to win the Bay Hill Invitational on Sunday. Woods birdied the 18th hole for the comeback victory.

Opening Day in MLB is less than a week away!

Faith is Caught as Much as Taught!

2009-03-23T13:37:00.001-07:00

Faith is Caught as Much as Taught!

Posted using ShareThis

Go Illini!

2009-03-19T05:31:00.000-07:00

Nice little article on Jeff Jordan in the Post-Dispatch this morning...

"The 6-foot-1 guard arrived at Illinois two years ago as the country's most celebrated walk-on. He was more a conversation piece than an expected contributor. He now has the potential to be a factor in his biggest game.

Jordan played significant minutes off the bench in place of Chester Frazier at the Big Ten tournament and despite nominal statistics was considered a bright spot. With Frazier out of tonight's game, that role will be magnified.

"He was very positive in both games and gave us a great energy boost and defensive lift,'' coach Bruce Weber said. "He pushed the ball against Michigan and was in the game for most of our key run.''"

I can't wait for the Illini to take on the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tonight in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. I have not seen one "college basketball expert" pick Illinois to win. I know this is that vaunted 5-12 seed pairing, but come on. I know WKentucky beat Louisvill, but that was EARLY in the season. Illinois pounded Missouri (early too I know), but Missouri is better than Western Kentucky and Illinois also beat Purdue TWICE, and won several Big 10 games on the road. I know they don't have Chester Frazier, who is the definition of a Fighting Illini, but give these guys some credit. Mike Davis was second team All Big 10 and one of the most improved players in the COUNTRY, Trent Meachem is a leader and a 3-point specialist. I think Coach Weber will have these Illini ready for tonight.

Prediction: Illinoi 68-Western Kentucky 56

"The Man in the Arena" Theodore Roosevelt

2009-03-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

Albert Pujols as the New Face of Baseball

2009-02-27T05:24:00.001-08:00

Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has a nice article on Albert Pujols today and how he has been clean (or so he hopes) while putting up the ridiculous numbers that he has in his career. With all the mess that has gone on this winter with A-Rod the steroids issue burst open once again. Here's to those who have stayed clean and to Albert Pujols for keeping in line with his beliefs.

"Pujols smiles when asked if he's up to the task suddenly put on his broad and muscular shoulders. "I have had a responsibility since I stepped into the big leagues, even before I put up the big numbers," Pujols said. "First of all I have a responsibility to represent God, which is who I play for, and my family and millions of fans back in St. Louis, and that means on and off the field. So I didn't have to wait eight years as a professional to deal with that responsibility. And I'm a big believer that God won't give you anything you aren't capable of handling. So if I am going to be in this position, He knows I can handle it."

He knows that he has to be different. He has to be The One they can trust. He has to be the man who breaks the cycle of shame and the credibility gap that has left a hole the size of the Grand Canyon in the baseball record books.

When you ask him about that burden, he barely blinks.

"Look, I can fool you guys a lot, but I can't fool God. I've said this before and I mean it. I am a big believer that anything you do in the dark is going to come out in the light, and I fear (God) too much to do anything to disappoint Him. You just keep playing because no matter what you do, people are going to still blame you, point fingers at you and it's guilt by association. I understand that we are living in a dark cloud right now, and that's pretty sad because I grew up loving this game and I still do.""

The Illini continued their winning ways last night defeating Minnesota 52-41 in one of the most physical games I have ever seen. They better be prepared to rebound on Sunday as the Seniors close out their careers at the Assembly Hall against Michigan St. Good Luck CJ, Calvin, Chester, and Trent!

U2 "Get on Your Boots"

2009-02-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

March 3rd, 2009 "New Line on the Horizon"

Can't put it any better than a 12 year old

2009-02-19T05:42:00.001-08:00

The Need for Confession

2009-02-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

Benedict XVI reflected: "The sins we commit distance us from God, and, if they are not humbly confessed, trusting in the divine mercy, they will finally bring about the death of the soul. This miracle thus has powerful symbolic value.

"In the Sacrament of Penance Christ crucified and risen, through his ministers, purifies us with his infinite mercy, restores us to communion with the heavenly Father and our brothers, and makes a gift of his love, joy and peace to us."

"Dear brothers and sisters," he concluded, "let us invoke the Virgin Mary, whom God preserved from every stain of sin, that she help us to avoid sin and to have frequent recourse to the sacrament of confession, the sacrament of forgiveness, whose value and importance for our Christian life needs to be rediscovered today."

Kurt Warner: A Successful Humble Athlete

2009-01-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

We all know the story: From Grocery Store to Super Bowl MVP.

"You know, the great thing about ‘the talk of your legacy’ is that it’s talk for everybody else. My bottom line is, I’m going to live every day like God has called me to live, I’m going to prepare every day on the football field like I always have, and that’s to be as great as I possibly can."

""You know, when it comes to faith, you believe what you believe. I believe in Jesus. It makes all the difference in my life. Everything I do, everywhere I go, I’m trying to live up to or to represent Jesus. Having the faith that I have, believing what I believe, it’s the first and foremost thing in my life. Why do I always bring it up when I’m in interviews or when you’re on a stage like the Super Bowl or the NFC Championship game? Because it’s the most important thing in my life. It’s just like anything."

Car Milestone and Recipes!

2009-01-22T12:06:00.000-08:00

Well my car recently went over the century mark of 100,000 miles (well more than recently, probably around Christmas time). Hopefully it can last at least that many more miles longer and get me to where I am going.

I have recently been "experimenting" with my cooking and have come up with some very good recipes, of those I would like to share:

Sweet and Juicy Pork Chops and Potatoes

Ingredients:

3-4 Pork Chops (any cut you would like)

1-2 Sweet Potatoes

2 tbs Barbecue Seasoning

2 tbs Orange Juice

2 tbs Pineapple Juice

2 Tbs Brown Sugar

2 tbs EVOO

In a large pot pour in EVOO and put on stove on medium high and put Chops in until cooked on both sides.

Add Orange Juice and Pineapple Juice to the Pork chops

Cut Sweet Potatoes into chunks and add to the pork chops. Lower Heat to medium low and add brown sugar. Mix potatoes amidst the pork chops.

Cover pot with lid and let cook 30-45 minutes or until potatoes are soft and juicy!

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Ingredients:

1 cup fat free cottage cheese

1/2 cup oatmeal

1 egg

2 tbs of skim milk

1 tsp of cinnamon

1 pinch of honey

Topping

Yogurt and Jelly to cover Pancakes with

Combine all ingredients for Pancakes into Blender. Blend until a batter like substance is formed. Pour onto griddle or skillet to make Pancakes. Flip when bubbling and until brown on both sides.

Top pancakes with Yogurt and Jelly for a great nutritional Protein filled breakfast.

Protein Shake

5-6 Ice Cubes

1 Cup Chocolate Milk (1% or Fat Free)

2 tbs of skim Milk

1 Scoop Whey Protein Powder

1 tsp of Cinnamon

1 tbs of Peanut Butter

Pinch of Honey

1 Banana

In a Blender add Ice Cubes and crush only for a small amount of time. Add Cinnamon, Peanut Butter, and half of scoop of Whey Protein Powder. Pour in Chocolate Milk and add the rest of the scoop of Protein Powder; pour in Skim Milk and add Honey and Banana. Blend until consistency of a milkshake.

The Illini have a big Test Saturday against the Wisconsin Badgers. The Badgers coming off a loss at Iowa will be playing hard and ready. Prediction: Illinois 64 Wisconsin 65!

A New President, Tim Tebow and Chester Frazier: Brother's from another mother

2009-01-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Pope's Telegram to (now) President Obama

"ON THE OCCASION OF YOUR INAUGURATION AS THE FORTY-FOURTH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA I OFFER CORDIAL GOOD WISHES, TOGETHER WITH THE ASSURANCE OF MY PRAYERS THAT ALMIGHTY GOD WILL GRANT YOU UNFAILING WISDOM AND STRENGTH IN THE EXERCISE OF YOUR HIGH RESPONSIBILITIES. UNDER YOUR LEADERSHIP MAY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE CONTINUE TO FIND IN THEIR IMPRESSIVE RELIGIOUS AND POLITICAL HERITAGE THE SPIRITUAL VALUES AND ETHICAL PRINCIPLES NEEDED TO COOPERATE IN THE BUILDING OF A TRULY JUST AND FREE SOCIETY, MARKED BY RESPECT FOR THE DIGNITY, EQUALITY AND RIGHTS OF EACH OF ITS MEMBERS, ESPECIALLY THE POOR, THE OUTCAST AND THOSE WHO HAVE NO VOICE. AT A TIME WHEN SO MANY OF OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD YEARN FOR LIBERATION FROM THE SCOURGE OF POVERTY, HUNGER AND VIOLENCE, I PRAY THAT YOU WILL BE CONFIRMED IN YOUR RESOLVE TO PROMOTE UNDERSTANDING, COOPERATION AND PEACE AMONG THE NATIONS, SO THAT ALL MAY SHARE IN THE BANQUET OF LIFE WHICH GOD WILLS TO SET FOR THE WHOLE HUMAN FAMILY (cf. Isaiah 25:6-7). UPON YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, AND UPON ALL THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, I WILLINGLY INVOKE THE LORD’S BLESSINGS OF JOY AND PEACE"

BENEDICTUS PP. XVI

Tim Tebow might have the biggest heart of all College Athletes that I have seen play. There is just a humble determination and perseverance about him that he will do everything humanly possible so that his team has the best chance of winning. He may not be the most talented QB, but he is the best football player. Not one coach would not want him on his team. Which brings me to Chester Frazier.

"Bruce Weber recently showed the Illini a video that included snippets of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow. Apparently the point of the video was to depict a player who is a leader and a fighter for his team.

Weber theorized that guard Chester Frazier was channeling Tebow when he stepped forward after the Michigan State loss to call out some of his teammates and then said he planned to meet with those players to make his point."

The Illini will be successful as long as they play with the heart that Chester Frazier does every game and keeps comitting to the name on the front of the jersey: Illinois.

Prediction: Illinois 67 Ohio St. 58

Holiday Exercising

2008-12-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

Holidays call for indulging in those good tasting treats and cookies. At the same time this can be a killer on the body. Check out this article for helpful tips on how to enjoy the eatings of the holidays without destroying your body!

Burn It Off
Though there are many tricks and tips for losing weight, packing on the pounds comes down to simple math: Consume more than you burn off, and you’ll gain weight. Sadly, increasing your exercise workload isn’t an effective way to cancel out chronic binging, during the holidays or any time of the year.

Here’s an idea of how much exercise you'd have to do to break even on your holiday indulgences:

2,100 jumping jacks: This exercise will sweat off the calories in 1 cup of egg nog
280 pushups: Sheds the calories in one glass of wine
1 hour, 30 minutes of calisthenics: Burns off a serving of nuts
2 hours of moderate walking: Eradicates one slice of pecan pie
13 minutes of jumprope: This activity will make that shot you took last night a distant memory

That's a lot of working out...definitely makes you think twice about indulging in that extra piece of pie or cookie...

D-Rose breaking ankles

2008-12-12T05:36:00.000-08:00

Did You Know?

2008-12-06T17:23:00.000-08:00

Professional Athletes = Genius?

