New Years Eve 2012

This was a good year of blogging. I like having this diary outlet online. It allows me to say what I want to about anything. I've been doing it now for a few years and this was the most successful. It is my hope to do the same next year. Tomorrow I plan on making my first blog entry of 2013. Happy New Year!

Self Portrait 2012

                                                                      Self Portrait 2012

Reggae Colors

                                                      Working with reggae colors here.

Christmas 2012

Today ends up being like a typical work day. I went for a 7-Mile run and then I work at the hotel this afternoon. It stays open on Christmas. I spent time with the family last night. It's a White Christmas here. A dusting of snow fell on the ground.

Christmas Eve 2012

Since it is Christmas Eve today I will do my traditional thing and start my shopping. Every year I hope to do it early and every year I wait until the last day. Time to play Santa.

The Hits Keep Coming

This has been the week from hell. The topper was me getting a ticket today because my car was past inspection. I couldn't believe it. I thought for sure everything was up to date. It's my own fault though. This week isn't over yet. There's always tomorrow to make things even crazier.

Rain & Wind

This is the Winter Solstice and the shortest day of the year. Where I am it's raining & windy. I'm not in need of any White Christmas. It could be warm & sunny for all I care.

Thurston

Here's a photo I took of Thurston Moore several months ago at Le Poisson Rouge in New York City.

Bad

This is probably the worst day I've had all year and there were a few lousy ones in 2012.

                                                                                                                                            

Untitled Scribble

This untitled scribble was one of the first things I did on this computer I'm using.

Night Audit Time

for the next few days I will be working the 3rd Shift. I'm going to do Night Audit work at the hotel. I always seem ready to go to bed at 8 PM anymore. It's been that way for awhile now. I need to get this stuff done. Good Morning People.

Watt From Pedro

Bass Brother Mike Watt was so kind to play my entire rock opera THE FRONT DESK on his radio show. It's called THE WATT FROM PEDRO SHOW! What an honor it is for me. Watt is such an inspiration and I couldn't have written this work of music without him. He has been the Great Ambassador of the Bass. I admire him so much and most of all he is a dear friend. www.twfps.com

My Bass

 Add this to the collection. My left-handed Peavey Milestone IV bass guitar!

Uncle Richie

My Uncle Richie passed away yesterday. He was my Godfather too. He showed me plenty of love & kindness. That's what I need in life.

The Front Desk Poster

Ajax

So I'm going to Amsterdam in a couple of months and one of the things I want to do is see an Ajax football game. They will be at home the weekend I'm there. I've been looking online for tickets and there are some available. I would want a seat with the home team supporters. Ajax play at the Amsterdam ArenA. I do believe they have a retractable roof so it doesn't matter what the weather is like. I want to go to the game!

12/5/12 Set List

Last night I went to the Open Mic at Whistling Willie's in Cold Spring, New York. There weren't many people there but those that were treated me so good. these are the 3 songs I played:

Boris The Spider
Badges
Action Painting

Rain

It's raining out there this morning. If I go out and run it will be later in the day. The afternoon is suppose to clear and get warmer. I'll go out then.

Monday = Friday

My weekend starts after I get done with work tonight. I have the next couple of days off. Things haven't been as busy at the hotel. The last of the storm refugees are gone. Tonight will be active since many of the business people are checking in for the week. I'll see them today and then that will be it. I might go to Manhattan this week.

Sunday Morning

It has become a tradition in recent times to go to work on Sunday mornings. I'm getting ready to do so now. I haven't been getting up this early lately. I do like the morning schedule. I'm off to work now.

Should Heve Known

On one of my blog posts not too long ago, I wrote there would be big changes for next year. That seems to be starting in a month before 2013. Things will be different.

Photo

                                                       Pat Irish in Portland, Maine 2011

Late November

This time of the year is just the beginning of the Winter Season. It has been cold there was even a coating of snow the other day. Now I get ready for the Holiday Season. This will be a busy one.

Things

Just trying to get things organized. Tie up the loose ends and straighten things out. The usual things really.

Gray Tuesday

It is cold outside and it is suppose to snow today. The weather forecast calls for a couple of inches. Not sure if I'll run this morning. I feel tired and I'll work tonight. No sun for the sunrise.

10 Weeks

That's how it will be for me to wait for my trip to The Netherlands. I'll have to brush up on my Dutch. I know phrases and can understand it a bit. I couldn't do any of that the last time I was there. That was 11 years ago. I do want to try and converse in the language. It's amazing to speak in a dialogue that is foreign to me but others understand. All part of an education in life.

Sunday

Done with work today and I'm off tomorrow. Seen a bunch of family & friends during the long Thanksgiving Weekend. I'm really lucky that way. It felt like a holiday.

Real Friends

Just woke up and I'm hoping to get a run this morning. All I need now is some motivation. I'm planning on getting together with a couple of friends of mine who I've know since I was a kid. You know you have real friends when many years go by and you're still in contact with the same people. That's true integrity and it is the measure I use to judge others. They set the standard and others have to follow. I'm fortunate to have them in my life.

Just Missed Out

Now that is just after midnight, I just missed out on leaving a blog entry for Friday. Oh well, all I did was run 7 miles and worked 9 hours. My usual day. Goodnight.

Thanksgiving

When I woke up this morning I forgot it was Thanksgiving. I work today unlike most of the people in the United States. After I'm done I'll get together tonight with my family for food & conversation. That's what I'm thankful for.

Amsterdam

I'm taking a trip to Amsterdam, NL in February. I love that city! It's been quite some time since I've been there. The van Gogh Museum is open and if Ajax is playing football at home during the time I'm there, then I might see a game. I got a good deal on airfare & hotel so I couldn't pass it up. I need to do some traveling.

Black Tuesday

If it's Thanksgiving Week then I know I'm busy. I'll be working right up through the weekend. I'm in the 24/7 business so there are no days off. Especially if it's a holiday.

Find It

I"m looking for my motivation to go and run today. It is cold outside and I just want to stay warm. I'll head out at some point though. Would like to get some creative things done. I like playing my new bass and might plug it in hear how it sounds through my amp. Drawing is also on the agenda. Colors & shapes are the order of the day.

At The Hotel

I worked at the hotel today and it was the first time in many weeks where it wasn't so busy. The Hurricane had a lot to do with things being crazy there. This is a holiday week coming up and we're not sold out almost every night. I didn't mind the break at all.

Going To Try

If I get out there and run 9 miles this morning, then that will make it 30 miles of running this week. It would also be the 4th day in a row that I've gone out and run. I just wok up and finished breakfast so I still feel really tired. The morning is cold & sunny.

The Cold

I can feel how cold it is outside just by the bedroom I'm sleeping in. It looks dry & sunny today so I hope to get a run in. I'll be working later today. Busy is on the schedule.

New Bass

I went out and bought a bass guitar today. It's a Peavey International Series Milestone IV and it's one of the least expensive bass guitars out there. It's used and I bought it for $100. My Fender Jazz will still be my primary gig bass, but this one will be a good practice bass. If I go out to the Open Mic in the future, it would be fun to play the Peavey out live. I'm glad I got it.

