Is Today the Day?

It's too early to tell and I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but I may actually be getting home today.

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably seen in the news the problems going on at American Airlines this week. They've been cancelling scores of flights while they redo maintenance and inspections to their McDonnell-Douglas (MD80) fleet. Unfortunately, three of those cancellations were for flights on which I was scheduled. I was supposed to be flying home from Raleigh, NC on Wednesday afternoon, but received a call late Tuesday letting me know that my flight was cancelled. After scrambling to get through to an agent (American's customer service lines were overwhelmed and I kept getting "all circuits are busy" messages), I was scheduled for the next afternoon. However, on Thursday morning, I was awoken by American Airlines letting me know that my flight had been cancelled. However, at this time, they had me booked on yet another flight, for Friday morning. That didn't last long, however, and I was again notified of a cancellation. Again, I was rescheduled on another flight for Friday afternoon.

I've felt bad for each of the Customer Service agents that I've worked with on this. They are clearly overwhelmed and dealing with this the best they can. It isn't their fault that the management of their company is inept. Remember, American had 18 months to complete these modifications, but did so in a manner that didn't pass inspection. American blames the FAA for "stepping up their standards" around these inspections in reaction to recent Congressional pressure stemming from two separate whistle blower incidents in the last several weeks. Can you believe that??? American blaming the FAA for being more stringent in their inspections?!?!

That makes me a little concerned that these financially strapped airlines are cutting corners with safety to save a little here and save a little there. Clearly, they've reduced their employee numbers by too much (it comes across in the crappy service that is more often the norm), but are they now cutting too deep in maintenance? I hope not.

You may ask why I haven't demanded to be placed on another airline. The fact is that I was probably going to have to extend my time here next week, so instead, I used this as my opportunity to get more work done. At the end of the day, these cancellations have not been too inconvenient. Just don't tell American that because I already put in for my $500 voucher as compensation for my trouble.

And, assuming I get home today, I have to turn right back and return on Sunday. At least I get a change of clothes while I'm home.

SL

Show Me The Money

Sometimes things just work out. Sometimes they don't.

I was home for a first occurrence late last week, and that makes me happy. Cassie lost her first tooth this weekend I was there to witness it. A couple of days earlier or a couple of days later and I would have missed it as I would have been on the road for work. That's the good and I've pondered it since it happened. Imagine if I was on the road and would have gotten a phone call. I would have enjoyed that with her, but I wouldn't have been able to see her face, to hug her, to see her scared excitement that her tooth finally came out.

Or, not there to be a part of the Tooth Fairy. Since she HAD to bring her tooth to school to show her classmates, she didn't want to give it up to the tooth fairy. In fact, she had me lock it up in my safe (next to my gun, some cash and our passports) so the tooth fairy couldn't get at it. But, that means on Monday night/Tuesday morning, I wasn't there to see her wake to the surprise.

That's ok - there will be another and I will be there for it, and I'll be able to see her excitement as she wakes up to some money. In fact, it seems as though that's all she was worried about. Apparently, her friends at school have been placing some doubt in her head about the reality of the tooth fairy, and she asked mom about it. Angie, who seems to think that the truth is the best policy in these matters (which is opposite of what I think), didn't ruin it for me and instead asked Cassie if it mattered what the truth was...

Cassie's response. "Nope, as long as I get money!"

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 14 Update

Or, my "better late than never update".

I never posted the update from last week, so if your wondering this competition continues (albeit with the winner definitely having already been decided).

Marc couldn't put the last nail in the coffin and list 1.2 ( 0.4%) bringing his total to lbs ( 75.4%). He should close it out this week, or by next week for sure.

Michele lost, and at this point that's all that counts. She lost a pound ( 0.5%) for a total loss of 27 lbs ( 11.5%).

I didn't weigh in last week, so that means I didn't gain (at least as far as I know). This leaves me at 22.0 lbs lost ( 7.1%).

The next step will be deciding in when Marc and Michele can make it down! At this point, I'm really looking forward to Pappasitos.

SL

"Lord, OK if I pause?"

I wish I could pause. I wish I could pause the busyness of life that seems to get me in trouble; in trouble with those around me and in trouble with myself.

Someone once told me that I had no margin in my life. In fact, he's told me this regularly over the last several years. What he means is that there is no room in my life for the busyness that can occur, and because of this I am not well suited to handle it in the proper way. For example, if I don't build some down time for Angie and I to just talk, than our relationship will suffer because everyday life will encroach on us. Another good example is with finances. If we live hand to mouth and don't save a little (build margin) then even a small setback and have serious negative consequences.

The title of this blog was uttered by Cassie when I interrupted her nightly prayers with a call to her to say goodnight (I'm on the road), but it serves as a reminder to me. I need to "pause" every so often and allow God to build margin in my life. To allow me to weather the storms of life that are always threatening to get in the way with my relationships (by building margin with Angie or my family and friends by spending time with them and loving them), with my job (by spending time cultivating relationships or taking the time to pat someone on the back), with my health (by taking the time to eat right, exercise and rest), with my sanity (by taking the time to do something I enjoy), or with my relationship to God (by slowing down and spending some quality time alone with Him).

So, I'll be asking the Lord if it is OK to pause every now and again. In fact, just stopping to ask the question is probably a good way to start.

SL

Little Lessard - Week 13 Update

It continues. They say it aint over until its over. Well, the fat boy aint singing yet.

Michele had a monster week losing 5 lbs (2.3%) bringer her total loss to 26.0 (11.1%). That's an excellent week pretty much cementing her second place finish.

Marc had another good week losing 3.0 lbs (0.9%) for an amazing total loss of 74.2 pounds (18.5%). He's almost home with another 6.0 pounds to go.

I stayed the same, neither gaining nor losing for a total loss of 22.0 (7.1%). This places me in pathetic third place. I'm pleased with my week however, since I had TWO meals at Robert Redford's Sundance Resort in Utah.

Will Marc finish it out next week? Will Michele cut off an arm and steal a victory? Will I ever lose another pound? Stay tuned for what will certainly be an exciting and anticlimatic finish to the Little Lessard!

SL

Making a (Back)Splash

One of the way Angie responds is that she appreciates service. This means that she very much likes when I put myself out for her. Whether I take the kids to school one morning so she doesn't have to, or I do something else for her, this is how she connects with me - or more properly, this is how I connect with her. I know this about her, but unfortunately, my laziness keeps me from always acting on it.

This weekend I had the opportunity to act on it. The painter finished up this week, and frankly, the house looks AWESOME. The green in the front room, living room and kitchen are great. The texture and staining treatment in the kitchen is phenomenal. Our bedroom looks really fine. Now that it is all done (minus the game room), things are going back to their places (new or old).

However, Angie has a plan in mind for many of the rooms. Our bedroom is getting redone with a new arrangement, new colors, and curtains. The living room as been rearranged. The kitchen was to get a backsplash. Angie bought some of the materials to show me what she wanted. I ferried back and forth to Lowes to get the remainder of the project materials. I'm not handy in that I don't know HOW to do many of these things, but I am willing to try - and I often have the patience to see them through. The first major project I did was the flower beds and retaining wall. This was the second.

As each subsequent panel went up, we became more and more about the work. Clearly, she had chosen very well and it was going to work out if I maintained my patience. I did and it went well and came out better than either of us expected. It really does look good, even if it took about twice as long as I had expected (about 8 hours).

Angie is real pleased with the kitchen, and I am real pleased with our connection through my service.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 12 Update

You know that scene in Rocky 4, where Rocky is in Apollo's corner and he's about to throw in the towel, but doesn't. That's me! With Marc only having 9.0 lbs to lose, and my needed 40.0 lbs, I think that the results are in the bag. Particularly since I can't seem to get dieting. I might have 5 ounces to go, but unless I find some discipline and quick, it won't much matter.

Marc had an another OUTSTANDING week losing 6.2 (1.8%). He claims that his Weight Watchers leader suggested staying out of the gym for the week to mix it up a little. He did, and it worked. Nice job! I'm still waiting for him to screw up one week, but he doesn't. There's always this week.