2008-12-05T05:28:00.000-08:00

Here is Rick Reilly's article about some of the genius that is Professional Athletes (just a few clippings):

Q: What does happen in the playoffs if the game is tied after the first overtime?

Sam Madison, CB, Giants: "Are they gonna do a coin toss? The rule needs to be changed."
Shaun O'Hara, C, Giants: "Yeah, we don't want the Super Bowl decided by a coin flip."

Correct answer: Play continues until one team scores.

Q: What's the maximum number of challenges a coach can make in a game if he's always right?

Clark: "As many as he wants."
Goff: "Two per half."
O'Hara: "Four."
Barton: "If he's right, why stop him?"
Pace: "Six."
Mangold: "I don't know. There goes my coaching gig."
Rhodes: "Three. You're not going to get me."

Correct answer: Three.

And a few genius quotes...

New Orleans Saint RB George Rogers when asked about the upcoming season: "I want to rush for 1,000 or 1,500 yards, whichever comes first."

Senior basketball player at the University of Pittsburgh: "I'm going to graduate on time, no matter how long it takes."
Chuck Nevi, North Carolina State basketball player, explaining to

Coach Jim Valvano why he appeared nervous at practice: "My sister's expecting a baby, and I don't know if I'm going to be an uncle or an aunt."
Lou Duva, veteran boxing trainer, on the Spartan training regime of heavyweight Andrew Galoot: "He's a guy who gets up at six o'clock in the morning regardless of what time it is."
Frank Layden, Utah Jazz president, on a former player: "I told him, 'Son, what is it with you? Is it ignorance or apathy?' He said, 'Coach, I don't know and I don't care.'"

Well there you have it! It's no wonder professional athletes make some of the most bonehead mistakes and it just makes you wonder sometimes whether the wheels are spinning. But for as many of those athletes, there are those of the intelligent kind and can represent themselves and their sport respectfully.

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by U2

2008-12-05T05:13:00.000-08:00

One of my Christmas Favorites...

To come the Ultimate Christmas Mix!

Illini continue to roll

2008-11-24T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Upstart Illini

2008-11-23T11:26:00.001-08:00

The Fighting Illini are off to a spectacular start after traveling to Nashville and defeating Vanderbilt 69-63 on Thursday. The Illini were not predicted to do much if anything this season by many college basketball "experts" (including many Illini fans). Well they have proven many wrong so far and are off to a 3-0 start before today's game against Jackson St. Although, the first two teams they played were not the stiffest of competition, the Illini took care of business. The game at Vanderbilt showed what the Illini potentially could be-a never say die-fight to the end team. They will scratch and claw all the way until the final buzzer goes off. Some of the things that have been key for the Illini so far and if they keep on happening, this team could suprise some people: they have bought into the TEAM Concept-much was written about the issues that surrounded the team last year, which was a major factor for the poor season, the Seniors-Trent Meachem, Chester Frazier, and Calvin Brock have been solid so far-Trent shooting very well, Chester and Calvin contributing in ways that don't show up on the box score-one thing is the fact against Vandy, Chester and Demetri McCamey combined for 14 assists and only 1 turnover, Mike Davis has two double-doubles so far, which shows he is willing to get in there and mix it up-he has a lot of raw athleticism, which combined with skills and understanding of the game can lead to many more double-doubles, the bench has been a huge factor coming in and contributing to what the starters are doing, and finally the biggest factor that has plagued Illini basketball for recent season is Free-Throw Shooting: so far the Illini are shooting 77% on the season and made huge free-throws down the stretch at Vandy, while the Commodores missed plenty of key ones (usually it was the other way around the past few seasons).

There is a great possibility that the Illini can be off to a 6-0 or 5-1 start going into December with the upcoming South Padre Island Tournament. They could make Illini Nation forget about the struggles of last year and get the Illini back to the NCAA tournament and atop of the Big 10.

"College basketball may have its own version of the "Redeem Team," the popular nickname for Team USA during its run to the gold medal in the Beijing Olympics this past summer.

"That's us in a way," Illinois sophomore guard Demetri McCamey said. "Illinois hasn't had a season like last season in a long time. We are determined not to let that happen again. We are a team looking for redemption." ...

But Weber's luck on the recruiting trail finally appears to have turned for the better. Four prospects who are ranked among the top 150 signed with the Illini earlier this month. The group is ranked No. 10 nationally by Rivals.com and includes four-star shooting guards Brandon Paul and D.J. Richardson, ranked No. 44 and No. 57 overall. Paul and Richardson committed more than a year ago.

"We have worked very hard at recruiting since we got here and sometimes things haven't gone our way," Weber said. "I think the key was Richardson committing to us first. Everything snowballed from there. We had a great relationship with him and once we had him we were able to call the other kids and say, 'Hey, we only have this many scholarships left.' "

Meacham has played with many of the incoming recruits and knows just how great the future of Illinois basketball looks. But he doesn't want his final season to be viewed as some sort of steppingstone either.

"The recruits we have coming in are very talented and are going to give this program a big boost," Meacham said. "I know the program is going to be really exciting after I'm gone, but I believe we can be a good team this year. We are starting to believe we can win and we're staying together. We need to remain tough and keep that mind-set of building on what we are doing every day."

Sounds like a player bound for redemption."

Congratulations Albert and An NFL Coach not afraid of his Catholicity

2008-11-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Albert Pujols claimed his second National League MVP Award (should have at least one more...) Albert was in contention with Phillies 1st Baseman Ryan Howard who led the league in HR's and RBI's, but had a below .250 batting average and had 199 strikeouts! Albert was second in batting .377 and only struck out less than 60 times the whole year, while hitting 37 HR's and 116 RBI's while having better On-Base Percentage and Slugging Percentage for the year. Albert did it all year without a feared hitter to back him up (although Ryan Ludwick did have a career year) and was consistent from day one. Howard had perennial all-stars Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins to back him up. I am glad the writers got this MVP voting right. Yes, I am biased towards Pujols because I am a Cardinals fan, but this guy has been doing it for 8 years straight (he has never finished lower than 10th in MVP balloting). Read the Article from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch for more opinion and statistics that will prove why Pujols is one of the best hitters of all time.

"It's almost like a little boy getting a toy," Pujols said. "You're so excited waiting for that Christmas and to find out what you got. I knew I had a pretty good chance. I think the guys who voted, the baseball writers, know what they're doing."

"He's been the leader on this team probably since his second year," said La Russa, Pujols' only major-league manager. "If you had to name The Leader, it's been him. It didn't mean a guy like Mike Matheny or Jim (Edmonds) didn't lead. Scott (Rolen) had his moments. But when you look at the inner workings of our club, Albert is the guy who speaks with the most sense. He leads by example as well. I always admired the fact he is willing to share. He's not hoarding an angle on a pitcher or something like that."

And this story about Baltimore Raven's Head Coach John Harbaugh. It is nice to see a Head Coach displaying his Religion and something positive in a sport that deals with an image issue what seems like weekly.

"Harbaugh talks frequently about humility and looking out for the other guy.

“When you make yourself small and raise the other people up around you, that’s the whole Christian message,” he said. "

Mr. Obama if your watching this...

2008-11-12T05:43:00.000-08:00

Chase Hilgenbrinck: From the Pitch to the Priesthood

2008-10-27T14:58:00.001-07:00

"Called to be Fisher's of Men"

Congratulations Albert!

2008-10-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

He already has a Rookie of the Year, MVP, and World Series Ring, now Albert Pujols may have the best award is his eyes. Albert Pujols recieved the 2008 Roberto Clemente Award, which is given to a player in the Major Leagues who excels in charity work, serving the Community, and individual effort on the field. Pujols' work with the Pujols Family Foundation is tremendous reaching out and givings tons of money to to families with children who have Down's Syndrome in the Greater St. Louis Area. This is why Albert Pujols is not only one of the best players in the Major Leagues, but also all-around people. He plays hard, for his team, and for his God. Thank You Albert-in a time of phony "heroes and athletes" it's nice to see someone doing it clean and for the right reason!

What happens when you take "Devil" out of the "Devil Rays"

2008-10-25T12:29:00.001-07:00

The Tampa Bay Rays are tied with the Philadelphia Phillies 1-1 in the 2008 MLB World Series. Last year they were dead last in the AL East and had one of the worst records in the Majors. For 10 years they have been a team of futility and a benchmark for awfulness. Then after deciding to change their nickname from the "Devil Rays" to just "Rays" this youthful exuberant bunch are on the verge of something great-going from worst to literally first. I'm not saying that by taking "Devil" out of their name is the sole reason and that God has looked down and them and justified them by the removal of the name. I think it is an interesting story that just plays along with the great season this team, led by Manager Joe Maddon with his Buddy-Holly (Rivers Cuomo esc) glasses has led the Rays to within 3 games of winning the World Series.

"Until this season, the Rays hadn't even had a winning season..."You take the 'Devil' out of the Devil Rays," said Boston shortstop Alex Cora, pointing to the sky, "and Jesus helps them out."... The thornier religious question behind Tampa's nickname is this: Does God care about the name or the fate of a team?... Christopher Evans, a professor of church history at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, N.Y., said most sports fans mistake superstition for religion..."The rational part of our brain sort of recognizes that a lot of the curse stuff is silly," said Evans, co-author of "The Faith of 50 Million: Baseball, Religion and American Culture."... "The reason that Tampa Bay has done well is that they have a great team. They have a great manager."

And with the 2008 US Presidential Election only 10 days away here is something to think about when choosing which Candidate to choose for: "“The moral history of your country is the story of your people's efforts to widen the circle of inclusion in society, so that all Americans might enjoy the protection of law, participate in the responsibilities of citizenship, and have the opportunity to make a contribution to the common good. Whenever a certain category of people—the unborn or the sick and old—are excluded from that protection, a deadly anarchy subverts the original understanding of justice. The credibility of the United States will depend more and more on its promotion of a genuine culture of life, and on a renewed commitment to building a world in which the weakest and most vulnerable are welcomed and protected.” Pope John Paul II

This is America...

2008-10-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

In the midst of the Presidential Election-here is why I understand why the Founding Fathers came up with the Electoral College because they believed Americans to not be educated or literate to vote...their notion is goes on today!

Awhile back I did lessons learned from Man's best Friend the Dog...little did we know we could actually learn something from cats as well...

Be Careful to not pull a muscle when weight lifting

The feeling when dinner or lunch just didn't taste right

-He would feel a lot better with this quick remedy: (great muscle shake especially after a grueling workout!) 1 cup of Fat-Free Chocolate Milk, 1/2 cup Skim Milk, 1 scoop of Chocolate Protein Powder, 1 tsp of Creatine - A quick Muscle Filler!

And Finally getting out of bed may be the hardest part of the day!

I know I have been there before and most days I feel like I just want to stay under the covers!

Song of the week: Weezer "Troublemaker" as heard on Mike and Mike in the morning!

Why we shouldn't depend on the material world...The Sermon on the Mount

2008-10-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

"The Pope referenced Christ’s words at the close of the Sermon on the Mount in which he speaks of building one’s house’s foundation upon sand or upon rock.

“Those who build on sand do so only on visible and tangible things: on success, career and money,” the Pope explained.

