Just polishing the crystal...

25 Random Notes

2009-02-22T13:19:00.002-06:00

Since I haven't posted in a while I think that I'll just do a little copy and paste from Facebook. Thanks for the idea Mandy!

1. I don't much like procrastination. But instead of working out or running right now I am typing this and finishing off a bag of cheese curds.
2. Would love to be at McNally's having a Black and Tan or a Smithwick's.
3. I want to hike the Appalachian Trail.
4. I believe my purpose in life is to be a father.
5. Of all the places I've visited I'd say that Roswell, NM was the most disappointing.
6. I hope I make it to Macchu Picchu.
7. I wouldn't call myself a dog person, but there are some dogs I like.
8. The socks I'm wearing are very warm.
9. If I were in a band I would insist that we start concerts with the first 3 cuts on the Pixies Bossanova album, and if we were in an outdoor setting and it started raining we'd abruptly start into Stormy Weather. I'd play bass and sing.
10. I'm seriously considering writing the next installment of the Christian Bale era Batman series with my brother and his girlfriend because we have some good ideas.
11. French press coffee is the only way to make coffee.
12. I'm trying to read 4 books at one time - OIL! by Upton Sinclair, The Lost Continent - Travels In Small-Town America by Bill Bryson, Pierced by a Sword by Bud Macfarlane Jr, and Outliers - The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell.
13. I keep a baseball bat next to my bed.
14. I hit snooze on my alarm clock so many times that it actually stops snoozing.
15. I need to remember to check to see if the indoor driving range has reopened.
16. I wonder if I could actually save hundreds of dollars by switching to Geico.
17. I haven't been fishing in a while.
18. Making dirty martini's is not my forte.
19. I think by this time I've decided I'm not going to work out or run tonight. Thanks cheese curds.
20. The thermostat in my house is set to 65 degrees.
21. Who really cares about this? Will anyone I tag actually do this?
22. There isn't anything good on TV anymore.
23. My blue BMX bike with the blue tires was pretty awesome.
24. Being in a movie would be sweet, but don't think I want to be famous.
25. Didn't I just do one of these things in an email forward the other day?

Hello my friends...

2009-02-22T13:08:00.002-06:00

It's been a while since I've updated myself. I'll have to hit the highlights:

- I've moved to the Chicagoland area, live in St. Charles, IL but work in Carol Stream, IL.
- Currently dating a nice girl named Jeanne (but I call her Jeannie).
- Family is doing well (Patrick in last semester at Purdue, Katie and Corynn enjoying Indianapolis, Mom and Dad keeping busy).
- Started running again - training for the Shamrock Shuffle in March, Rock N Roll Seattle Marathon in June.

More to come I'm sure. :)

Glad to be back!

Cannon Brother Tomfoolery

2008-09-02T12:49:00.000-05:00

The video speaks for itself. :)

OK, let's just say it so happens that...

2008-07-27T10:46:00.003-05:00

...I could pick where I want to live next. I've started formulating a list of potential places to live just for grins. A few pieces of criteria I'm taking into consideration include proximity to family and friends, access to a major airport, a good business school in the event I can find the time to complete my MBA, and outdoor activities. Here is my list, and these fall in no particular order:

Seattle, Washington - this is usually on my short list only because I've always had a liking for the Pacific Northwest because of it's outdoorsy nature, rain be damned. Having listened to Grunge music growing up (Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, etc...) Seattle had always pulled me because of it's music scene. That may not necessarily be the case now as music scenes have changed a few times since then, so I'd have to come up with other excuses to move there. Airport - check, university - check, family and friends - can't get any better than Aunt Jude and Uncle Ben - check, outdoor activities - yes, but wear your rain gear.

Denver, Colorado - again, the outdoors is the pull for Denver...not much else. Airport - check, university - eh, family and friends - not so much, outdoor activities - check.

Phoenix, Arizona - I've visited Phoenix once for the Rock and Roll Marathon and really enjoyed the city. The downtown is great and there are several different cities within Phoenix. Despite the hot summers the weather again pulls me for outdoor activity. Airport - check, university - check, family and friends - negative, outdoor activities - check.

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas - the airport is great, there seems to be quite a bit to do, but it's in Texas and the Cowboys are there. I'm actually more fond of Ft. Worth than I am with Dallas, but the whole Metroplex as it's called seems to have a lot to offer. But again, it's Texas. Airport - BIG check, university - check, family and friends - absent, outdoor activities - check.

St. Louis, Missouri - I really do miss STL and enjoyed the time I spent there. My Cardinals, Soulard, Budweiser (RIP), Forest Park, LSL, Katy Trail. Airport - check (but it sucks), university - check (but will Wash U take me back?), family and friends - no worries here, outdoor activities - plenty to do.

Chicago, Illinois - I'd have to get over the obnoxious nature of Bears, Cubs, and Sox fans, but I think I can find a way. I have always enjoyed time spent in the Windy City. Airport - check, university - check, family and friends - I can make some, outdoor activities - check.

Indianapolis, Indiana - out of all the cities on my list, this one has the highest concentration of family and friends, so that automatically gives Naptown a significant boost. The downtown is clean and has a lot to do (Colts, Pacers, Indians, museums, bars, clubs). There are some nice places for outdoor activities (Monon Trail, White River State Park). The largest 1/2 marathon in takes place there every May, as well as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. Indy is relatively close to Purdue, so there will more often than not be a significant number of Saturday's in West Lafayette in the fall. Airport - check (new terminal = nice), university - not great but could make due, family and friends - too many to count, outdoor activities - ready to go!

San Clemente, California - I'm sure the real estate sucks but if there is a chance my brother will move out there, I at least have to consider. The mild temps and "sunshine virtually all the time" weather are a huge draw. San Clemente itself is much more laid back than it's beach town neighbors to the north (Dana Point, Laguna Beach) and the people were pretty friendly and not so So Cal shallow. There are a lot of little shops, pubs, and restaurants up and down Del Mar and the PCH. The running and biking trail up and down the coast offers breathtaking views. Airport - check, university - why would I waste my time when I could learn how to surf instead, family and friends - maybe (hope the cute Brazilian girl is still there), outdoor activities - yup!

