RISKS/REWARDS

Okay. Now what the heck do I blog about?

Is it just me or do others find it disturbing when 35 year old men have a conversation about American Idol? Come on, I’m trying to work here. I don’t need to listen to your conversation about who should make the finals or how such-and-such a song fits so-and-so’s style. I know Minnesota sports suck lately, but can’t you think of something better to discuss?

Speaking of discussions, why do slower runners always feel that they need to preface each conversation with, “I’m not as fast as you guys, but…”? Heck, I’ve probably done it too. But really, it’s about passion, not speed. Are you passionate about running and fitness? If so, then we can send emails until our in-boxes are full – and we start getting those annoying system administrator messages telling us so.

The other day I mentioned that my friend Eric is injured too. He’s been rollerblading and he came up with two top-10 lists that I thought I’d share;

Why skating is better than running:
1) You get to go really fast.
2) You can carry your water without it bouncing around.
3) It doesn't hurt your knees as much.
4) Skates last longer than running shoes.
5) You can do it in blue jeans.
6) You get to see a lot more scenery.
7) Drafting is more effective.
8) You can coast.
9) You can use the bike path without feeling like a criminal.
10) You get to go really fast.

Why running is better than skating:
1) You rarely crash when running.
2) You don't need to wear protective gear to run.
3) You don't need to drive somewhere to run.
4) You never have to say "on your left".
5) Running shoes are more comfortable than skates.
6) Bumpy pavement is just as fast as smooth pavement.
7) Crossing streets is easy.
8) A downhill with a cross street at the bottom does not strike fear into your heart.
9) There are more races to choose from.
10) You get to read Runner's World.

Before running out and buying some rollerblades to see if he’s right, I’m going to borrow some from a co-worker next week. I want to see how that movement affects my leg. Since they say x-c skiing is the best cross-training for runners, rollerblading can’t be far behind.

With all this free time I tried to come up with a list of things I want to do – just don’t mention this list to my wife because she’ll think it means I’m actually going to do all of them;

Re-finish the kitchen chairs
Rip out bushes and plant a flower garden
Cook dinner more often
Learn how to use the programs on our new computer – like burning a CD and making movies
Transfer photos from the old computer to the new computer
Dispose of the old computer
Read all the books I’ve bought – only to stick them on a shelf

I’m sure this is just the tip of the iceberg, but it’s a start.

Quote of the day:
“I suspect that we have been systematically overemphasizing the risks and underestimating the rewards. I suspect that we run the risk of ingrained mediocrity due to a systemic bias against risk.” – Pete Pfitzinger