BigCrazyJohn

2010-08-29T11:04:00.001-05:00

Lots of hills and horse farms on this Tour de wildwood 45 mile ride today.

Bicycle Ride to JB Park

2010-06-12T15:11:00.001-05:00

I am going to start ridding every week again. I have not road the
bike in awhile due to our wedding and my back. This week I had the
bike tuned up at Maplewood Cyclery and new chain and cables added.
The bike rides and looks great.

Today I road from the house to JB Cemetary then to the JB Park and
back home. Started with 2,188 miles on the odometer today. Total
ride 15.1 miles. It is 93 degrees out today and the weather report
says it feels like 102. I am exhausted now and feeling very out of
shape. Time to go stretch.

Please Help John Raise Money for Multiple Sclerosis Society with Bike MS.

2009-08-19T05:09:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, in 2006 & 2008 I participated in the MS Bike Tour. I asked for help from many friends and family who gave very generously so I want to Thank You again for that. The MS Bike Tour is a two day 150 mile bicycle ride, on September 12th and 13^th in Columbia, MO, to raise money and awareness for the fight against Multiple Sclerosis. This fund raiser is very near to my heart as my Mother, Uncle, and a close friend of the family are living with Multiple Sclerosis. Which is why I feel compelled to contribute my time, money, and energy to this cause.

I am again riding with the Kaldi Coffee Team which was the 2nd largest team last year, with 116 members, and they were the Top Fundraising Team, with over $102,000 dollars raised for 2008.

I would appreciate your support in whatever amount you can donate even a $1 will help me towards my fund raising efforts. Click here to visit my donation page where you can donate by credit or debit card. If you would like to donate by check or cash just contact me and we can make arrangements. My fundraising ends on Sept 11^th just prior to the ride. Let me know if you have any questions.

Here is the full address for donations: http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/MOSBikeEvents?px=5358267&pg=personal&fr_id=9605

If you would like more information about the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, how proceeds from the MS Bike Ride are used, or the other ways you can get involved in the fight against MS, please visit http://nationalmssociety.org

Brewtus annoying Calvin and I

2009-03-03T13:35:00.000-06:00

Brewtus is swatting at Calvin from below. Calvin is on top of the
tower and just sits there. Brewus is also chewing on the carpet from
the inside of the cat tower which is annoying me.

Rockwood Reservation Lime Kiln Trail 3.25 miles

2009-03-01T14:17:00.000-06:00

Nice trail good view walking the ridge line. Amie and I could see
hidden valley ski resort from the trail. The picture is of the Lime
Kiln at the trail head. To get here take 44 west to Eureka turn off
onto highway 109 turn right go 4 miles turn left onto woods rd. The
trail was very muddy in spots. 35 degrees out but sunny.

St. Francois State Park - Swimming Deer Trail

2009-01-18T14:49:00.000-06:00

Take 55 south then 67 south past Festus right before Bonneterre the
park if on the left. There where 2 other trails in this park a
Moonshiner trail which is a 2.7 mile loop and another 11mile loop. We
did the the Swimming Deer 2.7 mile loop Amie and I hiked it in an hour
and 45 minutes. We stopped quite a few times to enjoy the overlooks.
It was an easy hike with diverse scenery. We Both enjoyed it and
would return to the park to hike the other trails.

My XBOX 360 Gamer Card

2009-01-08T16:05:00.001-06:00

Cliff Cave Mississippi Rvr. Overlook

2009-01-04T14:41:00.000-06:00

This is a nice little climb to this view.

2008 Year in Review for Bigcrazyjohn

2009-01-02T16:01:00.004-06:00

This is my 2008 Year in Review in sort of chronological order. I hope everyone had a good 2008 I know I did. I hope everyone has a good 2009. This list is more of things I did, participated in or milestones. This has been a very interesting year with the US having the highest and now some of the lowest gas prices we have seen. There has been a Major Global melt down in the economy. China hosted the summer Olympics. A very entertaining election and a historical conclusion to the election with Barack Obama being elected as 44th President of the USA.

I went ahead and posted this but this post is still in draft needs some touch up work and pictures.