“These seem to true reality, but one day they will pass away", he continued.

"We see this now with the fall of the great banks. Money disappears, it becomes nothing. And thus all these things which seem to be real and upon which we can rely, are in fact of secondary importance.

“All human things, all things we can invent and create are finite. So too all human religious experiences are finite. They show only one aspect of reality, because our limited being understands only some parts, some elements.

“Only God is infinite and through him, his Word too is universal and knows no end,” Pope Benedict remarked.

“Only the Word of God is the foundation of all reality, stable like heaven. Therefore we must change our concept of reality. A realist is one who recognizes that the Word of God - this reality that appears so weak - is in fact the foundation of everything.”"

Viva La Vida (Live the Life)

2008-09-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

"I hear Jerusalem bells a ringing
Roman Cavalry choirs are singing
Be my mirror my sword and shield
My missionaries in a foreign field
For some reason I can't explain
Once you go there was never, never an honest word
That was when I ruled the world"

Pujols' Push for MVP

2008-09-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

"Any calculator can reveal the numbers Albert Pujols needs this final weekend of the season to run down his second National League batting title. What it will take for the Cardinals' first baseman to also claim his second NL MVP is less quantifiable.

It's not awarded just for crunching numbers; it's can come from numbers in the crunch. On Friday, he did both until he could do neither. Finishing out of the postseason is a mitigating factor for Pujols' MVP candidacy, as historically the writers who vote side with hitters who powered their teams to the playoffs.

For Pujols, Friday's campaign stop included three hits, a game-tying home run in the fifth inning and more stumping from manager Tony La Russa.

"Albert is a great player," La Russa said. "He plays defense like a maniac. He runs the bases. He is in the tradition of the great Cardinals players. He is one of the great players playing today. And he shows it on a daily basis." Friday was Pujols' second consecutive three-hit game and his third consecutive multi-hit start. He raised his average from .348 to .357. The homer was his seventh hit in seven consecutive at-bats.

"Is he hot?" La Russa said. "He got a pitch to hit, and he hit."

Pope Benedict XVI, St. Paul, and the Power of Confession

2008-09-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

"The more we try to follow in the footsteps of Jesus of Nazareth on the roads of Galilee, so much the more will we understand that he has taken charge of our humanity, sharing in everything except sin," he said. "Our faith is not born from a myth or an idea, but from an encounter with the Risen One, in the life of the Church."

Here is an insightful post on "Why Confession?"
"It almost doesn't even matter what we confess. What matters is that our heart has turned back to God. We've acknowledged our need of him. We've therefore put ourselves back into his will.

Confession is actually a good, healthy and wholesome thing to do. It's healthy and wholesome like getting up early, getting some exercise, turning off the TV and eating our vegetables."

Presidential History: How We Remember Presidents

2008-09-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

I found this article in the St. Louis Post Dispatch, "History may well smile on George W. Bush" written by Charles Krauthammer. He presents a very good point on how we will remember President Bush once he has served his two terms as the President of the United States in America.

"For the last 150 years, most American war presidents — most notably Lincoln, Wilson and Roosevelt — have entered or re-entered office knowing war was looming. Not so George Bush. Not so the war on terrorism. The 9/11 attacks literally came out of the blue.

Indeed, the three presidential campaigns between the fall of the Berlin Wall and 9/11 were the most devoid of foreign policy debate of any in the 20th century. The commander-in-chief question that dominates our campaigns today was almost nowhere in evidence during our '90s holiday from history. When I asked President Bush during an interview Monday to reflect on this oddity, he cast himself back to early 2001, recalling what he expected his presidency would be about: education reform, tax cuts and military transformation from a Cold War structure to a more mobile force adapted to smaller-scale 21st-century conflict. But a wartime president he became. And that is how history will remember and judge him."

Now I for one think President Bush has done an admirable job (he has one of the most scrutinized, publicized, and stressful jobs-only behind Pope Benedict XVI) as President and leader of our Great Nation. Sure, some things have not gone the way he has probably planned for them to go, but who could plan on September 11th and the fact that the situation in Iraq seems to not be getting better because of ignorance and hatred among the people who live there. Now will President Bush be placed along the same side as Lincoln, Washington, Roosevelt(s)? Probably not, but he won't be one of the worst-maybe somewhere in the middle of the pack. Remember he does have 4 months to solidify his place in history. I think it would be interesting to be able to sit down and ask the President questions you had and to listen to him speak about being the President and all what entails.

Presidential Highlights:
If anyone has ever seen Frank Caliendo do a GW Bush Impersonation, it is downright hilarious!
Also, with his reception of Pope Benedict VXI was very admiral and his hospitality was well respected by His Holiness, I am sure. I have read articles that call GW the "Closet Catholic."
To see a list of different rankings of Presidents: Historical rankings of United States of America Presidents

Goodbye Yankee Stadium

2008-09-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Although, I never was on the Yankee Bandwagon, I do believe Derek Jeter is one of the best Yankees of all time-this will be the first year he will miss the playoffs-the guy is just a winner...Anyways the Yankees have had a lot of tradition over the years and this year Yankee Stadium will be forever gone after 85 years after last nights game, which the Yankees won beating the Baltimore Orioles (only fitting). One of the experiences of going to a game at Yankee stadium was the PA Announver, Bob Sheppard. Although I was never lucky enough to see a game there, any baseball fan who has watched a Yankee game on TV will know that voice-it is one of those voices that once you hear you recognize-Jack Buck, Joe Buck, Harry Carey, etc. Not only did Bob Sheppard have a great voice, but also a great Faith as documented in this article "The Voice of God," about Mr. Sheppard's Faith and being the voice of the Yankees.
"Now batting for the Yankees… Number 2… the shortstop… Derek… Jeter.. Number 2."

Workout Attack

2008-09-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here was Jason's Saturday UpperBody (emphasis on arms workout):
-Bike ride to Cardinal Fitness and 10 minutes on elliptical for warm-up-medicine ball roll to stretch out the hammies (no foam roll...)
-Body Weight Warmup Circuit 3x
10 Elevated Pushups
10 BarBell Curls
8 Triceps Extension w/ 10 lb plate
-Chest
For this I started with Incline, then change the incline to halfway between flat and incline and then all the way to a flat bench - this will get your chest pumping
3x8,8,6 w/ 50 lb DB
Super-Set 1
Reverse Grip Pressdown 2x10 110
Narrow Grip Barbell Curl 2x10 75
Super-Set 2
Back- Inverted Rows w/Barbell (Body weight) 3x12
Decline Crunches 3x25
Super-Set 3
DB Overhead Extension 2x10 70
Hammer Curls 2x10 35 lb DB
Side Crunches 2x15 (each side)
Super-Set 4
Triceps Dip x15 w/ 20 lb, x25 Bodyweight
Elastic Band Curls 2x30 seconds
-Bike Ride back home
-Ending with a delicious glass of Fat-Free Chocolate Milk and Chocolate Whey Protein Powder
Not bad, if I must say so myself

A Night of Legends

2008-09-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

It surely was a Night of Legends on Saturday at the Assembly Hall in Champaign. Players from all eras of Illini Basketball came to celebrate the rich tradition of Fighting Illini Basketball culminating in the Alumni game pitting the "old" vs. the "new." Players from the Flying Illini (Kendall Gill, Nick Anderson, Stephen Bardo, etc) along with Frank Williams, Brian Cook, Corey Bradford, and Kiwanne Garris (to name a few) battled against Deron Williams, Dee Brown, Luther Head, and Roger Powell. It was great to see all of those guys out on the court. Deron led the way for the new guys leading them to victory-it might have had been that they had 3 NBA Players on their team. Deron nailed a "3" from the "S" on the Illinois that left everyone's jaw dropping. Luther pulled down some sweet dunks, including one where he threw it to himself off the backboard! What may have been the best was to see the Gold Medal around Deron's neck proudly representing the USA and Fighting Illini Basketball-I would take a Gold Medal over a NBA Championship...Then the night ended with the unveiling of 30 of the greatest Illini Basketball Jerseyss. It was a great night and I feel blessed and special to have had my four years at U of I a part of the Fighting Illini Basketball Program!

Remembering 9/11/01

2008-09-11T15:43:00.001-07:00

Loving God, help us to realize that true peacemaking can only become a reality in our world today if it is first a matter in our hearts. September 11 reminded us that our country has been blessed with tremendous resources that we must use wisely in the service of others, both within our own borders and around the world.

We ask for the gifts of civility and charity so that we can treat others with respect and love.

We ask for the gifts of faith and hope to strengthen our spirits by placing our trust in You rather than ourselves.

We ask for the gifts of courage and compassion that will move us into action to help those in need in the United States as well as throughout the world. We ask for the gifts of humility and kindness so that we may put the needs and interests of others ahead of our own.

We ask for the gifts of patience and perseverance to endure the long struggle for justice.

We ask for all of this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

"Our call to be Apostles of Christ" B16

2008-09-10T11:41:00.000-07:00

"Benedict XVI then highlighted how in the letters, there appear "three main characteristics" of being an apostle: "the first: having seen the Lord, having had an encounter with him that is decisive for one's life". In fact, "it is the Lord who makes an apostle", and this apostle needs to be in constant relationship with the Lord. "One is not an apostle by vocation, but by means of Jesus". The second characteristic is "that of being sent. The Greek word apostolos means one who is sent, dispatched, the bearer of a message". "He must act as an expression of the one who sends him, as a delegate of Jesus". "Once again it emerges that the initiative belongs to someone else, it belongs to God, in Christ". "This emphasizes the fact that the mission has been received from him". The third characteristic is "the exercise of the proclamation of the Gospel, with the consequent foundation of Churches". "'Apostle' is not an honorary title, it consumes the entire being of its subject". "This is why Paul describes apostles as coworkers of God"."

The Birth of The Blessed Mother Mary

2008-09-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

Today The Church celebrates the birth of the Blessed Mother Mary to her earthly parents Joachim and Anne, descendants of David. Mary is our greatest example of an obedient Disciple to Christ, to whom she gave a divine and virgin birth to Salvation and humanity. Here is an excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI and the role of Mary in the Catholic Faith

"In summary, the pope made five points about Mary in Sardinia, which are likely to surface again while he’s at Lourdes:

• Mary points to Christ, above all to his incarnation.
• Mary is a symbol of the beauty and tenderness of God.
• Mary is a forerunner and a model for all disciples of Christ.
• Mary is a model for mothers, children and spouses, and thus a patron of the family.
• Mary is the “star of the new evangelization,” a patron for efforts to bring Christ to the world.

Benedict encouraged the Sardinians to renew their Marian traditions, not merely as a matter of preserving local culture, but also because of the importance of Mary in Catholic theology and spirituality.

“The role of Mary in salvation history stands out in all its clarity: the being of Mary is totally relative to Christ, in particular to his incarnation,” Benedict said in his homily at the sanctuary of Our Lady of Bonaria. “Respecting everything human, God makes it fecund from within, causing the most beautiful fruit of his creative and redemptive work to bloom from the humble virgin of Nazareth.”

“Thus we can, once again, contemplate the place of Mary in God’s plan for salvation,” the pope said. “She is, in fact, in Christ, the summit and model of ‘those who love God.’ In the ‘here I am’ of the Son, we find a faithful echo of the ‘here I am’ of his mother, as well as the ‘here I am’ of all the adoptive children of the Son.”"