And who says I can't choose an international location. I've always said I would ex-pat in a heartbeat. A few of these locations are a little extreme and there would have to be a very good reason for me to go there, but hey, can a boy dream? :)

London, England - one of my favorite cities. I have never seen so much cultural diversity - just walking down the streets, taking the Tube, or flying into Heathrow is certainly better than the It's A Small World ride at Disney. Airport - check, university - check, family and friends - nobody guv'na, outdoor activities - is riding the Tube considered an activity?

Dublin, Ireland - I've never been, but I'm putting it on my list anyway. It's freaking Ireland. Airport - check, university - check (Trinity), family and friends - I have red hair so this shouldn't be an issue, outdoor activities - I'll make it happen.

Shanghai, China - I just want to be a regular at the Face Bar, my favorite bar in the world. They have the BEST Indian food I've ever had and the atmosphere is amazing. It has a good mix of ex-pats and locals. Airport - check, university - check (Wash U has an extension office), family and friends - nope, outdoor activities - COUGH COUGH COUGH.

Hong Kong, China - I've only spent a day there, but is fairly intriguing. Airport - check, university - um not sure, family and friends - don't speak Chinese, outdoor activities - HACK SNEEZE COUGH

Survived the week...barely

2008-02-22T09:27:00.006-06:00

Well, I'm very happy it's Friday. I'm not happy I'm spending it in my bed sick. I hate getting sick because it is such a rare occurrence. I feel like my throat is a saliva factory - I'm swallowing every 4 seconds. My body aches in places I didn't know I had a body. But it's perhaps it's my body's reaction to the events that took place this week.

Extended stay in WP - I'll be here at least one more year. I'm accepting another position here, one that I have to have in my current career path. It's as good a place as any to get it done - I already know the people, the product, and should be able to jump in. Downside is it's here - I've been vocal about this to all other players involved and they acknowledge. Lots of prayer and thought went into it, and while counterintuitive as it is, it makes sense. *Sigh*

Purdue lost to IU - depressing. Still on top of the Big Ten, but slows momentum. I hope we can gain it back quickly.

I hope that I'm well enough this weekend to run - I have only run once since the Marathon in Phoenix over a month ago and I have two 1/2 marathons to run in April and May. Maybe that will make me feel better.

I See Dead Armadillos!

2008-02-10T15:16:00.000-06:00

In an effort to get away from it all and enjoy a little outdoor activity, I decided it was in my best interest to go for a hike yesterday. I wanted to do something a little different, as I had already hiked portions of the Devils Backbone Wilderness trail system, which is about 20 miles from my house. I scanned and searched the internet but could only find descriptions of trails in the area, no maps or directions to trailheads. After failed attempts at finding something new I geared up for another trek into Devils Backbone.

There were two trails that I had previously taken - the first was the McGarr Ridge trail which resulted in my legs becoming a new ecosystem for area ticks...lesson learned, never wear shorts in the woods in summertime. The second trail was the Mary Hollow which I did not get to complete due to a late afternoon start last the fall...lesson learned, never start a hike when the sunset is due to go below tree level before 4:30 pm. Given the previous excursions I made sure I was prepped and ready for this outing - extra layer of pants, an undershirt with long sleeve shirt with hoodie and flannel, thick socks and water resistant hiking shoes. I filled my Camelbak day pack with almonds and craisins, as well as a full 100 oz bladder of water. A hat and gloves, along with grandpa's old watch completed the outfit - I was ready to take on the freakin' Yukon.

I decided when I parked my car at 1:10 pm that I would go ahead and complete the Mary Hollow trail and make my way to the Devils Backbone trail. I figured on an hour and a half to get to the end of that trail - about a 4 mile hike - and I would turn around and head back to the car. This first part of the trail takes you down into an old creek bed that has cut a valley between limestone hills that may crest about 50-60 feet above the bed. This trail follows the remnants of that stream, but I could tell that it may still be active during rain and snow melts, as mud, leaves and grass showed the signs of a rushing flood just days early. It was so still, with the exception of a large wind gust. In keeping my eyes on the trail (to avoid ankle spraining missteps and horse crap) I could not see the effects of the wind on the trees. Stopping to look up revealed quite a bit of activity at the tree tops, as the oaks, hickory, and pine trees of the area swayed leafless in the wind. Quite a sight. On this trail I encountered the only sign of life other than ants and butterflies - an armadillo was rooting through leaves and twigs looking for a snack. They are pretty funny looking to see while alive - their waddle compensating for the tank armor that covers their body. They are surprisingly quick for their awkward build. Sadly, I would see two of his dead brethren during the course of my day, dumped upside down revealing their vulnerable underbelly. A tasty meal perhaps for a coyote or hungry Ozark woodsman.

I reached the end of the Devils Backbone trail after having enjoyed the elevated sites from the limestone ridge that granted views on either side. It was quite chilly there as the wind was not hindered by the tree cover of the hollow below. At this point it was around 2:55 pm and I needed to decide if I wanted to head back the way I came or trust my map reading skills and follow the Collins Ridge trail back to the McGarr Ridge trail I had previously hiked. Not wanting to bore myself I started heading northwest towards the Crooked trail which I would have to bypass, after which a short jaunt would take me down to the North Fork River where I would meet up with the McGarr trail. The sun was in a good spot and I estimated I had at least 2 hours of good light to make it out of the woods. My goal was to be at my car by 4:30 pm to be able to make it to Mass at 5:00 pm.

As the topographical map indicated, I would have an abrupt downhill on my way to the river, and I would need to keep left at the next fork in the trail. I did precisely that, only to find that I was aiming south instead of continuing northwest. I had found my way onto an unmarked trail that took me out of the wilderness boundary and I was on private land alongside the North Fork. I backtracked and found myself back on the trail going in what I thought was the right direction. I turned right onto what I thought was the McGarr Ridge, only it wasn't taking me up as the map indicated. I was still in a hollow and I guessed I was on the Crooked trail instead. So again I backtracked to find a familiar path laying ahead. Following this path I entered a campground right next to the North Fork - familiar to me because this was my turn around point my last trip down the McGarr Ridge. I ate a few almonds and craisins as I watched the shallow river cut through it's path alongside the limestone rock wall it carved over thousands of years. I made my way back through the camp and out onto what I thought was my way out - nope, lead me straight into the woods and past dead armadillo number 1. I backed out once again and decided it was best to follow the same path I came in on, but make sure I stayed to the left. This proved promising as I continued to climb further up the ridge and I could see the hollow below which harbored the Crooked trail.