1/26 Attending an awesome Video Games Live concert with Joe and Adam at the Fox.
2/2 Attended Amie's work Holiday party
3/15 St. Patrick's Day Parade downtown St. Louis MO. with Joe and Amie. Good Halo Birthday Party for Joe in March. Sam Adams Keg included for the event.
4/18 Earth Quake morning of April 18th that shook us out of bed. 5.4 earthquake in Mt Carmel IL. http://bigcrazyjohn.blogspot.com/2008/04/earthquake-this-morning.html
Working on the yard and lawn a lot more this year trying to grow a shade mixture of grass.
5/17 We had a big Family party at our house on May 17th so Amie and I did a lot of work preparing for that.
Briefly ruining my credit score and also getting debt free from credit cards, however, I am fair to good on the credit score now and getting better.
6/28 Amie and I had a big garage sale Saturday 6/28 which also required a lot of prep work.
7/11 I bought a 3g iPhone on July 11th the day the came out and it has been awesome ever sense. I am an iPhone addict as my girlfriend will attest to. Selling my first items on ebay and craiglists successfully
July we enjoyed spending Amie's birthday weekend at the lake of the Ozark's with her sister and her family.
In July/August time frame I moved to a new job within the same company I have worked for 9 years now. The previous job I had been reporting to the same boss for 9 years. It was time for a change and it was a very good change, and I am very happy with the new job. I am not the only one because according to Wired Magazine the Apple App store was the #1 technology breakthrough. I also bought Amie an iPhone for Christmas.
Dieting attempts with the South Beach phase 1 I lost 15 or so pounds but gained it back later. It really comes down to a need for a consistent diet and exercise routine which I have yet to manage. I could only do it when I was single it is much more difficult as a couple.
Training and fund raising for MS 150 event and 150 mile bike ride. Lots of long weekend bicycle rides with Team Kaldi in preparation. I plan on starting to train and fund raise earlier in 2009. http://bigcrazyjohn.blogspot.com/2008/12/thank-you-for-donating-to-ms-society-in.html & http://bigcrazyjohn.blogspot.com/2008/08/ms-150-bike-ride-and-fundraising.html#links
Sept 13th Tour of Missouri, went with Amie and her sister and Brother in law to Herman MO. I got George Hincapie signature he is one of my idol's. We got to watch the beginning of the race for the stage that started in Herman then we went to the winery, we all got drunk. It wasn't good for me later. That is all I am saying about that.
Had an awesome time for my birthday during October in Nashville TN., Gatlinburg TN., and the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.
10/4 Ocktober Fest in Soulard St. Louis MO. lots of pints of beer and a cab ride home. Had a great time with Amie, Tara and Matt. We hung out at the Hofbrau Munchen tent, and drank lots of pints of Ocktober fest Hofbrau beer as Hofbrau slogan says "The original brew of the Bavarian Kings!"
11/2 This is the first year I voted. Yes I said it! I have been a lazy fence sitter for many years. I felt strongly about this election and I am happy to say I helped elect Barack Obama as the new President of the United States of America.
11/25 Began my first attempt at brewing my own beer. I used a Mr. Beer Kit I purchased at a Kitchen store in Pigeon Forge while on Vacation in October.
11/26 Purchased http://bigcrazybeer.com and startedhttp://bigcrazybeer.blogspot.com on 11/26 been reviewing beer since.
12/6 My sister and brother in law took Amie and I to see the St. Louis Symphony at Powell Hall for the first time. I love listening to Music Score's like the Dark Knight Music Score by Hans Zimmer & James Newton Howard, so I figured I would love this. WRONG, they had opera singing for the majority which none of us enjoyed. It was still a great birthday gift and I did really enjoy the St. Louis symphony when they got to play and there was no singing. I am hoping to go back and there is just the symphony playing.
Amie's Grandmother passed away :-(
I had multiple medical issues this year with potential blood clots both in my chest and leg, both were non existent thank fully. I am living with protein C resistance so it is always a concern of a DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis also known as blood cots. After a chest CT Scan earlier in the year there was concern of small nodules that did not appear after a second scanning many months later. I also had chronic headaches, and inconsistent high blood pressure. The Dr. wanted to put me on high blood pressure medicine I said no i would work out. Which I am finally starting to do. All is good I just need to take my Coumadin regularly, get tested regularly. Work out consistently every week. Have a better diet and drink moderately.
Favorite shows this year Battlestar Gallatica, Heroes, Terminator Sarah Conner Chronicles, The office, South Park, & Family Guy. Favorite Movies this year Batman the Dark Knight, Ironman, & I am Legend came out on the cusp of 2007 and 2008 Dec. 14th so it has to get a mention this year.
Enjoyed many dinners, brews and evenings with the love of my life, my girlfriend Amie of course.

A good Christmas and Happy New year Vacation at home.

