captain stupie's adventure

Carpool

2012-02-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am glad I get to carpool these days. It's not the same as my beloved bike comute, but given my trip to work these days is over 60 miles, that just isn't an option. I enjoy the company too. It helps to not disengage entirely sometimes when work has been tough. As counterintuitive as that sounds, it's prevented the burying of stress.

Plus, from time to time I can blog on the way in. :)

Mettle

2012-01-31T20:54:00.000-07:00

Quality. It's that intangible element some people seem to effortlessly pocess. You can't always even tell when you see it. Sometimes it seems to take a few days, weeks, even years to truly see what some people are made of. When you do, it can be an amazing, scary, even beautiful moment. What a gift it is to realize you have someone close to you that is made of the good stuff.

Positive Waves

2012-01-30T23:18:00.002-07:00

It always starts here, a new step in a different direction. The possibilities are endless. Just a little Monday optimism for you. Honestly, could it hurt?

Waxing On...

2012-01-29T18:44:00.003-07:00

It's been a tough weekend with work. To be honest though, I am feeling grateful as it comes to a close. The work was difficult in its time required, but it is completed for now and has left me feeling humble and as I said grateful. I hope and pray to never lose sight of the brilliant life I get to walk through each day; especially when those days are hard.

Exhaustion apparently has me waxing poetic.

About Town

2012-01-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

All is going well. We are in the process of getting around town more. It is so good to grab the dogs and take off, even if it is just for errands. Tiff and I are enjoying getting downtown as often as we are able. It helps to feel more a part of our world.

2012-01-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay, but photo upload is denied via mobile blogging. Here's one from the vaults, May 2009 in Houston, Texa. Oh Potbellies, when will you come to Colorado?

2012 Truly Begins

2012-01-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Colfax! As a native of the Denver area, the idea of running on Colfax for a few hours still seems laughable. However, I gotta say I am actually pretty excited about this one. Especially the fact that the course does not get super boring after 13.1 (ahem Rock n Roll Dener).

The course looks fantastic and I am only a little afraid of a May run now having Minneapolis' June heat 2 years behind me. Very excited to run Colfax and support the local underdog 26.2, especially after all the work they have been doing to make it more exciting.

See you all there May 20th!

Working', Working'

2012-01-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

Holy moly, as one of my friends used to say. When it rains, it pours with work now. I enjoyed the final days off for the next few weeks. I am grateful for the work for sure, but still getting up to speed. Feels good to be slammed again.

Sad Monkeys

2012-01-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

According to a good friend, scientists determined that yesterday was the most depressing day of the year. First, I wonder why I did not consider science for a career longer. Second, it struck me as odd that so many people have such trouble with winter. That seemed to be a bulk of the depressing rational. Perhaps I'm just wired wrong but winter is just winter. I get to do all the same things, just with more clothes on and less by bites. Sure I get to run like an old man when it's really icy out but that's not too rough to cope with. I just don't get it. What depresses me is dealing with so many crabby people, honestly.

Be nice. The Mosquitos will be back soon enough.

2012-01-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

It wasn't perhaps the height of excitement, nor the riveting adventure that gets immortalized in print for all time. Hell, it wouldn't even make for a very good water cooler story. None the less, over the weekend Tiff and I grabbed the dogs and went for a ride around town. It was just simple, good fun. We even managed to grab a bite to eat at a dog friendly place on Friday night, ironically called Steve's Snappin' Dogs.

It was just great to have everyone together. I appreciate so much my little family and love that such a simple pleasure is possible from just being together and riding around.

Run into the Wind

2012-01-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

With a belly full of Flax Cinnamon Waffles, I set out on a nice 5 mile run this morning. The skies were cloudy but the wind was whipping. That brought the temperature down a lot. As per usual, there was no traffic on the sidewalks today, but it felt good to get out there. The chill in the air was invigorating and definite motivation. It doesn't compare to what Lake Michigan could dish out, but it was impressive.

Take a Hike

2012-01-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

We hit the hills today to hike with some of our friends. It was just flat out fun to get up into the mountains. Today we had a few long walks a good run and then a nice two mile hike up the muddy, snowy mountains. I always apreciate going that much further.

Happy Picture Friday

2012-01-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

Pushed

2012-01-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

Heading to work for another evening of fun. I am looking forward to it. I filled my half day with running and the gym. Oddly I feel more inclined for the hard work today because of it. The body is a strange thing.

