Summer is Over

Time to update once again. I don't do this as often as I like but I try.

August: I really don't remember much of August except I went to Toronto for work and had one of my best friends come visit me. I also bought a new car...mazda 6 like I said I would. I really like my car but not the car payment.

September: This month came and went very quickly. I swear I blinked and it was over. I went backpacking in September and that was a blast. Imagine hiking for miles and not seeing a single soul. It was nice to look up and see a bunch of stars and not much else. I was also able to go down to Champaign IL for recruiting. I stayed for a football game and got to see a lot of my friends...ross, eric, lisa, tom.....good times. I also got to see my family before I took off back to Philly.

October: We're only two days into October and not good. I am officially sick and my marathon is next weekend. I hope to sit on this couch and feel better tomorrow. I can't afford to be sick. I need to properly taper and then dominate this marathon.

Other than that, not much else is going on. I haven't been too thrilled about work lately and been working way too much. My fantasy football times also suck this year. Brett Favre is horrible and the Packers lost to the bears. I hope I feel better soon.

Later,

Bobby

An Update is Necessary

June:

Officially moved to my new place. I really like it and refer to it as "the mansion". We have a lot of space and the commute is a lot better.

Went to Canada fishing...amazing. I had a blast. I love going every year just to get away from life. Most people haven't seen that much forest and so little pavement/concrete. It's great. I even caught a 37" Silver Northern Pike. It is the biggest fish of my life.

July:

Went gokart racing for the first time in a long time. It was a 1/3 mile paved asphalt track aka Grundy County Fairgrounds. The object of the game was to push my brother around the track so we could get 1, 2, finish. We ended up getting a 2, 3 finish. I was faster but I knew my role was to push him around. This track is a "Superspeedway" for gokart racing....drafting...drafting...drafting.

Other Highlights:

I have been running a lot. I did 16.5 miles today. It was very difficult and reminded me that I have a long way to go if I am going to cross that finish line on October 17. I could probably make it but not in the time I want.

I went on two dates with this lovely lady named Stephanie. I like her in all but the jury is still out.

I am in serious pursuit of a new car. I was thinking camaro until I discovered they don't offer zero percent financing AND reality is that's not the smartest purchase I could ever make. Instead, I am thinking of the mazda 6. Yea, I know it's a big swing but I know from a rational point of view it's the right choice. As soon as next weekend I could have a new car.

I have some friends coming in a couple of weeks so that will be pretty sweet. We're going to NYC.

I'm really trying to be a older, mature person. It's not easy. I am still working pretty hard, but I think a car payment will help. I can't just go blow some cash at the bar. My current car doesn't have the following: fully functional seatbelts, A/C, 4wd, fully functional windows. It needs an oil change and a new sticker. It treated me good for 8 years so I can't complain.

Later,

Bobby

Summer is here

Howdy,

So it's been awhile and a lot has gone down.

Vegas was a blast. I spent/lost a lot of money.

I got my braces off. This is a good thing.

I started running again. I'm shooting for a 8 mile run tomorrow.

Work is keeping me very busy...60+ hours per week.

I am moving...switching towns. My buddy from CO is moving to PA and we're going to be living together.

It's bittersweet because I don't mind where I am living now other than the drive.

There's no drama in my life right now...everything seems kind of blah...just going to keep working and keep running.

I am going to Canada in a few weeks to go fishing. I can't wait! I'll be in the middle of nowhere for a whole week.

That's about it.

Later,

Bobby

Blogging During Halftime

So I figured since Butler is giving Duke a run for their money, I would fit in a post.

Things are good. I'm not stressed about anything. Easter weekend at home was fantastic...fish fry/crawfish boil, shooting, eating, going to the local bars...it was good to get back to my roots.

This weekend I am going to Chicago (yeah I know), but I am not going to Morris. My buddy Jason is coming in from NC and we are going to have a ton of fun. I'm also going to see my good friends Joel and Alicia. I am looking forward to it, but after this trip, I am only going to IL once in May and then I am done for awhile. I want to see things around here and I don't have the urge to go home right now. I need to spend some time around here.

Really thats about it. 10 days until Veags. We all know what's going to happen there.

Later,

Bobby

(It's Over)^2

So its time for an update...

On March 12, 2010, my grandma passed away. It was a tough ordeal. My great aunt, my grandma's sister, got in from England hours before she passed. On that Thursday, it was bad but everyone thought she would make it to the next day, in which I would be in Chicago by 7:30am. She did not. I was the only one not there for what they call the moment. There are two points of view on this obviously...to be there or not. Considering it was only grandma and I there when grandpa went, I'm ok with missing this moment. I know how it went. Watching people die is not something I want to get good at.

So after death comes the service. We had it on the Sunday even though it was a short few days, it would give more people to come compared to a weekday. It was a nice service. Again, I gave a euolgy...not something I want to get good at, but for some reason, I am. It was very difficult. I had to do it. No one else could. I'm not going to lie; I kind of enjoy those tough times and challenges where it is up to "Bobby" to pull through, although this is not the ideal challenge.

So after the funeral comes dealing with the estate. Guess who is in charge? Yes, Bobby...Bobby is the one...Bobby can handle it all. The truth is, yes I can. I can put my petty issues on the side for things more important than myself. I find it easier to deal with other people's problems simple because you don't have your own emotions wrapped in the problem. Just saying. One thing I will say is I am grateful for all the people who came.

