Some look forward to deep tissue massages (I do as well), others like myself dream of my chiropractor sessions. My weekly neck and back adjustments are pure bliss.
Into the 3rd month of training for an upcoming 50 mile trail ultramarathon and a 100 early next year. After four consecutive Sat:4-5 hour/Sun:1.5 hr double weekend long runs, my back and neck were as stiff as a 2x4. 30+ miles in two days was taking a substantial toll on my back. My chiropractor put the spring back into my step.
Soojin and I began Muay Thai. She is one of 3 women in a class of 25 testosterone-driven men. Our head instructor, a former 3xInternational MT champion, is apparently in Bangkok with one our fighters in a tournament, his younger brother, a 54 year old Thai gentleman and Master as well, appears to be enjoying working all of us into submission.
Although the practice is geared towards competitive fighting, I highly recommend those bored of the typical gym routine to find a MT gym; you won't be disapointed.
Business travelling includes Seattle and Aspen in the next few weeks; Soojin will join me in the city of misty rain.
I really need to make the effort and request mileage points when our organization's travel agents arrange flight plans. With details such as these, I'm a klutz.
Work/Traveling Schedule:
Jan. 26-28; New Orleans, LA Feb. 23-26; Harvard Policy Conf., Cambridge, MA May 13-15; Nagshead, NC June 3-5; Philadelphia, Penn. June 8-10; Atlanta, GA July 15-17; Philadelphia, Penn. July 28-29; Atlanta, GA July 25-29; Philadelphia, Penn. Aug. 25-29; Philadelphia, Penn. & Atl. City Sept. 3-4; Philadelphia, Penn. Sept. 17-18; Philadelphia, Penn. Sept. 23-25; Philadelphia, Penn. Oct. 19-20; NYC, NY Oct. 28-30; Seattle, WA. Nov. 16-19; Miami, FL Dec. 10-17; Negril, Jamaica Feb. 23-26; Harvard Policy Conf., Cambridge, MA. April 19.20; NYC, NY May 21-26; Montréal, Québec June 7-9; Atlanta, GA June 30-July 2; NYC, NY July 4-8; Mexico City, MX July 21-23; Williamsburg, VA July 26-29; Myrtle Beach, SC August 7-9; Middlebury, VT Sept. 1-3; NYC, NY Oct. 16-19; Aspen, CO Oct. 28-30; Seattle, WA. Feb. 23-26; Harvard Policy Conf., Cambridge, MA
The days are passing by far too quickly for my liking. The hot, thick, humid day-time weather turns beach-front cool in-tune with early falling leaves. The summer was here, and now slowly exiting..
Soo, Kona (our English bulldog), and I have found our respective rhythms in the house-hold. The puppy and I, respectively the servants, and Soojin the Queen-bee (smile).
A few random pictures (including our recent trip to Mexico City):
A newfound respect for special event coordinators across the way.
Soojin’s birthday is next Sunday, and as a surprise, I coordinated for the past month-20 friends in celebration this past Saturday. Maintaining the level of "surprise" secrecy is quite difficult/draining with an inquisitive lady by your side, particularly deflecting reasons for phone calls from her close girlfriends.
“They, you know, want to know what to buy you for a gift,” seemed a standard reply.
The gathering went great, Soo’s best friend in Philly headed down to mark the occasion, old and new friends’ forged strong ties. I also learned that my body can no longer hang as I did in the early 20s, a subtle yet ego-shattering revelation.
I'm exhausted from work, and a bit shelled from my weights and run workout last night. Bed time. As such, I leave you a few pictures of Kona the Warrior, our now 12-week old English bullie.
This sums Kona up fairly nicely-laid back and at ease.
Soojin taught Kona how to "paw" early on. Now, he does it without request.
Sunday morning, up before sunrise. Work is creating a new webcast show, and I've been selected as the content writer-producer. The host of the show, myself, and our colleague (via her kind friend at ABC News ) were invited to attend the taping of This Week with George Stephanopoulos.