Feeling a bit more confident in my corrected path I contemplated what I had just gone through. Thoughts of being stranded out in the wilderness did not really make me nervous as I felt I had somewhat prepared for the unusual - I had water, food, and extra layers. I also trusted my sense of direction after finding my path - I just followed the rise and fall of the trail elevation with the map and the direction of the sun relative to the time of day. Moving northeast I had to have the sun on my back in the southwest. I felt compelled to draw a comparison to my day with life. Life involves preparation, the right tools, direction, making certain decisions, and faith. I was prepared for anything...I had my map to follow...I decided my path and destination...but when adversity made me uncertain of my decision and path, I relied on faith to keep me level headed and strong to overcome the obstacles in my way...people will make mistakes but by holding on to faith through prayer and action you can make it out of the woods to try again another day. Not groundbreaking or profound, but still relevant to me at least on this day.

It was quite a day. After an hour of hiking from the river (and passing dead armadillo number 2) and a total of 9 miles on the trails I did finally make it back to my car at 4:35, in time to make it to Mass at 5:00.

I see London I see France...literally

2008-01-26T13:34:00.000-06:00

I am never one to pass up a challenge, so when a fellow co-worker of mine challenged me to fly out of the States on a Friday afternoon to hang out for the weekend with him in London, how could I say no? He was on his way back through London having just completed a training session in Monaco and was preparing for formal meetings in London the week after, so there wasn't anything for him to do in the meantime and wanted someone to hang out with. I accepted and booked my flight out of STL and ORD to LHR for Friday 1/18 to return on Sunday 1/20. Upon arrival in Chicago I discovered that plans had changed and that I would be staying an extra day. As it turns out I was invited by my friend's boss to participate in a team building exercise at an undisclosed location that would require a passport and little to no English speaking ability. I rebooked my flight home for 1/21 and waited in anticipation for word as to what we would be doing on Sunday.

Saturday in London was set aside of fish and chips and beer. We walked around the place with no particular place to go. We did seek out a Thames River Boat Tour, but they were either booked or not quite what we were looking for. We settled for a cafe next to the London Eye.

Sunday morning the team met at St. Pancras train station and found that we were booked on the Eurostar to travel to Paris to participate in a team building scavenger hunt. We were to visit Parisian landmarks and take pictures to provide photographic proof of our visit. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the Louvre were all on the list, among a few other obscure landmarks. We barely made the train back to London.

It was a great little get away - I didn't get very many good pictures, as we were on the move most of the time. I have wet my appetite to return to Paris to see more, and of course a trip to London is always on the list.

Marathon Madness!

2008-01-26T12:39:00.000-06:00

Well folks...I did it. I finally ran a marathon! Saying that I've run 5 half marathons (which if you do the math adds up to 2-1/2 marathons) just didn't cut it anymore. It was finally time to stop talking about doing a marathon and actually do it! I picked to run in the Phoenix Rock and Roll Marathon which proved to be a wise choice given the mild temperatures (right around 50 degrees at the start and the mid-60's by the end) and the flat course.

I did fine for the first 13 miles of the marathon, averaging right around a 10:00 minute mile pace without walking (see the blue line in the chart above). I became aware of my feet around mile 8 and my legs started feeling a little tight around mile 14. It wasn't until mile 16 that I started to struggle a bit...stopping to stretch and rest a bit. By mile 18 I couldn't run and all I could do is walk. After crossing the 20 mile mark I stopped at a medical tent to get a leg massage, a couple aspirin, and some salt. It appears that my sodium levels were low which is why I was cramping. As soon as I left the tent I felt like a champ and ran the rest of the way with a few quick walks to further loosen my leg muscles. I finished with an official time of 5:07:35 (take away the 9 minute massage I ran it in under 5 hours). I am very much looking forward to doing this again!

I've registered for the Shamrock Shuffle in April and the Indianapolis Mini Marathon in May. It is my hope to find another marathon to do sometime in the fall. I've caught the bug!

Christmas cheer...in a onesy!

2007-12-28T12:37:00.000-06:00

Best Christmas present...ever! I haven't taken it off!

Back to Japan, please?

2007-11-04T02:52:00.000-06:00

Here are a few shots from Japan:

The view outside the Narita Hilton at 5:30 am...very green.

The surprise of the day was a ride over Mt. Fuji.

Tokyo for the day

2007-11-03T09:50:00.000-05:00

I am currently enroute to China for a two week stay in Qingdao and Weihai. My first stop - Tokyo, Japan.

The trip started at 2:30 am Friday November 2 with the drive to St. Louis for my connecting flight to Tokyo out of Chicago O'Hare. This drive is always uneventful, thankfully, but very boring. I got to the St. Louis airport about 1 hour before my 7:35 am flight and arrived at O'Hare with plenty of time to get breakfast burritos at McDonalds, Immodium (just in case - but not for the breakfast burritos), and my third set of adapters for international electrical outlets (if any one needs a set, let me know). I spent some time in the Admiral's Club to check e-mails before my 11:00 am departure. The 13 hour flight from Chicago to Tokyo took us over Canada, to the brink of the North Pole, and back down the Pacific along Siberia and over the whole of Japan. I didn't have any issues going through immigration and customs - no surprise since I wasn't bringing in any furry animals, fruits, or other prohibited items. I made it to the Narita Hilton around 3:30 pm local time (12:30 am Saturday morning in the US) and took a quick shower to wash the travel off of me. I had planned on going out and about, but with only 5 hours of sleep on the plane, I was a bit exhausted and made the mistake of laying down on the bed for a quick cat nap which turned into a 5 hour cat nap. I got up to get some sushi at the hotel sushi bar, but they were closed. I settled for the lounge downstars which was still serving dinner. For all you movie fans who have seen Bill Murray in Lost in Translation I had to chuckle to myself when I walked in to the lounge to find an American playing guitar and singing Simon and Garfunkle's Scarborough Fair. I was inspired to order a Suntory whiskey because at that moment it was indeed "Suntory time." Since there was no sushi available I had to settle for Japanese curry, which was amazing. I'm back up in the room to hopefully get some rest before my flight to Qingdao tomorrow morning.

Team In Training!!! Help me help those battling leukemia!