I spent 6 days total at home. That's the most I've been home in one time span since my grandpa was sick (2.25 yrs ago).

On Thursday, I arranged a ride back up to the burbs to check on my apt and see Rachel. As usual, it was good to see her but things were different this time. For one, I knew she was kind of seeing someone. No big deal I thought, she usually goes out with a guy once or twice and that's it. When my ride dropped me off she wasn't there because she was off somewhere with this guy. I went for a walk and sat in the park waiting for her to tell me she's back.

We went and saw copout. It was ok but I wanted to see the brooklyn movie, whatever it is called.

We got back and went inside to talk. We were in her bedroom when she went to the bathroom. While she was in there, I made her bed like I do every time I go over there. I can't deal with a messy bed. This stems from my grandma making my bed for me every time I stayed the night and making sure my bed was made when she came over. Anyway, while I was making the bed, I noticed a men's watch on the other side of the bed on the night stand. Talk about a dagger...my heart was done for right then and there. I knew there was no future with Rachel. I realized right then and there that it was "time" to wake up and smell the roses...all because of that watch (what irony). Rachel gave me a ride home against my will (I wanted to walk). The whole time thinking what the fuck am I doing. When we got to my place she told me I looked sad...no shit. I told here I thought she was a special person and asked her if she knew I would do anything for her. She understood. I gave her a hug debating or not if I should ever contact her again.

That night, sitting alone in my buffalo grove apt, thinking about all kinds of stuff, I realized that I don't want to be alone, but also know I won't be "not alone" with Rachel.

I got on the 6am flight the next day back to Philly. I paid my $157.00 parking expense and spent the rest of the day getting my knee checked out and going for a bike ride. I bet I rode around 30 miles. It was such a nice day.

Yesterday I worked out, played basketball and grilled out with the roommates. It was good bonding time. I was pretty tired from all the exercise and proceeded to watch Forrest Gump, my most favorite movie.

It was upon watching this movie I had a few revelations. It was surprising how much Forrest and Jenny's relationship was similar to Rachel's and mine. I'm always going to be there for her. I am going to write to her like I d now in the future and just like Forrest, one day I might get a response. Rachel and Jenny are free spirits. Forrest and I may be stupid but we know what love is. Would I like to see Rachel again, I think so. I'm going to leave it up to her when the next time is. I'll be home for easter and the weekend after easter. I'll write to her and let her know, but I don't expect a response. She will always be in my heart and I will always be there for her, but I will let her go and come as she pleases.

So how to deal with all this...easy...no more plans. This way, I can't get mad when plans fail because there is no plan. I have one goal for today and that is to do my taxes. That's it. So far, I've been outside blogging and enjoying what is now my third cup of coffee outside. Its really nice out here. I'm going to take it one day at a time. No pressure, no worries. I'm 25. I have 5 more years to decide what I want to do when I grow up. If I think I'll end up alone, I won't because I will go live with Ross or Joel. Someone will take me because I can pay rent and they love me.

Some other things I would like to document at this time:

My brother finally got a job. Its not great but at least he's working. Maybe someday he can pay back all the money he owes big buck Bob.

I might have a second date with Haley. Haley is someone who I met online and had a pretty good first date. She returns my calls and texts. If a woman does that, she is a winner in my book. She is really nice. She is a chemist. I love chemistry. We're nerds. She is pretty. I am keeping expectations low. Stay tuned.

This week I have my review with my boss.

My flight is booked for Vegas. It's going to be awesome. That's all I will say for now.

The reason I blog is because I want to look back years from now and see what I was doing. My grandma told me to do it and I do whatever she tells me. I don't blog so my 3 followers and the anonymous fourth (I know you) can see my dirty laundry. If my family read this, I think I would not blog in so much detail.

Mrs. Amy Dixon, thank you for reading my blog. When are you going to post again?

Later,

Bobby

PS:

1. In the past few weeks, I have had zero desire to drink. I had three beers this weekend and that's it. I think this is impressive.

2. We don't have special relationships. We have relationships with special people. That's what I think anyway.

Today is the day

Right now, I am on the road. I just passed Sandusky Ohio. I'm driving back for what may be the last time I get to see my grandma. She's not supposed to have much longer to go.

If ypu look back at my previous blogs, this has been going on for a few months now. I don't mean this in a bad way, but I want it to be over. I want the suffering to be done.

The reason to drive instaed of flying had to do with money. I have no idea when I'm going back to PA so this was the best way to have control of my ability to get back on my terms.

Last night was brutal due to the weather. Driving 40 mph in the snow at night was not fun. I should have stopped earllier but I didn't. I want to get through PA which I did. Now, I'm going 80 on 80, listening to some Louis Armstrong. He's a cool cat.

I did completely move into my new temporary home. Its working out ok except I have a 45 min drive for 20 miles. Its sad, but I'm hoping that the weekend fun is worth it.

I signed up for the cincinatti and chicago marathons even though I have a knee injury. I can bike, do the elipical, but it kills to run. I'm thinking I'm going to the doctor to make sure I don't have a seriouis issue. I need to run. I love to run.

Work is going good I guess. My boss tells me I'm doing a good job, but I'm bored mentally. The main thing for me is learning how to lead people in kaizen. As I branch out into different groups I take it easy in the first kaizen so I can get to know them.