Michele turned in a very RESPECTABLE week losing 3.5 (1.6%). She claims steady success in using the treadmill in the morning as her secret. If she gets motivated to start her day right, she has a good day. If not, she doesn't. Here's to hoping she sleeps in a lot. There's always this week.

My slide continues, and had another LOUSY week. I gained another 2.0 (-0.7%). My claim for success, chocolate chip cookies. I can't stay away and Angie (and Cassie) can't stop making them. At least I worked out a bunch. I'm just looking to end strong. There's always this week.

I hope I don't end up holding that towel too long like Rocky did...if memory serves, Apollo dies! And I won't have any more weeks.

Stay tuned for next week's results. Marc says he's gonna close it out!

SL

Digital Upgrade

The e-mail begins...

"Congratulations! Your home is about to be upgraded to the power of Verizon FiOS."

Yes, the Lessard household has moved the last holdout of our home to the 21st century. We have succumbed to the allure of the "Triple Play", having one provider for our phone, Internet and cable TV.

Many of you have gone down this route. Even AMA, who isn't the most technical person, has been using digital phone through Time Warner/Comcast (they seem to switch customers every so often, so as far as I'm concerned, they are the same company). In fact, if it wasn't for the crappy customer service that Time Warner displayed, we'd probably still be in the stone ages.

The story is long, and gruesome. If you want the details of our customer service (or, lack thereof) experience, ask Angie. I think she enjoys telling it. As for me, it was enough to finally make the change. We all know that I am a victim of my own inertia, and I don't care of change. Therefore, in order to give the go ahead, I needed a concession. Mine? 15MB downstream on Verizon Fiber Optic service. Since they buried fiber optic cable in the neighborhood a couple of years ago, I dreamed of the blazing fast speeds. The outcome, an Internet experience that will be about 15x (yes, you've read that right - 15 times faster). How cool is that for someone who works out of his home office.

They install on Monday. I'll let you know how fast it is on Tuesday. Oh, and our e-mail addresses will be changing. As soon as I have my new address, I'll let you know.

I'll be online a lot!

SL

Littlest Lessard - Marc Anti-tears Update

I think if I don't post now, he'll cry. So, although it is past my bedtime and I have to get up early tomorrow to start my long 4000 mile trek home, I will post our Littlest Lessard weeks 10 and 11 updates.

It's been nothing but a roller coaster for me and Michele, but cry baby just keeps dripping weight off. In fact, he's all but wrapped up this competition, but who knows. Maybe an ice cream truck will overturn in front of his house creating a temptation that he'll not endure. He hasn't faltered in 11 weeks, but hope springs eternal.

He's lost 5 and 2.4 lbs respectively over the last two weeks. That's a total weight loss of an amazing 65 pounds for a commanding 16.2% lost. He thinks he's gonna wrap it up in two weeks max. I think he's wrong.

Michele lost a half pound last week and gained three this week. That puts her back in last place with a total loss of 17.5 pounds (7.4% total)

I'm BACK! And, although I'm not really dieting, I am working out. Last week I gained 12 in a scale mishap and this week I lost 4. In fact, I weighed in at 130 - KILOGRAMS that is. I hadn't seen that number on a scale in around 25 years! That puts me at a total of 24.0 pounds lost (7.7%) to recapture second place.

Ok - update done. Marc's tears avoided. Good night, and I'll see you back in North America.

SL

I'm a Millionaire

With my flight over to Amsterdam, I've reached one million program miles on American Airlines Aadvantage (frequent flyer) program. I would normally say something like, "my million miles and a token will get me on the subway", meaning that it really doesn't mean anything - and there is some truth to that. At the end of the day it just means I spend a lot of time on planes.

However, those miles mean a lot to me, as I use them for other travel that we would not otherwise be able to afford. Of those 1,000,000+ miles, I have about 330,000 remaining. That means that I have used over 600,000 of them on flights. One family vacation to New York for everyone, 125K miles. Weekend get aways with the kids this summer, 100K miles. Occasional trips for Angie to meet me at various destinations, more miles. Tickets for family to come visit, more miles. All well spent, very well spent.

In fact, on business travel, particularly problem travel where weather, cancellations, delays, security, etc. are dragging me down, I can usually pick myself up thinking about how I can use those miles.

In addition to the above, I'm thinking about Angie and I getting away to Montreal later this year, or perhaps our European second honeymoon next Spring...or our invasion of all things Mickey in the imminent future.

What I am NOT looking forward to is spending miles on two tickets for my fellow Littlest competitors. Not that I don't want to see them, it would just mean I lost.

Good thing it isn't over yet.

SL

The Little Kid In Me

One of my most favorite movies is Apollo 13, the story of Lim Lovell and his ill-fated mission to the moon. I don't know why I love that movie so much, but it probably is due to a combination of the space exploration, technology, and human perserverence. The era is very compelling to me, as well, as it must have been such an incredible thing to see our country conquer space and land on the moon.

One of the scenes in the movie strikes me as very telling. It is the scene where the crew is broadcasting from space, and the families are watching but none of the television networks are broadcasting. Clearly, Apollo 13 didn't become noteworthy until the ship was in trouble and the crew in danger. Isn't it a little like that today. Space exploration has become so routine that we don't even notice when a new ship is launched or lands. I remember the day when I would feign illness so I could stay home and watch a shuttle launch. I remember being in shock as I watched the Challenger explode after takeoff. Now, I don't even know when it's happening. That's sad.

That being said, I was getting ready for work today and had CNN on...we were launching a shuttle at 2:38am EST this morning. It just happened to be 2:32am EST when I found it (I am in Amsterdam, so it is 7:32am CET). One of the cool things NASA has is NASA TV, so I logged on real quick to watch the launch. They have uninterrupted audio between Mission Control and the crew, so I prefer that to TV.

Isn't technology awesome, where we can put men and women in space AND watch it over the Internet. Too bad we are so used to it, we take it for granted.

I'd rather feel like an awestuck kid again.

(NB: I saw Jim Lovell and Gene Krantz speak at a company event several years ago. They spoke about the mission, and the incredible teamwork that occured, and how it was necessary to overcome the damage to the ship. It was very motivating).

SL

Perfect Timing

I've often blogged about how much I enjoy the business travel I do, and how blessed I am to have done so much of it to so many wonderful places. The fact of the matter is that business travel is FUN. I often get hosted well. I often eat at nice restaurants and have stayed at wonderful hotels in exotic cities. I am lucky enough to either travel in first class or get a nice exit row seat. All of the air miles, hotel points, rental car points, and parking points I earn I am allowed to keep and use for personal travel. I've been to so many places that I wouldn't have otherwise been able to get to on my own.

That's a summary of the good. As I type this, however, I am stuck in Orlando International Airport and have been here for several hours and will likely be here for several more, if not all night. In and of itself, that isn't the really bad thing. What makes it worse, is that I am scheduled to fly out to Amsterdam tomorrow morning. If I don't get home in time, not only will I miss that flight, but I won't have any time to spend with Angie and the kids before I go.

That is what is so crappy about delays and cancellations. I was running around crazy today and ultimately left the office later than I planned. As I got close to the airport, construction kept me from exiting, so I had to go about 20 minutes out of my way to get to the rental car return. Thank God for TeleNav, or I would have been so lost. I was running late, so I didn't fill the gas up. That cost me $53, as they charge $7 a gallon to do it for you. As I pull into Hertz, my phone rings, flight delayed. I had time after all. Perfect timing. As I was waiting to check into the airport, my phone rang again, my flight was cancelled (happened when I was NEXT on line to the ticketing counter - perfect timing).

I got put on another flight (the last one going to Dallas) in the LAST available seat - perfect timing. Since then, the flight has been delayed three times. What was supposed to be a 3:35 departure is now 7:50. If it goes off tonight, it will be perfect timing.

I'll take any time with my family. Perfect.

SL

Electoral Process

Yesterday was an interesting day in Texas. Anyone tracking the presidential primaries knows that Texas held both the Republican Primary and the wacky Democratic "Texas Two-Step" - a primary AND a caucus.

Angie and I voted in the Republican Primary for precinct 2501 in Dallas County. My vote was a bit of a protest vote. I voted for Mike Huckabee, even though we all knew that he was mathematically out of the race. The kids think that is a wasted vote. I disagree and here's why...