2007-09-16T10:54:00.000-05:00

To continue my running exploits, I have joined a Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team In Training squad based out of Springfield, Missouri (this means getting up at 5:00 AM on Saturdays to drive to Springfield to participate in team practices - 110 miles away from West Plains). My goal is to raise $3,900 for the cause of research and development of a cure for this disease. My team and I are training for the P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Arizona which takes place this January.

Click on the above link to help donate and keep track of my progress - spread the word! Thanks for your help!

Labor Day's of Yore...

2007-09-03T22:00:00.001-05:00

Here is a pic from the 1984 Cannon Labor Day celebration at Aunt Cathy and Uncle Terry's in Henderson, Kentucky. The whole gang is there - minus Patrick who would be born the next September.

It's football time! Purdue wins 52-24!

2007-09-03T21:45:00.001-05:00

BOILER UP! Here are pics from this past weekend's fun in Toledo.

Dad and I playing Cornhole in Tailgate Area 25.

Dad getting a hat wearing lesson from Patrick.

Intense focus on the game.

Action on the field...

A few more pics from Chihuahua, Chihuahua

2007-08-11T15:41:00.001-05:00

Here are a few of the pictures I took at the Governor's Palace that depict the area's history. As you can probably see there was a lot of suffering and strife.

Ay, Chihuahua!

2007-08-11T15:18:00.000-05:00

Another week ends, another trip complete, and more prayers for no broken down planes or weather related delays. This week in Chihuahua, Mexico has been pretty good. The purpose of this trip was to share best practices with mis hermanos y hermanas and hopefully take back some knowledge to my plant. I believe the objective was accomplished. To take advantage of the beautiful day here a co-worker and I took a tour of the city. Chihuahua is rife with history - a lot of which doesn't make it into our textbooks in the United States. Much of the formation of Mexico came about in the state of Chihuahua - the capital had at one time been here because the president at the time wanted to be closer to the US to beseech President Lincoln for assistance during revolutionary times. If it weren't for the Civil War and his assassination Lincoln may have gotten involved. He is even depicted in a mural of Chihuahua history as one of three great leaders in the Americas because of his stance against slavery. During our tour we got to see the home of Pancho Villa, and a large mansion that was used as his headquarters. This mansion was started in 1907 by a rich engineer who built it in honor of a young girl he loved. He was in his 60's and she in her 20's, and she would not marry him unless he built her a house. He obliged and started construction, hiring a Colombian architect who took 3 years to design and build the home. It is beautiful inside, with wood carvings and ornate ceilings and walls. The engineer had the face of his beloved carved into the trim in several rooms. It was during the 3 years of construction that the girl decided she did not want to marry him. He continued to build the house anyway. It is now under the control of the University of Chihuahua as a museum and art gallery. I also learned today that actor Anthony Quinn is from Chihuahua. I am staying at the Westin Soberano, which sits on a very high piece of land on the outskirts of downtown. There are a few malls out this direction, as well as restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers. The University of Chihuahua is just around the corner, as well as the city's new soccer arena. This city is in stark contrast of Juarez - it is clean, safe, friendly. There is still a slight haze over the city due to the many industrial parks and plants in the area, but in general it is a very nice place.

What do you call Chinese Montezuma's Revenge?

2007-08-02T04:51:00.000-05:00

Well, I've recovered, but do not necessarily know what caused my bout of stomach issues on Tuesday. It is a good thing though, as last night we did our group dinner at probably one of the best Indian restaurants I've ever been to. It is known as the Face Bar because of the unique "face" sign on the outside of the building. Having completed our third day of training, it was good to get the whole group out of the training room and into a more informal environment where we could enjoy good food and good company. Many of us arrived late because of the difficulty of getting cabs during the evening rush hour - you'd think that in a city as big as Shanghai there would be copious amounts of public transportation (buses, trains, cabs, etc). We had a whole room reserved for 26. The decorations were amazing, with wood carvings and cherry furniture and tables. The downstairs has a full bar and several other tables along with an "opium bed" - imagine an old ornate Chinese bed and then imagine several people smoking and eating. There wasn't any opium smoking going on, but I'm sure at one point back in the day such practices were common. Back to the food - we ordered chicken tikka, masalla, naan, chutny, kababs, lamb curry, beef curry, chicken curry, safrane rice - you name an Indian food and we probably ate it. It was amazing. One of the funniest things that happened several times during the course of the meal was the habit of toasting to one's health, promptly followed by a "bottoms's up." Apparently it is custom that if you propose a toast you must follow it up with draining your glass of your favorite beverage - hard to not comply with this ritual. So yes, it was a fun evening. I believe we are going to return to this fine establishment on Friday evening in order to completely get our fill of Indian for the week. I for one have no complaints about the return trip. I will try and take more pictures of the ornate decorations and hopefully we can get there early enough to stake out the opium bed just to say we did. Nothing else new to report. More pics and other random things later!

I know where I'm NOT eating tonight...

2007-07-29T01:28:00.000-05:00

One of many fine exotic eateries seen on my walk through the hot and humid streets of Shanghai.

Good Morning Shanghai!

2007-07-28T19:41:00.000-05:00

Well, an uneventful 15 hour flight out of Chicago to Shanghai resulted in a good nights sleep and a restful 5:00 am wake up this morning. I didn't get much sleep on the flight - maybe 3 or 4 hours. I was able to see the Bourne Supremacy, Disturbia (VERY good movie), and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. The flight got in about 2:00 pm yesterday afternoon (1:00 am CST back home). A colleague and I waited for an hour or so for our ride to pick us up, which never showed. We got a cab to take us to the hotel, which is about an hour's drive from the airport. It started off a little scary when we gave the driver the name of the hotel and he got out of the car to ask someone else for directions. The ride was very much different than my previous experiences in China. You can definitely tell that there is a lot of money here. The expressway was lined with trees and soundbarriers to protect homes on the other side from the noise pollution of the traffic. Small spaces in between allowed you to see some of the homes, which were stunning and not so different than ours, although there was an Asian flare to them. There are a lot of highrise apartment buildings. Saturday must be laundry day here, as just about every house or apartment had laundry drying on decks or outside windows. We did finally arrive at the hotel (Renaissance Yangzte Shanghai) around 4:00 pm with a message to call one of our contacts who profusely apologized for the missed ride - there was a miscomunication on timing, but of course these things happen and all is well. A couple of doubles and a hamburger later I was ready for bed - sleeping has never felt so good! There are several restaurants here at the hotel that I am looking forward to trying out. Our training sessions are all on site here at the hotel, which is nice that we do not have to get up early to travel someplace and then set up projectors and such. I went for a run in the gym this morning that gave a wonderful view of the areas outside. I wish I brought my bathing suit, as the pool looked great after my 45 minute run. If it weren't for the haze and pollution outside it looks safe enough to run outdoors, but it's going to be ridiculously hot the whole time we will be here - it is 9:00 am right now and it's already 90 degrees with a heat index of 104! The attached pictures are quick views from Google Earth of where I am in relation to the rest of the city. The view out of my hotel shows the park just outside, also visible on the Google Earth shot. It took me a while to find everything (trying to follow what highway I thought we took from the airport). I'm not sure how much I'll be able to see of the city while I'm here - it's quite large. I hope to do some tourist stuff - maybe someone local will take us around. We'll see. I'll have some more pictures later in the week.