I'm still chasing her. I sent her flowers for v-day and saw her last time I was home. I'm hoping I can see her sometime in the next 8 days. Someday she's going to realize she passed up the best thing that ever happened to her. Someday I hope I realize I'm an idot for chsing her for so long. Its weird how unpredictable the future is. I'm still looking but haven't found anyone quite like her. Listen ladies, things would be a lot easier if you would decide one way or another. Guys are some of the dumbest animals alive. You already know this.

Eric, one of my bff's still in college, finally got a job offer. I'm very happy for him.

Ross and I are going to Vegas sometime in April. Its been something we've been talking about for over a year and now is the time to do it. We don't want to have any regrets and 5 years from now say "we should have gone to Vegas".

This is life of me. Working, doing a good job...watching my grandma die and planning to go to Vegas. I can't wait until some things work themselves out. I want things to be simpler. Work, workouit, and go on adventures. That's what I want. "You can't always get what you want..."

280 miles left to go...80 on 80.

I'm ok. My world is a lot better than most. I'll survive this ordeal, but things will be different once gma is gone. She's my hero. I just have to keep going, do what she would tell me to do. Even once she's gone, she still be with me.

With all this going on, I've not been drinking much. This is good. I need to focus on other things besides PBR and shots. This will get easier as it gets warmer.

So that is everything basically. I didn't win the megamillions last night. I'm going to keep playing til I do.

Later,

Bobby

Let's talk

Here's what's going down:

First and foremost, we have to talk about last weekend. I went to Atlantic City (AC) with someone from work. I had a great time. I can't describe on here how great I felt gambling, dancing, and getting drunk.

The night started out slow. I hit up the blackjack table where I was playing for 15 bucks per hand and then they raised it to 25 min bet. I thought this was steep but I was in AC on a Saturday night. The guys next to me quickly realized I was a rookie and it was in their best interest. I learned a lot and I was up as much as 350 at the peak. In less than an hour from that time, I was down 300 bucks. Ouch is right. I couldn't believe that I did this. Maybe the free drinks had something to do about it.

After I lost my $$, we went in the club. It was amazing inside. It was really nice and there were a lot of very good looking ladies. I knew I hit the jackpot here...who cares about the tables lol! I quickly hit the dance floor and all I am going to say is I had a great time.

It was 1Am or 2Am when we decided to leave the club. My buddy was a little too tipsy to drive so I had the great idea to go to the roulette table. I took 300 out of the ATM and placed it all on red. I won...it was the best ending of the night we could hope for.

Also, this weekend, I hurt my leg running. I woke up on Saturday morning and my leg felt a little funny, but I decided to run anyway. Big mistake. It hurts to walk right now.

I also moved 2 carloads of stuff into my new place. I have a lot more to move and have to find someone to help me move my bed and dresser. I am going to try to do it this weekend.

I booked my next flight to Chicago already. Valentines Day weekend I will be home. It's going to be interesting. I have a plan and will tell you how it goes later.

Next week I am going down to UIUC to recruit. We haven't received a lot of resumes so I am worried about how it is going to go.

What else.....

I am rooting for the Saints this weekend. I learned to play Rummy over the weekend.

I can't think of anything else to say. If I do, I will let you know.

Later,

Bobby

Bloggin from the Hospital: Part 2

So....

It's been a few weeks since my last post so I'll try to summarize:

Work is going pretty good. I have been really busy and making things happen is part of my job.

I finally met a couple of young people who I have been hanging out with. It's been good. I met this guy name Nick who doesn't drink. I find this odd, but I think it's a good thing.

I am moving in February to a new place where two engineers live. I think it will be good because I am getting into a little too much trouble where I am currently at. The location is going to be better but now I will have a commute to work. Right now, I can get to work in less than 10 minutes.

I am going to change my life schedule. I want to start working out before work than after work. This means I need to figure out how to get up at 3:45 am to go work out like I want to and then go to work. This may seem crazy, but if I do this, it will allow me to do other things when I get off of work like maybe watch some tv or cook some dinner.

I am in Illinois this weekend seeing my grandma. She is doing a lot better than the last time I saw her. I am really happy. Her spirits are good.

I was able to see Rachel on Friday night and went to Portillos with her. It seems like it our thing. I am okay with it. I might get to see her again tonight before I leave for Philly. I know, I know, I should forget about her as many folks tell me, but I can't do it. Tomorrow is going to be a rough day but I'll manage.

Registration opens Feb 1st for the Chicago Marathon. I am really looking forward to signing up. I need to put in more miles and eat better than what I have been. I need to drink less. That would help.

I played wii with my sister last night. It was a blast. I love my sister so much and hanging out with her is more than awesome. She kept me up late last night but it was well worth it.

Overall, this weekend was beyond excellent. I was able to see my family. I also saw Rachel and got to have lunch with my friend Blake. I am going to book my next trip back really soon.

Later,

Bobby

Bloggin From the Hosptial

First of, I am not hospitalized, my grandma is.

So, I was pretty damn excited to come home for the holiday. Due to weather, I got up early last Tuesday and headed to the Philly airport to try to catch and earlier flight. I know it was a long shot but I figured with all the weather, I better try. I say the longest security line ever and had to go through a bunch of hoops, but I got on a 8am flight back to Chicago. I wasn't supposed to leave until 1:45pm. This in itself was a miracle.