My vote for Huckabee was a message to John McCain that I disagree with his more liberal past voting record and any position that he holds that is to the left of Conservative. Now don't get me wrong. I LIKE the fact that McCain isn't just some Bush Jr. Jr. - no matter how much the Dems try to convince us that a vote for McCain is a vote for the continuation of Bush's failed policies. I don't believe that any more than I believe that a vote for Hillary is a vote for Bill.

The fact of the matter is that McCain's leftist leanings may be exactly what the country needs right now, and more importantly - he may be the ONLY KIND OF REPUBLICAN THAT CAN WIN A PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION THIS YEAR. A more conservative candidate (like Huckabee) might be more to my liking, but also less electable because of the perception that a conservative Republican is like Bush.

Either way, this is going to be a very interesting summer. Not only will either of the Democratic candidates make history (first African-American or the first woman), but there are obviously very important issues to be debated.

All of which should help motivate people to vote and get involved in the electoral process. I know I'm gearing up. No matter what you do - go out and vote!

SL

How To Make Your Lady Happy

Don't fear - this is strictly a G-rated post!!! That being said, I'm a hero. At least in Angie's eyes and at least for the short term. Why? Because I'm stoned.

I know that the above makes no sense, so let me explain. We have painters here today. They are painting like crazy. What started as the finishing of my office has turned into the painting of the rest of the house. I can't do the stair wells or the front room (because of my severe fear of heights), so we needed a painter to come in and do it. While he was here, Angie inquired about some special texture work. Not a problem. Oh, and the stairs going up to second floor. Ok, done. And while you are up there, can you do the game room? Sure, anything you want. In that case, go ahead and do Dylan's room since he's got a high ceiling.

Whew...I'm tired thinking about all the work that I'm not doing. And, my head is spinning from the fumes.

I don't mind painting, I just can't get everywhere I need to be to do it. The painters gave my work in the office a thumbs up. Where I taped off for the ceiling, they free handed. Theirs is nicer, but mine's fine, and way cheaper, too. That being said, I can't do the neat texture/tea staining that she's doing in the shadowboxes in the front room and in the kitchen. She is so excited about that...and that's why I'm a hero.

I hope she keeps that view of me...but there's going to be nothing left to paint.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Back in the Saddle

Marc's comment to my last entry asks where did the update go from last week. I was all prepared to answer that I've just been very busy. Truth is, I have been exceedingly busy. I am in a season of exams for school and I have been traveling a lot - weekly, in fact. We have many things going on with the house right now, and there just isn't enough time in the day.

The problem with the answer above is...it's not true. The truth is that right now, I am so not into the competition that it's sad. I've been hard pressed to get into the gym and my diet has gone to hell. Although Angie tells me I still look like I've lost a lot the reality is that I fear I've already put it all back on. And the problem with that is that it gets me depressed.

Unfortunately, like many others - when depressed I eat. It's been a really bad couple of weeks and I can't put my finger on why. If it wasn't for Angie putting her arms around my neck and kissing me, and telling me that I should just pick up and continue from where I am right now, I think I wouldn't be typing this...I think she said something about getting back on my horse.

So - here are the results from last week. I was on the road, and when I weighed in on a new scale, it told me that I had gained 12 pounds. At the time I didn't believe the scale, but now I'm not so sure. So, until I weigh in again, I am going with that gain. Since I haven't been dieting too well or working out, my guess that even if the scale was wrong, I've since put that weight on.

Marc and Michele continue to do great, as the chart below shows. I haven't conceded yet, but I think Marc and Michele will enjoy coming down here for dinner. I know the kids will enjoy having them. If Marc wants to bring his family, they are all welcome. He'll just have to foot that bill - although I will take everyone out to dinner.

SL

More Proud New Yorker

You just can't take the New York out of a New Yorker. Even though I am in Texas for 7+ years, I still relate to all of this. Even though I want to retire on 100's of acres of pasture with livestock and horses, I will never completely lose those things that make me a proud New Yorker. I may lose the accent, but I'll never lose the attitude (or the ability to tell the difference between all of the Ray's Pizzas).

PERHAPS ONLY THOSE WHO GREW UP IN NEW YORK WILL UNDERSTAND THE MEANING OF THIS:

There is no NORTH or SOUTH -- It's 'UPTOWN' or 'DOWNTOWN'. If you're really from New York, you have absolutely no concept of where NORTH and SOUTH are...and EAST & WEST are 'CROSS-TOWN'.

It's NOT Manhattan..... it's 'THE CITY'.

You're 35 years old... and you don't have a driver's license!

You ride in a subway car with no air-conditioning just because there are seats available.

You take the train home and you know exactly where, on the platform, the doors will open that will leave you right in front of the exit stairway.

You cross the street anywhere but on the corner, and you yell at cars for not respecting your right to do it.

You move 3,000 miles away, spend 10 years learning the local language, and people still know you're from Brooklyn, Long Island or The Bronx the minute you open your mouth.

You return, after 10 years, and the first foods you want are a 'REAL' pizza and a 'REAL' bagel.

You know the difference between all the different 'RAY'S PIZZAS'.

Your wouldn't bother ordering pizza in any other city.

You know what 'REGLAR COFFEE' is.

You know what a BODEGA is.

You get ready to order dinner every night and must choose from the major food groups, which are: CHINESE, ITALIAN, MEXICAN or INDIAN.

A 500-sq-ft apartment is LARGE.

You are not under the mistaken impression that any human being would be able to actually understand a P.A. announcement on the subway.

You can nap on the subway and never miss stop.

You're not the least bit interested in going to Time Square on New Year's Eve.

Someone bumps into you and you check for your wallet.

Your internal clock is permanently set to know when ALTERNATE-SIDE-OF-THE-STREET parking regulations are in effect.

You pay ONLY $230 a month to park your car.

You cringe at hearing people pronounce Houston Street like the city in Texas.

You don't even notice the lady walking down the road having a perfectly normal conversation with herself.

Presidential visits are a major traffic jam, NOT an honor.

The Deli guy gives you a straw with any beverage you buy, even if it's a beer.

THAT'S NEW YORK, BABY! YA GOTTA LOVE IT!!!

SL

Marketing and Children...

Cassie has really connected with a current commerical on TV. So much so, when she hears the music, she smiles at me. In fact, she identifies with the commercial so strongly, she made me take one of her stuffed animals on my current trip to Salt Lake City.



You see, Cassie has made me take Snowflake with me. Snowflake is her white poodle Webkin. I've been taking pictures of Snowflake in my hotel room sleeping, pictures of Snowflake working at my laptop, pictures of the mountains taken by Snowflake, and tomorrow I plan to have Snowlake drive my rental PT Cruiser for me. I don't even like poodles, and I'm not sure if Cassie is trying to tell me I travel too much.

At the end of the day, however. She's having fun with it - and so am I. I'm just amazed at how marketing and advertising can effect even unintended audiences.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 7 Results

If I didn't have a problem with food or more specifically eating, I wouldn't be in this stupid competition. I'd probably be making fun of Michele and Marc for doing it while I dressed in crazy shirts (all hip-like, just like my buddy Bob - whom I make fun of for dressing that way). That being said, I had a difficult week. Besides not being disciplined with food (that damn Wingstop finally opened and is litterally 60 seconds from the house - I had it twice last week), I haven't been feeling well (that time of year in North Texas) so I haven't been working out.

No excuses. This week, I lost the battle of the bulge. But, the war isn't over. I've been relatively disciplined for the last couple of days, and went to the gym today (and worked out hard). So - although Marc has separated himself a little bit, this ain't over! Not by a longshot. And, it will be interesting to see what Marc does next week as his trial gym membership ends on Wednesday.

Marc continues his amazing string of consistency. He hasn't had a bad week yet, and that is just plain amazing...He lost an additional 3.0 pounds (0.9%) for a 7 week total of 55.0 (13.7% lost). He's got a seemingly insurmountable lead, but who knows. Anything can happen. Perhaps they'll open a Wingstop near his house.

Michele had a good week in that she didn't gain. She didn't lose, either, so compared to my week she did pretty good. Remaining at 17.0 pounds lost (7.2%) she is firmly entrenched in third and rooting for Marc all the way.