Father of Mercy, give your people help and strength from heaven.
The birth of the Virgin Mary's son
was the dawn of our salvation.
May this celebration of her birthday
bring us closer to lasting peace.
Grant this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever. Amen.

-- the Liturgy of the Hours

"The Resurrection will be 'the last word on Suffering'"

2008-09-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

"Pope Benedict concluded by referencing men and women ready to carry their cross and follow Jesus.

The Holy Father remarked, “In today’s world, where powers that divide and destroy appear to dominate, Christ does not stop making us a clear invitation: who wants to be my disciple, let him forswear his own egoism and carry with me the cross.”

He then invited his audience to invoke the intercession of Mary who, Pope Benedict said, followed Jesus along the way of the cross."

THE Greatest Olympian

2008-08-17T13:29:00.001-07:00

There is no way that Michael Phelps will not be considered the greatest Olympic Athlete of ALL TIME. What he has done during the two Olympics that he has competed in will (probably not) be ever duplicated or beaten-if it is that will be super-amazing. Pat Forde of ESPN.com wrote a great article on Phelps that is a very worthy read and goes in more depth of what I am getting at-he's the professional This young man broke Mark Spitz's single Olympic record of 7 Gold Medals in one Olympiad, by claiming his 8th Gold Medal in as many swimming events. He destroyed the competition, albeit the 7th race where he won by the slimmest of margins and made it even more exciting. He now claims 16 total medals (14 Gold and 2 Bronze) which is second all time only to a Soviet Gymnast who has 18. Now if he keeps this up and wants to come back in 2012, he will shatter that record and further cement his mark. Only 13 countries have more medals than he has (USA leads overall Medal Count with 65 over China's 61). One question comes to mind with all of this-can Phelps be considered one of the greatest Athletes of all time? Granted swimming is not as popular as some of the major sports in the world, but to live up to the expectations and put on the performances that he has, it is a fair and valid question to be debated for the ages along with those of greatest basketball or baseball player ever (Michael Jordan and ???). I am proud to say that Michael Phelps is an American Athlete, who has represented his country graciously during these Olympics, giving it his best effort never settling for nothing but the GOLD.

On other Olympic news, the Men's Basketball team better win the Gold. If they do not-DISAPPOINTMENT. It was only back in 1992 when the Dream Team destroyed the competition game after game making it look easy and so far this years 2008 squad is doing much the same after defeating Spain yesterday by 37 points.Deron and Lebron in company need to keep it up and leave the competition up in smoke. They have looked pretty impressive so far and they need to keep it up-they are an exciting team to watch and they understand what their mission is and they work hard at on the court. Gold or Bust!

25 Ways to Improve Your Health...A lesson from the Animals...

2008-08-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

1.) Brush twice a day!

2.) Dress right for the weather.

3.) Visit the dentist regularly.

4.) Get plenty of rest.

5.) Make sure your hair is dry before going outside.

6.) Eat right.

7.) Get outside in the sun every once in a while.

8.) Always wear a seatbelt.

9.) Control your drinking of alcoholic beverages.

10.) Smile! It will make you feel better.

11.) Don't over indulge yourself.

12.) Bathe regularly.

13.) Read to exercise the brain.

14.) Surround yourself with friends.

15.) Stay away from too much caffeine.

16.) Use the bathroom regularly.

17.) Get plenty of exercise.

18.) Have your eyes checked regularly.

19.) Eat plenty of vegetables.

20.) Believe that people will like you for who you are.

21.) Forgive and forget.

22.) Take plenty of vacations.

23.) Celebrate all special occasions.

24.) Pick up a hobby.

25.) Love your neighbor as yourself.

"Everybody Get Dangerous"

2008-08-13T15:42:00.000-07:00

I definitely got dangerous on a recent trip to Six Flags St. Louis (August 8th)! Considering this was the first time I had ridden a real roller coaster, it was quite an accomplishment as I went on just about all of the coasters there. In this order: Evil Kneival, Tony Hawk's Big Spin, The Mine Shaft, The Screaming Eagle and The Boss-the last two in the dark! Although the drops scare the you know what out of people they are a rush after you get done, but on the Boss a quick turn or another quick drop happens and you cannot catch your breath at all. It was a fun day overall with the family as we also enjoyed the Log Flume, Ferris Wheel, Scooby-Doo, and the Tidal Wave before Lunch and then Hurricane Harbor and the wave pool and Coldwater Creek after.We also got our picture with Taz and Scooby-Doo! I'll have to say riding Roller Coasters is truly American and is something every American should do in their lifetime is to enjoy the thrills and rush of adrenaline that they bring!

"And it's a Goner!

2008-08-07T16:44:00.001-07:00

Oh, there is nothing like a thrilling and exciting home run call in baseball. To hear the roar of the crowd and the excitement fill the stadium can give fans goosebumps, BUT all this can be ruined by one simple thing: When the batter stands there and admires the home run...here is all I have to say about that-Act like you have hit a home run before, run the bases and let the game continue. I don't think there is any appropriate time for any batter to stand and admire their home run, unless you break the All-Time HR Record or hit the World Series winning run (those are about the only exceptions). Many ballplayers today sit there and watch what they have just done, soaking in the fans cheers while boosting their own ego. Now, let's take a look at the main culprit of this, Mr. Manny Ramirez, who last week basically said trade me from Boston or I won't play. He basically gave up on the Red Sox, did not give his full effort to his teammates and worse to the fans (the Red Sox Nation being one of the most loyal fans in baseball). He needs to get a grip of himself and realize that yes he is a great hitter and he will hit home runs, but once you hit it, run the bases and cross home plate, hi-five your teammates and get focused on the game. I am a huge Albert Pujols fan and it kills me to watch him do it...where as on the other hand guys like Ryan Ludwick (who by the way should be in the starting lineup the rest of the year) and Scott Rolen to name a few when they hit a home run (and know it) the put the bat down and run hard around the bases. It's guys like that, that keep the tradition of baseball alive and respect for the game. I am not saying Manny or Albert do not have any respect for the game, I think a lot of old-time players would not let it happen. I would bet if Manny were to hit a HR off of Dizzy Dean and watch it, the next time he came up, Dizzy would tell him what he thought of his HR...

"The Gashouse Gang" by John Heidenry is a great book about the 1934 St. Louis Cardinals and their improbable run to the World Series Title. It is very imformative about baseball in the 30's and the Cardinals team from that year. I learned a lot about the origins of STL Cardinals beginning with Branch Rickey to Rogers Hornsby and the famed Dizzy Dean. It made me want to go back in time and watch baseball at it's purest state-clean and full of guys playing their hearts out each day, playing through injury and playing because they love the game and not for the paycheck and not with the help of steroids...

On that note, the four Cardinals games that I have been to they have scored a Grand total of 3 runs...not too exciting on the Home Teams part, but the game where CC Sabathia pitched was entertaining because I was only 3 innings away from seeing a no-hitter...that would be something to be able to see a no-hitter by a pitcher live...a baseball fan's dream!

"Hey! It's automatic when you know it"

2008-08-05T17:48:00.000-07:00

A couple things this time:

I will have to admit I am a "people watcher." I could probably go somewhere with big crowds and just watch people go about their everyday lives and watch the interactions-I think it's interesting and also to see if you can gather enough information about people's "stories." One of the best places to do this is at a Casino. This past weekend, for the first time, I ventured over to the Casino Queen in ESTL with Theo and it was quite the experience. The thing I found most surprising was the vast array of people there-my favorite was the little old grandma pulling the slot machines...There was all walks of life there and people were willing to put down money like it was nothing...The roulette table got the best of me, I should have stopped while I was ahead. It was fun though, I don't know if I would go back, if anything it would be a place to just hang out and try to win some money. I like just hanging out with people and playing cards and enjoying the company.

I read this article from Craig Ballantyne about Bench Press and I thought it was a really interesting article about training and building your pectoral muscles (chest).

"But there are pro's and con's of course, like with every exercise.

Pro: It builds muscle in the chest, triceps, and deltoids.

Con: It can be murder on your shoulder joint depending on how you are built, how you do them, how often you do them, what's in the rest of your training program, your posture, and other factors.

Pro: It will give you an answer for when someone asks, "So, how much ya bench?"

But here's the thing...

Today's bench press tip is this...If you are doing bench press and only going half-way down, just stop. Stop doing your "half" version of the bench press and find another exercise.

Because you really aren't doing bench presses with that form anymore than you are doing high jump when you jump UNDER the bar.

In the bench press, you lower the weight to your chest. That is the definition of how the exercise is done - check with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. And that is the RULE in bench press competitions."

It has been a long time since I have did barbell bench press and trying to do a lot of weight. If one thing I have learned lately is that you will build muscle by having correct form while using an appropriate weight for any lift. That will also help prevent injury, while focusing on the muscle group area. It reminds me of the power lifting club at school who would wear these ridiculous shirts and these guys that were as skinny as a poll could put like 35o on the bar and only go down 2 inches...what is that doing for you-building your ego? I will agree if I accomplish something training that I have never done before I get a little ego boost, but it's also because I know I have made myself fitter and healthier. I think I could go on about this even more, but I feel that is enough for now. So, to all those lifters out there-accomplish a new personal best next time your in the gym wether it's on the Treadmill, Bench, Push-Ups or Chin-up Bar...Maybe next time: Workout Recipes and adventures in cooking...

Summer Happenings

2008-08-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

I think I could write a short novel of all the things that I have thought about posting on here this summer...but I will try and keep it brief:

I will be teaching at St. Thomas More HS in Champaign-very excited about the opportunity and to start my "adult life"-coaching positions to be determined
Coldplay-"Viva La Vida"- very different from their previous CD's, but also very good-each song seems to have it's own style
Weezer "Red Album" again another quality effort put out by Rivers and the boys highlighted by "Pork and Beans, Greatest Man that Ever Lived," and my favorite "Troublemaker"; the whole album seems to remind me of the Blue Album!
The Cardinals still keep doing it somehow-4 games out of the Central and tied for the Wild-Card lead with the Brewers; Getting Carpenter back is a huge boost and once Wainwright comes back (hopefully just as effective before he went on the DL)
Today's workout: Circuit One: Pull-ups, One-Leg Deadlift w/10 lb. Medicine Ball, One-Arm DB Row, DB Swing, and One-Legged Hungarian Squats. Circuit Two: Lunges w/ 10 lb. Medicine Ball, Bench Press, Close-Grip BP, Chin-Ups, and DB Curls. ABS-1 min. plank, 30 sec side plank-Matthew (little brother) and I have been hitting it pretty hard this summer.
I believe I could live w/ just two channels: ESPN (well all the ESPN Channels and BIG 10 to watch Illini football and basketball) and FOOD Network-they have some interesting shows and a great way to spice (get it) and liven up my food!-Buffalo Burgers are quite tasty especially mixed with: Cumin, Chile Powder, Seasoned Salt (For Grilling) and a little Honey Mustard.
Speaking of Illini Basketball it is a little sad to see the latest happenings with G Jamar Smith...but on the other hand the Illini get another verbal for the 2010 class-the future looks bright and hopefully filled with Final Fours and that elusive National Championship.
Lastly, here is a nice article I came across about D-Will and Dee Brown, it looks like Dee has made it on with the Wizards for the year, which is great to hear and see the former Illini in a NBA Uniform once again!

