Well what can you say about Monday's? Pretty blah, blah, blah! Work was pretty slow.... I did some research on backpacks, and boots. John at Summit, has some Asolo boots coming in. from what I have been reading they are the best in the industry. John also carries Osprey backpacks. They are very expensive, but are designed to carry heavy loads comfortably. I read last night, For Everest, the ratio turns out to be seven to one. For K2, which has the reputation of being the hardest and most dangerous of the high peaks, the ratio is a little over three to one. But for Annapurna, it's exactly two to one. For every two climbers who get to the top, one climber dies trying." I think Annapurna is calling me out! By the way... Got an awesome workout last night. Ran a couple of miles and had some one-on-one training with "Big Ben Crocker"! (Even though he let my GM stock take a dive yesterday!)
God Bless
Mat
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sunday 03/29/2009
Hello All!
Pretty slow day here in Edmond... Up at 5:00am and worked on pictures for a couple of hours before church. After church Sherrie made me some mashed sweet potatoes and then I took a 30 minute nap. Read several chapters in my "Lonely Planet Trekking Nepal" book. I am trying to learn about the culture, customs, language, and religions. It is pretty darn cool! My buddy Mike came over to watch the OU game with me, and as you prolly know that didn't go well, but as Mike say's after the second round everything else is gravy! My trainer and buddy Mike Giroux ask me to come to the gym at 7:00 to work-out. He is training me to be an instructor for the kid's and women. We both got an awesome work-out! What did I do for "The Quest"? Since the Mike's are both part of the advisory board, I discussed several topics with them in reference to the trip. Looks like a busy week!
God Bless
Mat
Pretty slow day here in Edmond... Up at 5:00am and worked on pictures for a couple of hours before church. After church Sherrie made me some mashed sweet potatoes and then I took a 30 minute nap. Read several chapters in my "Lonely Planet Trekking Nepal" book. I am trying to learn about the culture, customs, language, and religions. It is pretty darn cool! My buddy Mike came over to watch the OU game with me, and as you prolly know that didn't go well, but as Mike say's after the second round everything else is gravy! My trainer and buddy Mike Giroux ask me to come to the gym at 7:00 to work-out. He is training me to be an instructor for the kid's and women. We both got an awesome work-out! What did I do for "The Quest"? Since the Mike's are both part of the advisory board, I discussed several topics with them in reference to the trip. Looks like a busy week!
God Bless
Mat
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Saturday 03/28/2009
Hola,
Mi Amigo & Amiga's, As I mentioned yesterday, or the day before.... I was wanting to climb Wheeler Peak this weekend, but due to "Blizzard 2009" that plan was changed. I woke up at 4:30 this morning to let Boomer out and looked outside. There was a very light dusting of snow and my patio was wet. No ice! So about 7:00 I decided to gather all of my new cold weather gear that I have accumulated from Summit Co. downtown Edmond (Subliminal message), and head down to Mt Scott in Southwestern, Oklahoma. Now, Mt Scott will never be confused with Mt Everest at a height of 2464 feet, just twelve times smaller. The climb was made a little more difficult due to the ice and gale force winds. The gates were closed to the mountain so I had the whole thing to myself. I started up the road and just past the boulder field I saw a crease that lead to the western shoulder, it looked like the easiest way up! HA HA... I used every skill I have been taught, watched on TV, and imagined possible to get to the summit. I had areas that were as dry as a hot summer day, and I had areas that were covered with two inches of solid ice. The wind was out of the north, and no joke.... It was gusting above 60mph. When I was not in the wind, I was way, way to hot. When I was in the wind, I don't think anyone could have stayed warm. I made the summit, and took a few pictures, then started down. After a few minutes, I decided that it was way to dangerous to go down the same way I came up. So I made my way back over to the road, and ran down... Three miles straight down. There were several very icy patches, where I had to stop running and ease my way through. The last thing I wanted to do is have an injury that would hamper my training. Funny thing is my butt muscles are cramping, I guess I was all cinched up running downhill that far, and my glut's paid the price. Made it down to the car, then over to Meers for a Hot Chocolate, and piece of chicken. Meers is known for their world famous longhorn burgers. So..... What did I get accomplished for "The Quest"? Serious uphill training, along with testing the new North Face jacket, and Marmot pants, Exchanged emails with one of my advisory board members who is working with a travel company we belong to (World Ventures) about a sponsorship deal including my airfare, and hotels in Kathmandu. Overall... AWESOME DAY! I have been calling it "When your beans are bigger than your Brain!"