Then there is me...this weeks big loser (and I don't mean that in a good way). I GAINED 4 pounds this week (-1.5%). That puts me at a total of 32.0 pounds lost (10.3%). Although I am not throwing in the towel, I did vote for Marc to win in this week's poll. We'll see, I still think he's due for a week like mine.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 6 Results

The Lessard's have hit the century mark. Can you believe there is 105 pounds less Lessard on the face of the earth? Marc has dropped half of that total, reaching an amazing 50+ pounds lost this week - but it wasn't enough to take the week. In fact, in a stunning turn of events, Marc is in LAST place this week. His slide continues.

Taking top honors for the second week in a row is ME with a loss of 8.0 pounds (2.8%). That pulls my total loss to 36 pounds (11.6%) closing that gap between myself and our overall leader. Apparently Godiva chocolate gnosh doesn't weigh as much as I feared.

Michele takes second place this week with a strong 5 pound (2.2%) loss in a good reversal from last week. Her overall loss is 17 pounds (7.2%). She attributes her loss to frantic typing used by sending e-cards.

Marc is still losing good weight, and dropped another 4.8 pounds (1.4%). He continues to be our overall leader with an amazing 52.0 pounds lost (13.0% overall). Apparently, he is only now eating 40 servings of vegetables. The Agricultural Society of Southern States (ASSeS) is boycotting him.

At this point, the pounds are still dropping and it's anyone's competition.

SL

I am a New Yorker

Thanks for sharing, Aunt Carole. Like there's a chance I forget.

I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker

I do not live in the five boroughs or on the Island or upstate I may live hundreds or thousands of miles away Or I may live just over the GW Bridge but I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker

Whatever took me out of New York: Business, family or hating the cold did not take New York out of me. My accent may have faded and my pace may have slowed But I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker

I was raised on Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Rockefeller Plaza, The Yankees or the Met's (Giants or Dodgers) Jones Beach, Rye Beach, Rockaway Beach or one of the beaches on the sound I know that "THE END" means Montauk. Because I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker

When I go on vacation, I never look up Skyscrapers are something I take for granted The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are part of me Taxis and noise and subways and "get outa heah" don't rattle me Because I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker

I was raised on cultural diversity before it was politically correct I eat Greek food and Italian food, Jewish and Middle Eastern food and Chinese food Because they are all American food to me. My relatives got to this country via Ellis Island and chose to stay They were New Yorkers

People who have never been to New York have misunderstood me My friends and family work in the industries, professions and businesses that benefit all Americans My firefighters died trying to save New Yorkers and non-New Yorkers They died trying to save Americans and non-Americans Because they were New Yorkers.

I am a New Yorker I feel the pain of my fellow New Yorkers I mourn the loss of my beautiful city I feel and dread that New York will never be the same But then I remember: I am a New Yorker And New Yorkers have: Tenacity, strength and courage way above the norm Compassion and caring for our fellow citizens Love and pride in our city, in our state, in our country Intelligence, experience and education par excellence Ability, dedication and energy above and beyond Faith--no matter what religion we practice Terrorists hit America in its heart But America's heart still beats strong Demolish the steel in our buildings, but it doesn't touch the steel in our souls Hit us in the pocketbook; but we'll parlay what we have left into a fortune. End innocent lives leaving widows and orphans, but we'll take care of them Because they are New Yorkers Wherever we live, whatever we do, whoever we are. There are New Yorkers in every state and every city of this nation We will not abandon our city. We will not abandon our brothers and sisters. We will not abandon the beauty, creativity and diversity that New York represents Because we are New Yorkers. And we are proud to be New Yorkers

REMEMBER THE WTC Author - Vincent Pasquale, Maspeth, NY

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 5 Results

Thanks to Michele and Marc for agreeing to allow me to weigh in a day late this week. The hotel I was staying at in California this week did not have a scale, so I wanted to get home to use the scale at the gym.

Too bad for them that they did...

As promised, I've taken my first week. I lost 6.0 lbs this week for a weekly percentage loss of 2.1%. My totals are 28 pounds (9.0%) good enough for second place overall. I had hoped for a double digit week, but that large piece of Tiramasu really did me in. It was worth every delectable bite.

I did reach an important milestone for me though - I've made it to a quarter of my total weight loss goal.

Marc lost another 6.6 pounds (1.8%) for a leading 47.2 total pounds (11.8%).

Michele had a difficult week, gaining 3.0 pounds (-3.0%), but she's still got total weight loss of 12.0 pounds (5.1%)

I hear Marc shaking as he knows I've begun to close the gap and his monster advantage of having all that weight to play with is gone. He'll either crumble and fold this week like a stale chocolate chip cookie, or he'll redouble his efforts and lose 10,000 calories in the gym.

I vote cookie.

SL

YES - Johan!

A scream rung out throughout the house. I would have been concerned yet for the fact that it came from my mouth - AND, it was a good scream.

I saw on the news that the Mets just landed Johan Santana in a blockbuster trade with the Minnesota Twins. Johan Santana is considered one of the best pitchers in baseball, and has two Cy Young awards to prove it. The trade moves the Mets from a team with a great lineup who needed pitching to perhaps the best team in the National league with three 15 game winning pitchers. According to MLB.com, "the Mets joined hands with Santana. Deal done. Season saved. Future brightened. General manager at ease. Brilliant pitcher guaranteed $137.5 million, able to purchase Easy Street and put houses and hotels on it."

This is huge for Mets fans, especially after the last couple of years we've suffered through. Two years ago they were a game away from the World Series. Last year, they suffered the worst collapse in baseball losing a 7-game lead with 17 left to play. Interestingly enough, this trade almost collapsed, as well. They had a 72 hour deadline to get a deal done with Santana, and after the 72 hours had expired, they requested and received a two hour extension. Within 15 minutes of that extension, they had the deal done.

Whew! No second collapse.

SL

Poll to the Right ---->

Who selected other, and what city did you mean? I have to know.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 4 Results

I started writing this before I even got everyone's results. Clearly, the difference between living sequestered in a controlled environment like on the "Biggest Loser" and not living sequestered is - LIFE. Real life obviously gets in the way, whether it is stress around work, lack of time, scheduling issues, family pressures or just plain fatigue - things just get in the way.

The GREAT news, and what we should be celebrating, is that all of us are developing great habits. We are all sweating in the gym (I worked out over 17 hours in January), we are all burning calories (Marc burns over 6000 per week) and we are eating better (Michele has eliminated refined sugar completely).

This week, Michele and I have remained unchanged. No loss, no gain. Marc has lost another 7.0 pounds (1.9%) for a total loss of 40.6 lbs (10.1%) - putting him halfway there in four weeks.

So, the problem is, Michele and I aren't dropping any more weight. We are trying to figure out why...we think it is because we are adding muscle and yes, we all know that muscle weighs more than fat. Obviously, Marc is not adding any muscle and is just a lighter version of himself.

If you have any idea what's going on in our bodies, let us know. We are trying to stave off frustration.

SL

Frequent Flyers

I'm still a little hazy as to HOW I got roped into this, but frankly it really doesn't matter. The truth is, I am looking forward to it. The 'it' I am talking about is travel with the kids. Since I am away a lot, not only do I earn a lot of frequent flyer miles, but I miss out on spending time with the kids. Here's my opportunity to use those miles to make up for it.

If you look at this weeks poll question, you'll see that Dylan has a choice to make. I've offered him a ballgame (a weekend, actually) anywhere he wants in the US (lower 48 only). This is somewhat to make up for the fact that he missed our first annual Mets vs. Astros game in Houston last year. He is leaning toward Boston, and that's fine - I've never been to Fenway so it should be fun.

Marissa and I will be going to NY to see our Mets. Since she has found the Mets, she's only interested in them - so we'll fly up for a quick weekend game, see some family and come home.

Justin isn't real keen on going to a ball game (although he is coming with us to Houston, which is great) so we were picking our brains as to where we can go together. Our interests are a little different, so nothing out there would be fun to do with ME! So, we couldn't think of a place until Angie blurted out, "why don't you go to Vegas?" The second best idea she has ever had. So, Justin and I will fly off for a couple of days to Las Vegas this summer.