Work and Play

2012-01-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

It's been busy at work lately, which is great. Once again though I find myself in a position where 12 hour days are possible and routine at times like this. I am trying hard to balance the work and down time as best I can. Today was some chores and some recoup stuff like the bike and gym. It's essential to get the latter in when all seems so hectic.

Cyber Gartitude

2012-01-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

I go in to work much later today and am savoring some of the quiet time here to get my new computer set up. My wife has been key in helping me get a better machine to do what I need to do for work now. I owe a lot of gratitude to her. I am not accustomed to being able to get what I need till that need is almost stifling. This has been so unexpected that it still does not seem real. I finally have the capability to work with the sort of graphics I do and not have my computer acting like my first car on a hill. I truly am humbled and grateful to have had the chance to get and work on such a machine. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart to everyone that helped in making this happen!

Work to Do

2012-01-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

On our way to work this fine Monday morning after a single day off, feeling good. There is more work ahead than I can easily keep track of, but I feel grateful for the work. My aim is to stay rooted on the present and avoid the stress fits I see those around me suffering . No matter the mountain of things to be done, I can only do what I can do (which I would say is no small offer). Ergo, I feel at ease rushing up the highway to my job. I know soon enough, I'll be out running again with the breeze on my face.

Daydreamers

2012-01-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

Tiff and I spent some time in our backyard this morning enjoying the warmer temerature. The dogs were running about and we were starting to imagine what we could do in our backyard without having to do all the big things like last summer. It felt nice to daydream a little with her. While fantasies are enjoyable by design, there is something especially satisfying to do so with someone.

Happy Picture Saturday

2012-01-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

Gotta Run

2012-01-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

I am on a brief interlude between monster long shifts. I slept as long as was possible and still managed to have a precious hour and a half to play with before getting back to work. It felt like a no brainer to know I was going to get a run in, albeit another warm up one on the tred-mill; my broken toe is still tender. It feels good to know what's important sometimes.

The Full Day

2012-01-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Just got in from a 16.5 hr day. That's all I have to really say as the brain is nush. I know it's not much of a post, but to be honest, I am pretty proud of the fact I did a day like that and am still in here plugging a few weak lines out. You may feel differently though...

Photoshopped

2012-01-11T23:58:00.003-07:00

It has been a big full day of design. To be honest, anytime I am in Photoshop too long, the whole world starts looking different. I'll see a color and want to "dropper" it to my "pallet." It is all in all very odd, like an Adobe induced acid trip. I like the work I did today though and that is always gratifying to say.

Tired

2012-01-10T20:04:00.002-07:00

I can't put my finger on it, but lately I've just been tired. I can't seem to catch up on rest. Sleep a full night or hardly at all, I turn out equally beat by the next night. My recent week without caffeine showed little difference starting or finishing it. Just tired lately. I am glad to be running again, but hell if I can get up early enough to do it in the morning right now.

Ever just feel like that?

Full Moon Run 1

2012-01-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight I was excited for the dark. I had it all planned out that I was going to run under the full moon. Granted, I suspect the actual full moon was last night, I was ready none the less. It was beautiful. With some of the fresh snow still on the ground, the world glowed.

Fan Freedom

2012-01-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

Today I watched and cheered as my unlikely home team, the Denver Broncos won their first playoff game. I have been love/hate with them most of the year and less thrilled with them ever since the Cutler/McDaniels drama. None the less it was nice to watch and cheer and not really care about what happened prior to today's game. I think that's what is fun about enjoying watching any sports team; there is a degree of release from the daily world around you. You can just watch and hope and yell and smile and occasionally feel pretty depressed. But at the end of all that, it's a game. For my part, I truly loved just checking out for the duration today.

Snow Day

2012-01-07T22:51:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of cleaning up. It felt good to be home and get the holidays tucked away again, to clean up. Tiff and I had a few great meals and celebrated by heading out to a great restaurant downtown. By the by, great food makes settling for ok seem pretty silly let alone paying for it. As the snow falls, it just felt like a good day.

Happy Picture Friday

2012-01-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

Listening

2012-01-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

I've had the privilege of getting to listen to some good friends and loved ones as of late. They have had a lot to say and I have mostly just needed to be there to listen. Not a big fan of being on the phone it has been nice to be able to just be there. It has been ringing in my ears to "want less, do more." Of myself I am a very limited subject. However, when I get a chance to listen it feels very liberating.