Thank You for Donating to the MS Society in 2008

2008-12-31T14:38:00.000-06:00

   The end of the year also ends the 2008 MS Society fundraising. I wanted to share my thanks with everyone that contributed and supported my efforts this year, as well as some of the final totals we achieved with your help. It was a great bike ride and event. I want to give a special thanks to my mom Judy and my girlfriend Amie who voluteered all weekend during the ride. They were very supportive of my efforts. They are already planning on volunteering in 2009 and of course I will be riding in the 2009 Bike MS event as well.
    The Bike MS weekend is a fast-paced weekend with a lot of work and little sleep for volunteers and bike riders. This year my mom and I headed out early Friday to Columbia MO to help setup for the event. My mom provided medical assistance for the bike riders all weekend. Amie helped with a few different jobs: serving breakfast Saturday, supporting riders returning at the finish line, bike check and probably the best job of all the passing out the free beer at the end of the event which was provided by Anhueser Busch. I rode 75 miles Saturday and 75 miles Sunday with 150 total miles for the weekend.   Check out some of the pictures my Mom and I took at:http://picasaweb.google.com/bigcrazyjohn/MS1502008#. I think I stopped at almost every rest stop (about every 10 miles). The Grahamwich was my favorite snack this year.
     I raised $1000 this year which was double my goal, and a new record for me. The final team totals were provided this month and Team Kaldi (my riding team) is the 2nd largest team, with 116 members, and they were the Top Fundraising Team this year, with over $102,000 dollars raised for 2008!! The Bike MS fundraiser is the largest fundraising event for the Gateway Area Chapter of the MS Society. They are still tallying up the pledges for the 2008 year working towards their goal of $2.4 millon. This money will be used by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to not only support research for a cure tomorrow, but also to provide programs which address the needs of people living with MS today. I will be sending out my 2009 Bike MS information in the near future. If you want to read more about the Bike MS go here http://bikemos.nationalmssociety.org/    If you want to read more about the Gateway Area Chapter of the National MS Society go herehttp://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/MOS/index.aspx
I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas, and will have a safe and Happy New Year!
Thank you!
John Drury

I now own bigcrazyjohn.com!

2008-12-31T14:34:00.002-06:00

I purchased http://bigcrazyjohn.com from godaddy. I have it forwarding to this blog. A friend had it for the Bigcrazyjohn band (I wish they would play a reunion tour). No major plans for the bigcrazyjohn site just wanted to make sure I had the domain. My current project is http://bigcrazybeer.com aka http://bigcrazybeer.blogspot.com

I would like to sort my 3g iPhone apps into Categories!

2008-12-04T22:28:00.006-06:00

I recently posted this to the apples iPhone feedback http://www.apple.com/feedback/iphone.html I called their support line today and they could not assist and directed me to the feedback to submit my enhancement. I would ask that you post the same message or something similar if you are a iTouch or iPhone user and are a fan of the apps I am sure you have pages of Apps. I have tried organizing the apps on different pages but it is still frustrating. It is so frustrating because I have seen the hacked iPhone and the app that allows you to categorize the apps. I want that! I do not want to void my warranty by hacking/jailbreaking the phone so I called apple and all they could do was to suggest the enhancement. Now I will wait patiently or create a ruckus haven't decided yet. Here is one of many examples on You Tube of the category app on a hacked iPhone. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z64WA0hPrtA
___________________________________________________
WHAT?
I would like an enhancement or a down-loadable app for the iPhone to make folders or categories on my iPhone to organize my apps. Yes I can move around apps to have their own pages but not nearly as organized if I had a home page or 2nd home page with potentially 16 categories.
WHERE? On my 3g iPhone home page (ideally) or a down-loadable app.
WHEN? As soon as you can Please!
WHO? For the iPhone and iTouch users
WHY?
1) Because you have the apps organized in categories in the app store for us to download. Why can't we categorize them on our phone?
2) I have 6 almost 7 pages of apps that are a mess and it makes it difficult to find apps at this point. I organized them once but through the process of updates they are a mess again.
3) I am not the only one other people want to categorize: http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=8308719
4) When people hack or jail break their phone they can do it. I do not want to void my warranty and potentially break my phone just to have this feature.
5) The apps are awesome just give us the ability to organize them.
6) This will reduce finger swips and time across the iPhone world. 7 or 9 swips to get to the last page. Or touch games category and touch or swip to scoll and touch the game.
7) I would pay for this feature! This might allow for people to download more apps because they won't be so overwhelming. Make it an app for download and profit off it!

"Best Princess Leia costume. Ever."

2008-11-21T15:07:00.000-06:00

Friend of mine sent this to me. I felt compelled to share.

Doppler Was Good No Blood Clot

2008-09-25T14:55:00.001-05:00

Posted with LifeCast

MS 150 Bike Ride and Fundraising

2008-08-16T14:02:00.001-05:00

Please donate click here

I've registered for the MS Bike Tour because I'm riding for my mom, uncle and friend of the family that are living with MS. I want to do something for the people who have been diagnosed - and because I want to do what I can to assist people in learning what it means to live with this disease. Today, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, and with diagnosis occurring most frequently between the ages of 20 and 50, many individuals face a lifetime filled with unpredictability.

Southbeach Diet Phase 1 a Success?

2008-07-17T08:33:00.002-05:00

I would say it was a success for phase 1 being on it 13 days I lost about 13 pounds. We are leaving tonight for a extended weekend trip filled with a lot of non phase 1 eating. :-)

Southbeach Diet Day 5

2008-07-09T17:30:00.002-05:00

I weighed in this morning at 245.8 so the diet is obviously working that is 7 pounds I have lost now. I'm sure if I added more activity I would see greater gains. The extent of my activity so far is a 35 minute walk and 35 minute bike ride Sunday.