The Bottom Line

I get paid on Thursdays and since I look at myself like a company, this is a good day for the bottom line. Bills have to be paid and other things are spent. That's how it is with our economic system.

Made The Run

For the first time in almost a week, I went out and ran today. It felt good to do so. The head cold dominated me so much. I just had to give my body a break and get healthier. I did 7 miles and not at too slow of a pace given it's been several days. I'll try and get out there tomorrow.

Awake

Just woke up  and had some breakfast. I feel like I'm almost over this head cold. The sun is out and the skies are blue. Chances are good that I'll put my running shoes on get some miles under my feet.

New Day

I'm going to bed. Goodnight.

2013

There are going to be big changes for me next year. I don't have to be a soothsayer to predict that. The chances are really good that I will be living in a different location. That just has to happen. This will mean I'll we working at a different place. These are events that I can control. Other things will happen that will be out of my control. Just have to keep moving on.

Tired

Slept in after working last night. Getting up at 7:30 AM is late for me. I'm still fighting the effects of this head cold. My throat hasn't been sore but my nose is still stuffy or runny. Now my lips are all chapped up. I think this bug is moving out of my system.

Work

I'll be going to the hotel this afternoon. Even with my cold, I'm able to get through the day. Not so sure when I'll get out there and do a training run. This head cold really shuts me down. I need to rest when I can. It's off to work I go.

What A Mess

Since I have a migraine headache from last night, this cold I have is just wiping me out. I'm sure it isn't the flu because I don't have body aches. It's all in my head. A couple of years ago I did get a flu shot and had a bad allergic reaction to it, so I go shot free. No matter what, it wouldn't have stopped this head cold from happening. The throat isn't as sore as a couple of days ago. My nose is either stuffy or runny. Where is the guillotine of head cold relief?

Stuffy

My nose is stuffy now. This is what happens to me when I get sick. It's all I can think about. I did work today and had enough energy to get through the shift. I was busy too. I'm not sneezing like yesterday and my throat isn't as sore. I'm just all stuffed up right now. It really cut into my exercising.

Really Sick

This is a really bad head cold I have. My nose is either stuffy or runny and my throat is dry or sore. The rest of my body feels O.K. but since I've been bedridden it just zaps the energy right out of me. I seem to get this common cold every year around this time and it takes about a week to get rid of. I know when I'm sick.

No Training Run

The only thing running today is my nose.

Head Cold

With a sore throat and a stuffy nose, I feel lousy. This head cold has the best of me. Last night's sleep was difficult. My throat was so painful it was difficult to swallow. As of right now, it's my nose that's stuffed up. So much for a run this morning.

Blue Sky World

After a couple weeks of dreary weather, the sun is out and the skies are blue. I will go out and run this morning even though I feel a cold coming on. My nose is stuffed and my throat is sore. If I felt too sick I wouldn't do it. But I haven't run the past couple of days and I do fee healthy enough to go out there. The question is whether I'll go out there tomorrow and run. I'll worry about that in 24 hours.

That Time Of Night

Just finished work and if I'm typing something on my blog then that means it won't be long before I'm in bed. Have a good night.

Hotel

Going into work at the hotel this afternoon. Haven't been there for a couple of days. I expect refugees from the storm will still be there. The snow from yesterday causes real problems for those without power. They might have been able to stay warm but this adds to the brutality. It's been 10 days since Hurricane Sandy hit. It feels like it's been weeks this whole thing has been going on.

Just Like Winter

The leaves are off the trees and the snow is on the ground. Had to go out clean off my car and shovel the ground. It looks & feels like Winter.

Snow

I see snow flakes falling from the sky. I miss Summer already. I need to move to the Equator. Find me a palm tree and I'm happy. I'll complain for the next 6 months about the cold.

Another Storm

It's cloudy & cold outside with inclement weather on the way. I've run the last couple of days and will take the day off from putting miles under my feet. I'll be recording music this afternoon. Let there be song to fill the air.

Election Day

As I mentioned in my last post, I'll be voting later on today. There will be a few other things to vote on this year besides the Presidential Race. There's the incumbent Democratic Senator who I'll cast my ballot for and other local officials. I'm predicting that Barrack Obama will be renominated As President of the United States. Not because I'm voting for him, but because much of the polling seems to indicate he's out in front. Yet we here in America have what's called the Electoral College where you can get the most votes and still not win the election. As far as I'm concern, it's an outdated system. It needs to be One Person - One Vote. The possibilities of one of the candidates winning the popular vote but losing the electoral college is very real this year. I know if that happens to Mitt Romney the Republicans will scream bloody murder. Remember 2000 Right Wingers.

Liberal

I'll be voting tomorrow for the same Presidential ticket as I did 4 years ago. I am a registered Democrat since the age of 18. You can call me a liberal so say goodnight to the liberal.

One Week Ago

Super Storm Sandy showed up a week ago and left it's mark. In many ways I got off easy because the electricity went out for only 3 hours. Some people are still in the dark. I haven't seen long lines at the pump since I was a kid. My car does have a full tank of gas since I filled up before the storm and would top it off when there was regular service. Another storm is predicted to be approaching and I can only hope isn't too bad.

In The Sun

Nice to have a sunny morning to run 9 miles. It's been dreadful weather wise. I didn't move very fast but as least put some miles under my feet. It will be a busy night at the hotel I'm sure.

Cancelled

The New York City Marathon was cancelled yesterday. This should have been done a few days ago when it was apparent the damage done by Hurricane Sandy was so great. Things could have gotten ugly if the race went on. Outrage was building and I believe nothing short of a riot could have taken place. Cancelling the New York City Marathon was the right thing to do. It shouldn't have taken so long.

More Clouds

It has been cloudy around these parts for over a week now. Even before Hurricane Sandy showed up the weather was damp & overcast. I do see some blue skies outside my window and it is supposed to be sunny this weekend. The storm continues to reek havoc in this area with long lines at gas stations. I filled up before this all this started to happen but we'll have to see what the weekend brings.

Sleep

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Refugees

I thought that the whole Super Storm Sandy thing might be gone like the bad weather that was around here. But I work at a hotel and people from all over the New York Metropolitan area are desperately looking for rooms. So many people still don't have electricity. Even people from as far south as New Jersey and far east as Connecticut need places to stay. They are like refugees who are displaced. I also heard that the New York City Marathon is going on as scheduled. I've run it the last 2 years but I didn't qualify for it this year. With everything happening I feel better off not be there this weekend. The Northeast United States is still a mess.

6 Miles

Went out and ran 6 miles this morning. I usually run 7 miles but the road had wires across it from the Sandy storm. I hadn't run for a few days.

Halloween

What costume will I wear tonight for Halloween? That of a Guest Service Agent. Spooky!

No Sun

The sun hasn't been out for almost a week now. It has been cloudy several days now. With the storm known as Sandy showing up the clouds remain. I'm ready for some sunshine.