Seriously.

Winter

2012-01-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

Winter

2000 - 2012

We'll miss you buddy.

Decaf

2012-01-03T22:42:00.002-07:00

No caffeine and all is well. I am told this will become very satisfying soon. We'll see.

New Tricks

2012-01-02T20:00:00.001-07:00

Not one generally to make the resolutions, I am interested in trying some new routines. Today, Tiff was good enough to walk me through a few yoga paces. I tried a new workout today that was far less obvious than running and weight lifting. We are commencing a cleanse here shortly.

I am mostly interested in the challenge that will present itself by trying it. Among the restrictions include no caffeine; a thought wholly unimaginable not long ago. We are aiming for pretty good on this. What I am getting at here is it will be good to try something new. That, after all, does make sense for a new year doesn't it?

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T18:22:00.000-07:00

Some habits are pretty tough to break....

Still writing.

... happy 2012!

Holy 2011!

2011-12-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

Here we are, the last day of 2011. It has, as per usual, felt like a hell of a ride. Personally, I am pleased with the year of posting effort here at Captain Stupie. Oh, sure, it resulted in many, many posts without so much to say. It also flushed some good ideas out of the brain pan that would not have made it to publish had it not been an insane need to write a post for the day.

My personal favorite was, "want less, do more."

None the less, at the close of the year I am most interested in offering my thanks. Some of you have checked in often. Others occasionally drop by. Both are tremendously flattering. I humbly thank each and every one of you.

As for Stupie 20.12, not sure. I am going to be writing again soon, but will likely be taking a breather here soon. 2012 already has some big plans instore for life and this blog. Some of which will require you, my dedicated few to dictate where this adventure will go next.

From all of me here to all of you out there, have a wonderful and safe New Years!

Happy Picture Friday

2011-12-30T16:14:00.002-07:00

Thanks College

2011-12-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Ever get the feeling your student loan is the only thing college gave you that never gets better? It just keeps hanging out there. I pay and pay and it just is still there. The host of credit cards I picked up naively are finally all paid off, but that slowed the process down a lot. A BFA should not leave college with debt. That degree and a big bill to pay... well that's just cruel. None the less, I know at some point I will be rid of those nice folks at Student Loan Services. After all, college taught me no matter how horrendous the lesson, they all conclude.

Puppy Priority

2011-12-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

It's fun and pointless trying to write this tnight. Estes is vying for the same attention. To be honest, it feels stupid to pay attention to the invisible mass that may see this as opposed to the adoration of a dog right here and now. Time to play with the dog then.

Punching the Clock

2011-12-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Funny how quickly getting back into your life can happen. Today was a get back to speed day and I was suddenly quite ready to head back out to the farmland of Northeast Ohio. None the less, it felt good to get a few needs knocked off the list. I am uncomfortable with lists that last more than 24hrs, but for the first day back, I am satisfied with the progress.

Welcome

2011-12-26T23:09:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a rather full day of travel, getting back from Ohio to Denver tonight. The dogs are home now and the luggage is empty. It feels good to be home.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas all! I hope you all have had a wonderful day of smiles, good food, & lots off loved ones.

We Always...

2011-12-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

It's interesting when visiting Tiff's family. You get to see the traditions they enjoy and what becomes important. I love it. When you are welcomed in for the holidays and get to enjoy a new perspective on things you may not already consider. It's truly a treat. I miss my family, for certain, but am truly grateful to be so welcomed here in Ohio.

I'm Late. I'm Late...

2011-12-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

We're about to dash off for another social visit. It's a unique factor to where Tiff is from, but to get anywhere it takes close to 30 minutes. I appreciate the hurry up and go approach, especially when it's for a fun trip.

It makes waking up late, not so bad.

Ohio!

2011-12-22T22:38:00.001-07:00

It was the get around and visit friends day. Tiff is new to the fly home for Christmas routine and it feels very familiar to me. After a few years it felt good to finally just relax. Today, though, was not that day. We hightailed it all over, enjoying lunch with our friend Amanda in Niles. Then we booked it up to Cleveland and had dinner with Brian and Olivia and their two boys. It felt good getting about and I loved seeing all the new sights.

There's a added thrill in just visiting and not writing the dance card.

DEN to CLE

2011-12-21T15:03:00.002-07:00

"Ah."