Cassie will probably come up to NY with me. I'll likely spend a week there where she can hang with AMA and I can work.

That leaves Angie and I. I'm counting on NEXT spring to be our big European getaway, so something small this year is in order. Not sure where yet, though. We were going to go to Branson, Wyoming but we have become a little skittish on the provider, so we are looking at other alternatives - and of course, there's my Alaska get away in August.

Now you know where I'll be on my weekends, once this school thing is over.

SL

5 Weeks In 15 Hours

I completed my first flex schedule weekend of the Spring '08 semester today. As I drove home from school this evening, I realized that I had just completed 5 weeks school in the weekend. I love this flex schedule, and wish I had discovered Richland College before last semester (when I took two economics courses).

I'm taking History 1301, American History on a flex schedule, meaning that I go to school from 6pm - 9pm on Friday, 8am - 4pm on Saturday, and 12pm - 4pm on Sunday for three weeks - and that's it. In 45 hours over three weekends I'll have completed 3.0 credit hours. I'm taking three classes this semester like this (HIST 1301, GOVT 2301 and HIST 1302) in addition to the two regular 14 weeks classes I am taking at UTD. At the end of this semester, I will have nine classes left to get my undergraduate degree.

And knowing that has me really motivated right now.

SL

Birthday Girl

I was looking back through the last couple of January's posts, and can't believe that I haven't posted about Cassie's birthday before.

Time to rectify the situation.

Yesterday we celebrated Cassie's 6th birthday. While I can't believe she is already six, I also can't believe she is only six. She seems so mature and so smart, sometimes it is easy to forget she is just a little kid - right up until the point where cries because she doesn't like the taste of her medicine or because she doesn't feel like cleaning up her room. Then you remember she is more baby than adolescent sometimes.

After school yesterday, we took Cassie to her video shoot. Video shoot?!?! She was asked to take part in a Superbowl party promotional shoot for church (every year the church hosts a Superbowl party), and they always do very funny commercials for the party. This year, a group of young "ladies" will be beating up the church staff in a friendly game of football. I can't wait to see the final product.

After her shoot, Dylan, Marissa, Angie and I took her to Chuck E. Cheese for some food and fun. We all played and collected tickets so she could pick a prize. Marissa and Dylan are GOOD at winning tickets and kindly shared their winnings. She picked some plastic bling and we were done.

Since I had school and the kids had church, we went on our separate ways.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 3 Results

Our bodies must be changing, because we all claim to have good workouts and strict adherence to our diet plans, but not large losses this week. The good news is that we're still losing, and we've reached 70 pounds lost between the three of us. In three weeks, the Lessards have lost 7.5% of their former selves.

Leading the way this week, in a shocking upset, is Michele. She lost 3.0 pounds which represents a lost of 1.3%. Unfortunately, she is still pulling up the rear in the competition with 15 lbs lost for a total percentage lost of 6.4%.

Coming in a close second place this week is Marc, with a loss of 4.4 lbs (1.2%). He is the most despondant with this weeks performance and may be close to cutting off body parts for larger losses. He's still in first overall, however, with an amazing three week loss of 33.6 lbs (8.4%). If he wins, we'll need to review his after pic very closely.

Coming in last for the second consecutive week is me, with a 2 lbs loss (0.7%). I am in second overall with 22 lbs lost (7.1%). I am sure that I am not losing pounds because I am adding muscle weight from all my body building. Apparently, most of that muscle gain is in my head.

Stay tuned...there is only 2% points separating first place from last place and this is still anyone's race. It's a marathon, not a sprint, and there is a lot of running left to do.

Who's going to be able to claim the title, "Littlest Lessard"? It is wide open.

SL

Office Space

For the last couple of weekends we've been playing musical bedrooms. Cassie has moved into Dylan's room, Dylan has moved into my office and my office has moved into Cassie's room. Why all the bother? Ultimately, the answer is simple - I need my own space.

When we bought the house (5 years last month), we had an option for a fifth bedroom or an "owner's retreat". Had we chosen bedroom, then a room above the master bath would have just been another room upstairs. But, because we selected the retreat option, we have a hidden room on the second floor that is only accessible through our bedroom on the first floor. The builder has a more vulgar unofficial name for the room, but I have my own name for it - HOME OFFICE. Even though we put Cassie in it, we always knew that it was going to be my own private space. When we bought the house, I didn't even work from home, but now that I do it is more needed than ever.

My office today is a shared space with Justin. I know he's never home, or because he sleeps vampire hours, he's sleeps in Dylan's or Marissa's room, but sharing that room with him is a disaster. He keeps it as messy as you possibly can, and because it is a shared space, I don't have room for all my stuff. Soon that will end.

Cassie has moved into her new room (repainted from dark grey and brick red to a nice pink). The new office is painted a beautiful chocolate brown. Today, the book cases go up, tomorrow the ceiling fan. This coming weekend, I'll move and install the flat panel TV. It will have a working area, a day bed (for naps) and my collectibles that have been boxed since I moved to Texas. That will empty out the large upstairs bedroom for Dylan and Justin to share - and everyone will be happy.

Now, when you come over, we can share some quiet time in my office. Just don't touch my Star Trek stuff.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Buy Out Offer

My blog, my trash talk...

You both know that the fatty in North Texas is going to win this.

Marc, you are like a big, beautiful shining star (as big as one, too - I heard your waist is measured in astronomical units)...unfortunately, like a shining star, you have burned yourself out. 6000 calories in the gym, and only 9.6 lbs lost. Next week, you might have a negative loss.

Michele, you are doing better than anyone ever thought - slow and steady. Unfortunately for you there is more slow than steady, and truth be told, you don't have a prayer. If you remember the story, the tortoise won not because the hare was fast, but because he was stupid. You don't have that advantage this time.

So - because I have 11 days between weigh-ins for week 3, I am opening up my heart to you. In fact, I'll open my heart, and you open your wallets. I'll let you buy out of the competition on the cheap. For this week ONLY (must be decided before next Wednesday), you can buy out for $25. Send me $25, and you are off the hook. Next Wednesday, the offer goes up substantially.

Let me know - it'll be the only chance you have to save some money. Either that, or you'll be buying airline tickets and dinner.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 2 Results

The Lessards are still losing it! It being weight! (Although there is some discussion as to some of them losing their minds years ago). The week 2 weigh in is complete, and here are the results.

Marc continues to lead the way, with another 9.6 pounds (2.5%) lost this week. His total 2 week loss is an amazing 29.2 lbs putting him in first with 7.3% lost. He claims almost 6000 calories lost in the gym last week and looking at his weight loss so far, I believe him. But his wife and kids haven't seen him in weeks.

Michele came in second this week with a 4.5 pound loss (2.0%). Her total loss so far is 12.0 lbs (5.1%). She has started with a personal trainer, so not only is she keeping up with the BIG boys, she plans on making some headway. Apparently, her trainer is motivating her with the promise of Twinkies and Burittos.

I came in third this week, losing 5.0 pounds (1.7%) for a two week total loss of 20.0 lbs (6.5%). Because I am on the road, I had to use a weigh in from last Saturday, so if I don't have a very big loss next weigh in, I'll be disappointed. It's too bad that I've turned into such a pre-madonna and can't work out unless the gym has a fruit smoothie bar.

Below are the results. What is amazing to note is that between the three of us, there is over 61 pounds less Lessard now compared to when we started.

SL

Booked Alaska

I'm doing something I've never done before. I'm taking a getaway vacation without Angie or the kids. I've gone away with Angie alone, I've gone away with Cassie alone, and I'm planning trips alone with the kids, but I've never gone anywhere without anyone from the house - except business travel. And that's why I have had no desire to do so - I get too many breaks from the kids and Angie as it is, why would I want to take more without them?

That will end this year, as a colleague (mentor) at work and I are going up to Alaska for fishing and siteseeing in August. We've booked the flights and are now booking the fishing, the siteseeing, hotels, etc.

Angie has taken weekends with her girl friends, but this is new for me. I think she understands that I'm going to need a break come August from all my schooling, and this opportunity was something that I couldn't pass up.