Movie Review

2008-06-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Although it has been awhile since I have seen this movie, it is the first in the theaters for a LONG time, I have been pumped up about it for awhile before it came out and after seeing it. This movie is full of action and drama-if you don't keep your focus on the story line you may get lost, as you and Indy must keep all the clues in line to figure out the mystery of the Crystal Skull. For as old as Harrison Ford is he does an EXCELLENT job acting in the movie doing all of the stunts and keeping that aura of Indiana Jones. The story line is a bit far fetched, I don't know how believable it is or could actually happen, but does make the story interesting.

Into The Wild
I had been intrigued by this movie for a while since I got the soundtrack which is composed of songs from Pearl Jam leadman Eddie Vedder (Hard Sun, Society, Long Nights etc. (the soundtrack is great by itself, and with the movie it makes a great combination)). After watching this movie the other night, I couldn't help, but think of the book Wild at Heart by John Etheredge. While the book and movie are not exactly about the same context, they both capture and realize the importance of nature in our world. The movie written and directed by Sean Penn, focuses on the character Christopher McCandless's, played by Emile Hirsch, adventure out of society and "into the wild." Taking the name Alexander Supertramp, he gives up all material possessions surviving off the land and taking advantage of his strong will and intellect that takes him across America. After watching this I wanted to go and take my own adventure out into the wild and discover what nature has to offer. It has it's interesting turns and twists, but it shows what men have lost in today's society: man's ability to release from the material aspects of life and enjoy what life has given them, particularly in nature and God's Creation. The summer is a time to really enjoy this, go for a walk outside, camping, fishing, golfing, horseback riding, canoing, boating, etc. If you are looking for a movie with a good story (based off the non-fiction book Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer) about finding the meaning of life and exploring the great landscape of America and getting out of the world that people get wrapped up in and explore what is out there.

Pork and Beans

2008-06-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

" Everyone likes to dance
To a happy song"

"One look in the mirror
And I'm tickled pink
I don't give a hoot
About what you think"

Iron Man Workout

2008-06-18T16:27:00.000-07:00

I found this workout from Craig Ballantyne off of Men's Health (http://transform07trainer.menshealth.com/) and it is quite intense. It's "easy" because it is all bodyweight-your essentially using your body as the weight that is being pulled, pushed, jumped, lifted, etc., BUT it is not easy by no means because there are no breaks and pushes you to the limit.

Do this circuit and repeat as much as you can until your are ready to drop:
10 exercises 125 reps
5 pullups
10 Jumps
15 Close-Grip Push-Ups
10 Lunges (Each Leg)
5 Chinups
10 Mountain Climbers (Each Leg)
10 Inverted Rows
10 Single-Leg Deadlift (Each Leg)
25 Bike Crunches
15 Step-ups (Each Leg)
15 Decline Pushups

Try to not take any breaks when going through the circuit and then once you are done you keep going to be a true Iron Man. Another great thing about this workout is that it can be down on a playground that has the right equipment, which makes working out an event you can enjoy in the nice summer sun!

No Man is an Island

2008-06-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

John Donne (1572-1631). It appears in Devotions Upon Emergent Occasions, Meditation XVII:

"All mankind is of one author, and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated...As therefore the bell that rings to a sermon, calls not upon the preacher only, but upon the congregation to come: so this bell calls us all: but how much more me, who am brought so near the door by this sickness....No man is an island, entire of itself...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."

Thomas Merton No Man Is an Island

"To have a spiritual life is to have a life that is spiritual in all its wholeness-a life in which the actions of the body are holy because of the soul, and the soul is holy because of God dwelling and acting in it. When we live such a life, the actions of our body are directed to God by God himself and give Him glory, and at the same time they help to sanctify the soul (98-99)."

We give him the best we have, in order to declare that He is infinitely better. We give Him all that we prize, in order to assure Him that He is more to us than our "all." One of the chief tasks of Christian asceticism is to make our life and our body valuable enough to be offered to God in sacrifice (105)."

Romans 14:7-9

"None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself.; For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.
: For this is why Christ died and came to life, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living."

Humane Vitae Today

2008-05-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

From Pope Benedict VXI and his wise words on Human Life Today:

"Freedom must join with truth, and responsibility with strength of dedication to others, also through sacrifice," he affirmed. "Without these principles the community of man does not develop and there is a risk of being trapped in oppressive selfishness."

"Benedict XVI noted that protecting human dignity is exceedingly more challenging than 30 years ago. “We cannot but recognize that, in practical terms, defending human life has become more difficult today, because a mentality has been created that progressively devalues human life and entrusts it to the judgment of individuals.”

The consequence of this thinking is a decrease in respect for the human person, “a value that lies at the foundation of any form of civil coexistence, over and above the faith a person may profess," the Pontiff said.

Contrary to the assertions of those who have promoted abortion, it “has not resolved the problems afflicting many women and no small number of families, but it has opened another wound in our societies," said the Holy Father.

The healing of society’s wounds, Benedict indicated, will come from combined efforts to ensure that "institutions once again focus their activities on defense of human life and priority concern for families. ... Families must be helped, using all legislative means to facilitate their formation and their educational work in the difficult social context of today."

"It is necessary to bear concrete witness to the fact that respect for life is the first form of justice that must be applied. For those who have the gift of faith this becomes an imperative that cannot be deferred. ... Only God is the Lord of life. Each human being is known, loved, wanted and guided by Him ... and each has his origins in God's creative plan.""

Cardinals are rolling!

2008-05-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

After the Cardinals 5-3 victory last night over division rival Cubs, the Cardinals are 20-12 ahead of those Cubs by 1 1/2 games and are one of only two teams to have 20 wins (Arizona Diamondbacks). I'll have to say I was surprised at how well the Cards are playing right now, but I think they can keep it up because as Tony La Russa has said only Albert Pujols and Troy Glaus ( I would say Yadier Molina) have guaranteed everyday spots in the lineup. This makes every player hungry and competitive because not only are they playing to win the game each day they are playing for a spot in the lineup. As long as the pitching keeps up (which is a big if, I think), this team will be a force to be reckoned with this season...from Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post Dispatch...

"The Cardinals keep hearing that they can't do this, they can't do that. They can't be a contender, they can't win a division, they can't make the playoffs.

The Cardinals were cast as a 69-93 shell of a team that represented the Pittsburgh Pirates' best chance to finally get out of last place in the NL Central.

This was supposed to be the kind of team that Tony La Russa couldn't manage. It isn't loaded with power and superstars, and it had no ready-made identity as it departed spring training. The Cardinals were pieces of clay, ready to be molded and shaped. And since when does La Russa specialize in projects?

But all the Cardinals continue to do is keep playing ball. They grind out victories. They don't lose focus. They play smartly most of the time. They prove it all night. They keep moving forward, winning series, passing tests and checking off boxes.

Sunday night at Busch Stadium, the Cardinals spotted the Chicago Cubs a 2-0 lead, then rallied for a 5-3 win and a series triumph, taking two of three from their rivals in the teams' first encounter of the season. The victory closed a tidy 6-3 home stand against division mates.

The first-place Cardinals (20-12) joined Arizona as the only NL teams to have posted at least 20 wins. Last season, the Cardinals didn't achieve their 20th victory until May 25.

Todd Wellemeyer, who wasn't sharp, gave the Cardinals five dogged innings and allowed only two runs. The Cubs could have cracked the game open, but Wellemeyer's competitiveness pushed him through his problems with form.

The revived second baseman Adam Kennedy had two hits and drove in two runs. Albert Pujols put his team into the lead with a two-run double. Cesar Izturis had two hits and scored twice. And four Cardinals relievers combined to hold the Cubs to one run over the final four innings, with closer Jason Isringhausen throwing 93 mph heat to retire the Cubs in order in the ninth.

On Saturday, less than 24 hours after Friday night's blown save, Izzy announced that he was hitting the reset button on his season and starting over. He even got a buzz cut for a new look. And then he went out and buzzed the Cubs with an authoritative 12-pitch save against the first three hitters in the Cubs batting order.

"That tells you all you need to know about Jason Isringhausen," La Russa said. "That's why he's our closer. He's a very, very tough guy."

I know it was the first weekend in May. The Cardinals have 130 games remaining. But they had to make a statement against the Cubs. Last season the Cubs slapped them around, winning 11 of 16 games overall, and seven of nine at Busch Stadium.

The teams have reversed roles. The Cubs are the clear favorite. They've spent $500 million over the last two years in the quest to speed up the process of winning a championship. The Cardinals have, to an extent, downsized as they put more of an emphasis on developing younger, or ascendant, players.

If the scrappy, resourceful Cardinals dare to overcome the odds and contend, they'll also have to overcome the Cubs. They can't afford to get shoved around again, and it was vital to establish credibility this weekend. But between now and October, the Cardinals must do this repeatedly. This was just the first skirmish, and the Cubs have many built-in advantages.

Since the game was televised by ESPN, which largely sets the parameters of the sports culture and provides talking points for radio talk show hosts around the nation, I wonder if this ESPN cameo will lead to a reassessment of La Russa's team.

TLR doesn't seem to care.

"I keep saying it, but I just want us to be one of those teams that's really tough to play against," he said.

I don't think La Russa has to worry about that.

"We just have to keep doing what we're doing," Pujols said. "And that's keep winning series."

The one-day-at-a-time mantra isn't clever. But it's who they are. The Cardinals are their manager's team, and toughness won't be an issue."

Manliness

2008-05-04T15:48:00.000-07:00

"In this way, anyone who abandons virtue ceases to be a man, since he cannot share in the divine nature, and instead becomes a beast." Boethius Consolation of Philosophy

Video Time

2008-04-24T19:39:00.000-07:00

The Kobe video is pretty amazing:

And here is good ole' President Bush-if anything he makes us laugh...

Happy 81st Pope Benedict XVI!

2008-04-16T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today Pope Benedict XVI aka Joseph Ratzinger celebrated his 81st birthday by traveling and arriving in the United States of America. Here is to a pleasant trip and that it brings a revival to the Faith in America.

"Little Mary Margaret was not the best student in Catholic School .. Usually she slept through the class.

One day her teacher, a Nun, called on her while she was sleeping. 'Tell me Mary Margaret, who created the universe?'

When Mary Margaret didn't stir, little Johnny who was her friend sitting behind her, took his pencil and jabbed her in the rear.

'God Almighty!' shouted Mary Margaret.
The Nun said, 'Very good' and continued teaching her class.

A little later the Nun asked Mary Margaret, 'Who is our Lord and Savior?'

But Mary didn't stir from her slumber. Once again, Johnny came to her rescue and stuck Mary Margaret in the butt.

'Jesus Christ!!!' shouted Mary Margaret and the Nun once again said,'Very good,' and Ma ry Margaret fell back asleep.

The Nun asked her a third question...'What did Eve say to Adam after she had her twenty-third child?'

Again, Johnny came to the rescue.
This time Mary Margaret jumped up and shouted, 'If you stick that darn thing in me one more time, I'll break it in half!'