The simple relief of sitting at the gate at DIA, ready to board our flight. There is such a routine to get just to this point. Getting the dogs to my folks, packing, and repacking (packing once again). The profuse gratitude to Scott for wheeling us here. Then the circus of TSA security. I enjoyed the full body x-ray only to be pulled aside, have my fingers swabbed and tested, patted down and asked, "do you have a gun on you?" No lie.

Yes air travel is luxurious and fancy.

Tiff and I are off to Ohio for Christmas. I am excited to see her family and will miss mine. It's still the greatest gift every year to spend it with family. As I get older I appreciate ll the work that goes into gathering around the Christmas tree on December 25th. Hell, even the cost of the tree has meaning now.

However, my time is up and we boarding momentarily. As is tradition from Denver International Airport, I bid you, my 4 readers, adieu.

2011-12-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

Being an adult sucks sometimes. I am just going to go out and say it. Blah. I am aware of this factor today as I have a doctors appointment to checked out . I also kinda need a doc closer than Chicago. I don't like going to the doctor at all. Positive thinking usually cures all for me, lest I need stiches. None the less, I know this is a good precaution. I would be disappointed if the fear of hearing a bad prognosis would prevent me from doing positive action.

Today I say fuck fear.

Quiet

2011-12-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

It's snowy and quiet outside tonight. The Christmas lights are twinkling across my neighborhood. I am not sure if it's just the byproduct of having worked so much for so long lately, but when the quiet settles in, sometimes I am not sure if I have forgotten something. Just being still is still a challenge, pardon the pun.

Fa La La La La

2011-12-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

The final packages are being wrapped and arrangements for multiple family Christmas stops are being worked out. I love this time of year, but always feel there's a simplicity that annually escapes me. I yearn for the ease of just enjoying my families without all the hulabalou. It is that energy though that makes it fun too. I look forward to seeing loved ones more than any gift. That is what I look forward to personally.

The Mall

2011-12-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Tif and I are about to venture into the retail world for some last minute needed shopping. We take off for Ohio this week and this will be our last chance to get a couple things together. I am excited but ever mindful that the true spirit is less in what we may get and more in how we get on with those around us. My hope is to get what we need and get out with little aggriavtion. That seems to be our responsibility. No one can take my happiness but me and so long as I can hold that idea close, I am confidant we will enjoy this potion of the holiday frenzy.

I hope...

Happy Picture Friday

2011-12-16T22:19:00.002-07:00

Bike Mental

2011-12-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

"You rode your bike here? You're crazy."

That was the warm greeting I received tonight when I was checking in at my neighborhood gym. The sentiment was mostly in jest, yet it struck me that there was no cause for it. Now bear with me as I attempt to explain. This is not merely a case of shallow nerves. It's 28 degrees out there with some thick patches of ice still. Denver may not be without its share of hardy bicyclists, but my suburban world still has 20:1 ratio of coyotes to cyclists. At night, a bike does not exist out here. This was a fact I discovered recently when I decided I would not drive a half a mile to go to the gym. That is stupid. Ergo, I began riding again, and to be honest it is one of my favorite things to do now when I can.

Enter the remark. Why is it when someone does something unusual, it is usually met with disdain? At very least a dismissive comment? It would have been easier, warmer, safer, faster, and considerably more normal to drive. Yet I rode and the guy rather sincerely passed it off as the act of less intelligence (i.e. crazy).

Well, if trying something even modestly adventuresome is crazy, I hope the sane world remain small and quiet. Personally, I liked the chilly ride and quiet, empty streets.

Blah, blah, bah...

2011-12-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

If it's all the same, I have little to say tinight. I occasionally scan the horizon for something to rant on and come up with little. I try hard to not fight the unworthy and see where I can be of help rather take. I still strive to "want less, do more" even at this time of year. I know I am full of it so tonight, I will spare you. Hope there's an unexpected smile out there for you.

Couch Trip

2011-12-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

I am still on hiatus from running with a broken toe and tonight just got home too late. It felt so good to drop onto the couch and just watch some TV (via Netflix). It's been a long go and I am just happy to do nothing tonight. Sometimes that is just what the doctor ordered.

By the way, watch this show.

I Had Christmas Down in Africa

2011-12-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

There is a great magic in the air this time of year. It has been documented by many, far more qualified than I, but it feels so good when the stress is not there. You get to just enjoy the Christmas lights and a good holiday song (currently The Twelve Days of Christmas by Straight No Chaser). As with all life, when I keep it simple for me I enjoy it more.