I got home and took a taxi back to Buffalo Grove. Somehow, my car manage to start. Then I went and had lunch with Rachel, which was just fantastic. After lunch we went to Barnes n Noble where I proceeded to buy books. I like books.

Later in the day, I called my mom. She was crying and hung up on me. I knew then that it had to do with my grandma and it is probably game over for her. They did a lung biopsy but I don't need to know the results. When someone says "mass in lung" it means lung cancer. I'm just waiting for the results to know how long we have. She also needs a rod to be put in her hip because he hip is about to break.

I got this news the day before my birthday. One week before I am supposed to leave for California. Then to top it off, I got an angry phone call from Rachel. I tried sending her a surprise scrapbook but the person who was making it for me screwed it all up and didn't even finish it. She was pissed about how I sent a "random" package to her apt and it didn't even have her name on it. She had a right to be pissed. I really screwed this up. I didn't hear from her again until yesterday in an email. I'm an idiot.

On a more positive note, I did go to New York City the weekend before I left for Chicago. I had an awesome time. I saw a bunch of things including a comedy show where I never laughed so hard before. I can't wait until I go back.

So, hear I am. I have spent everyday at the hospital since Christmas Eve. Part of the reason is I want to be here when the news comes. Also, my grandma isn't completely with it all the time so I talk to the doctors to find out what is going on. My grandma still wants me to go to California so I am going, but I really don't want to leave her. Believe me, I want to go. this is a really tough deal.

I plan on coming back to Chicago every three weeks to see my grandma until she gets worse, then I'll come every weekend. It's going to be a financial drain but it's what I have to do. How could I not do it?

Other than all this, not much is going on. Grandma will be numero uno priority for awhile.

I hope everyone had a good Christmas and will have a safe New Year.

Later,

Bobby

The best of times, the worst of times

I don't know how to start the post so I'll just randomly blog today.

We'll start with the easiest, work:

Work has been going pretty good. I have been getting a lot of things done and really pounding away at things. Our new director of operations started Nov. 30. He actually interviewed me for my first job at Danaher. I am very pleased that he is here. He is damn smart and likes to stick to the basics like I do. He also likes nascar and racing like I do. We're going to get along at all kinds of levels. It's pretty awesome have someone here like him.

I have been wearing my work boots more than my dress shoes. We're consolidating buildings and I have spent a good portion of my time doing some physical labor and coordinating people.

Everyday after work, I go work out. I have spent anywhere from 90-120 minutes working out. I run (training for a marathon again). and then I lift and then I want to go back to my apartment. I go home, eat, shower, and go to bed. During the week there isn't time to do anything else.

The personal life hasn't been good at all. I thought I was doing good before I came home for Thanksgiving. I had a lot of fun at home and seeing everyone, but it was very difficult to get on the plane. I almost didn't get on it. I wanted to stay. All of my hesitation has to do with the relationships that I have formed that are now stretched 800 miles. It is really tough. I am very proud of Ross and I know exactly how he feels.

I no longer know what Rachel and I are. things happened over Thanksgiving but I am not worried about it. I can't control it. I have to focus on other things as well. I just hope that she gives me a day when I come home. I have already asked her for it and she didn't really give me a response. Girls are frustrating. Damn you ladies.

Oh, my Forrest Gump Blu-ray was stolen. After a month of dealing with the USPS, I emailed amazon and BAM, two days later I now have Forrest Gump waiting safely at Rachel's house. I didn't trust my mailman to deliver it a second time.

I don't know how people do this. They move to areas where they don't know a soul. I am in that position. It is pretty damn tough. I am hoping it gets better. I know I have to just get out there and do things and hopefully I'll meet some people. I want to find some friends outside of work. Don't get me wrong, I think these people are great, but I don't think it's right to get black out drunk with them. At least not yet.

Only 12 more days and I'll be on a plane for back home. I can't wait. It's going to be a good time. Better yet, it's going to be awesome when Ross, Eric, Lisa, and myself all go to Cali!!

So, that's what's going on. Basically, my heart still belongs to Rachel. I work and workout all the time. I need to find friends. I need to explore. I need to find a new place to live. I have to take it one step at a time. Life is not a math problem. There isn't one right answer and you can't google the answer, you can't calculate the solution. Maybe there isn't one.

I guess I should be grateful for the things I do have. I have a job, I have family, and I have a place to live. Most people would kill for my spot.

I post some pics of which I have in my cube and in my apartment. They remind me of the good times I had back home.

Philly Update

So it has been a little over two weeks since I have moved out to Philly. When I say moved, I mean I have been living in my suitcase.

So week 1 was spent in a hotel. This wasn't too bad. This biggest thing about it was that it was a bit pricey. So I decided to figure out how to save some money for both the company and me.

I did some hunting and figuring, which led me to sign a three month lease a place close to work. This is an unfurnished apartment. It's not bad considering the fact that I convinced my work to pay for 2 months of rent. I have been sleeping on the floor the past two weeks, but it will be worth it. I am bringing my stuff out here this weekend.

On November 2nd, my first day of work, I got to go to World Series Game 5. It was a pretty amazing thing. Somehow, my boss had tix and 4 of us total went. I had a great time and it is something I will always remember.