The...GREATEST...waste...of...time...EVER!!!!

2007-07-17T21:57:00.000-05:00

Here is just a taste - for the rest go to www.willitblend.com

Week 3 woes continue - Friday the 13th truly an unlucky day...sort of

2007-07-14T12:03:00.000-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen...here is a recount of my Friday travels from Chihuahua, Mexico.

5:30 am MST - leave the Chihuahua Westin Hotel for the airport
6:00 am MST - arrive at the Chihuahua Airport
6:20 am MST - receive tickets and go through security
7:20 am MST - board the plane
7:50 am MST - door won't close
8:10 am MST - maintenance called, passengers are asked to leave the plane, go back through security
10:00 am MST - flight canceled, rebook on 2:00 pm flight, leave secure area to head to cafe
2:00 pm MST - after lunch and messing around VERY SMALL airport, go back through security to gate to find inbound flight is delayed until 4:00 pm, leave secure area to head back to cafe, find out that 6:30 pm connecting flight to Springfield from Dallas will be missed...get on standby for full 9:40 pm Springfield flight, confirm for Sat am flight
3:30 pm MST - shot of tequila
4:00 pm MST - go back through security to gate - inbound flight not to arrive until 4:30 pm
4:38 pm MST - inbound flight arrives
5:00 pm MST - board plane
5:15 pm MST - door still not closed...waiting for other planes to load and board
5:30 pm MST - take off
7:30 pm CST - arrive at DFW
8:15 pm CST - through immigration and customs
8:45 pm CST - recheck luggage (travel partner carrying 8 bottles of vanilla - well above the allowable liquid amount for carry-on), find that there are available seats on 9:40 pm flight to Springfield
8:55 pm CST - "Hurry, your flight boards in 10 minutes!" - we are in terminal D - we depart from terminal B...run through security
9:05 pm CST - after sprinting through terminal D, we find we are only 1 stop away from next gate
9:10 pm CST - inbound flight delayed until 9:30 pm
9:45 pm CST - FINALLY board Springfield flight
11:00 pm CST - arrive at Springfield
11:30 pm CST - 2 McDonald's filet-o-fish sandwiches
2:00 pm CST - pour myself on the couch and fall asleep

Frustrating to say the least, yes.

Word of caution to business travelers flying out of Springfield, MO

2007-07-09T21:58:00.000-05:00

DON'T DO IT!

Yet again I am stuck in a hotel in a city I am not supposed to be in. I know I should have flown out of STL instead of SGF.

Two problems caused this travel mishap...
1.) Weather - again, flights in and out of Dallas were delayed
2.) Mechanical malfunction - the cancellation notice wasn't given for 2 hours. Thankfully I was already in line to rebook my flights when the announcement came over the loudspeaker and pandemonium ensued. Again, the argument for carrying on instead of checking rang true.

Since all flights to Laredo are full through the afternoon I am flying into Dallas and then on to San Antonio and then driving 2-1/2 hours to Laredo. And they say getting there is half the fun!

Hotel Observations

2007-07-04T18:55:00.000-05:00

Another cancelled flight in McAllen due to weather.

For you reading pleasure, a few hotel observations...

- Hotel shuttles should be manditory, even if it is raining and your hotel is right across the street from the airport.
- Update your hotel delivery directory if the China Inn no longer exists.
- Yeah for comfortable seats next to power outlets.
- Free hotel wireless is great.
- I'm dry (at least now I am) and safe from the thunder and lightning in the air.
- Fireworks vending machines need to be put in the hallways for stranded business travelers on the 4th of July.
- I shouldn't have had that beer and two hot dogs at the airport.
- I need a massage.

Airport observations

2007-07-04T17:39:00.000-05:00

For the second week in a row, weather has lengthened my stay in McAllen, Texas. I do have to say though, free airport terminal wireless internet is great.

*I will avoid the obvious question of "What are you doing in an airport on the 4th of July?"*

So therefore I will take this time to make a few airport observations:

- Baby leashes are ignorant and parents who use them should be forced to wear one too.
- Electrical outlets are put in the most inconvenient places = nowhere near chairs.
- Airport terminal floors are uncomfortable.
- If you want to know why your flight is delayed and when it will be leaving, stand in line like the rest of us and wait your turn to ask the attendant yourself. Don't ask me when I walk back to my uncomfortable spot on the floor next to an electrical outlet.
- Resist the temptation to start a detox fast diet on your way to the airport and go to Whataburger to get a double - your plane may be delayed.
- Don't offer to work on the 4th of July. Damn - just answered the obvious question.

Not quite 2 miles...

2007-06-28T19:24:00.000-05:00

...but I did put on my running shoes. I think the verb that can be used to describe my activity was running. Probably more like ambling. Oh well. I'm happy. I have to start somewhere to lose the 6 pounds I've gained back.

Here's to hoping for continued trends!

And now, the rest of the story...

2007-06-22T12:48:00.000-05:00

I received this in an e-mail today and find it rather humorous…enjoy!!

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down

Finally, the guys' side of the story. (I must admit it's pretty good). We always hear "the rules” from the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our rules! Please note... These are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem. See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria 's Secret girls, don't expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of them makes you sad or angry, then we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not a color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle, besides we know you will bring it up again later.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight, but did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Public Service - a month and a half late

2007-06-18T23:04:00.000-05:00

This post is for those of us who could not make it through the rain delay at Indy this year so they can see what was missed during the restart. Enjoy!