I have had multiple opportunities to break the diet. Sunday my fathers birthday lots of food at my sisters but I stuck to the diet. Monday night I had friends over they ordered Pizza I ate a salad with chicken slices. Today went out for lunch with co-workers at a nice restaurant I had a salad with salmon. I was just offered a home baked cookies from a co-worker and I actually picked one up and then realized oh my god I'm on the diet! NO! I put it back down (I know yuck I touched it and put it back down but oh well) I'm glad I caught myself I'm 5 days into this.

I actually feel good. Eating lighter and many times a day does help with not feeling so bloated from eating to much and having the desire to take a nap. I think it is that coupled with losing weight and feeling better about myself.

South Beach Diet Day 2

2008-07-06T09:40:00.003-05:00

248.7 pounds this morning. Yesterday went good except left dinner craving more. I am use to having a BIG dinner with lots of carbs. Amie made "surprise potatoes" which was cauliflower blended with butter buds(fake butter) and fat free half and half. She also made a cabbage stir fry with broccoli, grape tomatoes. I really don't care for cauliflower or cabbage normally so it was surprisingly all good since its vegetables I'm not a big fan of.

South Beach Diet

2008-07-05T11:54:00.004-05:00

I bought South Beach Diet Super Charged book at Sam's. Amie and I started Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet today. We shall see how this goes. I weigh 252.70 pounds. I would like to get back to my Post Marathon weight of 200lbs.

I have been in a relationship for the past year and 1/2 and I have become less and less active and gained worse and worse eating habits. I have noticed this is the case for a lot of relationships not only mine. People get comfortable and lazy.

After the first phase I plan on getting back on the bike, short runs, and weight lifting. The first phase is only 2 weeks. It is basically low carb, lean meats, and vegatables, no fruits.

Cheap Gas?

2008-04-23T17:02:00.003-05:00

Not really cheap gas it is only going up. I was looking for Gas Stations in Downtown St. Louis that I wouldn't get mugged at. I found this site and really like the map and some other features that show local gas station prices.

Looks like Sam's and Costco are the best bets, obviously you have to pay extra to become a member. Costco near me was $3.35 where the average was $3.48

EarthQuake this morning!

2008-04-18T07:17:00.002-05:00

I was woke up by an earthquake at about 4:37am cst this morning. I have never experienced anything like this. It was exciting and concerning all at once. We have wine glasses that hang upside down that were clanging together, in a bar area outside our bedroom which is in the basement. I felt the bed shaking, I heard the wine glasses and glass bottles clanging together which I assume woke me up. I woke up my girlfriend asked her if she felt it told her that we should go upstairs I think we are having an earthquake. She was in disbelief and half asleep. I went to the bedroom doorway then she followed me upstairs. I pointed out the wine glasses were shaking when we walked by them. We went upstairs and didn't see or hear anything. I'm not sure the time frame of how long it occurred maybe a minute. Seemed a while considering I laid in bed for a bit, and took time to go upstairs while it was going on.

I turned on the news this morning and there was a 5.2 earthquake in Mt Carmel IL.
I also found information on this government site and I filled out a survey on this site. http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/eqinthenews/2008/us2008qza6/

Cards game

2007-07-28T13:20:00.001-05:00

Ridiculously Bright Sun

2007-07-12T18:42:00.001-05:00

This picture is from my desk at work.

110 or Bust!

2007-07-06T11:14:00.001-05:00

Less than 24 hours till the Tornado Alley 110.
They have the detailed course map online today http://ta110bike.com/Map%20Page.htm.

I'm excited and nervous, pre-race excitement is building. Wanted to get plenty of rest, so I slept in till 10:30 went to bed at Midnight. I have a few things to accomplish today luckily I'm off work today. I need to get an Oil change, Massage, and of course pack, Amie and I have a 4+ hour drive to Joplin MO. tonight we will be getting in late to Joplin since Amie gets off work at 5:00. Early day tomorrow probably get up at 4:30 get ready and go register at 5:30 then hurry up and wait till 7:07 am. I think it is fitting the Tour De France starts today and also the ride starts at 07/07/2007 at 7:07am.

This is one of the reasons why Lance Armstrong is the F'n man

2007-07-05T09:51:00.000-05:00

Lance Armstrong Climbs Luz Ardiden 2003

Waiting for Halo3 Beta :-(

2007-05-16T11:16:00.000-05:00

I took off work today to play Halo3 Beta which was schedule to be released this morning for those of us that bought an early version of the Crackdown game for the xbox 360 and wouldn't you know it the download is delayed. Thank Microsoft. There are other

Here is the latest on Bungie's webiste. Doesn't seem to be their fault it is a problem with Xbox live which is microsofts responsibility.
BUNGIE: Crackdown Delay: We Know!