I work 12 hours a day now. I mean am busy at work for that long. There is a ton of work to do and I can't really get it done. I meet my deadlines, but still. I am not complaining. It goes by really fast. The only thing is I wish I could use some of that time for working out. I need to start running again. Since the new job, I haven't been doing too well on that front. I'll get back into the swing of things after Thanksgiving.

I sold my tire cutter. I am officially asset free. I don't have anything else. I am okay with that.

I don't have much else going on. I am flying home tomorrow...sister's b-day party on Saturday.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Later,

Bobby

The time has finally come

Okay, I lied. I didn't add time to post more. I really need to since there has been plenty of excitement around my life lately. I will dive into more detail here.

Let's start with the marathon. I had an awesome time! Running the marathon was probably one of the greatest things I have done in my life. I encourage everyone to run one at least once. I can't wait to do it again. I have not been training a lot because the trauma from the marathon takes some time to heal. I sorely underestimated the amount of time it takes to recover. I finished 3:57:09. 226 out of more than 700. I am very proud of myself.

My roommate left for Santa Clara California for a 8 month rotation. I am very proud of him for taking a big change and just packing up the car and going. 8 months isn't a very long time, but it could be if one was miserable. I don't think Ross will have a problem.

1 day after he left, I got an offer to work near Philly. I took it. I am starting November 2nd. I will be doing what I do now except for one plant. I can't say I am as excited as Ross, but I think it's because it hasn't sunk in yet. I will be flying back and forth until I find a place to live. I am going to try to find a roommate. I am nervous about living with a potential stranger but everyone does that their first semester of college.

I am more excited about the things to do outside of work. There is NYC, DC, Atlantic City, and of course Philly. I am VERY excited to go visit Gettysburg. For those who don't know I love the Civil War era. I am going to find a new fishing hole, running path, and a place to camp. Even if I don't find a lot of people to hang out with I am going to make sure I keep myself busy. I don't think I will be spending a lot of time in my apartment, but I think that is the way it should be. I am not a big fan of sitting inside unless the Packers or Brett Favre is on TV. There is always the option to use a DVR.

A couple of weeks ago, Rachel got really sick. So sick she spent time in the hospital. There was one night I stayed over and took care of her. Come to find out she had mono and cmv. Not good. I had to go get tested and lay low until I could make sure I wasn't going to die or kill anyone else. This was a very big deal. It costs me some serious cash (not that I care about money much these days).

Rachel and I finally "defined the relationship". Actually she defined it. I am okay. I was just going with the flow. When you care about someone, you don't really care about what your status is. You just do what you feel like is right in your heart. Needless to say, I don't think she will be coming to Philly to visit me...I wonder who will...I bet my buddy Joel will. Other than that, I don't know. I can't see Ross flying across the country to visit. Maybe he will once he comes back to IL, if he comes back. Laura and Jason will come visit I bet.

This past weekend was a beautiful disaster. On Friday night, I was blacked out drunk. At one point I blocked the bathroom at a bar so a girl could use it. No big deal. Everyone understands that. Then, I was in there doing my business and two guys were snorting some cocaine. They asked me to block the door. I was too scared to say no. After that, I remember taking some more shots and that's it. I woke up on a bathroom floor and some half naked girl telling me she has to pee. She was not in the bathroom just to clarify.

I got up and drove back to Morris for my cousin's wedding. It was a very simple wedding and you could see she was very happy. I am very happy for her. It's not very often people meet someone who they can love. They don't have much, but they have each other and they are okay with that. So am I.

Then I got up Sunday morning. I played with my sister while waiting for my mom's blueberry pancakes. They are awesome. I left to go back to Chi for something called funday sunday. We went to Will's Northwoods, which is a Packers bar. I watched the Packers game in a t-shirt outside. It was a great time. After the game we went to several other bars. I tackled Joel at some point and gashed my head and later found out gave myself a concussion. We went to bars that I don't remember. I took a nap outside his door because he was blacked out inside. His roommate called me and he was at a bar, so I went. I must have went to bed at 1AM. Funday Sunday. I love it.

Now I have a concussion and will have a scar on my head. It is a weekend that I won't forget, not that I can remember most of it. I love Joel Knox. He has never let me down. The weekend was legendary.

Some other randoms....

My mom no longer has a job. She calls me everyday.

I will not be running the 50k. I am going to get a Halloween costume instead and party my ass off. The next day, I have to get on a plane and go to Philly and get ready for Day 1 of the new job.

I sold my gokart. I am officially retired. I do miss it, but it's time to do something else. I might go back to r/c or slot car racing. Much more affordable and not as time consuming.

I love Brett Favre.

Later,

Bobby

Beginning of Fall Upate

So it looks like it has been a month since I last updated. I am going to add time in my calendar to update more frequently.

In the last month....

I have been traveling every single week. I hate my job. I have been traveling since the beginning of August. i wasn't supposed to travel this week but I am. The week after that, I will be not be traveling hopefully. I need a break or I am just going to quit.

I declined the job in NC. I didn't feel like it was the right one for me. Now, it looks like I will be moving to Philly sometime in the next couple of months. I am ready to do something different.

Next weekend is my marathon in the Quad Cities. I am ready. I just want to finish under 4 hours. It's going to be close. If there is some wind, I probably won't be able to do it.

I am still involved with Rachel..just enjoying our time together before I have to leave.

I found out that my family is going on a cruise for Christmas. I am not going. I don't have enough vacation time. It's going to be shitty to be living somewhere new during Christmas and no reason to come home.