James Lipton is short...other ramblings

2007-06-16T12:27:00.000-05:00

While walking through LAX last Friday I missed my golden opportunity to tell James Lipton (host of In the Actors Studio) that my favorite curse word is sh*t. I'm not really sure if that is my favorite curse word, but it would have been funny.

Speaking of California - it's nice but expensive. I found that I can drive a Dodge 4X4 on the 405 like a race car. There are few places on the LA freeways to ditch your car in the event of an earthquake. My goal is to find at least one.

Best ballpark seats in America are the outfield bleacher seats at Dodger Stadium - $27.50 for all you can eat hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, and soda. Just be sure you are not a fan of the away team or you will be heckled a good majority of the game. Once the sun dips below the treeline at the end of the first inning you have the pleasure of a California sunset that reminds you of the Eagles Hotel California album.

USC band members are tall, their cheerleaders are hot, and their head football coach is friendly (especially if you almost bump into him).

Port is the worst after dinner drink, but Fat Bastard Merlot is good (despite the fact that some folks in my party say it tastes like dirty French socks).

There IS so much drama in the LBC - I can see why it's hard being Snoop D O Double G...

More water in my ear than in the lake

2007-06-03T21:37:00.000-05:00

I went out on the boat today with the gang from work and I made my first attempt at water skiing. This was proceeded by the jeers of one of our interns to "man up." Of course you can't follow up that type of trash talk with "I think I'll do it later." This sad sad spectacle once again proved that God never intended for me to have anything on my feet but socks and shoes. After 10 frustrating attempts I decided I would try another day and give someone else a chance to actually ski instead of turning laps in the boat around me while trying to grab onto the rope. If the water was more stable I think I'd have a shot.

I did replace my frustration at my ill fated attempts at standing on water with holding on for dear life on the tube - hence the water in my ear. I will be sleeping on my right side tonight to try and get it out. I have a headache from trying to shake it out of my head - and I know I'm "this close" to getting it out. Despite half of Norfork Lake drowning my inner ear, I enjoyed the day on the boat, eating sunflower seeds and getting mildly burned.

I need to run this week - I haven't run since I was in Indy a month ago...jeez, a month ago. Even though it is the beginning of June I feel that it is almost over. I'll be in West Plains two days this week, traveling to Hanover, IL to visit their plant for a few days, golf outing on Friday, Cards game on Sunday, fly to LA for a week on Monday...life is passing before my eyes - I need to slow down and enjoy.

And now for your moment of Zen...

2007-05-31T22:47:00.000-05:00

P.S. - In an effort to keep you from thinking that I fancy myself as a "golfer" I have to disclose that this shot did not make it past the woman's tee and I promptly dropped my shorts upon the realization. Although you have to admit that the hat adds to the illusion.

Songs That Make You Think Vol 1.

2007-05-29T23:31:00.000-05:00

"America" - by Simon and Garfunkel

"Let us be lovers, we'll marry our fortunes together
I've got some real estate here in my bag"
So we bought a pack of cigarettes and Mrs. Wagner pies
And walked off to look for America

"Kathy," I said as we boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh
"Michigan seems like a dream to me now"
It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw
I've come to look for America

Laughing on the bus
Playing games with the faces
She said the man in the gabardine suit was a spy
I said "Be careful, his bowtie is really a camera"

"Toss me a cigarette, I think there's one in my raincoat"
"We smoked the last one an hour ago"
So I looked at the scenery, she read her magazine
And the moon rose over an open field

"Kathy, I'm lost," I said, though I knew she was sleeping
"I'm empty and aching and I don't know why"
Counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike
They've all come to look for America
All come to look for America
All come to look for America

-lyrics reprinted without the permission of Simon and Garfunkel, picture published without the blessings of my brother Patrick (but I'm sure they won't mind)

2007-05-15T19:32:00.000-05:00

For those of you disturbed by my sunburst photo below...I give you the casting photo I submitted for my audition for the part of Rocky Dennis in the musical version of Mask. Uncanny, huh? Lookit - my parents are so proud.

I love my new Mac. And I'm really bored.

On the road again + Pining for more vacation + Quick running summary

2007-05-14T12:14:00.000-05:00

Hello from the Hampton Inn in Fremont, Ohio. Visiting a customer for the next few days. I already miss being on vacation - I want a redo, only in Ireland this time. Here is a pic of our only "Ireland" activity - a trip to the Claddagh Irish Pub in Indy. Damn good Black and Tans there, as well as the Shepard's Pie.

Quick recap of this past week's running:
May 5 - 13.1 miles, 2:11, Indy Mini
May 10 - 4 miles, >0:30, Monon Trail North
May 12 - <4 miles, 0:30, Monon Trail South (almost broke my ankle)
May 14 - <3 miles, 0:30, treadmill

OK, sure, there are some approximations, but I don't have the solid data available to me at this point in time. I will be more precise in upcoming posts.

That's all. :)

I did it...

2007-05-07T13:23:00.000-05:00

...I bought a MacBook Pro.

Never thought I'd ever buy an Apple, but it ca me down to trying something new. I like the Garageband program and some of the other capabilities. Should be fun!

Our Ireland Vacation...

2007-05-07T07:07:00.000-05:00

...in Indianapolis!!

You are all now saying, "Pray tell, Daniel Cannon, why you would be spending your Ireland vacation in Indianapolis, Indiana." I'll feed you baby birds - bear with me and I will tell you a story about dysfunctional government bureaucracy and red tape, poor poor poor customer service, and my mom calling the White House. Oh yes, the White House.

It was decided over Christmas break that the Cannon's needed to take a vacation to an exotic location. For years we discussed traveling to Ireland to see where our roots came from...it was an easy decision. Dad purchased 5 tickets using his frequent flyer miles and I bought my own so I could collect a few thousand more miles for myself. This was to be my parents first ever trip to international soils and there was much excitement. On February 20 my parents submitted two applications for US Passports at the Vincennes Post Office. My mom inquired as to whether or not she should get the expedited service for an extra fee. Because it was 10 weeks or so before our date of travel she was told that would not be necessary. "You'll get them in plenty of time. It should take only 8 weeks." Fair enough - save a little money and get them in plenty of time. We waited with anticipation for May 6, the day which we would all fly from Chicago to Dublin for a week of rain soaked travel, touring, beer drinking, and singing.

