From the Inside Out

I must confess that my workouts have been non-existent over the last few months. I haven’t been to the gym or on the bike for longer than I’d like to admit. Even my “at home” workouts have suffered lately; it’s the result of having too many things loaded on my plate. I’d like to get back on a regular workout schedule now that Pirates of Patmos is over. I’m not sure if I can stick to it since SNL is quickly approaching, but I’m going to try. Maybe I need a workout partner to keep me motivated and force me to go even when I don’t feel like it. Do I have any volunteers?

Yesterday we hopped on our bikes for an evening ride. It felt great to be back out there (except when I had to climb hills, that didn’t feel so good). We rode to the new Watter’s Crossing area on Bethany in Allen — about 14 miles round trip. For the most part, it’s an easy ride using the bike trails that start near our house. We even got to see some wild life on the way. Okay, it was one armadillo and a few bunnies, but when you live in the city, that’s cool.

I’m hoping we can make the ride a regular weekend occurrence. I’d love to participate in the “Hotter than Hell” ride in Wichita Falls, but that may be too much for my first organized ride. Then again, they say to “dream big.” Hmm…maybe I will make it into the “Hotter than Hell” this year after all.

Anyway, I’m off to California this week. Travel wreaks havoc on your exercise plans, but my hotel has an adequate workout facility. I’m thinking I can get spend some time on the machines this week. I got a decent workout when I was out there a couple of weeks ago. Wish me luck!

I’ll be back on Friday. Have a good week everyone.

“The day the Lord created hope was probably the same day he created Spring.” ~Bern Williams

I absolutely LOVE Spring.  The weather was fabulous today, and it beckoned us outside to enjoy God’s beautiful creation.  First, we basked in the glorious warmth of the sun while relaxing by the pool.  The water was still too cold to do anything other than wading, although Gary did manage to jump in — once. 

Afterwards, we decided to get some exercise and jumped on our bikes for a quick ride.  We went twice as far as last week — 12 miles round trip.  I told Gary if I could double the miles every week, I’d be ready for the Tour of Dallas on April 5th.  It’s only a few weeks away, and I’ve only been on my bike twice.  I guess I could wimp out and do the 8 mile ride, but I’d prefer to ride the 20 mile course instead.  Hopefully next weekend will be nice so I can eek out a 20 mile trip.  If so, I’ll feel more comfortable doing it for the Tour of Dallas.

A funny thing happened on our ride today.  We passed one of the community pools in Plano and witnessed an interesting sight.  Instead of hanging out in the nature preserve or the creek, we found a group of ducks hanging out at the pool — only in Plano!

Tonight, we finally attended the “Black and White” party that we previously thought was scheduled on February 22nd (see blog).  We donned our best B&W outfits, ate some great food, sang happy birthday to Chris, and fellowshipped with some friends.  It was a good night.

Well, I need to wrap up today’s blog entry quickly.  We kick-off our first two-service Sunday tomorrow morning at Abundant Life Church, and the day is going to start really early.  I have to be there at 8 am for practice.  The first service starts at 9 am, and the second is 11:15 am.  I’m on the praise team tomorrow, so I’ve got to be there for both services which means I need to get a good night’s sleep.  Ah, I hate mornings!

Since I’m going to Orlando tomorrow for VoiceCon, my weekend officially ended today.  I’m flying out early for a mandatory pre-show meeting which is scheduled in the evening.  Normally, VoiceCon is the first week of March, but not this year.  That’s why I’m dreading the flight.  I’m going to Orlando, the kid capital of the world, during Spring Break week.  Picture this…a flight packed full of tourists and screaming children…Oy vey.  It’s not my idea of fun.  Ah, the things I must endure for my company.

I’m also missing the start of a new sermon series at our church.  Our drama team will be performing a short sketch tomorrow to accompany the sermon.  After completing the outline, assembling the team, and directing practice tonight, it’s a letdown that I won’t be able to see the finished result.  Oh well, duty calls me elsewhere.

On another note, the warm weather beckoned me out on my bike today.  It was my first ride of the year (I go into hibernation during cold weather).  Hopefully, the warm temperatures will continue because I’d like to get back in shape in time to ride the 20 mile course during the Tour of Dallas in April.  Last year, I backed out when it started snowing (I’m a cold weather wimp, remember?).  I mean, seriously, it’s not supposed to snow in Dallas in April. 

Well, wish me luck in getting good neighbors on the plane tomorrow.  I’ll be bringing my earplugs just in case!