Brutal Storm

This storm was everything I worried about. The winds got stronger as the day went on and I lost power for a few hours. I'm really fortunate to have it back on. Hurricane Sandy a.k.a Frankenstorm has done so much damage up & down the East coast United States. The one thing that didn't happen with full force was the rain. Things didn't get flooded around here. It was however a nightmare last night.

Storm Ride

The trenches have been dug, the water is in supply and it's time to ride out Frankenstorm. at 11:40 AM the winds have been picking up and the rain is scattered. On the news I see Atlantic City, New Jersey is getting hammered. I hope to get through this.

You'll Know Why

If this ends up being one of my last blog/diary entries for a few days then it's because of Sandy. I'm waiting for her wrath. It hasn't rained yet but I know she's on her way. There is a good chance I'll be losing power at the house I'm in. The winds are supposed to be strong and the rain will be steady. I have the next couple of days off from work but it's tough to rest knowing this potential weather monster is on the way. Now I wait.

Frankenstorm

Hurricane Sandy has been given the nickname of FRANKENSTORM. This monster is suppose to head my way around Monday. I might as well post as much as I can now because there will be a good chance the lights in my house will go out. If this were snow like last year it could be a real disaster. This is to be taken seriously. What a nightmare right in time for Halloween.

Still Dark

It is 6:59 AM and it's dark as night outside. The sun hasn't been out for a few days now and with the storm called Sandy expected around these parts the weather stays bleak. I'll see if I get out there and run this morning. I did buy a pair sneakers yesterday so I would like to break them in. I go in and work at the hotel this afternoon. Busy day ahead of me.

Shopping

I went shopping at the store yesterday and purchased a pair of sneakers for $15 and a Winter jacket for $20. It feels good to get nice items at a inexpensive price.

Sandy

With each passing hour the realization of Hurricane Sandy stopping by my location becomes true. When Irene showed up last year it was plenty of water but the lights didn't go out. Then there was the Autumn Snow Storm exactly one year ago that had the house I'm staying in without any power for a week. Sandy is expected to show up on Monday. I need to prepare.

Clouds

Cloudy out there this morning. I'll be going out for a run in just a bit. I hear that Hurricane Sandy might show up around these parts next week. I hope not. Last year Irene dumped a lot of water and there was that freak snow storm last Halloween. Trick or Treat

O.K.

Did you know the term O.K. is an American phrase? The initials stand for OLD KINDERHOOK. It was born out of a Presidential Election for then Candidate Martin Van Buren who would go on to be President. That was the location where he lived and it's about 100 miles north of New York City. Everything is going to be O.K.

Front Desk Thoughts

Yesterday I practiced songs from my rock opera THE FRONT DESK. It was the first time I did that since attempting to perform it live last month. The unsuspecting crowd I played it to didn't take to it well. That's O.K. I found out the truth with that bunch. However I am proud of it and would like to perform it with a band. I would go out there and play it live by myself again if the circumstances were right. Now that 2013 is heading my way, it will be interesting to see what creative direction I'll go. 

Ran It

Managed to get out there and run 7 miles this morning. My goal is 30 miles for the week. I should get out there tomorrow.

On The Run

I'll go out this morning and run 7 miles. It is my goal to get 30 miles of running in. The weather forecast for this week is supposed to be warm. I'll take it. I'm registered for a 5-Mile race in New York City this Sunday but with my work schedule I can't make it. On the go now.

Sunday Night

Can't sleep. Took a quick cat nap before and now I'm awake. See how late I stay up tonight.

She's Just A Dream

I know it's real
From photos & notes
That's not how it feels
Take away my hopes

Once held your hand
Wrote poems of our love
What I can't stand
Tears wet like blood

I know what's real
Planned like a scheme
We know the deal
She's just a dream

A Saturday Run

Just came back from what was one of the most enjoyable training runs I've ever had. The weather was perfect and I felt really good. Needed that since I didn't run for the past couple of days. I work early tomorrow morning so I'll see how I feel about running tomorrow. It was a fun run today.

More

Ever think about yourself one way and realize you're another? I'm not sure if this scenario applies to me but it was my hope at times to be known as something else. Go out there and have the things you want and then want more. Maybe it's human nature to feel that way. Not be content with your lot. I do want more but not too much. I can't be specific with details. Just won't bore you with the facts. there's more I need to get.

Friday Rain

It is pouring outside so no run today. I'll go out tomorrow and put several miles under my feet. I'm working at the hotel tonight. The weather is supposed to be dry over the weekend. Where's my umbrella?

Square One Part Two

Leave it to me to be back here again.

I'm Not There

Today is the kind of day where I wish I could clone myself and be at a few different places at once. We haven't reached those scientific achievements yet. All I can do is be at one place at one time. That's where I'll go even if I want to be everywhere today.

Make A Move

Thought there isn't a particular plan yet, it does seem like a move to a different location is in my future. That's where the work is. That's where I belong. On days like today when I feel the cool breeze teasing Winter I know I want the heat. Find me an island and a hotel on it and I'm there. Work in Paradise. Sounds like fun.

Garbage Day

Wednesday is Garbage Day in the area I live in. So the day before I put all the garbage & recyclables out to the road for pickup. This Morning I went for a run and kept running into the garbage truck on it's route. I just couldn't get away from it. In the end when I got back home my garbage can was empty so I moved it of the the road.

Did It

Went out and ran 7 miles. This week is shaping up to be good for getting back to my training schedule. It was nice outside. That's always good motivation.

Recovery

Feeling better today so I will go for a run this morning. I only ran 14 miles last week so it's my plan to put some more miles under my feet. The sun is rising and so am I.

Pain

I have a violent migraine headache and the aspirin doesn't seem to be working. I'm also feeling sick to my stomach. Just thought I'd share this with you.

Questions

How's it going for you? Is everything working out?

Yankees

Crazy night in the Bronx. Raul Ibanez does his habitual 9th inning heroics to tie the game and then in extra innings Derek Jeter breaks his ankle with the Yankees losing Game 1 of the Pennant Series. Game 2 is later this afternoon. Do they rally?

Today's Colors

                                                                

Take Off

Went out and ran 7 miles this morning. It was pitch black out there. Barely a moon to be seen. I wore my panther vision hat. It's a baseball cap that has light built into them. They work like headlights on a car. Had to have them because it was too dark outside. Good to get a run in.

Grounded

So far this week I've only run 7 miles. Most of it is due to the fact that my work schedule has me going in the morning shift and I haven't felt like running afterwards. Also the weather has been cold & rainy during the course of the week. Time for me to mix up my workout schedule. Change for me is good.

P.I. Co

There are times when I think of myself as a company. What is the work I'm doing and how is it succeeding? I like my job and there is plenty of room for me to grow. I believe that is the mark of a strong company. Especially if that company has one member in it.

Expanding The Brand

Working the morning shift at the hotel today. It's usually easy for me to get early and this morning is no exception. I'm hoping to get an interview for another hotel next week. We'll see how that goes. Meanwhile I have a sold out hotel to run this weekend.