Posted by Frankie at 5/16/2007 5:22 AM PDT
Folks are reporting problems downloading the Halo 3 Beta via Crackdown this morning. We have alerted the appropriate Live authorities and they are taking care of the problem as we speak. More news as it comes in.

I've heard different reports that it will be Noon today or it may even be tomorrow.
NOT TILL TOMORROW?
http://www.n4g.com/xbox360/News-40023.aspx

GOOD NEWS
They announced the Sept 25th release date of Halo 3.
http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12467

I can watch this guys web cam while he plays Halo3 Beta since he had an invite and movie he has of his first game. I can't wait. Look awesome.

I'm off to do something worth while with my time since I can't play the Halo3 Beta.

Game Got Rained out even before it started. :-(

2007-04-13T19:09:00.001-05:00

Really good seats Section 139 row 12. Makeup game is TBD.

Tornado Alley Bike Ride

2007-04-13T16:25:00.000-05:00

I got a post card in the mail yesterday for this bike ride. 07/07/07 @ 07:07am

I signed up! WOOHOO!

Llywelyns Pub. Mmmm beer!

2007-03-27T19:55:00.001-05:00

Burnt burger but good service.

Devil's Ice Box @ Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

2007-02-18T16:40:00.000-06:00

This cave was a lot of fun. The portion that was open to the public was short but fun.

Rock Bridge @ Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

2007-02-18T16:26:00.001-06:00

This is the Rock bridge cave in Missourinear Columbia. We took the Spring Brook 2.5 Trail loop to get to this point. Great hike!

Sushi House Overland park Kansas. Good Sushi good service.

2007-02-16T20:46:00.001-06:00

Calla Lily and roses arrangement I got Amie for Vday

2007-02-16T08:03:00.001-06:00

Valentines Day @ Melting Pot

2007-02-14T18:57:00.001-06:00

Mmm Spinach Artichoke Cheese Dip. Happy Valentines day Amie!

I got my car in the garage!

2007-02-12T10:10:00.001-06:00

After 2 months of living at the new house Amie and I finally got my garage cleaned out. For past couple weeks Amie and i have been trying to get me organized. I have boxes of stuff i have not seen or gone through for over 2 years. Amie has been awesome!

Awesome Breakfast Amie and I made.

2007-02-12T08:57:00.001-06:00

Blueberry pancakes with real blueberrys. Scrambled eggs with mushrooms, onions and cheese. Hashbrowns with cheese. Naked blueberry juice and coffee.

Sushi for 2 @ Shogun

2007-02-12T08:32:00.001-06:00

It was average sushi. Eel was good. I like how Shogun is close to me.

Marley fest.

2007-02-03T21:44:00.001-06:00

Deer in my back yard!

2007-02-01T14:33:00.001-06:00

Lewis and Clark trail

2007-01-31T06:46:00.001-06:00

5.3 mile hike Very Cold 20 degrees.

My New Car!

2007-01-14T16:17:00.000-06:00

Nissan Altima

I hate snakes!

2007-01-14T14:38:00.000-06:00

Friends snake. Ball Python

Merry Christmas

2006-12-25T09:22:00.000-06:00

Christmas at my Sisters with my family.

You'll shoot your eye out.

2006-12-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

My favorite Christmas movie "A Christmas Story" on TBS for 24 hours straight.

One Key to rule them all.

2006-12-15T12:46:00.000-06:00

Its offical Im a home owner! Closed on the house this morning. Going to clean today and do some small moving this evening. Big move tomorrow morning at 9. I will have about 8 friends helping. I
cant wait. Im very happy and excited. Happy House day!

Packing

2006-12-10T18:06:00.000-06:00

Big box O' Big shoes

Mmm Sushi!

2006-12-03T21:39:00.000-06:00

Now that is a plate of sushi!

Winter in St. Louis mo.

2006-12-02T15:52:00.000-06:00

Cafe Eau Dinner was excellent!

2006-11-30T12:57:00.000-06:00

I took Amie to Cafe Eau at Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis mo. Excellent 5 course meal i had Salmon that was very good but Amie's Halibut was better.

It's Simple

2006-11-29T17:20:00.000-06:00

"It's simple. Success comes from training harder, living better, and digging deeper than the others". - Lance Armstrong

I just liked that quote had to share it.

Highest Elevation in Missouri Taum Sauk State Park.

2006-11-27T08:14:00.000-06:00

Taum Sauk rises to 1,772 feet above sea level. The Park includes 7,448 acres of wilderness. We also saw the tallest wet weather waterfall Mina Sauk Falls which drops 132 feet. It was great weather
this weekend for camping we had a great time.

Devils Tollgate

2006-11-26T22:57:00.000-06:00

I went hiking and camping with Amie this weekend at Taum Sauk State Park. This is a picture of Devils Tollgate 30 ft tall rocks which is on the Ozark trail.

Joe got a Nintendo Wii!