Suffice to say, it was an overwhelming experience. From the outset of our arrival, the ever-wonderful production director (I assume) of the show notifed us that only hours before, their lead anchor for World New Tonight, Bob Woodruff and his cameraman, were severely injured as a result of an IED explosion. She kindly asked us for our patience (we were simply thankful to be there).
We were led to a control room, and absorbed how the big-boys produce such a wonderful show. Everyone ranging in George, to his asssistant, crew members, were exceptionally kind. This experience certainly peaked my interest and added a newfound appreciation in broadcast journalism.
Thoughts and prayers go out to Bob Woodruff and Doug Vogt of ABC News.
caffeineguy's buddy, Rog, is starring in "Annapolis," released today. A movie for all, please check it out.
Kona the Warrior (our 12 week old english bullie) is an amazing dog. I can't imagine sleeping without his bellowing and endearing snoring.
Confirmed a trip to Philadelphia in a few weeks on business. Hoping to schedule a quick dinner with family & friends.
Last fall, I listed my triathlon gear on ebay. Maintaining such a hectic work & training schedule wasn't viable. I became stretched far too-thin (and cranky). I've decided to downsize & minimize with my running shoes. Soojin and I have scheduled a 50 mile-ultramarathon this upcoming summer. A main goal constitutes completing a 100 mile ultra next winter.
Wishing all of you the best in the Lunar New Year :)
A few days ago, Soojin and I spent the afternoon braving frigid temperatures in D.C. She was promoting her hand-crafted jewlery line at a open-market. Foot-traffic was understandably slow as a result of the frigid cold. However, as a result, it allowed Soo and I to spend quality time..talking. No phone calls, no emails, no netflix, no workouts, no friends, no text messages, no distractions.
We happen to be so well-connected these days, and as a consequence, sacrifice other more-meaningful engagements as a result.
A priority I'm focusing on this upcoming year is detaching myself and minimizing non-essential activities that do not add value to my life.
“You know what?” My brother’s father-in-law posed to the bartender.
“Yah mon?” he replied.
“The only time I’ll experience paradise is when I die,” the father-in-law said. “You’re blessed as you live it every day,” as he pointed to a fire-red sunset amidst a glassy, calm sea.
For the first time in over 10 years, I was off-line for more then one day. No internet, no email, my Treo650 and blackberry remained in the resort’s lockbox.
My brother was married this past weekend in Negril, Jamaica. It was perfect in every which way. To be surrounded by friends and family, with sun kissed skin, relaxation over our bodies, a warm salty breeze...
We had no worries, every whim; every want had been anticipated by our wonderful all-inclusive resort. Snorkeling, jet-skiing, hours spent wading in the stunning ocean with friends..filet mignon, lobster tails, carribean food, steaks, shrimp, crab-legs, fish, and drinks until your heart's content..over 15 restaurants..no tipping..seaside service..
It was a time of bonding with old and new friends, a time to walk 50 feet out into the sea, surrounded by fishes and crystal blue water, a time of laughter all-day long. Most importantly, it was a time to witness a new chapter in two individual’s lives.
The weeks continue to move forward far too quickly.
Soo and I have made a huge leap forward; I’ll elaborate further in a private entry.
Work has me engaged, a few upcoming business trips including Boston and Montreal in the New Year.
I just spoke briefly with Jeannie or formally, Dr. Siri, MD; relieved to hear she remains upbeat and vibrant despite trying times. Hang in there, Jeans.
I began triathlon training once more after my annual break post-peak race in August.
Next week at this time, I will be preparing to leave for Negril, Jamaica. My older brother will by tying the knot, as clear-blue water laps over our feet amidst a golden sunset.
A few pictures of the recent weeks:
baby cousin liem = ½ French, ½ Vietnamese, born and raised in NYC
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baronroads's journal