Nutcracker

2011-12-11T22:54:00.000-07:00

Just saw The Nutcracker for the first time with my wife and two close friends. I feel as though I have finally partaken in a festive holiday classic. It was great and a little reassuring that even as an adult you have things that make you go, "wow" at Christmas time! That's it for tonight.

Christmas Ambling

2011-12-10T22:33:00.000-07:00

It was good to get out a do some Christmas shopping today. I enjoyed it but mostly I was master of my own destiny today. I had no one with me and no necessity to purchase today. I am enjoying that middle ground of being excited to shop for my family but interested in moderation and keeping everything reasonable. It felt good to be out and just take my time. That seems to have been in shortage out there lately, the ease I enjoyed. Why does the holiday season seem to force such a frenzy? Buy now and save or miss out! To hell with that. I say stroll. Find the farthest parking space and take numerous coffee breaks.

Happy Picture Friday

2011-12-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

Seriously, she just does this. It's like Maggie is part Otter.

Printed

2011-12-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

I just got back from the print shop. The latest design has been finished and is ready for use at the party this weekend we are doing. My design was not too complex, but was also put together very quickly. It looks good. It is gratifying to see something I did on my computer produced. That still feels magical. To actually make something is kinda great.

The Happy Place

2011-12-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

I had today off, first one in a while. I enjoyed a couple of my favorite things this morning. Rode my bike to the gym and then a coffee shop. That was the height of happy for me. I can not explain why my 2 wheels makes me so giddy but it does. The gym is a place where the stress comes out and the body gets recharged. The coffee house is perpetually a good place for me for so many reasons. It helped a lot to get those things in today while I could.

Tired and Smiling

2011-12-06T22:08:00.000-07:00

It's always easier to take something apart than to build new. There seem to be cynics everywhere but true dreamers, very few. I am always impressed when I encounter the truly positive. They finish a tough day and are still smiling. Those are the folks I admire so much. Thank you for being out there.

The Person You Are Trying to Call is Not Available at This Time...

2011-12-05T20:48:00.000-07:00

I lost my phone yesterday. Did not even notice till pretty late last night. That attention to detail is natural after a 27hr work day. None the less, today has been peppered with baby steps to find and retrieve the lost cell with potential success to be determined tomorrow morning. It has been a fairly relaxing day without it though. All of my coworkers were within 20 feet of me most of the day and my wife knew I was unreachable. It made for a stress free work day. It made me wonder if giving up a computer would be equally liberating?Netflix? PS3? DVD's? iPod?

It just sounds good to unplug no and again.

All This Time...

2011-12-04T10:02:00.003-07:00

So I have been trying to figure this whoe thing out for quite a while. What the hell it all means, you know? Why are we here? What are we supposed to be doing? Then it hit me. We just need to...

Enjoy it a little more and a little louder.

Hope you all will! (Especially you... yes you.)

Weird....

2011-12-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have that feeling that you are talking but no one is really listening? What about when you are listening and no one seems to really be talking?

Weird...

Happy Picture Friday

2011-12-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Kid View of a Snowy Morning

2011-12-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

I am far from the days of hoping when the snow is falling that school will be cancelled. None the less, with years of conditioning, there is a sense of longing to just stay home on a snowy morning. The coffee tastes better, the blankets are warmer, and had I the time, I believe the waffles tastier. It just seems right to stay in. None the less, I am on my way in as is everyone else. Maybe we'll all get a snow day soon.

Toe Hold

2011-11-30T23:02:00.000-07:00

Getting slowed a little has done wonders for patience. It was a full day at work and many more to come. I am trying to see my busted toe as a blessing to keep me a little more patient and a little more grateful. It was a good dose of humility, that's for sure.

@%$*, that hurt!

2011-11-29T21:10:00.000-07:00

Richard Prior once said, "God can make you take five." I have probably quoted that before, but it always crosses my mind shortly after getting another five. Tonight it was a chair. This chair met my foot in such a way as to cause immense pain and lingering soreness. Tonight, the chair called my toes out. I am gimping around utterly floored that I am now looking at a stretch of healing without running. A simple miscalculation and I get to savor some delightful lessons in patience.

Great.

No. Really

great.