I am trying to think of something else to write but I can't. The packers are on and the brett favre is on at the same time one channel apart. It's great. I love it. I need to check on my 4 fantasy football teams...


That's about all I got.

Later,

Bobby

Brett Favre is more crazy than I am

Okay, so you're probably wondering how I am taking Brett playing for a division rival. The truth is I am not taking it very well. It's tough. I want to cry. I watched the highlights from last night's game and he looked terrible. He also got hit a few times. This means he is going to really get hurt this year. He's going to be sorry. So much for that awesome offensive line the Vikings supposedly have. I do a lot of dumb things but Brett has topped me this time. Good luck Brett. I hope the pack beat the vikings and you throw 8 picks. I still love you, but this is tough love.

I went to Baltimore this last week for work. The work sucked but we went to DC one night and that was pretty cool. I know I would never want to live there. The people were friendly but that's about it. I didn't care for it. It was way too hot anyway. I am outside shivering at a starbucks as I type this. It feels damn good.

I injured my right leg. My sciatic nerve is pinched and it hurts. I triggered it while trying to sleep on an airplane during a delay. I know I can't sleep on a plane but I tried anyway. Now I am paying for it. Hopefully by Monday I will be back in action. My marathon is about a month away.

I am pretty well convinced that I am going to move by the end of this year regardless of what happens, unless I win the lottery. It is really up there and I keep on buying tickets. I can't wait until I win. At this point, I want someone to win because it's becoming expensive. Enough is enough and it's time for a change. I don't know if I will ever be content in one location for a period of time. I change my mind more than a woman when it comes to this subject.

I learned something about "evidence" last night. I was with some girls and we were talking about dumb guys are about typing shit on facebook or in texts and not realizing even if you delete it, the girl isn't going to. This is not something I think about when typing, but I am going to be careful now. I don't care if she keeps it but you know she is going to show it to everyone in the whole world. That will come back to haunt you. I am waiting for it myself.

The cubs suck so bad. No wonder the team is getting sold. Over a 100 years without a worlds series. I can do better than that. I still like the cubbies but we have to get our act together. Let's rebuild around the bat boy and see what happens from there.

I really need to get ready for fantasy football. I have been busy doing everything else I have forgotten about it. I better get on it if I want to make the playoffs.

So that's about it really. I have been trying to keep things mellow. A couple of Wednesdays ago I went out and got hammered. It was fun but going to work the next day sucks. I am going to wrigleyville tonight. It's the same routine over and over. If you don't play the game, you'll never win. I better get my drink on now because there is a tax hike in store for us drunks in Illinois September 1. Also, I need to be alcohol free for my runs this next month.

Have a good weekend everyone. It is 70 degrees (maybe) and I love it. Next week, Connecticut.

Later,

Bobby

Okay, it's official...it's crisis time for Bobby

Okay folks here's the deal....

Work is getting crazy. I am going to be spending every week until September 28 on the road except for one. That's a lot of time on the road. Once again, that's a lot of time on the road.

I had an interview yesterday in Greenboro NC for basically a supervisor role. Yeah, that's right, supervisor in a teamster's union plant. How fun does that sound? Not any fun to me, but you know what, I need that experience to move up. Don't worry, it's still with Danaher. I don't know if I really want it. I know I could save some cash if I moved there but that's not a good reason.

There is another opportunity out there, but I have to first decline the job to get access to the other one. It is the same role but in a plant outside Philadelphia PA. It's a smaller plant that is not vertically integrated at all compared to the NC plant. No union. A lot easier job wise but more expensive to live there compared to NC, but prolly like Chicago. I have no clue what to do.

But wait, there is another variable in the equation and you can't solve this one. I dare you to guess the "type" of variable this is. That's right, it's a woman. One that makes me forget about traveling for 5 weeks straight and the pressures of dealing with millions of inventory. My roommate says she plays me like a fiddle. I guess I am lost in the music she makes while playing that fiddle. I am going to have to talk to here, but I always say that. It's weird. Like yesterday for example. I get a voicemail saying she misses me. I call her back. No answer so left a voicemail. Never heard back. Sent a text this morning and she answered back. And everyone wonders why these "variables" can't ever be solved. I think it is because the wiring up there is something that only God can understand. The point is that I need to talk to her about me moving and I think I already know what's going to happen. She bought a townhouse yesterday...

So where is the good news for Bobby? Well, I can say I have food, clothing, and shelter. A lot of people can't say that. I also have a job. I got to visit one of my best friends last week in STL. That was fun. I ran 15 miles this morning. That was also fun believe it or not.

I am sitting at home this weekend because I haven't saved any money from the last three paychecks. There is a wedding party, six flags adventure, b-day party, and a cubs game that I have opted not to go to for the fact of saving money. Don't worry, next weekend I am going to the racetrack to spend a couple of hundred. I'll get my fix that way.

I am also going to think long and hard about what to do.

Later,

Bobby

Happy Fourth of July !!

Howdy,

This is fourth of July weekend....one of the greatest weekends in America. Actually, it is probably one of my favorite and hoping that this one is a good one. I am not going home this weekend, instead staying up here and see what goes down. I think I'm going to the taste today. I don't plan on eating much since I have a 5k tomorrow. The goal is 20:10. It's not going to be easy but that's what goals are all about. I am still trying to get cubs tickets for tomorrow.