Tune Up

Taking my car to have the 3,000-Mile tune up this morning. It takes about an hour to get done. I'll walk around town while it's being worked on. I do have to go to the bank before and get some money. Paying for this in cash. After that the rest of the day is open.

Up Early

I tend to be an early riser so it's not unusual for me to be awake at this time of day. I'm not working at the hotel so I'll do day off things. I'm thinking about going to the Open Mic tonight. A friend is going to have a birthday party there. Maybe I'll go and play a few songs. I'm not sure what songs I would play. We'll see what happens.

A Move

There are times in my life when I've gone back to people, places and things from my past. One big noun of regression. My next big move will have me going away from all of that. It will be things of today just isn't here anymore. Remember when you wanted change? Well you got it! 

Busy

It's been a busy few days at work. The hotel was booked over the weekend I work tonight and then have a couple of days off. I'll try to get out there today and get a run in. I'm not sure what I'll be doing for the next couple of days. R & R might be on the agenda.

Bed

That's where I'm going. Goodnight.

Said This On Twitter

My day job is my art.

www.twitter.com/pat_irish

Busy Weekend

Plenty of work over the past few days and I'll be heading into the office this afternoon. I'm trying to get the energy to get out there and run. It is cool and clear outside. Where did I put my motivation?

Cold Facts

It's really cold outside! The temperature dropped an extra blanket on the bed was used. Felt it when I left work last night. It had been seasonably warm for some time now. No more bicycle riding for the rest of the year. The back tire is flat and it needs a serious tune up. Had problems with the gears all Summer. It won't be long where I'll be out there doing a training run with a ski cap and gloves.

9 Miles

Went out and ran 9 miles this morning. That makes 30 miles for the week. If I get out there and run tomorrow then it would be bonus. The weather was great out there! Sunny and the Fall Foliage is upon us. The leaves fall down like rain.

My Monday

My workweek begins when it ends for most people. I work the 2nd Shift today. It's O.K. for me because I love my job. It's rough for many who don't like of even can't find a job. I work in the hotel industry and really found my place. The most challenging thing for me were the hours. This is  after all a 24/7 business. Once I got used to the non traditional work schedule then it all worked out for me. I learned from the great hotelier Ian Schager that hospitality is creativity. If you bring passion to your work then anything is possible. I feel like I can combine Art, Theater and Dance to my living. I'm very fortunate that way.

Landscape With Words

Gray sky with trees of green & orange leaves. Some leaves have fallen to the ground. The grass is green with dirt muddy from the rain. Landscape for the day.

Auto Pilot

Just keep it there and you'll go at the same speed. Your mind might be going in all different directions but everything else will move at the same pace.

My Saturday

With the way my work schedule is these days my Wednesday is like most people's Saturday. I have today and tomorrow off. Went out and ran 7 miles this morning. It is overcast outside but warm. Now I'll get to that drawing I wrote about in my last entry.

Diary Of Colors

My blog is a diary. Starting today there will be a drawing that will become a visual diary. It could be abstract or realist. However I feel. When I catch up with the technology of things I'll show it to you. Keep creating.

After Midnight

We're gonna shake your tambourine.

T.G.I.T.

My weekends are in the middle of most people's workweeks. I'll be at the office today. Just ran 7 miles. I'll be on my way again.

Wake Up

The thing that caught my attention this morning was seeing the moon all lit up. It isn' cloudy out there in night sky. I would like to run later today but right now I have a bit of a headache. I am susceptible to migraines. It's the only time I ever take aspirin. Welcome to Oktoberfest.

End Of The Month

September is almost done. What will October bring? I'm sure some colder weather. What am I going to do?

Keep Moving

I actually did get some sleep last night so now it's the start of a new day. It's one of those mornings where I try not to dwell too on anything yet I do. It really isn't important what it is I'm thinking  about. No need for detail so just keep moving.

The Gig From Hell

There you have my review of tonight's show.

Gig Tonight

I have my gig tonight at the Black Swan Pub in Tivoli, New York. I will be performing my rock opera THE FRONT DESK along with a bunch of other songs. Several of which I've never performed live. I debuted THE FRONT DESK at the Black Swan back in February. I one change I made to the rock opera was that a song I wrote called LEAVE THE KEYS will be added to the show. It ends up being the last song in the rock opera. Tomorrow I plan to put the Set List of the entire gig on my blog. We'll see what I play.

Midnight

Goodnight

Friday Rain

Steady drops of water from outside
Lets me know I'm still alive
Find my color markers
Find my bass
The brain is crazy
A medical case.

Making A Run Of It

That felt like the longest 7 miles I've ever run. Some training sessions go by faster than others. Glad to get the workout in.

Dark Morning

It's 6:15 in the morning and dark as night outside. Just had breakfast and it will be time for a run. Need to finish my Front Desk prop for the show this Saturday. Think I'll write the words THE FRONT DESK in graffiti style. The gig is just 2 days away.

Witching Hour

Almost midnight. Goodnight.

Wednesday Morning

No run today. Work later on. Lazy right now.

Tuesday News

The sun is out and I'm inside. That won't be the trend for the day. It would be nice if I get a landscape painting in. Where's my easel?

Midnight Hour

It's late for me so I'm going to bed. Goodnight.

Running Again

This morning was my 1st full 7-Mile run since the Yonkers Marathon last week. I tried going out there and running a few days after the race but I had a bad muscle cramp in my left thigh. This was a big concern to me because I never felt pain in that part of my leg. So I decided to shut it down for the rest of the week and give it a rest. Today was the 1st day to go out and give it a try and all feels well. Giving my body a break was the best thing I could do. I feel like I'm back on my training schedule again.

Take It From The Top

Last week was difficult for me so I'm hoping for better things this week. I still like to dream of a better tomorrow. This morning I plan on going out and running. I took the week off because I felt sore after the marathon. Man I'm out of shape. The big gig is this Saturday and there will be plenty of songs & bass. Here's to a new week!

A Total Beat Down

The title above is a great way to describe how it went for me today.

Couch Potato

A week ago I ran a marathon and since then I have hardly done any running. I tried a few days later but my left leg felt sore. It was a muscle in my thigh. Then I just thought I would give it a rest for the week and not push it. Tomorrow I'll go out and see how things go in my running shoes.

Summer

I love Summer because it's warm
I dislike winter because it's cold
Summer leaves lose their green
Autumn is new and Summer's old.

Post It

I didn't post anything yesterday on my blog and it wasn't because I was busy. There was plenty of Front Desk Method Acting going on yesterday with much of the same for today. The weather is supposed to be very warm so I might ride my bike. When I went out to clean it yesterday the back tire was flat. It did that the last time I rode it. I'll put air in it and see how it goes.

Fall Of Summer

There is a nip in the air and the last days of Summer are upon us. The leaves are beginning to change colors and drop to the ground. The nasty storm from 2 days ago seems to have taken the warm & humid breeze. Need a sweater for the morning run.