Stupid Monkey

2011-11-28T22:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight was a little harder. I really wanted a cigarette. It's hard to admit that as it has been so long now, I feel that should be ancient history. None the less, driving home, my Jeep slowed by numerous gas stations. I imagined having a pack again and it made me happy. The trouble is, that is just the beginning of the story. It always starts of romantically with that sexy first pack that will last forever. Then it turns into the addiction ugly. The fishing butts out of the ash tray because you ran out and the store is too much trouble to get to.

I got home tonight and I ran. It helped. Still, it is one of the only times I am free of the scare of smoking again. Even if I am thinking about it the whole time, I can not ever just grab one. It is truly a blessed reprieve to have that.

Tired

2011-11-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

It felt great to get in some good food, great runs, a couple good rides, and even a few trips to the gym. I am still fascinated and excited to see what the body is capable of when pushed. It's been a good all around few days. It was also wonderful to see family and friends this weekend. Hell, I can't really find an issue to lament nor vent on tonight. Guess it's good sometimes to just get worn out.

Riding Colorado Winter

2011-11-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to have the bike back and running smooth. It's a little tough to be considerably far from most places to ride, but I have a couple of the most desirable spots within quick rides. I can get to the gym, a coffee shop, a couple decent quick bites and occasional sushi. That allows for a few good rides. I am also looking forward to stretching the distance some and ride out near the runways by DIA and the Platte River trail towards downtown.

The cold wasn't too tough either, although it is a very different cold from Chicago. I am thrilled the layering tricks from the Windy City worked so well. Despite a considerable higher temperature, I was warm and not hot.

It just felt like freedom being out whirling down the dark road on two wheels. I don't know how to explain it, but a lightness follows me on my bike out on the open road or trail. The same comes from being out on a run longer than 10 miles. It's impossible to describe, but it is fantastic.

HappyPicture Friday

2011-11-25T23:40:00.000-07:00

Giving Thanks

2011-11-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Today is a day when we all get together and give thanks. As was mentioned yesterday, that is a subject this blog is rarely short on. None the less, I am offering you my thanks for the support here on Stupie. I am always surprised and touched when someone mentions it. I write as a compulsion and love to see what comes loose from the brain when you don't pause to phrase everything perfectly.

My wish for each of you is a pleasant holiday, a great meal, and to be surrounded by those you care about.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thankful

2011-11-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

Estes

I spend a lot of time discussing gratitude here. It's an important subject to me for certain. It certainly seems I could have ended up down several different, far less desirable roads in my life if it weren't for a bit of Divine intervention and pure fucking luck. That's why I like to continually come back to that focus, to stay aware how fortunate I am. Not just to have a roof over my head and food at the table, but for so much more as well. When I forget those facts, my perspective gets a little bleak. I want more and do less instead of the other way around.

Well as of late, I have been trying harder to stay attuned to that gratitude. It's been tougher to stay where my feet are and the daydreaming has amplified. In small doses it's not bad, but I tend to overshoot small doses. Thus, I work harder to remind myself to stay in the moment and what I have before me to be grateful for.

That's what I am trying.

Bike It

2011-11-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

Just got back from the gym. The unique part of this trip was the means of transport. The bike is back on it's feet, as it were. It felt so damn good the fly through the chilly night air. The simple joys, right? Now let's see what is more of a challenge, riding the ice in Chicago or riding out here where there are almost zero bikes on my streets?

Quitting Time

2011-11-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Getting everything done is a good feeling. Hell, it's addictive to me. My previous employer and friend used to give me such grief for trying to finish all my work by the end of the day. Is that an undesirable trait? When did I become so OCD? I know there is a lot on my plate and I have a mental queue growing by the day, but there is still a part of me that thinks (and tries) to get my inbox cleared by the end of the day. The tough part is giving myself the room to finish in the morning sometimes.

Cold Comfort

2011-11-20T21:05:00.000-07:00

The temperature is dropping, at least at night now pretty regularly. There has been a lot on my mind lately and working through some ideas. The small comforts have been a tremendous source of... well, comfort. I am trying to stay focused on those when my mind is so prone to wandering beyond the moment at hand. A hot cup of tea, a comfortable scarf, the subtle soreness of a recent trip to the gym. These are the items I can and should focus. I also am blessed with some amazing people I get to call my family and friends. Staying aware what is here and now helps greatly. To paraphrase a popular phrase from the rooms, I can be happy or demand to know why.

Right now, it's as simple as that for me.