Fast forward several weeks - it is toward the end of April and no passports. Dad started tracking the passport progress from the Nation Passport Office's website. "Passport application in process." During this check it was discovered that the lead time for receiving a passport had increased from 8 weeks to 10 weeks. Looking at a calendar that 10 weeks was up right at our travel date. We had 2 weeks left. No big deal - we'll just expedite the process by calling the passport hot line, which is what my dad did every day for two weeks. This consisted of being on hold for roughly 20 minutes at a time, having to listen to recorded messages about how swamped the passport office was with a flood of requests and that they were working overtime and hiring fresh faces to make sure passports were received before time to travel. There were several times when dad thought he was at the point of talking to a warm body that the system would kick him off because "the volume of calls was too great and you need to call back at a later time." CLICK. What a crock. When a human voice finally showed up on the other end it was usually saying "We are doing the best we can." At one point the New Orleans office was offline for 2 days and no communication could flow in, stopping any effort to communicate urgent requests.

The passport office can submit an internal expedite request every 72 hours. Our first one went out on April 25 and we were supposed to hear something within 2-4 days. Another late week request was submitted. The weekend came and nothing was communicated back to us regarding the application status. On Monday April 30, a mere 6 days before our travel date, we again called with another expedite request. That evening all I could think about was getting something else going that may speed this through. I got one of the executive assistants involved at my company who made a few phone calls for us. She even sat in on a call with my dad and I to get more information. With her persistence we were able to move to a second level of management where we talked to this guy who was pretty much unwilling to give us any information. After wearing him down a bit we got him to reveal some information that was "government jargon that we wouldn't understand." It appears that our expedite requests were DENIED and that our next submission could be on Thursday. His suggestion was to go to the Chicago passport office and apply in person. This of course would require making an appointment. When my dad looked into this there were no available time slots to make an appointment. We communicated this with the passport office and they apologized that there wasn't anything they could do about it, but if we called between 6 and 7:30 the next morning we may be able to slip in due to a cancellation - great...that's likely to happen when spending 20 minutes on hold waiting to talk to someone.

Fed up with talking to people unwilling to help, mom called one of our state representatives who gave us a direct line to the office of one of our Indiana Congressman. His assistant made some calls for us on Thursday and got the ball rolling. By Friday our passports were "pulled out" of the system and were being expedited. By Friday evening we had tracking numbers and were crossing our fingers. They were to arrive sometime Saturday afternoon via Fed Ex. My parents have never had luck with Fed Ex, so they were a bit worried. While tracking the passports it was discovered that the tracking number they gave for dad's package was not valid. Calls back to the passport office went unanswered. We crossed our fingers that someone was smart enough to consolidate packages and that both would be together. By Saturday morning the Fed Ex driver arrived carrying one package - with one passport. Calls back to the Congressman's office, Fed Ex, and the passport office all dead ended. It appears that dad's passport didn't make it out of New Orleans - possibly sitting on someones desk who didn't realize that the passports needed to go out TOGETHER. What else is a person to do? Well, call the White House.

Yes, mom called the White House. They directed her to the State Department, where she talked to a guy who stated that the New Orleans office should have been working and that he didn't understand why phone calls and e-mails were going unanswered. He could try and get the passport to us, but it would more than likely be on Monday. His sarcastic remark of "You should have called me earlier" didn't really sit well with mom, saying that she shouldn't have needed to call in the first place, that if everyone in the process had done their job she wouldn't be in this desperate situation.

At this point the chances of a trip to Ireland were all but faded. It was discussed among the family that everyone but dad go ahead and leave Sunday for Dublin and that if the State Department followed through with their promise to deliver the passport on Monday that dad would catch a late flight Monday and join us later. This of course was an unacceptable option because the purpose of this trip was for EVERYONE to go. We decided to cancel our trip all together and do something in the States.

Most of all the Saturday activity was going on while I was driving up to Chicago for a wedding. All I could see were Fed Ex trucks all over the road that did not have my dad's passport in them. Upon arrival at the hotel after the wedding and after canceling my own flight I got in an elevator to join my friends at the wedding reception - there was a kid in the elevator wearing a green Dublin Ireland shirt. Talk about putting salt in your wounds.

So that is how it came about that the Cannon family is spending their Irish holiday in Indianapolis. I'll update you during the course of the week so you can see how we are coping with our failed attempts at visiting the Emerald Isle. Until then, please submit your passport applications now for any future trips you may be taking - keeping in mind that it could be several years before you'll receive them. AND make sure you take the expedited delivery option!

A celebration of small wins today

2007-04-23T19:50:00.000-05:00

1.) I ran 30 minutes on the treadmill today (a mere 2.5 miles, but it was something wasn' it?)
2.) Didn't have to pay for the rental car I reserved but didn't pick up at the Chihuahua Airport yesterday
3.) I might get to come home tomorrow depending on if the Standbye Nazi's will allow me (want to avoid NO SEAT FOR YOU!)

Philosophical Rambling #1

2007-04-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

I have had several conversations with friends lately about doing for others. These conversations revolve heavily about how we wish we knew what to do…or how we wish we had more time in the day…or how we wish we had the resources. What drives the urge for us to do these things? Is it a sense of duty or purpose? Is it replacing guilty feelings of past wrongdoings with a satisfaction that you made reparations by doing a good deed for someone? Is it that we are completely bored with the normal everyday mundane tasks that doing something for someone else would add a spark of life or sense of purpose?

I often wonder why I don’t volunteer enough of my time for worthy causes outside of the time I spend investing in the advancement of my own career – that’s kind of what it’s felt like in the past 6 years. That’s been the nature of everything I have done up to this point though – developing myself as a person…with an intense focus on work. At the time it seemed to be the only thing going for me as a single guy. Boring or short sighted, you say? Perhaps. But it was all a part of making me who I am today, and I don’t think I’m boring or short-sighted. This was all part of making me ready for life as a husband and father.

So what’s my excuse for not giving of my time and talent more outside of work? I could use the excuse that it’s the business travel, which has been the case only in the recent past (so what happened the last six months of no travel?). Or I’m too tired after work and want to run or workout or veg in front of the TV. Or I’m going to other destinations to visit friends and family in an effort to do exciting things that I can’t do in the small town I currently live. But as my brother says…excuses are like assholes – everyone’s got one.