Training Day Off

Even with the weather being nice I've decsided not to run today. Since I'll be at work and on my feet I will wait for tomorrow to get a run in. It will be my first since the marathon last Sunday. Recovery is important. 

9/18/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced & today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
Boom Boom Mancini
Molly
Lisa Says
Jacques La Rock
Opus 40
Statue Punks
Vegan Deli
The Blue Spruce
My Boston Girl
Aluminum Bat
Mary Carroll
Action Painting
On The Hudson
Chinese Rocks
Shattered
Badges
On A Death Tour
100%
Your Words Are Heard
Kissing Christine
Modern Weaponry
Beyond Baghdad

Session Recording

I just recorded a version of my rock opera THE FRONT DESK. I did it in a session format where I performed it live without an audience. I recorded it on a cassette tape. Not many of those left. I just don't have any of the modern recording things on me. I did want to have this music down for posterity and also to listen back to it since I'm going through my P.A System. The Pat Irish Sessions.

Sound Check

Today I'm going to practice my music by playing through my P.A System. Normally I play my bass with no amplification at all. This practice will pretty much be a test of my equipment. I have a gig in 12 days. I just want to make sure everything is working. When I perform live put my bass guitar through a rig because it doesn't get enough power through the P.A. I'll run through the songs I'm scheduled to play. I might record the practice too.

The Next Day

I won't be doing any running this morning with it being the day after my marathon run. I feel good this morning. My feet are a little sore but other than that, my body is not worse for wear. The weather forecast looks good today and rain tomorrow. I'll try and do some outdoor things later on.

Yonkers Marathon

This is the 4th year in a row that I've run the Yonkers Marathon. My ultimate goal was to finish under 4 hours. My official time was 3:56:16. Having run 3 marathons last year including Yonkers and finishing all over 4 hours, it was good to finish at that time. The amazing thing is that Every time I've run this race the weather was almost identical. Sunny & warm. I felt good out there. It was a strange race with different challenges throughout. I realized with 2 miles to go that I was finish under 4 hours. I will never be able to tame 26.2 miles. I seem to get past the 15-Mile mark and it becomes a battle of attrition. my pace slows down and my average minute-per-mile was 9:01. I would need to average a minute slower to qualify for the Boston Marathon. First things first and I'll enjoy the goal I set and the metal I received.

1 Day To Go

Tomorrow is the Yonkers Marathon. I have trained for the better part of a year for this race. Last year I ran 3 marathons including Yonkers and finished all of the over 4 hours. My last one was New York City back in November and I was so disappointed with my result that I promised to train as hard as I could for this race. I've put everything I have to being ready for the marathon tomorrow. The challenge of running 26.2 miles is so great. I will try my best.

Friday Morning

I go into work this afternoon. I'm still a bit wiped out from mowing the lawn yesterday. All that pollen flying around Don't think I'll do any running today. The marathon is 49 hours away. Tomorrow I will do an easy 3 miles. Weights & stretching for me this morning.

Mowing The Lawn

Just spent the afternoon mowing the lawn. That would be about an acre of land. It took me almost 4 hours to do it. I turned it into an exercise workout. It was warm outside. Really nice weather today.

3 Days Away

The Yonkers Marathon is 72 hours away and It's now time to take the test. The weather for Sunday looks perfect. Sunny & warm with temperatures in the low 70's. That might be a bit warm for some but not for me. This it the 4th year in a row I'm running this race and the weather has been almost identical every time. Now it's a matter of doing what I've been training for the past several months. My goal is to finish under 4 hours. The excitement for the race has begun.

New Rock Opera

I'm working on a brand new rock opera entitled LIFE OF A METHOD ACTOR. It will be my 2nd one. The story centers around a person who uses the Lee Strasburg method of preparing for acting roles. This one can go into many directions. My biggest influences are the theater people I used to hang out with in college. I ones I've kept in contact with continue to act so I'll draw from them. Should be fun creating.

Poster Done

In a couple of weeks I'll be performing a gig at the Black Swan Pub in Tivoli, New York. It will be the 2nd time I've played my rock opers THE FRONT DESK there. It's the only place I've done it live in it's entirety. I have performed some of the songs from the rock opera at open mic gatherings. Today I will mail the poster of the gig I created to the pub so they put them up for patrons to see. If I ever figure out the photo attachment to this computer I'm on then I'll show you. Getting ready for the gig.

9/11 Years Later

The 9/11 attacks happened 11 years ago today. There is a flashback nature to it because it was on a Tuesday like today and the weather is clear. Being from New York it was all local. Now with a decade past there are now people who might have been too young to remember what happened that day. Last month I was in Manhattan and walked around the Ground Zero area. Things are different now. The 9/11 Museum and One World Trade Center are now there. I remember when it was a pit. I also remember the Twin Towers. I actually stood on the Observation Deck once and looked out at it's amazing view of New York City and the Atlantic Ocean. I've seen a lot in my lifetime.

9/10/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced yesterday:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
Boom Boom Mancini
Molly
Lisa Says
Jacques La Rock
Opus 40
Statue Punks
Vegan Deli
The Blue Spruce
My Boston Girl
Aluminum Bat
Mary Carroll
Action Painting
On The Hudson
Chinese Rocks
Shattered
Badges
On A Death Tour
100%
Your Words Are Heard
Kissing Christine

It's Marathon Week

This Sunday I run in the Yonkers Marathon. It will be the 4th year in a row I'm running in it. Only once did I finish it under 4 hours. I hope to do it again this week. I taper down in my training for the next few day. I did go out there and run 7 miles this morning. Just tuning up.

Adventure Ride

After getting rained out for a late afternoon bicycle ride yesterday, the weather looked sunny for a go at it today. Even though I could see ominous clouds in the distance, I forged on. It was almost Autumn like out there. I rode at a steady pace. This was my usual Sunday Route and I always go by a golf course. Today I found 5 golf ball off the side of the road. I've picked up close to a half dozen this year. Then it began to rain. Those clouds finally got the best of me. It was a wet ride the rest of the way. Nothing like an adventure.

No Ride

I was hoping to get a bicycle ride in this afternoon but a nasty storm is barreling in on me. I'll have to wait until tomorrow.

Roasted Friday

Thought about taking my bicycle out for a ride. The weather is hot and sunny. I'm going to give it a rest today. My plan is to ride tomorrow. The last time I rode a bee stung me at the top of my ear. I'm just getting over that. It's a late afternoon for drawing. Think I'll find me some colors.

9/6/12 Set List

Here are the song I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
Too Late To Turn Back Now
Molly
Lisa Says
Jacques La Rock
Opus 40
Statue Punks
Vegan Deli
Boom Boom Mancini
The Blue Spruce
My Boston Girl

10 Days Left

I will be running the Yonkers Marathon in 10 days. The last 2 weeks of training for a marathon is a switch in routine for me. For the past several week now I've been doing long training runs and bicycle rides. Now I'm in the process of decreasing my miles leading up to the race. It's a matter of storing up my energy and toning my body with some weights & stretching exercises. I did run 7 miles today just to keep tuned up. I feel like I've studied for the test. Now it's time to take it.