Box Inclined

2011-11-19T00:32:00.000-07:00

I was chatting with a good friend today and discussing all the relocating that I have done over the last several years. It's tough to feel settled, even in my own house just yet. For the last 12 years I have only lived in two apts for as long as 2 years. At least six I lived in for less than a year. I am wicked good at moving, esentially. Guess that takes a while to lose.

Happy Picture Friday

2011-11-18T23:13:00.000-07:00

Writer

2011-11-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

As many of you know from reading this routinely, I am not a writer. At least I do not profess to be. I am attempting daily posts for the challenge and to see what rises to the top when you don't spend too much time looking. I write nightly as well for years and oddly have never thought much about it. That is till I was talking to a friend that mentioned how long it had been since they wrote anything. It baffled me. I don't think the world would darken any if Stupie ceased to be nor do I imagine I would be lost without a few notes here and there on what's going on. It did seem unthinkable though to stop. I was caught by surprise by the importance writing has and how little regard I give it.

Now if I were a writer, I'd had a clever way to wrap this up.

Birdhouse.

Friendly Reminders

2011-11-16T23:59:00.001-07:00

I have been reflecting a lot with my close friend and carpool buddy, Scott on times gone by recently. Perhaps it's the holidays or the return to a familiar setting, but we have been enjoying stories of the fantastic people we know and have known. It's been fun to revisit accounts even from just a couple years ago. It led to a few phone calls tonight to friends I don't see often. I successfully reached my west coast caveman, Cody. Once again, time did that warp where it has not been weeks, months, and the like since seeing each other... it was just earlier that day. I am continually attempting to keep an eye on the good around me as it is what deserves that attention most. The friends I have around me are the best place to find that good.

That's My Jam

2011-11-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

Ever hear a song that just gets you feeling better in seconds? It's odd how fast that works. While scent may be the strongest, sound is the easiest of senses to call at will. Between a few days of utter shuffle on the entire iTunes library and a few episodes of Glee (don't judge), I have had a wealth of songs jumping the feeling train. It's been fun and nostalgic although at times I truly wished I had headphones in. It's a little embarrassing at times to be singing along to some of these.

Huh...

2011-11-14T21:55:00.002-07:00

What if...

Designer

2011-11-13T23:15:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to check in. It has been a full day of work, but in a different way than usual. I got to work from home doing design work. I have dreamed of doing this sort of thing and today it happened. Like all realities it differed some from my imagined world. It had more uncertainty and computer gliching than the version I thought about while serving coffee for a living. None the less it was truly a gift to get to do this today, despite wishing to just not have to work on such a great fall day.

Good Friggin' Friends

2011-11-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

It's been a little over a year since my New York Marathon adventure. I heard from both my friends I had the chance to see while out there this last week. It was so good to hear from them. These are the types of friends I feel close to regardless of the time between visits or calls or (sigh)... Facebook pokes. It makes me pause while winding up my diatribe over the number of out going calls on my phone. We all appreciate the idea of quality over quantity. I feel that with these friends, for certain (and many more honestly). I guess the question to me is how difficult would it be to spend an hour with any of these wayward friends. If it's effortless, then it would seem to be a quality case. That makes me feel pretty damn good.

Happy Picture Friday

2011-11-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

The Type

2011-11-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

There seems an innate sense in some people on how to read a situation. You know who I mean? They just get it. When an important meeting is happening they rise o its level. When a situation requires a specific response they know it. That skill seems so hard to define but is a thing of beauty when you see it. Unfortunately, it seems more often than not, it is easier to see when it is not there. The foot in mouth type. They just can not seem to get the right response at the right time. You know it when you see it too. I am not sure how or if that skill can be taught, but it sure deserves acknowledgement at times.

Feel Better Winter

2011-11-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

I know it's only Wednesday and the picture thing happens on Friday's, but this needed to go out today. It'll make sense to who it needs to and hopefully just make the rest of you smile.

Cheers!

An Hour Off

2011-11-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those odd days where I felt ready for bed when I noticed it was just 6:30. That pissed me off a little, to be fank. I blame daylight savings for the disruption. It was friggin' dark by the time I got out of the grocery store after work. While I love the night, it is throwing me off a little. My morning runs are once again in daylight and my evening dog walks are pretty dark. It will find a balance I am sure, but for now I am irritated at feeling ready for bed by prime time

That Old Familiar

2011-11-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just miss some of the simple thing that were easy to get. I was chatting with some folks from Chicago last weekend and we were discussing the beauty of Dunkin' Donuts in Chicago. That was when it occurred to me that I loved the DD mostly because I could grab one or some coffee at every L station anytime. It was always available, everywhere I went. That may be the ultra saturation by a corporation, but it was also just good comfort too. It's a bit of a tug of war with ideals for sure.