2006-11-24T08:33:00.000-06:00

Joe arrived at Gamestop on Hanely in St. Louis Mo. after 3:30am. I got there after 4:00. I went to get us Starbucks @ 5:30. They opened @ 7:00 they only had 6 Wii's and 2 PS3's. Joe was 4 of 6.
The guy 1st in line was there since 10pm last night.

REI St. Louis

2006-11-22T15:25:00.000-06:00

Im buying backpacking gear. I ended up buying about $1000 worth of backpacking gear in two seperate trips to REI. I bought water proof bag cover, storm proof matches, thermarest pillow, REI wicking pants and long sleeved shirt. I also got a kickass Arcteryx Bora 80 Backpack which is probably the coolest thing I got. I bought it on sale for $300.

I bought these hiking boots Asolo Fugitive GTX Hiking Boots for $170

The REI Kilo zero degree down sleeping bag on sale for $200

This sleeping pad
Therm-a-Rest ProLite 4 Sleeping Pad - Regular which was also on sale $84.95

Cliff Cave Park

2006-11-18T13:28:00.000-06:00

I stopped by the park to see what it was like. They have paved and natural trails. Really good view of the Mississippi River as you can see in the picture. I would like to hike the trails and see
the cave soon.

Back to the Grind.

2006-11-10T03:30:00.000-06:00

Back to work today. I hate traffic! I wish we had a metro system like NYC. Weather is nice today though high in 70s.

2006-11-05T19:39:00.000-06:00

I the finished the Marathon! 26.2 miles. In about 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Late Lunch Pad Thai at a Thai restaurant in SOHO

2006-11-04T14:21:00.000-06:00

Good food, slow service, they apologized twice, nice environment

Evolution store very cool and weird. Im in SOHO and liking it.

2006-11-04T13:24:00.000-06:00

I bought some marble coasters with old world maps and a miniture globe for my new living room

40 hours till the big race. NYC Marathon

2006-11-03T14:51:00.000-06:00

Sushiden New York city

2006-11-03T13:43:00.000-06:00

I had lunch here. It was very good, classic, original styled restaurant. Fresh sushi. Not the best Ive had but good. My second sushi lunch while in NY.

Trump Tower

2006-11-03T11:39:00.000-06:00

Late Show with David Letterman

2006-11-03T11:24:00.000-06:00

Cathedral Saint Patrick New york

2006-11-03T08:15:00.000-06:00

Nintendo World Store

2006-11-03T08:09:00.000-06:00

Wii party tomorrow

NBC Today Show

2006-11-03T07:42:00.000-06:00

Dinner @ Cara Mia

2006-11-01T19:33:00.000-06:00

This was VERY good and it was. RIGATONI ALLA SICILIANA eggplant, tomatoes, basil and mozzarella $12.5

The view from my room in the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New york

2006-11-01T12:25:00.000-06:00

Ive landed in Newark Airport.

2006-11-01T09:27:00.000-06:00

Soon Ill be in Times Square

Watch me run the New York City Marathon LIVE

2006-10-31T20:11:00.000-06:00

Ok kind of watch me run it live, on the web only negative is you have to pay $4.99. If your a Lance Armstrong fan or into running you might find this to be worth it. They are going to have many camera's setup to watch Lance, the pro's and everyone else at many locations and of course it will be on NBC 9:30 EST or 8:30 CST.

My BIB Number is ????? to be determined

10 mile run in 1 hour and 43 minutes this Sunday in Forest Park

2006-10-29T21:50:00.000-06:00

10 mile run in forest park

The Phoenix

2006-10-27T08:42:00.000-05:00

My two and half year Journey has ended. I am a man again, I am whole, I am one.

I feel this period in my life can be equated to the Greek Mythological creature the Phoenix. This is a poem about the Legend of the Phoenix I found online.

Beautiful, glorious and sacrificing self for renewal,
you build a pyre and set yourself ablaze. For the
sake of self. Red bird of fire you come forth through
your ashes a new bird shedding the old self which no
longer is needful. You embrace your new strength and
fly to the heights of the sky to the city of the sun and
give the ashes unto the alter of the sun god for your
immortality. Embrace yourself for you are a child of
the sun and will live eternal through birth, death, and
renewal! The spirit never dies!

I see the past two and half years as me building a pyre and setting myself ablaze. Not till now have I come forth through the ashes as a new man. I've done some amazing things over the past year I'm very happy about this past year I've accomplished so many things for myself and others I can be very proud of. One of my most recent accomplishments is buying a new house for myself. I have a contract on a house now and I close on Dec 15th as long as everything goes as planned. I will be moving in on December 16th. This is the reason I feel like I am a man again or reborn I am a home owner again. Obviously you don't have to be a home owner to be a man but, you have to have your own place. I was the happiest and felt the most complete when I owned my own home.