Issac's Last Stand

It is raining outside and this what's left of the storm known as Issac. I managed to run 7 miles this morning before the rains came. I knew there was  a window of possibility of not getting caught in the rain when I saw the weather forecast this morning and I just made it. I work later today so now I'll take the down time.

9/3/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced yesterday:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
The Blue Spruce
Molly
Jacques La Rock
Boom Boom Mancini
Statue Punks
Vegan Deli
My Boston Girl
Mary Carroll
Aluminum Bat
Action Painting
On The Hudson
Chinese Rocks
Shattered
Badges
On A Death Tour
Thurston
Kissing Christine

Labor Day Workout

I went and ran 8 miles this morning. The route I took is what I call my SUNDAY RUN. But since this is a holiday I ran it today. This was my first run in 3 days and it felt good. The Yonkers Marathon is 13 days away and I wore my Saucony A4 running shoes. They are the lightest sneakers I've ever worn. It was my Labor Day Workout.

Labor Day

I'm not working today so if I do anything I'll be laboring around the house.

Gig Poster

I'll be drawing a poster for my gig at the Black Swan Pub in Tivoli, New York on September 29th. Since I'm performing my rock opera THE FRONT DESK the poster will have an animated picture of me at the front desk of a hotel and then all the information about the concert. I'll mail several copies to the pub where they can put it around for patrons to see. It's just good old fashion advertising.

No Post

Yesterday was the first day in a very long time where I didn't give you a DEAR DIARY on my blog. I went for a late afternoon bicycle ride when I ended up getting stung by a bee. It hit me at the top of my ear. Wow that hurt! Took some medicine and went to sleep. it does feel better this morning. I can only describe it as a steady burn. That's my medical excuse for not posting on my blog yesterday.

Give It A Rest

It's a nice day for a bicycle ride. It's Summer hot out there. Just the way I like it. Might try to do another landscape painting or drawing. No need to give it a rest.

Work

Off to work at the hotel. No running today since I've run 4 day in a row. I might ride my bike later on. The weather will be sunny and hot. Friday in the heat.

Blurry Art

It's just past 5 AM and it is pitch black outside. I'll go for a run when the sun rises. I did an attempt at a landscape painting yesterday. I like to call my portrait & landscape paintings BLURRY ART. No detail to the shapes & figures in the paintings. They seem show what it looks like if I didn't have my glasses on. I've always had bad vision. I might try to copy those who were Impressionist & Expressionist yet my style is that of the Blurry Art Movement.

Power Down

With just 18 days to go until the Yonkers Marathon, I'm in a frame mind now where I begin to decrease my miles of running and bicycle training. The long distance training is behind me and now it's a matter of tuning up and gearing for the 26.2 miles. Plenty of stretching and some weight training over the next 2 weeks. I'll also average about 30 miles of runner per week up until the race. Power down & tune up.

Rock Opera 2012

I will be bringing my rock opera THE FRONT DESK back to the Black Swan Pub in Tivoli, New York on September 29th. This will be the 2nd time I've performed it there and this is the place where I debuted it back in February. It looks as if I'll be performing the entire night on my own. Nick Bisanz was going to perform with me but has a prior commitment with Geo Doody. I'm putting the poster together and will be mailing it up to the pub so it can be displayed for customers to see. I'm looking forward to the gig.

On This Day Part 2

I remember what I did on August 28, 2005 and that was run the Manhattan Marathon which took place in Central Park. It was the last time they had that race in the Summer. After that, they moved it to the Winter. Back then, I would drive my car to Manhattan. These days, I take the train. It was very humid and I ran it in 1 hour and 55 minutes. I was still getting used to that distance. The race 7 years ago cost $8. Changing times indeed.

On This Day

7 years ago, Hurricane Katrina slammed into the city of New Orleans. Today another storm by the name of Issac is heading to the Big Easy. It is predicted by weather forecasters to develop into a category 1 hurricane. Not as strong as Katrina, but Issac is said to be slow moving and could dump plenty of water into New Orleans. We'll see how everything holds up. Also on this date7 years ago, a childhood classmate and friend of mine by the name of Mary Carroll Stonesifer passed away. I found out about it a few months after the fact. There was an obituary in the newspaper about her and I saw the date of her death was August 28, 2005. Mary Carroll was one of coolest people I ever met. I wrote a song about her back in the 1990's with the verses recalling the person I knew and chorus asking her how she was doing. I did hope to see her again. Years later, I found out she died. I like to play that song live. I feel like she's right there with me on stage.

Monday Run

My first run of the week was this morning and I didn't do anything all weekend exercise wise. There are less than 3 weeks to go for the Yonkers Marathon. I'll get one long training run or bicycle ride in during the week and then I start to save my energy. It's as much of a mind preparation as it is physical. I really want to do the race and finish under 4 hours. The challenge is always there for me and can never be taken for granted. Even when I'm not working out, the rest does me good. Back at it tomorrow.

Sunset Sunday

It's just before 7 in the evening and the sun is still up. It will be getting dark fast. Tomorrow I will go for a run and do other things on my day off. My Monday is much like other people's Fridays. My weekend starts now.   

Off My Feet

Having worked all day today I'm not going to ride my bike on this late afternoon. I just don't feel like it. Since I have to go in early again tomorrow so I do plan on riding after I'm done. That should work for me.

Almost Forgot

Almost forgot to put a post to my blog. I was working all day and didn't think I would get the chance. I've blogged this diary pretty much every single day. I think I've become the Cal Ripkin Jr. of bloggers. The Iron Horse of typing. It's just that I like to share my thoughts with those of you who read my entries. Thanks everyone and let me wish you all a goodnight since it's now bedtime for me.

Marathon Maybe

6 years ago I ran my first New York City Marathon. It cost $80 and there were about 30,000 runners in it. 6 years later the cost of this race is over $200 dollars and more than 40,000 runners are projected to be registered in it. This morning the New York Road Runners who are the organization putting on the race, announced that there will be no baggage pick up for runners after the marathon is over. This has always been a standard policy in the past where runners would bring a bag and put things like extra clothing or medical items. NYRR said it had to do with crowded group of runners when they are done racing. There has been quite a backlash from club members and those who are running the NYC Marathon. Things seem to have been building up to this. The rates of entry fees to NYRR races have jumped dramatically this year. At the same time, services provided by the club to the runners appears to decrease. I'm not registered for the NYC Marathon this year but I did qualify for next year. With the way things have been going I'm not sure if I will be running in 2013. I've run 4 NYC Marathons and wanted to complete my 5th next year. But if the quality of the race continues to decrease then I'll go elsewhere. So maybe I will run it or maybe I won't.

Thursday

I did have time this morning to get 7 miles of running in. I'll try to do the same tomorrow. Busy day ahead of me.