Quitting Time

2011-11-06T21:45:00.000-07:00

It has been a full day. A big job wrapped up today and another project I have been working on on the side also concluded. All the work was just sent out and there is such a feeling of satisfaction in hitting send the for the last time. I just wanted to pause and drop a line here at Stupie before gleefully turning the computer off for the night. I hope this finds my 4 readers well and rested after the weekend. Cheers!

Gun Show... literally

2011-11-05T23:25:00.000-06:00

Today I went to my first gun show with some friends. I have to admit, I have not held much interest in going to one, but I was captivated by the idea to try something new. It was fun to see an entirely different walk of life than I usually get to see. Every now and then it helps to remember to try something new.

Happy Picture Friday

2011-11-04T23:34:00.000-06:00

Sleep Dep'd

2011-11-03T22:34:00.000-06:00

I was up pretty late last night working on a project. It paired awkwardly with an extraordinary long day at work today. While, I feel I have done better with less sleep before it felt good to push a little further today. Nice to know when you need to, you can do a lot more.

Small Steps

2011-11-02T21:30:00.000-06:00

I've been working my way through a bit of a funk as of late. It's not ever-present, which makes it a lot more elusive to do battle with. I am resolved though to take the steps necessary to get through it. That feels better, in and of itself. It's as my Mom likes to remind me of the saying, "when your walking through hell, keep walking." I like that, even if I like to minimize my own discomfort. It surly isn't "hell" but left unchecked will cause tremendous havoc. Today I keep walking, knowing the things in my life to stay grateful for. That's enough for today, I suppose.

Snowing

2011-11-01T22:46:00.000-06:00

It's really coming down out there. Very grateful to be home at last. That's it for tonight kids. Hope you all got home safe and sound no matter where you are. Till tomorrow.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T18:37:00.000-06:00

Away Team

2011-10-30T18:22:00.000-06:00

I just got back from my folk's place. I was there to watch the Denver Broncos game. For years I have championed the Broncos from away cities. It still feels odd to be cheering for the home team again. I appreciated the resolve it took to support a team from a different town. In a way it was a point of pride too. There was a certain underdog appeal to it. I am a little thrown to walk through the grocery store and now see plenty of Broncos, or odder yet for a fan from out of town, Rockies gear represented. I kinda miss the standing tall yet somewhat alone nature of cheering for my Mile High teams while not residing here. After all, I did recruit Sox fans (wearing purple and black) to see the season opener at Wrigley Field when it was a Rockies vs Cubs bout. Maybe its just a level of underdog support I miss.

Spare Room

2011-10-29T09:37:00.000-06:00

I just finished making the bed in our guest bedroom for the first time. This home ownership thing is definitely taking some getting used to. I am very excited to bed able to have friends and family stay with us, but is still seems odd to have a bed in my home that isn't just for me. Perhaps its the many years of hand to mouth living with no room for extravagance that has me feeling unfamiliar with extra. I don't really know. I do know I am grateful for this. Just surprised at the adjustment curve.

Happy Picture Friday

2011-10-28T08:05:00.000-06:00

Morning Coffee

2011-10-27T00:57:00.001-06:00

Creature comforts are truly one of life's greatest gifts. To me they are things like the morning cup of coffee.The small things that make each day a shade more exciting or rewarding. What I love most is that they often now seem less tied to a value in money and more a feeling. The best part of that is that I don't need it to be gourmet coffee in the morning to enjoy the sense of ease. To me those are the best comforts.

Snow!

2011-10-26T07:13:00.000-06:00

This morning I awoke to our first snowfall. It's amazing to me how much this helps my mood. It just seems to settle a restlessness inside. The entire world outside seems calmer and clean. It enables me to feel more creative. Glad it's here.

Pushed

2011-10-25T20:25:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I was focused on the side of prudence as it applied to running. Tonight, I went out for a quick 2 miler against better judgement. I wanted to do it as I had the time, the energy, and the weather is turning quickly here in the Mile High City. Thus, I felt like pounding the pavement while getting freezing rain in the face. To some that makes sense. The point in this lengthy diatribe is that it also feels good to know better and still tell caution to piss off.