The nun fainted."

Cardinals on a Roll!

2008-04-07T04:43:00.000-07:00

“I just want to win,” he said. “And I love what I’m seeing from this group of guys. They can put me on base all season, and I’ll just score a lot of runs. As long as we win, it doesn’t matter.”
Pujols was in a great mood Sunday, following the Cardinals 3-0 win over Washington. On the homestand, Cardinals starting pitchers had an 0.95 ERA. The entire staff gave up 11 earned runs in 54 IP.
Offensively, 10 different Cardinals scored runs … 12 drove in runs … 13 had hits.
There were four sacrifice bunts, two sac flies, and two stolen bases. And some impressive catches-plays in the field.
Rick Ankiel was a dominant force with three homers, six RBIs, and a batting line of .348 / .400 / .826.
But the Cardinals had a varied, if not robust, attack. They even defeated three LH starting pitchers.
What had Pujols fired up was the attitude around him.
“I kept trying to tell everyone during spring training that this team was going to be a lot better than people thought,” Pujols said. “No one wanted to listen, but you can see it. It’s an unselfish team and that’s hard to put in the form of stats. But I’m seeing guys giving themselves up by moving a runner over, and doing the little things it takes to win. Just doing what’s best for the team. I’m seeing guys really support each other. I see the pitchers making that tough pitch when they need it. The energy level is unbelievable. Like I said, that’s something you can’t put in numbers. But I feel it in here, man.”
Predictions?
“It’s better if people don’t expect much from us,” Pujols said. “I like it that way. Let’s just keep playing hard all the time the way we are, and let’s keep being an unselfish team, and we’ll surprise people.”
The Cardinals were an unhappy bunch in 2007. Miserable, even.
I don’t know how much these early positive vibes will translate into winning, but it can’t hurt.
“There’s a lot of great guys in here and they’re hungry to win,” Pujols said. “It makes it fun.”

"These are the typical games we're going to have," Isringhausen said. "Five, six runs a game. Albert's not going to get anything to hit. If our starters keep going deep into the game, our bullpen will be good. I expected this out of our defense. You cannot replace the guys who aren't here anymore. But you move on. Troy has got to make all the routine plays. Ank is proving it to everybody."Or, as Ankiel put it, more succinctly than blandly:"That's what translates into a winning ballclub."

2008 Baseball Season!

2008-04-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought the Cardinals would be 5-1 and on top of the NL Central Division. Now I know there is still 156 games left, but who knows. I mean Albert Pujols is batting .353 with 1 RBI and 0 HR, Rick Ankiel is tearing it up and the starting pitching has been downright UNBELIEVABLE (overall staff ERA of 2.20-starting pitching is like 1.2o-ridiculous! Let's hope they can keep this up!

	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	K	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	OPS
Rick Ankiel	5	19	4	6	1	0	2	4	2	5	0	0	.316	.381	.684	1.065
Troy Glaus	5	18	0	3	1	0	0	2	2	5	0	0	.167	.238	.222	.460
Yadier Molina	4	15	3	5	0	0	1	4	1	1	0	0	.333	.375	.533	.908
Albert Pujols	5	15	2	6	2	0	0	1	6	1	0	0	.400	.571	.533	1.105
Ryan Ludwick	4	15	3	4	2	1	0	3	2	4	1	0	.267	.353	.533	.886
César Izturis	5	13	2	3	1	0	0	1	5	1	1	1	.231	.474	.308	.781
Skip Schumaker	5	13	2	0	0	0	0	0	4	1	0	0	.000	.235	.000	.235
Adam Kennedy	3	10	3	4	0	0	0	1	1	0	0	0	.400	.455	.400	.855
Brian Barton	4	9	1	4	1	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	.444	.444	.778	1.222
Aaron Miles	2	9	1	3	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	.333	.333	.333	.667
Brad Thompson	1	3	0	1	0	0	0	1	0	2	0	0	.333	.333	.333	.667
Rico Washington	3	3	1	1	1	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	.333	.333	.667	1.000
Chris Duncan	2	3	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	1	.333	.600	.333	.933

Player	G	GS	W	L	SV	CG	SHO	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP	BAA
Brad Thompson	1	1	1	0	0	0	0	6.2	7	0	0	0	2	6	0.00	1.35	.292
Randy Flores	2	0	0	0	1	0	0	1.1	0	0	0	0	1	2	0.00	0.75	.000
Kyle Lohse	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	5.0	3	0	0	0	3	3	0.00	1.20	.167
Jason Isringhausen	3	0	0	0	2	0	0	3.0	2	0	0	0	2	4	0.00	1.33	.182
Ron Villone	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	1	0.00	1.50	.000
Braden Looper	1	1	1	0	0	0	0	6.0	5	1	1	0	2	3	1.50	1.17	.208
Todd Wellemeyer	1	1	1	0	0	0	0	5.0	4	1	1	1	3	6	1.80	1.40	.222
Kyle McClellan	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	4.0	3	1	1	0	1	4	2.25	1.00	.200
Adam Wainwright	1	1	1	0	0	0	0	8.0	8	2	2	1	1	4	2.25	1.13	.258
Ryan Franklin	3	0	0	1	0	0	0	1.2	4	3	1	0	1	0	5.40	3.00	.400
Anthony Reyes	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	1.2	2	2	2	1	0	3	10.80	1.20	.286
Russ Springer	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	2.0	5	3	3	1	1	3	13.50	3.00	.455

Let's keep it rolling boys!

Final Four: Memphis over UCLA, Kansas over UNC-so much for my UNC vs. UCLA, UCLA Winning it. So, I guess I will be rooting for the Jayhawks Monday night-the Jayhawk is a pretty cool mascot.

A Man's Hug

2008-03-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

For those men out there who have been puzzled on the proper technique of a "man-hug" there is now a source that can clear away all of that confusion: Mechanics of the Man Hug.

This site also has a lot of interesting Manly Skills...

Pope Benedict XVI's Easter Message

2008-03-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

Resurrexi, et adhuc tecum sum. Alleluia! - I have risen, I am still with you. Alleluia! Dear brothers and sisters, Jesus, crucified and risen, repeats this joyful proclamation to us today: the Easter proclamation. Let us welcome it with deep wonder and gratitude!

Resurrexi et adhuc tecum sum – I have risen, I am still with you, for ever. These words, taken from an ancient version of Psalm 138 (v. 18b), were sung at the beginning of today’s Mass. In them, at the rising of the Easter sun, the Church recognizes the voice of Jesus himself who, on rising from death, turns to the Father filled with gladness and love, and exclaims: My Father, here I am! I have risen, I am still with you, and so I shall be for ever; your Spirit never abandoned me. In this way we can also come to a new understanding of other passages from the psalm: "If I climb the heavens, you are there; if I descend into the underworld, you are there … Even darkness is not dark for you, and the night is as clear as day; for you, darkness is like light" (Ps 138:8,12). It is true: in the solemn Easter vigil, darkness becomes light, night gives way to the day that knows no sunset. The death and resurrection of the Word of God incarnate is an event of invincible love, it is the victory of that Love which has delivered us from the slavery of sin and death. It has changed the course of history, giving to human life an indestructible and renewed meaning and value.

"I have risen and I am still with you, for ever." These words invite us to contemplate the risen Christ, letting his voice resound in our heart. With his redeeming sacrifice, Jesus of Nazareth has made us adopted children of God, so that we too can now take our place in the mysterious dialogue between him and the Father. We are reminded of what he once said to those who were listening: "All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him" (Mt 11:27). In this perspective, we note that the words addressed by the risen Jesus to the Father on this day – "I am still with you, for ever" – apply indirectly to us as well, "children of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him" (cf. Rom 8:17). Through the death and resurrection of Christ, we too rise to new life today, and uniting our voice with his, we proclaim that we wish to remain for ever with God, our infinitely good and merciful Father.

In this way we enter the depths of the Paschal mystery. The astonishing event of the resurrection of Jesus is essentially an event of love: the Father’s love in handing over his Son for the salvation of the world; the Son’s love in abandoning himself to the Father’s will for us all; the Spirit’s love in raising Jesus from the dead in his transfigured body. And there is more: the Father’s love which "newly embraces" the Son, enfolding him in glory; the Son’s love returning to the Father in the power of the Spirit, robed in our transfigured humanity. From today’s solemnity, in which we relive the absolute, once-and-for-all experience of Jesus’s resurrection, we receive an appeal to be converted to Love; we receive an invitation to live by rejecting hatred and selfishness, and to follow with docility in the footsteps of the Lamb that was slain for our salvation, to imitate the Redeemer who is "gentle and lowly in heart", who is "rest for our souls" (cf. Mt 11:29).

Dear Christian brothers and sisters in every part of the world, dear men and women whose spirit is sincerely open to the truth, let no heart be closed to the omnipotence of this redeeming love! Jesus Christ died and rose for all; he is our hope – true hope for every human being. Today, just as he did with his disciples in Galilee before returning to the Father, the risen Jesus now sends us everywhere as witnesses of his hope, and he reassures us: I am with you always, all days, until the end of the world (cf. Mt 28:20). Fixing the gaze of our spirit on the glorious wounds of his transfigured body, we can understand the meaning and value of suffering, we can tend the many wounds that continue to disfigure humanity in our own day. In his glorious wounds we recognize the indestructible signs of the infinite mercy of the God of whom the prophet says: it is he who heals the wounds of broken hearts, who defends the weak and proclaims the freedom of slaves, who consoles all the afflicted and bestows upon them the oil of gladness instead of a mourning robe, a song of praise instead of a sorrowful heart (cf. Is 61:1,2,3). If with humble trust we draw near to him, we encounter in his gaze the response to the deepest longings of our heart: to know God and to establish with him a living relationship in an authentic communion of love, which can fill our lives, our interpersonal and social relations with that same love. For this reason, humanity needs Christ: in him, our hope, "we have been saved" (cf. Rom 8:24).

How often relations between individuals, between groups and between peoples are marked not by love but by selfishness, injustice, hatred and violence! These are the scourges of humanity, open and festering in every corner of the planet, although they are often ignored and sometimes deliberately concealed; wounds that torture the souls and bodies of countless of our brothers and sisters. They are waiting to be tended and healed by the glorious wounds of our Risen Lord (cf. 1 Pet 2:24-25) and by the solidarity of people who, following in his footsteps, perform deeds of charity in his name, make an active commitment to justice, and spread luminous signs of hope in areas bloodied by conflict and wherever the dignity of the human person continues to be scorned and trampled. It is hoped that these are precisely the places where gestures of moderation and forgiveness will increase!

Dear brothers and sisters! Let us allow the light that streams forth from this solemn day to enlighten us; let us open ourselves in sincere trust to the risen Christ, so that his victory over evil and death may also triumph in each one of us, in our families, in our cities and in our nations. Let it shine forth in every part of the world. In particular, how can we fail to remember certain African regions, such as Dafur and Somalia, the tormented Middle East, especially the Holy Land, Iraq, Lebanon, and finally Tibet, all of whom I encourage to seek solutions that will safeguard peace and the common good! Let us invoke the fullness of his Paschal gifts, through the intercession of Mary who, after sharing the sufferings of the passion and crucifixion of her innocent Son, also experienced the inexpressible joy of his resurrection. Sharing in the glory of Christ, may she be the one to protect us and guide us along the path of fraternal solidarity and peace. These are my Easter greetings, which I address to all who are present here, and to men and women of every nation and continent united with us through radio and television. Happy Easter!