Silver Statue

Walking around Manhattan yesterday, I happen to find a statue of Andy Warhol. It was in the area of 5th Avenue and 20th Street. It was all silver and at the bottom of the statue it read, "The Andy Monument." The funniest thing to me was that it depicts him carrying a shopping bag. A fitting tribute.

Hit The Road

I do plan on getting a run in today. I gave it a rest yesterday. This week I want to get a long distance practice in. The Yonkers Marathon is 4 weeks away and the preparation goes on. I just want take care of every little detail in being ready for that race. Going out and running today is part of it.

8/20/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
It's Too Late To Turn Back Now
Action Painting
Aluminum Bat
Mary Carroll
Your Words Are Heard
Beyond Baghdad
Statue Punks
Astronauts Cosmonauts
He's My Thing
I Want To Know

Back To Work

After having this past weekend off, it's time for me to go back to work. I never really did stop working though. There are always projects on the table and I try to get better at whatever it is I'm doing. All part of being a professional.

8/19/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
My Boston Girl
Vegan Deli
Generic Protest Song
Construction 426
Neanderthal Tool
Gazebo
Kissing Christine
On A Death Tour
Chinese Rocks
Shattered

Done The Run

I ran 8 miles this morning. Usually do 7 miles but added an extra mile for good measure. Wore the running shoes I'll be using in the marathon 5 weeks from today. They are the lightest sneakers I've ever felt. I'm going to run 26.2 miles in them. I think we're ready to go.

Sunday Run

I just woke up and plan on running 7 miles this morning. The weather looks nice so the conditions should be fine. I am tired so the motivation to get out there is a bit slow. I will get out there and go.

Same Building

I've been drawing the same building for the past couple of weeks. I'm fascinated with the shape of the roof. The look reminds of when I was young and there were 20th Century designs of houses that were to be futuristic. New century and new Science Fiction.

19 Miles

Took my bicycle out this afternoon and put 19 miles under the tires. I was planning on a run this morning but I went for the bike instead. It was warn in the sun and cool in the shade. I could really feel the drop in temperature compared to how it's been this Summer. Nice conditions for riding. It was a good workout.

Weekend Off

I have one of those rare moments in my life where I'm not working on Saturday or Sunday. It's raining out and I've held off my run for now. The English Premiere League begins it's season today so I might check out a soccer match. There are also my art supplies and musical instruments to keep me busy. Time on the weekend.

Paint Or Draw

That is the question. I did painting yesterday and it was my first landscape. One of my favorite artists is David Dunlop. He has a T.V. show and approaches painting in the style of the Impressionists. I tried to do that myself and fell a bit short. One of the lessons David Dunlop teaches is that the more paint you put on the canvas, the less light you have. Because the white of the paper acts as light. I'm still learning these things. I see it too when I'm working with colored pencils. I might do some drawing later on instead. One or the other.

Done The Run

7 miles out there today. The running was good and it felt cool compared to the humidity that's been around. It's either a long run or bicycle ride tomorrow. I'll know when I wake up on Saturday morning.

Bicycle Landscape

My Thursday was spent riding my bicycle and then painting a landscape. Nothing like sticking to a plan. The bike ride was good although it does need a tuneup. I'll wait until the end of the riding season. After that I went out and painted my first landscape. It ended up looking more like one of my abstract designs. The only mistake I would have made was not painting at all. This is why I love Summer.

Open Thursday

Beautiful outside! Having no commitments to anything today, painting a landscape or riding a bicycle would be great things for me to do. I like today's schedule.

Rain & Sun

Woke up before the sunrise to thunder & lightning. It lasted about 45 minutes. When the sun was up the skies were blue. Put on my running shoes and went for a 7-Mile run. Oh what fun.

The End

I did as much work as I could do today so goodnight.

2 For Tuesday

I haven't run for the past 2 days. I don't usually do that but I just felt like I needed a rest. It was as much mental as it was physical. I'll go out and run this morning. I did some drawing in the late afternoon yesterday. I continue to draw the same house for the past week. I've been using a ruler for straight lines. Now it's time for me to find my running shoes.  

My Monday

I do have a different work schedule than most people. It took time for me to accept this fact. I work in an industry of 24/7 so the idea of 9 to 5 just doesn't exist. My Monday can be another person's Friday. Up is down and in is out. Makes sense to me. Normal to many would be strange for myself. That's why I'm a professional in my business.

Sunday Sun

Blue skies and the sun is out. A good day to ride my bicycle later on. No run this morning since I did a long distance training session yesterday. Just giving it a rest.

Complete Abstract

ABSTRACT           ???????           
fjedoslafjkdaeldiaoekaldka
lerirrrjirroirjjjjjjjjjjj                                    

          bbbsftrkuiu655qrfgtjjyku

17 Miles

Went out there and ran 17 miles this morning. This was no flat & fast course. Plenty of hills out there. My feet and legs were feeling it afterwards. 6 weeks to go until the marathon. That distance is always a challenge and today's run reminds me I need mental toughness. I had to run that distance today.

Grounded

Good morning. I haven't gone out for my run yet. I'm drinking coffee and typing on my blog. Just living in the moment.

Repeat Artist

I've been drawing the same building for the past few days. If I'm not doing that then I'm painting an abstract design. I feel better when I do artwork. Goodnight.

Long Run

The plan for tomorrow is to do 17 miles of running in the morning. All part of my marathon training. No running today. Only stretching & weights. The marathon is now 6 weeks away. I'll have some pasta for dinner tonight and get off to a running start tomorrow. In the long run.

This Friday

Just a whole lot of things to get done. Try not to be too lazy today.

More Painting

Used my easel for the first time and painted an abstract Paul Klee would have been proud of. Keep creating.

Keeping To The Schedule

I wasn't too lazy this morning. I actually went out and ran 7 miles. I didn't feel like it since it was a bad night's sleep. Once I was out there it was productive. Keeping to the schedule.

Really Tired

I didn't get much sleep last night. It's a strange thing when you go to bed and you're wide awake. I knew this morning would be tough. Time to go to work sleepyhead.

Another 7 Miles

I ran 7 miles this morning. It is my plan  to run 7 miles Thursday & Friday and then run 17 miles on Saturday. This a big week for my marathon training. The race is just 6 weeks away and I want to be in the best shape I can be both mentally & physically. Tough training has to be done now.  

Drawing & Painting

With all of the painting items I've purchased over the past few days, I ended up going outside yesterday and worked on a landscape drawing. The whole idea for  me is to become prolific with my visual art. Drawing & painting I hope become a balance for me. Since painting is new medium I plan to be more abstract with my approach and get more familiar with it. Drawing tends to be the focus of realism. Seeing what is front of me and interpreting it on paper. Finished art products are receipts for the creative works you've done.

Easel

Bought an easel today for painting. It's made out of wood and is a bit fragile. I want to use it when I'm outside for landscapes. It should do the trick since I'm starting out. If I become more advanced with painting then I might get a metal easel. I saw one in the Art Supply store today. Time for my art to imitate my life.