On August 2, we will fly from Dallas to Anchorage. We'll spend the night in Anchorage before driving the several hour drive from Anchorage to Denali and will take a day trip into the park. Because the roads are only accessible by permit, we'll take a tour into the interior of the park.

The next day we'll travel back to the Kenai peninsula and into Seward for a cruise tour of the fjords. Hopefully we'll see some killer whales, humpbacks and maybe even an iceberg being calved.

That night we'll drive from Seward to Homer to finish our trip with two days of Halibut fishing. That's one of the main reasons we are going - to stock up our freezers with hundreds of pounds of halibut meat that goes for $20/lb down here.

I can't wait, and will be counting the days till departure. I'll also have to take the kids somewhere fun to make up for this. Perhaps Disney is in our immediate future.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Week 1 Results

The results are in, and this is going to be a dog fight. The Lessards have lost an amazing total of 42.1 pounds this week - which is a total loss of 4.4% - and an awesome start to the Littlest Lessard competition.

Marc leads the way with 4.9% lost on an amazing week of 19.6 pounds lost. He claims his loss is due to eating 66 servings of fruits and vegetables and hours in the gym. With that much fiber, probably more like hours in the bathroom.

I am nipping at his heals with a 4.8% loss week, on 15.0 pounds. Because of starvation, I am literally nipping at his heals. They need salt.

And Michele ended her week at 3.2% on a very respectable 7.5 pounds lost. Unfortunately, she is likely to find that weight this week.

In all serious - an outstanding week by all the competitors. This is obviously not going to be a runaway, and for that I am thankful. The tenth of a percent I lost by today will motivate me through the week.

Game On!

SL

Littlest Lessard - Teaser

Our week 1 weigh-in occurs tomorrow. We are going to see who is well on their way to becoming the Littlest Lessard, and who isn't.

We are going to see who can walk the walk, and who just stops eating long enough to talk some smack.

In case you want a preview:

One Lessard, maybe two, have lost double digits....

One Lessard, maybe two, have started making excuses....

One Lessard, maybe two, have been VERY quiet....

See who loses what - pounds or face?????

SL

Return To Normalcy

In this case, normalcy is defined as 'school'. The kids returned to school this morning after what seemed like a couple of months long Christmas vacation. Don't get me wrong, the last several weeks have been great. Because I have the opportunity to work from home, I've spent a significant amount of time with the kids and it has been great. The last week has been especially fun with them, but sheesh - they are so out of routine that they seemed a little lost last night and this morning. They all got up fine, but I personally think the break is a little too long.

That being said, I am sorry to see that I start school this week. My breaks are never long enough. When I don't have school, my evenings are typically dedicated to the family. Even if I'm sitting on the couch, Angie says it's still nicer to have me home. My weekends are typically all hers, as I don't have to study. That ends in two days with my first day of class.

This semester may be worse than usual, as I am taking a full time load (5 classes). I usually only take two classes, but I've decided to take the extra three over weekends at the local community college. I have to do it this semester, or I'd have to take them at my school (which is more expensive) because of rules around transferring credits. So, starting on Wednesday, I am taking Organizational Behavior, Production Management, 2 History classes, and a US Government course. After this semester is done, I will only have 9 classes to go, which is less than 2 years.

I try to keep that fact in mind when I'm not sleeping and Angie and I have forgotten each other's name.

SL

Service

The word service is made up of two parts. Serve and Ice. That's appropriate since Angie and I just got back from helping the junior high kids at church with their annual trek to the Dr. Pepper Stars Center for some good fun - broom ball.

Angie is very involved with the middle school ministry at church and it's not surprising considering she has two children of that age. Me, not so much. It's not something I enjoy - I cannot really connect with the kids that age. I don't speak their language and that's a major barrier. They think I'm an old fart, and that is also a major barrier.

However, she asked me if I might think about helping tonight as they were short on drivers. I don't know why I assented, but I did and not only was she very surprised, but very pleased. We both drove to church and were assigned kids. We were taking them to the mall for a couple of hours prior to our broom ball date. We didn't have to chaperon the kids at the mall, so after we all met up their Angie and I got a bite to eat at the California Pizza Kitchen. It was like a date and she was SO pleased that I was serving with her. We met up with the kids at the appointed time and drove over to the ice rink. We played several games, no major injuries incurred, but my knees are toast. I took a couple of good falls on them and they are really bruised.

We had a great time and it was fun playing with the kids. The best surprise of the night - the kids messed around with me and didn't make me feel like the old fart. I guess an old dog can learn new tricks.

SL

Difference A Day (Or Two) Makes

We were finally getting to bed last night. It was about 11:30, and we had a very busy day. It started at 7:00AM, when Angie and I got up to go to the gym. We worked out together to start our day.

It ended at about 11:30 as we completed putting away the groceries after returning home from a late night grocery shopping session at WalMart.

What Angie said to me as we went to bed really hit home. She said, "We had a really good day today. We haven't fought at all and you have been really sweet". She went on to say that she couldn't imagine that one workout had made such a difference, but she thought it had something to do with it.

I told her it might, or more likely, the two days that I've spent in my bible study.

It got me to thinking that perhaps we could all learn a little bit more when we really listen to what is being said. Sure, it's easier when it is something positive, but because I really listened to her comment, and thought about what she was saying, I received some positive feedback about the actions that I'm trying to take in my life.

It's only been a couple of days, but with a reaction like that, it may be easier to stick with it.

SL

Littlest Lessard - Initial Weigh-In

The trash talking has started in earnest, the last meals have been digested, and the goals have been set. Marc, Michele and I have had our initial weigh-ins and here are the results and goal weights.

As you can see, we are all pretty big. It must be genetic. :)

For added motivation, we all agreed to post our before pictures. They are below (I'm the one in the pretty hat).

I will post to the blog by Wednesday evening to update the status and loss results each week.

May the Littlest Lessard please stand up!

SL

2007 - Year In Review

Last year I blogged about some goals that I'd like to accomplish in 2007. To review, click here.

My results are a mixed bag. Some successes, but many failures. All told, I didn't achieve much of what I wanted to.

Last Year's Resolutions:
a,b) Obedience to and Time with God...I didn't do this in any significant way this year. I would have pockets of success, but no long term. This year, I will keep this as a goal. Starting on Jan 1, I will follow a reading plan to get through the bible in one year. I've done it before and got to Job (May, if memory serves), before stopping.

c) Critical nature...I would expect that my nature is as critical as ever. Probably because I've failed in a and b above.

d) Financial stewardship...this is one area of success. Angie and I have stayed on our budget pretty well. We've not missed on tithe to the church, and have increased our giving for the Imagine campaign. Additionally, we are sponsoring 4 children from Katito, Kenya. Our giving has increased every year for the last several, and we have sacrificed to do it. Although this will continue to be a huge focus for us, I'm going to drop it off the list.

e) Health...good and bad. I've quit smoking and as of Jan 4, will not have had a cigarette for eight months. My previous long was nine months, but the difference this time is that I know I don't have it beat. I cannot have even one, ever. I've also gained a ton of more weight. Tomorrow, when I weigh in for our "Littlest Lessard" competition, I won't be surprised to see 325, or so. Angie and I are really motivated to get into shape together, and the friendly competition with my sister and brother should help. It's not about weight loss, it is about being healthy.

Some NEW resolutions:
f) Angie...Angie and I need to focus on each other much more. I resolve to free up more time for her and for us. To be more patient with her. And to always try and be kind with my words and actions.

g) Consistency with the kids...Angie and I have realized that we need to be more consistent with how we act towards the kids (including setting expectations and what happens when those expectations aren't met).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SOME NUMERICAL THINGS FROM 2007

50 flights on American Airlines covering 53,510 miles. All domestic.

46 nights in ICH group hotels (Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express). 4 of those nights for pleasure.

21 Credit Hours completed (2 A+, 3 A, 1 A- and a B)

1 Rio Grande Turkey, 1 Mourning Dove and one Channel Catfish harvested. I also caught a small striped bass, but he was released.

2 new guns this year. A .357 revolver and a .270 Rifle.

3 days spent alone with Angie (getaway on Long Island in August). We'll need to improve this number.