And the vote goes to...

2008-03-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

John McCain rallies Catholics as he prepares for general election

Sen. John McCain

Denver, Mar 10, 2008 / 07:25 pm (CNA).- As John McCain looks towards the open waters of the general election he is trying to consolidate his support amongst what he sees as a key demographic—Catholics.

Speaking to members of his National Catholics for McCain Committee this afternoon in a conference call, the senator addressed issues of concern to Catholics.

One Catholic supporter from South Carolina voiced his concern about the endorsement of Pastor John Hagee, an evangelical Christian who has made comments derogatory of Catholics both in his preaching and his writing. McCain responded by repeating his repudiation from this past Friday of any anti-Catholic comments made by Hagee.

David Adams from Florida speculated that perhaps the Catholic vote could be won by McCain on more centrist issues such as human rights and religious freedom. He asked the senator, “What will you do as president to promote human rights in places like Darfur or those persecuted for their religious beliefs in, say for example, Afghanistan…?”

Sen. McCain replied by saying that he believes that his “very clear record” on human rights, his statements and speeches on Darfur and his support for stopping the genocide that took place against Muslims in Bosnia are issues that Catholics can unite behind him on.

While McCain is pro-life on the issue of abortion, he differs with the Catholic belief that embryonic stem cell research is immoral. The Catholic Church teaches that embryonic stem cell research is immoral because it involves the killing of embryos.

Austin Ruse from Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (C-FAM) raised the issue with the Arizona senator by asking him whether he had considered changing his position on embryonic stem cell research given the dramatic scientific advances of the last two months. McCain responded to Ruse’s question by saying that while he is “very encouraged” by the advances, he has yet to see “sufficient scientific evidence” to change his support for the practice. He added that he will continue to examine the issue and receive briefs on any progress being made.

The McCain campaign is actively recruiting Catholics around the country, including at the parish level, as the Republican nominee plans for his run against the still undetermined Democrat competitor.

Pro-Life and President Clinton

2008-02-18T11:27:00.000-08:00

President Clinton is really burying the Senator Clinton in her run for the Democratic Presidential Nomination...
"Our generation is pro-life. It is amazing that these pro-abortion politicians think that they can continuously support the killing of millions of unborn children and no one will express their dissatisfaction. They think they don't ever have to answer questions about their pro-abortion policies or the money they receive from pro-abortion lobbying organizations. This generation will no longer tolerate these types of politicians, their rhetoric, or their pro-death policies," said Kristan Hawkins, Executive Director of Students for Life of America.

Lessons from a Dog

2008-02-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention, and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you are happy, dance around, and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal. Never pretend you are something you are not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle gently.

Be always grateful for each new day!

Not a Very Good "Blogger"

2008-02-17T07:53:00.000-08:00

So as I was informed yesterday that it had been over 20 days since I posted anything, I guess it would be a good time to have a nice update. So here goes:

Thursday Feb 14-Catchers and Pitchers reported for spring training meaning the Cardinals are starting their run back to the top of the NL Central. Now I know it's going to be tough without Carpenter or Mulder, but I think the capability is there. I'm excited about Troy Glaus, I think he can bring something new to the team and also for whenever Colby Rasmus does become the Centerfielder-a young and talented player who will ease the "loss" of Jim Edmonds. As for the concerns with Mr. Pujols elbow- I have none, he knows what he can (which is limitless) and cannot do.
"Pujols said the "best thing" that happened last year was the jolt the Cardinals received from a wave of younger, newer players. He said the worst thing that can happen this year is if they feel "like they belong here." That's why Pujols repeated Saturday what he says every spring. He's here just playing to "make the team."And he won't let elbow concerns impede him."Just going to go with the flow," Pujols said. "How I feel that day. How I feel in the spring. I'm going to keep doing what I do to get myself ready for the season. ... We're going to see in the next couple months, doing more baseball stuff, how it feels. Hopefully, it feels like it feels now.""

The Illini continue to struggle and be in every ballgame, but just can't find the magi or some way to win. Against Indiana they had it led by freshman Demetri McCamey's 31 points, but in the end poor, and I am not exaggerating, poor free-throw shooting doomed them as they lost again by four points to those stinking Hoosiers 83-79 (Glad I had a nice conversation with Coach Sampson before he bites the dust-I heard if you use your cellphone it blows up on you-I wonder how many he has gone through?). They bounced back rather nicely at Minnesota defeating the upstart Gophers 84-60 to continue an 18-game winning streak against them. Well they followed that up with a dissapointing loss at Penn St. 52-51. This sums up the season quite nicely: "I think we're cursed or something," Illinois forward Brian Randle said. "I don't know what it is. Somebody made a deal with a higher power.""

As for student teaching, it is going great. It's a lot of fun being the teacher and not the student. One thing I like in particular is the interaction with students and knowing you have an effect on them. Sometimes it's more important that they feel good about the teacher and classroom so you can build a relationship with them. At the end of the day it's exhausting, but it feels great and I get this adrenaline rush from it.

Lastly, I would like to end with this message from Pope Benedict XVI on Lent and the Power of Prayer:
In his homily, the Pope reflected on the themes of prayer and suffering. "Lent", he said, "precisely because it invites people to prayer, penance and fasting, represents a providential moment to revive and strengthen our hope". Prayer "is the primary and foremost 'weapon' with which to 'face the struggle against the spirit of evil'", said the Holy Father, indicating that "without the element of prayer, the human 'I' ends up by closing in on itself and conscience, which should be the echo of the voice of God, risks being reduced to a mirror of the self. In the same way, interior dialogue becomes a monologue that gives rise to many forms of self-justification. "Thus prayer is a guarantee of openness to others", he added. "Those who free themselves for God and His needs, open themselves to others, to the brothers and sisters who knock at the door of their hearts and ask to be heard, who ask for attention, for forgiveness, and sometimes for correction, but always in fraternal charity."True prayer is never centered on the self but always focuses on others. ... True prayer is the motor of the world, because it keeps us open to God. For this reason, without prayer there is no hope, only illusion.

Congrats to Deron Williams for winning the All-Star Skills Competition where he literally left the competition in his dust! He took the title with the closing round record of 25.5 seconds defeating Chris Paul (just another time D-Will beats CP3, but still doesn't get any recognition for it) in the final round, after beating out Jason Kidd of the Nets??? and Dwayne Wade of the now Shaqless Heat.

This is downright amazing...

Stephen Colbert Defends the Faith

2008-01-25T18:28:00.000-08:00

Stephen Colbert gives his views on religion and what he believes in-click here!

"And though I am a committed Christian, I believe that everyone has the right to their own religion, be you Hindu, Jewish or Muslim. I believe there are infinite paths to accepting Jesus Christ as your personal savior." Colbert's speech at the White House Correspondents Association dinner, Saturday night, April 29, 2006.

"You have to know your audience when you’re setting up a metaphor. On Monday’s show, Stephen was talking to the governor of South Carolina about the confederate flag that flies outside the statehouse and whether it represents slavery.

The governor said, “It’s like the crucifix. It doesn’t have Jesus on it, but for alot of folks….” and Stephen jumped in with, “Mine does.” And the governor said, “It does?!!” Stephen laughed and said, “I’m a Catholic. Biggest difference. Except for the pope. And that Protestants are heretics.”

(Now technically the governor’s metaphor was off on the wrong foot anyway, because without the corpus it’s a cross, not a crucifix.)"

"TONY: You created The Daily Show religious-satire segment, "This Week in God." How do you square your Catholicism with comedy?

SC: I love my Church, and I'm a Catholic who was raised by intellectuals, who were very devout. I was raised to believe that you could question the Church and still be a Catholic. What is worthy of satire is the misuse of religion for destructive or political gains. That's totally different from the Word, the blood, the body and the Christ. His kingdom is not of this earth."

I think it's pretty sweet Stephen Colbert is not afraid to say what he thinks especially when it comes to his Faith and speaking the Truth, especially on a TV Channel that probably wouldn't be Christian otherwise.

Rick Majerus and being Catholic

2008-01-23T15:48:00.000-08:00

Once again, a Catholic official is under fire for "calling out" a noticeable Catholic in society. This time it's Archbishop Raymond Burke taking the heat for saying St. Louis U Basketball Coach should be disciplined for his comments at a campaign rally for Democratic Presidential candidate Hilary Clinton-first off as a Catholic why would you support her (Pro-Choice). Majerus publicly stated that he is Pro-Choice and for stem-cell research-all against the Catholic Church and it's teachings.

"ST. LOUIS -- A Roman Catholic archbishop said Tuesday that he will ask officials of Saint Louis University to take "appropriate action" against its basketball coach, who said in a television interview that he supports abortion rights.

St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke says he's concerned abortion rights comments made by basketball coach Saint Louis coach Rick Majerus (above) could "lead Catholics astray."

One of the game's winningest coaches, Rick Majerus made the comment at a weekend rally for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton.

St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke declined to say what the action against Majerus should be, saying that was a decision for the Jesuit university. But he said the coach is a leader and shouldn't support views in opposition to church teaching.

"I'm concerned that a leader at a Catholic university made these comments. It can lead Catholics astray," Burke said by telephone as he attended March for Life anti-abortion events in Washington. "I just believe that it's of the essence for people to understand as a Catholic you just cannot hold these beliefs.""

Majerus should realize the severity of what he said-being Catholic, it's hard for me to believe that a person IS Catholic if they are Pro-Choice and support stem. What makes this a big deal is because of Majerus' position as the head basketball coach at a Jesuit University. He is a representative of the Jesuit University (and probably the most recognizable). He represents that University and what it stands for-at a Jesuit University it should stand for all the teachings of the Catholic Faith-and by him saying these things, it gives Catholics who are devout in their faith and in line with the teachings of the Church a bad name/reputation for having a "celebrity" come out and say these things. Now what kind of punishment he should get I don't know (cut in paycheck or something-make him go on a diet), but what should be realized is that Archbishop Burke should not and is not in the wrong for this, just as the Bishop who said he would not give Rudy Giuliani Communion because of his pro-choice stance. People should be held accountable for their Faith so that when the time comes they don't regret the time when they ARE held accountable for the life's actions and Faith.

Into the Wild

2008-01-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

"I read somewhere... how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong... but to feel strong." Into the Wild

The Everlasting Man

2008-01-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

"There are two ways of getting home; and one of them is to stay there. The other is to walk round the whole world till we come back to the same place."
GK Chesterton

President Bush as Bono?!

2008-01-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

I voted for President Bush and I think he has done an OK job. Being the President of the United States is probably the hardest job in the world behind being the Pope-ya B16!!!! Since the elections are heating up and I like this song, I thought I would post this on here. I still don't know who I am voting for except I know it won't be democrat because all of them are pro-choice and BOOOOO to them-it's either Pro-Life or you don't get my vote (which does it really matter? I like to think it does and it makes me feel grown up and cool!). So here's to you President Bush...