I am going to Mexico again next week for work.

My vacation in Canada was awesome. We caught a ton of fish and the weather was great. The only bad thing was getting a sunburn on the first day. It wasn't a smart move on my part.

Other than this stuff, I just have been busy training and working and that's about it. Some guy named Micheal Jackson died in case you didn't know. I think he could have been famous or something.

I gotta go figure out where I am going to see some fireworks this weekend.

Later,

Bobby

I wait too long to update

Okay...I am going to try to remember all the highlights from the last 4 weeks....

I went to Mexico for work. That was pretty cool. I am going again the week of July 5th. I need to practice my Spanish for when I go back.

I went to a streetfest in chi-town. I drank out of some girls flask while waiting in line to piss. After that, I don't remember much.

I went racing last weekend. I ended up wrecking my kart in the feature. It sucked too because I was coming through the pack quick.

I have also gone to CT, NC, and TN for work in the past few weeks. It has kept me busy and I guess I like it. It keeps me out of trouble.

I am still running a lot. I can do 10 miles no problem (kind of) but now it is time to bump it up to 15 miles in one run. I want to do this at least once a week.

What's coming up the next few weeks.....

On Saturday, I am going to the cubs game. Then I am going to sluggers. This is where I lost my phone. I am determined to get out of there with my phone. I am excited since my buddy Tom is coming up as well. I will be in wrigleyville all day and night...there is a band that we're going to see that starts at midnight. I have to remember it is a journey and not a race. I'll try to keep it under control.

On June 19, I am leaving to go fishing in Canada. That's right...fishing for a whole damn week....no phone, email, internet, crazy women, traffic, airplanes, stupid people, and no tv. I am hoping this is just what I need.

When I get back, I work 4 days...planning on going to Taste of Chicago and who knows what else. We'll see what happens.

Well that's it in a nutshell. I just have to keep earning the $$ and keep running and keep my sanity.

Oh I forgot, I got a couple of job offers this week from different companies. I am not going to take them but I thought it was weird. My mom is losing her job in October. Ironic I suppose....

Okay, that's it for real this time. I have to go to bed.

Later,

Bobby

Party+Party=No Money+No Sleep+No Phone

So the last two weekends have been nothing but amazing.

2 weekends ago....
Went to STL for a bachelor's party. We went to Fast Eddie's in Alton before the cards/cubs game. I highly recommend it. Then we watched the cubs lose. The rest of the night was comprised of Johnny's, bars, a strip club with midget wrestling, and the casino. I accomplished everything I wanted. It was great.

Last weekend....
Went to Chicago for the weekend. After some pregame, we went to slugger's in wrigleyville on Friday night. Within the first 20 minutes, I bought a round of shots (11) for everyone and lost my phone. I was pretty pissed. After that, we went to an after hours bar and drank some more. We got home about 4:30 am. Saturday...derby day...up by 9...drunk by 11 am. Went to brunch with consisted of a car bomb, shepard's pie, and some beer. After that, we had to go to starbucks to get a doulbeshot of expresso. After that, back up to wrigleyville (sluggers) to try to find my phone again and to watch the cubs. We didn't watch the cubs or find my phone, but we taught some kids how to high five the right way. It was pretty sweet. Then we went to the OTB and my horse got last...on to uncle julio's in which was a great meal. Then we passed out during the bulls and blackhawks game. We got up, shotgunned some old style, drank some whiskey, and off to rush street we went. Keep in mind this is 1 am. We found some ladies, danced, and got home to watch the sun come up while drinking a beer on the roof. There is a lot more I can say but you get the picture.

5 things I learned over the past two weekends:

Partying isn't cheap. My budget doesn't include this much fun.

Losing your phone isn't cool. I went 6 days without a phone.

I am not very cool. I found out because I didn't know a song. You tube "on a boat"

Drinking doesn't bother my body as much as going to bed usually when you get up.

Slugger's is the hookup place. I didn't know this until Monday. I remember "dancing" with some girl until I realized I lost my phone. It was God intervening...

This weekend....
Going to buffalo wild wings for dinner tonight.
Not doing anything on Saturday.
Going fishing on Sunday, then dinner with my mom for mother's day.
That's more like it.

I don't have a good title for this post

I think it's been too long since I have updated. I apologize, I was traveling a lot this month and I have been leading some kaizens. Here I am, past my bedtime since I am taking tomorrow off! I was supposed to have President's Day and Good Friday off this year and didn't take them off, so I call tomorrow my President's Day. I am good with it.

So this is what I have been up to:

Working out. I have been working out almost everyday. I am at the point now where it feels weird if I don't. I ran 8 miles today. Yeah, that's right. I am at the point where I need a better pair of shoes so I can run longer distances. I am hoping that I can run a 10k next month or even a half-marathon. I am 9 minute miles and feel like I can run that pace all day long. I would like to get down to 8:30 miles for 10 miles straight. It's gonna take some time.

Working a lot of hours. With the economy being down, I have a lot of work on my plate. I am not entirely sure why, but I am not complaining. I have a new boss now since my old one received a promotion. I am okay with it. I think I will have a lot of work to do again next month, but maybe not so much traveling

Messing around with Rachel. I thought it was over. Women are so damn crazy, especially this one. She told me she was crazy and I agree with her. We're just friends for now and it probably should stay that way until she gets some things straight. I am too nice. I get told that all the time. Don't worry, she isn't slowing me down or keeping me away from pursuing other interests.