SL

Where You Won't Find Me in 2008

I've finally had it. I've disliked going for some time now, but because Angie and the kids like to go I would take them on occasion. It was easier when it was for something I wanted to see, for sure. For the last couple of years I would go only to see a huge sci-fi epic, but even that draw won't be enough.

I'm talking about the movies. The only other place (other than a sporting event) where you have the privilege of paying $12.00 for a popcorn that cost 50 cents to produce. But, it's not about price at the movies. It never has been. It's about the people...

I no longer want to go to a theater that invariably has people that couldn't care less about anyone else in the place. Whether it's the couple that bring their baby - and that baby proceeds to cry during the movie. Or, perhaps its the teens that are there for every other reason than to watch the movie. Or the others that just want to have a conversation instead of enjoy the show. And, my biggest peeve, the people that cannot possibly miss a call or text and are using their cell phones the entire time. Those phones give off a lot of light and are very distracting.

The movie studios and the theater operators have been lamenting the state of their business for many years. The claim DVDs, production costs, and piracy as the problems they face. They are totally wrong. The problem is that the theater operators don't police their theaters and the entire experience suffers for it. When in-home entertainment rooms are the rage, why would anyone go to the movies to battle that crap? I know I no longer will.

Before you tell me that I sound like some cantankerous old man, even Angie said she was really distracted when we went to see "I Am Legend" last week. The teens next to us got up at least 10 times during the movie...sometimes returning to their seat so quickly that they could not have possible gone to the bathroom. There was a group of people having their own conversation the entire movie. And worst of all, the teen next to us kept checking her phone every five minutes. I don't know what she does for a living that she couldn't afford to miss something, but I know that I am on the clock 24x7, and I still managed to put my phone on vibrate and not check it the entire time.

I think I am going to take all of the money I save by not going to the movies and invest in a recliner for the living room. With the surround sound and the 54 inch TV, I don't think I'll ever miss the theater again.

Too bad microwave popcorn just doesn't taste as good as the theater stuff.

SL

The Littlest Lessard - Prelude

You already know I am a big fan of the show, "The Biggest Loser". I watch it most seasons, assuming I don't have school on the day of the week that the show is on. Angie and I have talked about going on the couples editions, but we both know that we can't be away long enough to do it. I've wondered what it would be like, especially after this last season where many of the participants have lost 150+ pounds.

Combine my very real need to get into shape with a very strong sibling rivalry that my brother, sister and I share (even though we may not see each other or even talk to each other often), and you may have the motivation needed to finally get it done.

You see, my sister Michele, my brother Marc, and I all are big. So, one of us geniuses came up with the idea that we should have a weight loss competition in the spirit of The Biggest Loser. Here's the deal. Every week, starting on January 2nd, I will update our progress on the blog. The first one of us to lose 20% of our body weight will be the winner - or, the Littlest Lessard.

This is what we are playing for:
1) If I win, Marc and Michele have to fly me to New York and take me out to eat at one of my favorite restaurants - Gasho of Japan in Hauppauge.

2) If either one of them win, I have to fly them both down to Dallas for a dinner at Pappasitos.

That's it. We'll post pics, weight, weight loss, percentage lost, and probably talk a lot of smack in the comments. It won't matter, though. They'll lose.

My overwhelming desire not to lose to either of them will ensure that...because the trip and the dinner be damned, it's all about the bragging rights.

SL

What's On Your List?

As we wake tomorrow, most of us will rip into the presents that await us under the tree. It is a fun and exciting day, one in which witnessing the joy of the children has replaced my own personal wants for presents. However, even among all of the commercialism that is Christmastime, it is imperative we focus on what the season is all about.

Did you know that we exchange presents as a symbol for the ultimate present that God has given us in Jesus Christ? I didn't until tonight. It made me wonder about the entire nativity scene and the amazing God we have. How easy it would be to discuss the coming of a savior in the grandeur and splendor that was due to him. Who could have blamed God for wanting to spoil is child, who left the perfection of heaven to take human for among us? He could have been born in the finest hospital to the best doctors...instead, he was born among the livestock in a manger. Thinking about the entire life and ministry of Jesus, it just begs the question, "why?"

Why would our God, who created all things, place his only Son in squalor, to an unmarried virgin woman who would become the object of doubt by her betrothed and gossip to her town? Why would our God send his Son, His PERFECT SINLESS Son, to Earth to take on our sin and to die like the worst criminal of His time?

The answer is as easy to understand as it is to accept: Because He loves us, and because it is the only way He could bring us to Him. Had He done it any other way, the story would have lost something and perhaps the focus would have been moved away from His grace and love for us to something else. It is just amazing that He loves us so much. One of my favorite songs has the line, "You know the depths of my heart, yet You love me just the same". Meditate on that. God knows the ugliest, most depraved depths of our hearts, and loves us anyway. That is awesome to think about.

Whether you get what was on your Christmas list, or not - remember, we've already been given the greatest gift of all.

Merry Christmas.

Luke 2:1-20
The Birth of Jesus 1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3And everyone went to his own town to register.
4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels 8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

SL

Meet Mr. Higgins

Ok - so we don't always make the wisest decisions. Things are going along just fine, so what do we do? We upset the applecart. It looks like Tipsy has accepted Mr. Higgins enough for us to keep him (see "Picture of the Week" at right and Angie's blog). The kids are estatic, Angie is pleased, I'm not so much, and Tipsy seems a little pissed. You can't really blame her, but at the same time it's her fault.

Angie has really wanted a smaller dog that would play with the kids. We'll she's found one. Higgins has a really sweet personality and, at a year old, really loves to play. Tipsy has never played with the kids - she tolerates me and Angie, but you can tell, she isn't a lover of children.

Tipsy and Higgins sniffed and did the doggie greeting out on the porch. No issues. Tipsy is somewhat submissive and so is Higgins. It's been her house, but Higgins has her in the energy department. Tipsy has bared her teeth at Higgins a couple of times - she is defensive about her food and her kennel. She'll nip at Higgins before things are settled, I'm sure, but that just might be the end of the question as to who is in charge.

The truth be told, Higgins is VERY sweet and playful. He has a very nice personality. I'm just not too keen on walking a dog again (we let Tipsy out in our unfenced backyard, she always comes back). Higgins won't, so he needs a walk on a leash. Ultimately, as things get settled, I think he'll work out.

At least until the kids get bored and I get stuck with the responsibility.

SL

It's Called Christmas...

I love this anti-Political Correctness stuff. The only danger is that when we don't care about HOW we give the message, we could be turning off those TO the message - and that would be wrong. We need to deliver it in a way that gives the best chance to be heard.

SL

Integrity of the Bullcrap

If you visit my blog regularly, you know that I am an avid baseball fan. I love the game. I love playing the game, I love watching the game on TV, I love watching the game in person. I've often said that there are few things on earth more pleasant than sitting at the ball park on a warm afternoon, watching a good game, eating a dirty water dog and drinking a $7.00 beer. What I really love about the game are the intricacies that happen thousands of times a game.
What I hate are the people involved with the game. All you have to do is look at Alex Rodriguez opting out of a $25M a year contract to get $27M a year. Now, he has since said that he is embarrassed by his behavior and that he's made a significant mistake - but I don't think he's giving the money back either.

Unless you've been living under a rock, than you are aware that the Mitchell Report was released last week. I've downloaded it, and have read some of it (it's over 400 pages). Additionally, I've listed to the several hours of press conferences from former Senator George Mitchell, the report author; Bud Selig, the Commissioner of baseball; and Donald Fehr, the President of the MLBPA (players union). My reaction, what a bunch of jerks.

The main issue of the report is that the players, baseball, the media, etc. are all complicit in the Steroid/Performance Enhancing Drug problem AND that the problem was widespread. My problem to this is that it doesn't tell us anything we don't know. Baseball has spent an estimated $60M on this report, and this is the result??? What a joke.