Good Start

This morning has been a good start to my training week. I went out and ran 7 miles this morning. It was cooler outside and there wasn't the humidity that has been around this Summer. This will be a big week of training along with either a long run or bicycle ride this Saturday. It all depends on what I feel like doing. The marathon training continues.

Birth

For the first time I painted with the art supplies purchased from the other day. I used 5 different oil paints and put them on my new palette. Then I went at it in the style of Peter Max circa 1989. I titled the painting BIRTH. It was fun and I find it a nice break from drawing. I do feel like I can strike a good balance between the 2 mediums. Keep creating!

Monday Colors

                                        


                                                                                
                                                     

Painting

Stopped by the Art Supply store a couple of day ago with all intentions of buying 11" X 14" Bristol Paper. They didn't have any. So instead I purchased at start up Oil Painting kit. It's been my hope to take up brush along with the pencil. It is a whole different medium. Using colors like Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine Blue are fun. So different from drawing in so many ways. With pencil you don't have the flexibility with colors. On the other hand, painting takes more preparation. I'll have to get involved with pastels at some point. Living in the art world.

Uncle Paddy

I was told that the Jan Peek 10K Race in Peekskill, New York had originally been named after my Great Uncle Paddy Walsh. He was a great runner who was born in Ireland and immigrated to the U.S.A. back in the early part of the 20th Century. When I was a kid back in 1976, I took a trip to Ireland with my Grandparents and the relatives in the old country were showing me newspapers clippings they kept of Uncle Paddy getting awards for his running. I thought of him today. He still run the roads of Peekskill in spirit.

Westchester County

With 7 week to go my main focus is running in the Yonkers Marathon. This will be my 4th year in a row running it. The 10K race I ran in today is in Peekskill, New York. Both Peekskill and Yonkers are in Westchester County. Yonkers is in the northern part of the county and Yonkers is in the southern part. Yet I could feel the similarities to both. Although the distances are quite different, the city streets and rolling hills gave it the same feeling. It was a marathon dress rehearsal for me today. Once I get into a race I'm in the moment and want to do as well as I can. My 10K time this morning was slow for me but the steep hills and high humidity were a factor. It was a fun race to be in. So for now I"ll keep training for the Yonkers Marathon and hope to finish it under 4 hours. Keep on Training.

Ran The Race

This morning I ran in a 10K race in Peekskill, New York. It took me about 47 and a half minutes to finish. My official time hasn't been posted. It had some steep hills and it was quite humid outside. I did enjoy the run. It is getting hotter out there. Just the way I like it. Fun with a Summer Run.

Up And At It

After proclaiming my laziness a couple of hours ago, I actually managed to get out there and run 7 miles. Sometimes the most difficult part of a workout is putting on the training outfit.

Wiped Out

I am tired today and I'm not sure if I'll be running in the 10K tomorrow. It's going to be a hot one out there so if I do any exercising this morning it will have to be soon. I seem to be suffering from a bout of laziness.

10K Race

I found out there is going to be a 10K race close to where I'll be this weekend. I hadn't planned on running any races this month but I might run this one. If I do then I'll treat is like a dress rehearsal for the marathon next month. In particular, I want to know how my running shoes feel during the race. These are the ones I've been using all year and I want to make sure they're right for me. I'll see how I feel on Saturday.

The Sting

I was outside in the early evening yesterday when I felt a stinging sensation on my back. I realized it was a hornet. I chased it away but it kept attacking me. I had to run into the house for shelter. Sometimes it isn't easy out there.

7/31/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
In The Flesh
On Thin Ice
Another Brick In The Wall Part 1
Kissing Christine
Neanderthal Tool
Judd
Construction 426
Lunchtime Surprise
Boris The Spider
Freezing

Last Of July

This has been a crazy month for me. Now I'm getting ready for August. Maybe it will be crazy too.

7/30/12 Set List

Here are the songs I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
That I Know
Aluminum Bat
Mary Carroll
Sad Sight To See
Woe Of Man
Gazebo
I Want To Know
Beyond Baghdad
Your Words Are Heard
Boom Boom Mancini

Turning Point

Since I'm running the Yonkers Marathon in 7 weeks, if I do as well as I hope to do, then I'll point to the past few days as being the turning point to success. I needed to get a good long run in this past Saturday and I did. This week will also be important. I did go out and run 7 miles today and felt strong. My right foot that was sore over the weekend didn't bother me. The biggest change has been my frame of mind. Now I'm looking forward to the challenge of the marathon. I was starting to dread the training. Not anymore and I'm ready to go. All in the moment.

Sunday Bicycle

The weather this afternoon turned out to be really nice so I took the bicycle out for a ride. I went about 18 miles. A nice way to finish the week of cross training.

My Right Foot

The back of my right foot is sore. I thought about going out and running this morning but I don't want to push it. I think if I do anything today it would be on my bike. The weather isn't looking all that good though. It was cloudy and humid when I ran yesterday morning and then there were severe thunder storms later in the day. I will be doing weights and stretching this morning. I need to heal the heel.

7/28/12 Set List

These are the songs I practiced today:

Set 1
THE FRONT DESK (Entire Rock Opera)

Set 2
On A Death Tour
Thurston
Montezuma's Revenge
Pacific Run
Foxholes Of Hollywood
Generic Protest Song
Seeing My Love
Glossy Black
Astronauts Cosmonauts
Molly

15 Miles

I ran 15 miles today and it felt like a long distance training run. I'm running the Yonkers Marathon in 8 weeks and now is the time I put in the work. I've been doing an O.K. job with training this year. I find myself breaking a marathon into 3 parts. The first 9 miles, the second 9 miles and the last 8.2 miles. The first 9 miles always feels like I'm just warming up. I go at an easy pace for me. The second 9 miles is about trying to keep up the steady pace I want to go at. And then the last 8.2 miles end up feeling like a battle of attrition. When I've run a marathon well, those last several miles are like a countdown to the finish. My main goal is to finish under 4 hours and a training run like this morning will help to finishing the marathon strong.

More Colors

                                           

                  

                                

                           

Moving

I was moving this morning when I ran 7 miles. 8 more weeks until my marathon run. Tomorrow I plan on a 15-Mile practice run. If I don't do that I'll ride my bicycle.

Fried On Friday

FRIED ON FRIDAY

Fried on Friday
What can I say
Wake & bake
Put a glow on the day

Feel the rush
Catch a buzz
Chair is plush
Under the sun

Right on
Dig it

Today's Colors

                      

Job

I don't talk about my job too much since I'm in the hotel industry. It's based on confidentiality and giving the guests the best in hospitality. I try to take a creative approach to my work. It has elements of theater where the Front Desk can be a stage. People, places & things. Very noun of me.

Running Shoes

With 8 weeks to go for my running in the Yonkers Marathon, I'm thinking about getting a new pairs of sneakers. I like the ones I have now. They are light and I've had good results in my races this year with them. But the soles of the the running shoes are very firm and I'm thinking I need more flexibility for my heels. I have seen a pair of sneakers at the sporting goods store that I really like so if they have it in my size then I might just get them.