Harry Potter, Frodo, and Aslan

2008-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

I found this article to be rather interesting because it seems as another attack on Harry Potter and the "evil" of J.K. Rowling's books. In the Vatican daily newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, it describes Harry Potter as the wrong kind of hero. The rest of the article goes on to compare Rowling's series with that of C.S. Lewis and J.R. Tolkein, of whom they wrote the Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings series, both of which are highly fantastic. I think the article has some good points that the writing of Tolkein and Lewis are "better" models of heroes than Harry Potter, but it makes Harry out to be this evil hero defeating the evil villain. In analyzing and comparing these three works, the intent of them needs to be looked at. I don't think Rowling was writing these books for the same purpose that Lewis and Tolkein wrote theirs. Rowling seems to be writing because that is what she does, while Lewis and Tolkein write also because thats what they do, but also because they are writing for a message to society and the Christian world/faith "Tolkien and Lewis portray "the extraordinary discovery of true Christianity, for which the main character of history is not an exceptional human being, like in the ancient paganism or in today's ideologies, but a person who says yes to the initiatives of God's mysteries."" Sure I think that there are better models of heroes in Lewis and Tolkein, but it seems that Harry Potter is being throw to the curb, while the article does say the he inhibits some very essential characteristics they are overshadowed by the "evil" that comes with magic. We need to remember that magic isn't real, the only thing real about magic is God's mystery and how it is perpetrated each day in our lives to reveal His Glory!

Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Coming May 16, 2008!

The Best Names in College Basketball

2008-01-05T07:28:00.000-08:00

I stumbled over this article and thought the names were pretty interesting.

My top 3:

The Holy One: Jesus Verdejo from South Florida
Destined to be Basketball Players: David Baller frm College of Charleston
Named After Famous People: Andrew Jackson from Mississippi Valley St.

And one of my favorite dunks ever!

M-I-Z-We Own You!

2007-12-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

Illinois vs. Missouri (Big Ten Network Highlights)

Illinois vs. Missouri (ESPN Highlights)

8 in a row feels sooooo good! Undefeated against Missouri in my college career!

A Piece(s) of Advice

2007-12-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

21 Big Lessons from Little Kids

"3. Asking questions is how you figure things out. Lots and lots of questions.
4. An older, wiser Gordie Lachance says in Stand By Me, "I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12." Lachance is right. The trick is to try to be the friend you were when you were 12: fun-loving and loyal, with no strings attached.
5. Playing is work. Approach your downtime with all the seriousness of a 5-year-old with a secret treasure map.
6. Real guys don't dip their toes in the water. They jump right in."

Just Be Yourself: "I have a gymnasium philosophy. Everybody's been in a gym. You look to the right, you see somebody in better shape. Look to your left, you see somebody who's dying to be in your shape. So you have to be happy in our life and know you can always go either direction. It's up to you."

Keeping it Real: Authenticity You Can't Fake It:

"Regardless of what I'm doing, I want to be authentic. That is a real key to success in every walk of life. If you're authentic, people pick up on that, they appreciate that. They're drawn to authenticity...I want people to know my flaws and weaknesses, know that I'm not perfect. I don't want to preach from the pulpit. I want them to know the real person." Mark Schlereth

Christmas and Truth

2007-12-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

"The Wise Men from the East brought gifts to the Newborn King. Yet, the babe in the manger offered a gift to the world that marvelously complemented their generosity: the gift of Truth.

The Magi, like the philosophers who were seekers of wisdom, were also seekers.

“Here is the important point,” writes G. K. Chesterton in The Everlasting Man, “that the Magi, who stand for mysticism and philosophy, are truly conceived as seeking something new and even finding something unexpected. ... The discovery is, in this case, truly a scientific discovery.”

The Christmas story is not merely a beautiful and endearing story. It is a historical event and the “scientific discovery” of a truth that discredited all competing mythologies.

It gave religion a new birth, one that was wed to truth. It was also significant that it was born in a cave, a place where truth is not easy to find." The Magi and Their Scientific Discovery

This article was really interesting and it put Christianity into perspective of what Jesus came for to bring Truth and everlasting life for all humanity. It is a gift that many people have been unable to accept for over two-thousand years, yet the Truth still prevails as Christmas shows us each year. God humbled himself by coming to earth born a man in the lowliest of places in a stable amongst the animals as a sign of his love for us. This is the gift that we all should humbly receive into our hearts this Christmas to look on that manger scene with humility and joy for the hope of a new beginning to share with friends and families. To all a very Merry Christmas!

Linus speaks the Truth:

Man vs. Wild

2007-12-11T11:39:00.000-08:00

Bear Grylls is the Man! He just knows a lot about nature and can put himself into any situation and get out of it. What I like the most is that he is willing to try anything-like eating raw Goats testicles, building a camel tent, going into an ice crevice on a glacier in Patagonia, etc. he isn't afraid to do anything and knows he can accomplish anything! I think that is one thing that people cannot handle is giving credit to people. They want to find the fault in what people do even if they do something great. There has been speculation that Bear has not "roughed" it as the show claims, but you know what I wanna see the average person who watches the show go out and do what he does. Would you eat raw goats testicles or sleep in a dead camel? How about jump in a mountain pond just to show how to survive in it or run around naked on a glacier to get body warmth back? Ya, he is awesome and one thing that all men should take from it is whatever you do, be awesome at it, work hard, and strive for better!

Laugh, Think, and Cry

2007-12-04T20:10:00.001-08:00

I left 80 and Sunny for 25 and cloudy?!

2007-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Well Wednesday night was spent hanging out with the rest of the managers just taking in the rest of the time to hang out and reflect on how fun the trip was.

Thursday November 21
I woke up about 7:30 and ran outside for 15 minutes, then did some more cardio/abs at the fitness center and then took a stroll/picture extravaganza along the beach until breakfast. After Breakfast around 10:30 I laid out for a bit and hung out with the guys until we left. The day was absolutely gorgeous and was very hard to leave! Our bus left around 1 for the airport and we departed for LA around 3:45 and arrived in LA a little after 10. We had about an hour layover and flew out to Chicago around 11:50 and got into Chicago around 5:30 or so. The bus ride home went by fast and we got into Champaign about 8:30ish.

Thoughts on the Trip:

If Hawaii was not so far from Illinois and expensive to travel, I would probably move out there because it is just so nice out there all the time and the people are really friendly-my new favorite word is "Mahalo" which is Thank You in Hawaiian
The Pineapple is amazing! I probably had about 5 total for the whole 8 days we were in Hawaii.
I am glad I was fortunate to go on the trip; makes me realize how lucky I have been to be a manager and all the awesome experiences and opportunities that it has provided me in my four years in college.
If there is another time that I have the chance to go back to Hawaii- I definitely will try; if not Aloha!!

Duke and Oklahoma St.

2007-11-21T18:50:00.000-08:00

Tuesday November 20
Well after being kicked out of the bed, I got up around 7:15 and worked out before breakfast. After breakfast we headed to the gym for a short shootaround to prepare for the Dukies. After shootaround/walkthrough we went back to the hotel for pre-game meal and to focus for the game ahead. We left the hotel around 3:15 for the game against Duke at 4:30. We started out alright leading into ten minutes into the game, but then they went on a run and stretched the lead over 10, but the Illini got it under ten going into halftime. We came out on a nice little run after halftime and got the lead down to 3, but they quickly got it over 10 and every little run they made they had a counter for it, as the Illini fell 79-66.

A few observations from the game:

Duke doesn't help the snotty we're better than you attitude-Singler and Scheyer are little punks, with that being said, they are better than I thought, but any team with a good inside game and doesn't shoot 36% for the game will beat them-UNC.
Henderson is a stud-athletic and can shoot
I think we are definitely going to be better than A LOT of people think. We play hard0-led by Chester and if Brian stays healthy and plays they way he has we will be Big 10 Contenders and a Tournament Team.
Not many teams will outrebound us-we had 19 offensive rebounds and outrebounded them by 10 total
The bench will be a factor in a lot of games because they can bring some depth and a breather to guys while not losing much
That being said, we still need to defend without fouling and knock our outside shots down
You DON'T mess with Chester-Singler picked the wrong guy right there and was lucky because it would not have been pretty for him

Wednesday November 21
With the loss to Duke, we had an early turnaround to play at 11:30 a.m. Wake up was at 7:15 and pre-game meal at 7:30 before we left at 10:20 for the game. The LSU and Arizona St. game went into OT, delaying our game. The Illini finally took the floor against the Oklahoma St. Sooners who absolutely got spanked by Marquette, which was going to make this an interesting contest. After the Illini took an early 9-7 lead, they never looked back taking a 13 point lead at halftime and turning it into a 16 point victory.

More Notes:

Trent and Calvin really stepped up-Trent hitting some shots and Calvin just doing a little of everything, which was big since Brian Randle went down with an injury; Congratulations to Calvin for being on the Maui All-Tournament Team!
Our defense was relentless at times, sometimes we got lazy, but overall you could tell OK ST. was just wittling under the pressure-part of that is the depth and how well we play defense-just need to keep it up
Overall, 3-1 on this Hawaii trip is good. We won a close one and won some games going away. I thought we could have played better against Duke, but I think it is something to build on. Also, going 2-1 at Maui was what I expected and I think it might be better to leave with a victory than possibly a loss for our confidence. The Illini learned a lot about themselves as a team and there is room for improvement, but I think Coach Weber has these guys headed in the right direction for the rest of the season!

After the game it was back to the hotel which then we were free until tomorrow about 11 when we leave for home! It's gonna be hard to leave 80 and sunny for 30 and snow. When we got back I worked out and gonna stay it easy the rest of the time, enjoy the sun and the beach!

ALOHA!!

I need more sun!

2007-11-20T16:04:00.000-08:00

Sunday November 18
Sunday morning I woke up and went to Mass at a little church about 4 miles from the resort. After I got back it was time for breakfast and then I walked down aways from the resort to a small shopping center. Then it was fun in the sun! I ran on the beach-not the smartest idea, as I tore the back of my toes up a little-then went in the ocean before we had practice. Practice was at a small High School gym in Lahaina and was very hot; Jay Bilas and Bill Raftery were at practice which would benefit the managers greatly! After practice we went to a banquet for all the teams, families, and boosters which was cool. All the coaches of the teams talked and it was an enjoyable time. After the banquet we had team meeting and then it was bedtime!

Monday November 19
Woke up around 7:15 and then worked out until breakfast at 9:30. We had shootaround at 12 and then had pregame meal around 2:30. After that I went outside for a bit to lay out and catch up on my reading. We left around 5:15 before our game at 6:30 against the Arizona St. Sun Devils. The Illini came out firing goin up 20-0 before they scored. They came back a little bit and at halftime we only had a 14 point lead, but blew it open and finished em off to win by 23. Brian Randle and Rodney Alexander had 17 points and the whole team played well and it was a good win-BRING ON DUKE! Towards the end of the game Jay Bilas was giving the managers some props at practice when we were being loud and making noise, trying to make it a game like atmosphere for the guys. He must have liked it and talked about us on ESPN! That's pretty sweet if you ask me. Also, MJ was there sporting the Orange Illini Polo shirt-saweeet and you can bet he will want the Illini to beat Duke tonight just as bad as anyone else! After the game it was back to the hotel for team meal and meeting and then bedtime!