Then you have baseball, represented by Bud Selig. His reaction to the report is not personal ownership, but how this report is a step towards maintaining the "integrity of the game". My issue here is that baseball didn't seem to care about the integrity of the game when attendance was down in the 90's and everyone was talking about the ball being "juiced". I remember the conversations we had...more home runs were being hit because expansion diluted the quality of pitching and because manufacturing methods for the balls had changed (the ball was juiced). It seems, in retrospect, that the ball wasn't juiced, the players were. However, the result of this offensive outburst was fans and interest returning to the game that had been decimated by yet another work stoppage and players strike. The highlight of this interest was the Mark McGuire/Sammy Sosa chase of 61 home runs record. What a sham.

Then you have the players themselves (represented by the greasiest human being on the planet, Donald Fehr). His complaint in the report was that the union didn't have an opportunity to review the report prior to release. What he doesn't tell you is that the ONLY player who actually responded to a request for interview for the report was Jason Giambi, and the reason he did it was because he was being threatened with suspension if he didn't. It seems like Fehr was trying to position the players for the next collection bargaining session. What an ass.

Ultimately, I still love the game - I just hate the players even more. Imagine getting paid millions to play a game that I've paid a lot of money to play, myself. They should be thankful for the opportunity. However, it's those millions that help convince someone to cheat. I can almost understand a player cheating (taking Steroids) to make those millions. It's in that context that baseball's history needs to be taking into account. As long as there is winning and losing, there is cheating. Whether a spitball, corked bat, stolen signs, or a hypodermic full of testosterone, people will try to get an advantage.

Bob Costas has recently put it best...he stated that the record book should contain the provision stating that baseball records are very much continuous, but that they still need to be put into historical context; whether due to segregation, day/night games, expansion, or performance enhancement drugs, the game has always been changing and the records of the game need to be reviewed in light of these changes.

I'll keep rooting for the Mets, and keep looking for those players that exhibit true sportsmanship. Fortunately, there are still a few players out there.

SL

Snowstorm

I just got in from tooling around in my Cadillac SRX in the snow. I'd think I was dreaming if it weren't for the fact that my hands are freezing. I'm awake - my car is a rental and I'm working in Utah.

It's snowing in the valley here in Salt Lake City, and it is absolutely beautiful. It started this afternoon and is still going. I drove home in it, but the roads were fine. Something about how people that get a lot of snow know how to live in a lot of snow. Apparently, the valley here has gotten about three feet over the last week. The mountains have received more.

And that's why license plates in Utah have the slogan, "Greatest Snow on Earth". It's a dry powder that has very little moisture. Makes for horrible snowballs, but GREAT skiing. If you haven't skied Utah snow, than you haven't skied.

It's been a perfect day to get me in the holiday spirit because dreaming of a white Christmas in Dallas is just too much to ask.

SL

Blog Bytes

Lots going on and haven't updated in a while, so I'll use the trusty fallback - blog bytes...

1) Travel - I am soon to embark on week 3 of 4 for travel. I spent two weeks ago in Raleigh. Last week I was in silicon valley. This week is Salt Lake City, UT (can you say cold?). Next week I am in Orlando, FL (should be warmer). Work is very busy as we are in the midst of our vendor launch, but things are going very well.

2) Holidays - I have not been in the holiday spirit too much, probably because we have no money for it. We're trying to focus on what's important and church has been a blessing in that area. We had our annual holiday music service this last week, and the focus was on our work in Africa. The church hosted orphans from Worldhelp's International Children's Choir and they performed as part of the service. Really hit home about what Christmas really means.

3) Givedifferent and World Vision - if you are looking to also make a difference, check out GiveDifferent and WorldVision. GiveDifferent is our church's fundraising mechanism. The $60K we raise will go to digging wells and buying goats. WorldVision is a Christian charity that or church is partnered with to sponsor needy children. Our church has sponsored every child in the town of Katito, Kenya (over 500 children). Shameless plug: our small church is sponsoring more children in Africa than any other church in Texas and several other states in the south.

4) Kids - kids are doing well. Now seems to be a slow time, as there are no sports seasons going on. I think basketball starts soon, so the respite will be short-lived. Cassie is busy with scouts and has taken to school like a fish to water. She goes to school all day and then comes home and plays school. She becomes "Mrs. Blue" and is a real taskmaster. Marissa has acclimated to junior high school very well and is getting good grades. Dylan is getting very involved with the youth worship band at church (playing drums). Justin continues to do his thing at Pizza Hut and at community college. He awaits his Assistant Manager promotion.

5) Angie - Angie is doing well, even if she doesn't get to spend enough time with me. She is very busy with the Women's Events (WE) team at church and is busy help plan women's brunches and retreats. She completed her first semester at community college, taking a design class. She is very much thinking about returning to school to get a degree/certificate in Interior Design.

6) School - right now I am between semesters (the reason I am traveling so much). I got four A's this semester (three A's and an A+) and currently hold a 3.78 GPA. I've reconciled that my grades may suffer due to my travels, but that just didn't happen this semester. The fact is that I had four easy classes. The next two semesters won't be so easy, but I can finally start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I will complete 5 classes this semester (equivalent to full-time) and should only have a couple of more years left.

SL

Downsizing

Angie and I have made a monumental decision. We are downsizing this year.

No, we aren't selling the house. We've gotten a smaller Christmas tree instead. Many of you understand that this is a monumental decision for me - and one that I wasn't convinced was the right decision - until last night.

For all but the first Christmases in the house, we've had a beautiful 12 foot tree up in the front room. Because we have an open ceiling in that room, the big tree always looked so beautiful. The problem with the big tree is that it is soooo big. I was stored in TWO large Christmas tree boxes and came in 5 parts. The real problem, though, was that it took at least a week for Angie and I to put it up. With 6000 tips to straighten it just took FOREVER. And, because it was so big and unwieldy, it caused considerable stress and the associated conflict when it was time to get it going.

Unfortunately, when it was up - it was beautiful. It had over 2000 lights and it was a really stunning tree that everyone commented on and one in which I took immense pride.

That pride is all gone as I look at our seven and a half footer. The good news - Angie and I put it up in less than two hours. Also, we can decorate it without a ladder. Most importantly, we bonded as we put it up. Both of us remember all the fighting that the other tree caused, and when we didn't fight with this one, we were greatful for it. The bad news - it looks pathetic.

Cassie saw it this morning and she said it looked great. If the other kids feel the same way, I'll have to let go of my pride. Besides, we are giving out big one to the church. At least I'll be able to enjoy it there.

SL

Give Different Dot Org

Can you remember what you got for Christmas last year? I can't. I know it probably had to do with hunting, and probably some DVD's, but I cannot remember what the kids got me, what Angie got me, and what I got from family back in NY.

Come to think of it, I bet the kids couldn't remember, either. I think we got Dylan his drum set, but I could be wrong. We have video of it if I really must know.

Imagine giving a gift that REALLY means something. Imagine remembering what you gave because your gift changed lives - possibly SAVED lives.

Think about giving differently this year. We are. If you get a shirt and a card, you'll know why.

To see a local Dallas newscast about giving differently, click here.

SL

Watch TV and Feel the Burn

For the next four weeks I will be spending a significant amount of time traveling for work. This week has me in Raleigh for the week, and next week I will be in San Jose. The week after that in Salt Lake and the week after in Orlando.

Typically, when I travel I spend a great deal of time in the office, go out to dinner and then work more in the hotel room. Ultimately, even though I am working a great deal I have some free time. I made a decision that when I have free time, I am going to spend some time in the fitness centers in each of the hotels.

I got back from dinner tonight but was not very motivated. My back hurts a bit and I have some work to finish up on. I made up my mind that I was going to work out tomorrow morning, so I booted up the laptop and scanned the channels as Windows loaded.

I ended up finding the beginning of The Biggest Loser on NBC. Angie and I love watching the show (See a previous post about the show) and I am always very motivated by it. Tonight's episode was an even greater motivation. They met with a doctor on the show that explained all of the ancillary benefits to their weight loss. One lost 100 points to his cholesterol. One restored their blood sugar to normal levels. One lost 76 lbs of fat, but she only has lost 65 pounds. How can that be? She's gained 11 lbs of muscle. Another lost three water cooler sized vats of fat. One lowered his BP by 50 points. The stories continue. It has been amazing. I am so moved by their gains (losses), that I'm putting on my socks and sneakers.

As soon as the show is over, I'm going to work out. I want to be one of those success stories.

SL