Over the past two and half years I've looked at houses in Central West End, Downtown, Soulard, South St. Louis, Webster Groves, and Shrewsbury. I've looked at well over 50 properties in person through open house tours (downtown, cwe, south county, soulard) and through my awesome and VERY patient Real Estate Agent Jan Parker ReMax 314-951-1946. Most recently I set my focus on South County and its probably been a year since I looked at property in person. South County is close to my family in Columbia, its close to some of my friends, its where my friends and I would hang out during Highschool since there is nothing in Columbia. So its like my old stomping grounds. Everything I need is there even a Sushi restaurant. It is also fairly close to work by just getting on 55 and heading downtown. I've been living in Columbia IL. for the past year and half. Mooching off my parents, who have been the greatest most understanding and welcoming people in the world. Was considering staying in Columbia till March when I get my bonus and raise. Its funny I started looking at houses Sunday just doing Open houses on my own no real intentions to buy. I had planned on dealing with all this after the New York Marathon. I was just wanting to see what was on the Market and here by Thursday I was done! I'm a new home owner!

I found one house Sunday during the open houses that looked like a good deal. I had lined up 8 Open Houses in a row to look at Sunday all in the South County area. The real estate bug bit me so I wanted to buy a house, it consumed my thoughts. The one house I was interested in I went back to look at Monday night with an intention to put a very low asking price offer on it like $135,000 or $140,000 when they were asking $154,900 since it had been on the market for over 2 months. I meet my friend Adam, his son Hugo and Jan my agent we looked over the property. I saw promise it had 2 bedrooms upstairs, a garage, 2 bath rooms and a finished basement. I loved the real wood burning fireplace which I've always wanted. The bedrooms had hardwood floors which I also really like. I wanted to look at one other property to make sure I've done my homework. I went to look at that property it was much more welcoming but not exactly what I wanted, which my agent expressed as well and I came to the realization that the other property was really quirky and was not what I wanted. So Jan and I decided we would keep looking.

The next morning Jan was in her Remax meeting and they were doing round table another agent in the office had a house in the same exact neighborhood we were looking in yesterday for same exact price $154,900. She was very excited and told me about it immediately. It got listed Tuesday afternoon and I saw it Tuesday after work. I knew right away as Adam put it this is a "JohnHouse" there were so many updates and it was put together so well. I put a Contract on it Wednesday by Noon, for $154,900 pay my closing costs up to 3% of value of house, include all appliances, include big screen TV 60" and entertainment system downstairs, and I get 1 year home warranty. So really I was asking well under $150,000 because I was asking for more than $5000 worth of stuff. The closing costs could get up to $4600. We gave her till 8:00 that night to respond. I was very anxious because my agent found out it they were going to show the house at 2:00 and they knew the buyer was motivated and was going to put a competing contract on and 3 other people lined up to view it Thursday. My agent called me at 7:30pm the seller countered with just raising it to 156,900 and keeping all the other stipulations so I accepted verbally Wednesday night, and signed the papers Thursday morning. The best part about this is that all i'm paying to buy this house is $500 earnest check i wrote Wednesday. As long as closing costs don't go over $4600 that is all I will pay immediately out of pocket. I will not have a house payment till Feb 1st since we are closing on Dec 15th. My cousin Heather Hempen with Liberty First Mortgage is working the best loan she can for me. As long as the house appraises and the loan is complete by Nov 17th everything should be good to go.

I am doing the house inspection this morning at 9:30.

Happy Birthday to me!

2006-10-13T19:06:00.000-05:00

Cheering Jake on for his TRI

2006-10-01T12:34:00.000-05:00

I got up at 6:30 went to St. Peters for Rec Plex Sprint Triathlon. I did not participate but i cheered on my brother in law with the family.

Taste of St. Louis

2006-09-29T19:04:00.000-05:00

Lots of restaurants to try and art to view. Couple bands to listen to. Not bad for downtown

Cards vs. Giants

2006-09-15T19:59:00.000-05:00

Cards vs. Giants

2006-09-15T19:31:00.000-05:00

Flat tube. No Problems though getting new bike tube.

2006-09-09T09:48:00.000-05:00

Yah SAG

Please Help with MS 150 Fundraising

2006-08-18T18:39:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year I participated with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society raising money with Team in Training and I asked for help, and MANY of my friends & family gave very generously. The MS 150 fundraising event hits a little closer to home. My Mother, Uncle, and a close friend of the family are living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is why I felt compelled to contribute my time and energy to this cause. I will be raising money and bike riding in the MS 150 this September 9th and 10th for my Mom and Uncle Pat, and Janet. The MS 150 is a two day 150 mile to 200 mile bike ride (I haven't decided if I'm going to do 200). I would appreciate your support in whatever amount you can donate even a $1 will help me towards my fundraising efforts.
Click Here to visit my donation page where you can donate by credit/debit card. If you would like to donate in check or cash just contact me and we can make arrangements.
Thank you!