If I have a jones to help others, why am I not feeding that desire? Why am I not heeding the call? Is it that I am that selfish with my time and think only of myself? Is it because I don’t know exactly who to help, what to do, what cause to support, or even where to begin? Is it that the people I would help wouldn’t appreciate it anyway, so why bother? Would I have to throw myself 100% into it to satisfy my passion which would lead to decisions about my career and personal life that I may or may not be prepared to make at this time out of fear of the unknown?

Some of us choose to give back in our faith community by leading worship, a bible study, or providing for the body outside the four walls of a church. Others choose to give back to friends and family in times of need or trouble. Some even give to complete strangers they’ve never met.

Is a smile to someone adequate enough until I get it all figured out and make up my mind what I’m going to do?

I've got some running shoes here in my bag...

2007-04-20T09:17:00.000-05:00

...that haven't left.

Chastise and mock away.

:(

No running, no cry...

2007-04-16T17:38:00.000-05:00

It's been 10 days since I've put on my running shoes and Garmin watch to go for a run. I miss it. And here I am about to go out to dinner. I am going to find the treadmill here in this Holiday Inn and run tomorrow morning. If I post anything tomorrow saying I reneged on my commitment to run, chastise and mock me heavily.

Talkin' 'Bout My...G-G-G-G-Generation's Intellectual Capital

2007-04-16T00:16:00.000-05:00

I heard something very interesting today during a conversation I had with someone I'm traveling with this week. He is around my dad's age and as children at or around their late 20's, early 30's. We were talking about the state of manufacturing today - low cost labor leading to outsourcing, material consumption in low cost countries driving up commodity prices here in the USA, trade deficits with Asia, America's transformation from industrial powerhouse to a service industry economy, and the changing worldwide political spectrum that will determine the way businesses strategize and plan for the future -lighthearted topics for a Logan's Roadhouse dinner. As the conversation progresses he says that it more than likely won't get any better and that the future for his children and grandchildren doesn't look good. His argument centered around his perceived reality that American youth today do not possess the "intellectual capital" that the Boomers and their predecessors carried with them in past generations.

I'm sure my jaw dropped, as that statement did sound rather bleak and defeatist. We talked about the spoiled nature of the typical American - the self-imposed fat and happy entitlement we share as a free nation, devoid of the knowledge of how much worse it could be as we take our freedoms for granted. Is there apathy among us? Sure, but me being the optimist I am don't agree with the statement that we are completely incompetent. Room for improvement? Absolutely! The solution? Not sure...

For the sake of my country, my children, and my children's children I hope we find it. We most certainly are on an interesting path. The next 50 years should be VERY interesting.

I'm not quite done with this topic, however I am tired. I'd never sleep if I continued to dwell on the state of the world and how God has planned me to be involved. Until then, I'll give you a topic: The Holy Roman Empire wasn't Holy or Roman - discuss...

Again, Texas...

2007-04-15T18:19:00.000-05:00

...and again, Mexico.

Didn't realize that after leaving my old job I would still be spending time in Texas/Mexico border towns - I hit two this week...Laredo/Nuevo Laredo and Brownsville/Matamoros. Poor planning on my part for opting to fly back to St. Louis on Friday when during my Mata visit I will be within a 30 minute drive of South Padre Island. Next time - oh yes, next time.

At least with El Paso/Juarez I knew the good places to eat.

Gone public...sort of

2007-04-14T15:34:00.000-05:00

Because my first post was rather personal I decided to start this one in the event anyone who actually reads this thing and wants to make a comment about the content, style, and originality (or lack thereof) of this little piece of the Internet may do so without feeling the need to it on a post about my grandfather. Let the fun begin!

Random ramblings for Bob Petts

2007-04-14T14:02:00.000-05:00

A sad and unexpected trip home this weekend has allowed me to spend some much appreciated time with my family. My grandfather passed away Tuesday night so I came home for the Friday visitation, mass, and funeral. You hate to use such an occasion to visit with friends and family that you haven't seen in such a while, but it was a comfort that we were all here to help each other through a difficult time.

Grandpa Bob passed while visiting with a friend who happened to be the mother of a girl I went to high school with. They were sharing stories of each other's grandchildren. He had just celebrated his 72nd birthday last week. Despite several heart attacks, bypass surgeries, and even losing a leg to vascular disease caused by years of smoking Camel unfiltered's and canned Spam, he maintained his quiet, resourceful, and friendly demeanor. Although he wasn't vocal about it he loved his children and grandchildren. Listening to stories at the funeral home as his friends poured through reinforced the picture of strength and stubbornness born from the 47 years he worked building bridges all over Indiana.

My white haired grandfather with the rugged Robert Redford good looks was certainly more black and white than gray, not so much a man who dealt in absolutes, but a man who would tell exactly what was on his mind. As serious has he seemed on the outside he was certainly a playful jokester. One of my favorite Grandpa stories happened last fall when I was home for Thanksgiving. He came over after a visit to the Knights of Columbus where he had gotten into an argument with one of his bar buddies about how much the St. Louis Arch would sway in the event of a large wind. He and I looked up the facts on the Internet, revealing that my grandfather had argued correctly that it was not more than a few inches as opposed to several feet. He requested I print out our findings so he could "prove that son of a bitch wrong." The satisfaction on his face and the twinkle in his eye at that moment will forever make me laugh.

I will never forget the Christmas Eve's at his place out at Squirrel Creek apartments - he loved having all of us in his living room and around his dining room table eating his potato soup and freshly sliced ham. He kept dog treats in his truck for our dog Emmy. I remember his old van with the duck tire cover and the mini-kitchen where I burned my finger on the cigarette lighter at least 8 times in my earlier years. Or never knowing if he was more comfortable with a hand shake or a hug, but always feeling happier that I gave the hug.

Men like grandpa don't come along too often - simple yet complex, stern but loving, rough around the edges but refined. Sure he made mistakes - don't we all? But he had a lot of the good stuff - grit, guts, love of life, and a charitable heart. God smiled on him yesterday with a beautiful day and to top it off he had a lot of friends and family celebrate his life.

Here's to you Grandpa Bob...