Racing. I went racing for the first time outdoors last weekend. My kart was fast as my brother and I were about 3 tenths faster per lap than everyone else. I won my heat races. It was a shame the feature races got rained out. I could have won 500 bucks!

I bought some dhr stock 2 days ago. It has gone up some 5 dollars since then. I am very happy with this purchase. Thank you Danaher for my job and stock performance.

I am going to St Louis this weekend for a bachelor's party. I hope this is the most amazing, crazy, and sleepless weekend in my life. We are definitely going to the cards/cubs game. I am sure there won't be a whole lot I remember but I will take plenty of pictures. Next weekend I am going to Chicago.

Well I think that's it really. I don't know what else to say. My eye is fully healed. I did go to the doctor and I still have 20/20 vision. I signed a lease for another 12 months for my apt. I think I will have the same job for the rest of the year.

Later,

Bobby

Boom, Roasted

I must say that this week was the worst week of 2009 for me. It was downright horrible. Disaster after disaster. It all started last Saturday night....

So remember in my last post how I said met this girl...well turns out I did like here and we went out a few times since my last post. I even let her inside my apartment, which I just don't let anyone in. Girls are crazy(they could kill you and leave you for dead in you apartment). Anyway, she was acting weird. I could tell right away it was "ex boyfriend" stuff. She had the look. I saw the writing on the wall.

Now onto Monday. This week I had a 3 day meetings with everyone in my office. On Monday night, we went to my boss' boss' house for heavy appetizers and drinks. I walk in and they asked me if I wanted a beer. Instead of my usual yes, I declined due to a full punch bowl of sangria which no one was drinking. I never had it so I was eager to try it. I don't remember leaving that house. I don't know how I got my shoes on. I woke up on my bathroom floor at 4AM the next morning. Crazy. It gets worse....turns out I puked about 5 times. I drank practically the whole thing of punch. I am proud of that, but not the eye ball that was completely red from broken blood vessels due to puking (more on that later). The bowl of sangria had brandy, wine, and rum in it. Very tasty.

Tuesday....I felt good but my eye hurt like no other. I didn't have my phone or car so I didn't know how I was going to work. I had to go to work. I had to give a presentation to everyone in the office, plus a guy who reports directly to the CEO of the company. Good thing the lights were dimmed. I made sure I sat in the corner as far away as I could. Everyone knew I was drinking but only 2 folks knew what happened after I left. Turns out, my buddy came and picked me up. Also, it turns out the night before I kept talking about the girl I met and how pissed I was since she didn't call my after I sent her flowers. This is when I knew I liked this girl. When you're drunk and talking about a woman instead of trying to find one, that's when you know you like one. That's my point of view. There is more to this story but I have to keep it PG-13 here. I did get a text from Rachel thanking me for the flowers....a fricking text...wtf.

Wednesday....I'm ready to pull my eye out of its socket. It is killing me without improvement. I didn't know what to do. Once again, I had to go to work. It was necessary. I managed through the day and had to go to a business dinner at Big Bowl. I really liked Big Bowl and would go back again.

Thursday....This morning started out with a 6:30 AM conference call. It was about my future with my boss' boss. He thinks I will be getting transferred sometime in June or July and wanted me to go month to month on my lease. No thanks...that costs about an extra 350 per month and there is no guarantee that I will be moving. After that, I spent the day facilitating a VSM event. The event went well. That night, I went out to dinner with another boss of mine. We watched Purdue lose and talked. I found out that my boss' boss didn't have a clue what happened at his house, hence why I still have a job.

Friday....I am thinking I am going to need eye surgery to repair the blood vessels. My eye was feeling better but not looking much better. We finished off the VSM, I went to the orthodontist, and went and played basketball from 6-8. Basketball has become something I enjoy. Well, during one of the games, I jammed my finger bad. I mean I thought it was going to fall off. I wanted it fall off. I didn't cry or cuss. I had to keep it PG there....little kids in the area. I went home and fell asleep during the Michigan State game. Oh, I got a text from Rachel at 6AM saying sorry she was being distant, she has a lot going on in her life. I'm a engineer...I figured that out last Saturday!

Saturday....Eye is starting to look better. Wikipedia says 10-14 days for it to heal. I went and worked out, which felt good. Then I went to the grocery store and got my car looked at.....estimate at 125 bucks to fix the leaky exhaust. I can handle that. I made a steak dinner for my buddy who saved my life earlier in the week and his fiancee. It was the least I could do.

Sunday....Worked out again....got nothing going on. I have to go drop off my car to get fixed and sign a lease today. I don't know for how long yet. After this week, I feel like moving to somewhere far like Alaska.

Haven't heard from Rachel. I predict it's over. I tried to call her but she didn't answer or return my call. Oh well. I am going to be traveling for the next three weeks so I won't have time to think about things like women, my housing situation, or my eyeball. I get to escape reality and travel to CT, Penn (twice), and OR. In the grand scheme of things, these things aren't disasters. I still have a job. 10% of the US can't say that right now. My finger still hurts, but I can type.

This week I went from thinking I had it all figured out to having nothing figured out. It's disappointing. I'll rebound. I always do. I'm Bobby.

Later,


Bobby


Update...Rachel called me....more on the next post.