Lewis and Clark 1/2 Marathon

2006-08-18T17:31:00.000-05:00

It is official I signed up for the Lewis and Clark 1/2 Marathon which is on Sunday September 17th. Once I complete that 1/2 Marathon 13.1 miles I will receive the run around town medal because I will have completed two major St. Louis running events the Spirit of St. Louis full Marathon in April and this 1/2 Marathon. I have a lot of training to do and I'm way behind. Only note of concern at this point is that I am beginning to have an issue with my left big toe. I felt some pain the next day after my 5.65 mile run. I'm hoping my feet just need conditioning since I've been running on the comfy treadmill at 24hrfitness. I haven't been running outside which is what I did wednesday. I had the toenail fall off after the St. Louis Marathon (not a pretty site). It has sort of grown back but doesn't look normal. I'll save you all the details from that and look into it online and possibly visit a podiatrist. I've read that and talked to distance runners and losing toenails is normal. This may sound crazy for normal people but normal people do not run Marathons. :-)

Jogged 5.65 mile loop @ Forest park.

2006-08-16T21:53:00.000-05:00

Late night run in Forest park kind of crazy. Its 9:30 and very dark which created an interesting run. 1hour for 5.65 miles not the time I hoped for but its been awhile since Ive ran this far. It felt
great once I got in my groove.

50 mile bike ride in Edwardsville Il.

2006-08-13T12:59:00.000-05:00

MCT Trails are awesome long and they all connect. This picture was taken under a bridge on MCT Trail near Edwardsville Good ride!

Starbucks for the ride home.

2006-08-12T18:57:00.000-05:00

I bought a caramel, vanilla, non fat milk, no whip cream Viente Latte. Mmmm good!

2006-08-12T18:40:00.000-05:00

I rode like 10 feet from Lance Armstrong on the Indy speedway. More Pictures and Video to be posted soon.

1 hour line.

2006-08-12T12:25:00.000-05:00

I will be standing in this line for an hour. We are all waiting to ride with Lance Armstrong on the Indy Speedway @ 2 o'clock. I heard its about 700 riders signed up. So i wont really ride with lance.
Ill be happy to see him.

Wearing white socks with black shoes.

2006-08-12T11:41:00.000-05:00

Im wearing white socks with black shoes what a fashion fopa. I forgot my biking socks at home i had to buy a pair last night from Dicks. All they had was white.

Race 2 replace lance armstrong

2006-08-12T08:37:00.000-05:00

These guys in my age group are averaging about 29 mph for first 5 laps. 1 lap is 2.5 miles long. I dont think i could keep that pace for 10 laps 25 miles. Guess its good i saved the $150 dollars. I
wished i would of had a chance.

Race 2 Replace Lance Armstrong

2006-08-12T06:54:00.000-05:00

I missed registration for the race but i will get to do the lap with Lance.

Really Tall Cross

2006-08-11T15:53:00.000-05:00

The picture doesnt give you an idea how big this cross was. Completely shocked me while driving on 70 to Indianapolis. This was near Effingham IL.

Talladega Nights very funny movie.

2006-08-11T09:04:00.000-05:00

I went with a friend. We both really enjoyed it.

Dr's office ugh!

2006-08-07T16:04:00.000-05:00

Im seeing a hematologist today. I have protein C resistance which causes blood to clot. Ive had three blood clots. Two were DVT one acute. Ive had this since 1998. I am on coumadin for life and
will be fine. I just want to learn more today.

Finished!

2006-08-06T12:54:00.000-05:00

50 miles

Fahradtour & AugustFest. 50 mile bike ride

2006-08-06T08:25:00.000-05:00

Im psyched

Cards vs. Royals sec.142 row 8

2006-06-30T20:32:00.000-05:00

4th inning 3 to 1 kc

53 mile bike ride on Sunday

2006-06-28T08:51:00.000-05:00

Curbside To go.

2006-06-16T20:54:00.000-05:00

I love Macaroni Grill curbside to go. Mmmm pick your own pasta. Whole wheat penne pasta spicy red sauce, chicken, shrimp, red peppers, red onions, sun dried tomatoes. I never know what to tip the
person. They were late & only got a $1

2006-06-16T20:39:00.000-05:00

Ripple Effect?

Hate Traffic! JB Bridge

2006-06-13T07:47:00.000-05:00

I can not win both bridges PSB & JB suck!

MYSPACE

2006-05-27T13:28:00.000-05:00

Yes I'm creating a myspace profile. I'm a sucker for what's popular. I'm going to keep my blog here but create a profile there. I've been infected with the mainstream bug again and for sometime now. Of course not everything I do is mainstream. The techy part of me wanted to get bigcrazyjohn reserved on myspace. I think its awesome I still got that and myspace has been done that for a lot of people already.
Find me on MySpace and be my friend!

New Bike?

2006-05-27T10:32:00.000-05:00

I'm looking into buying this bike. Trek Pilot 2.1 s.p.a I went to the trek store in Manchester a few months ago and had it in my hands right size for me and everything.