God Bless
Mat
Mi Amigo & Amiga's, As I mentioned yesterday, or the day before.... I was wanting to climb Wheeler Peak this weekend, but due to "Blizzard 2009" that plan was changed. I woke up at 4:30 this morning to let Boomer out and looked outside. There was a very light dusting of snow and my patio was wet. No ice! So about 7:00 I decided to gather all of my new cold weather gear that I have accumulated from Summit Co. downtown Edmond (Subliminal message), and head down to Mt Scott in Southwestern, Oklahoma. Now, Mt Scott will never be confused with Mt Everest at a height of 2464 feet, just twelve times smaller. The climb was made a little more difficult due to the ice and gale force winds. The gates were closed to the mountain so I had the whole thing to myself. I started up the road and just past the boulder field I saw a crease that lead to the western shoulder, it looked like the easiest way up! HA HA... I used every skill I have been taught, watched on TV, and imagined possible to get to the summit. I had areas that were as dry as a hot summer day, and I had areas that were covered with two inches of solid ice. The wind was out of the north, and no joke.... It was gusting above 60mph. When I was not in the wind, I was way, way to hot. When I was in the wind, I don't think anyone could have stayed warm. I made the summit, and took a few pictures, then started down. After a few minutes, I decided that it was way to dangerous to go down the same way I came up. So I made my way back over to the road, and ran down... Three miles straight down. There were several very icy patches, where I had to stop running and ease my way through. The last thing I wanted to do is have an injury that would hamper my training. Funny thing is my butt muscles are cramping, I guess I was all cinched up running downhill that far, and my glut's paid the price. Made it down to the car, then over to Meers for a Hot Chocolate, and piece of chicken. Meers is known for their world famous longhorn burgers. So..... What did I get accomplished for "The Quest"? Serious uphill training, along with testing the new North Face jacket, and Marmot pants, Exchanged emails with one of my advisory board members who is working with a travel company we belong to (World Ventures) about a sponsorship deal including my airfare, and hotels in Kathmandu. Overall... AWESOME DAY! I have been calling it "When your beans are bigger than your Brain!"
God Bless
Mat
Friday, March 27, 2009
Friday, March 27th, 2009
Short and sweet..... Just had a 20 minute long discussion with my guide Naba in Nepal. We use Skype to communicate. I don't know if I have explained how it works but, you use a headset with microphone, and a free program you download from the internet. You can talk to anyone in the world for FREE! Big Daddy likes FREE! We discussed several things, equipment, hotels in Kathmandu, and even the possibility of starting my trek on September 29th. Naba is suggesting the earlier trek, because it is just after monsoon season, and the air will be very clear, not that it would be that much different a week later, but I'll take any excuse to get there A.S.A.P. Today we sent out three letters asking for support. Went to Summit Company and found a sweet sweater on the clearance rack. Depending on the weather this weekend.... I will either climb the boulder field at Mt Scott or run a half marathon. There was a race scheduled for tomorrow morning, but due to the "Blizzard 2009" which looks like it will turn into "Ice Cube 2009" The run on the Boulevard was cancelled.
God Bless
Mat
God Bless
Mat
Thursday, 03/26/2009
Good Winter Morning!
I hope everyone in the greater OKC metropolis is ready for "Blizzard 2009"! If you are not a local here, our weather drives the news.... The local media will pre-empt anything including, National Championship games to tell you that we have storm trackers following a dust devil! I'm not bitter.... Last time I made fun of the weather guy's for instilling fear in us we had a tornado pass in-between my house and Trey's school!!!! Then it crushed my friend Jodi's neighborhood in North Edmond. What did we do for "The Quest" yesterday? We mailed several letters asking for support, invited a very important member to the advisory team, and had a killer workout. When I say killer, I mean KILLER! I think I'm going to die.... Some of you know, I have a kidney bothering me. (Sucker Punch from Tyson Cervantes) Anyway, did some running in Tennessee and it didn't really cause any problems, but last night I pushed pretty hard and ran a little under 4 miles. Then we had a great Jui-jitsu workout. When I got home my kitney<- was acting up, so not much sleep! I needed to push hard yesterday due to the impending white-out we are forecast for the weekend. It is at times like right now when you have to push yourself to the limits. When you think you are so tired you can't go another step, something inside tells you.... You can do this, failure is not an option, suck it up and keep going. When you finish your task set before you, the reward comes. No one is standing there waving a checkered flag, but you know what you have accomplished! That is what "The Quest" is about proving to ourselves that, no matter what the circumstances are you can overcome them with the three tools... Heart, Head, and accountability!
God Bless
Mat
I hope everyone in the greater OKC metropolis is ready for "Blizzard 2009"! If you are not a local here, our weather drives the news.... The local media will pre-empt anything including, National Championship games to tell you that we have storm trackers following a dust devil! I'm not bitter.... Last time I made fun of the weather guy's for instilling fear in us we had a tornado pass in-between my house and Trey's school!!!! Then it crushed my friend Jodi's neighborhood in North Edmond. What did we do for "The Quest" yesterday? We mailed several letters asking for support, invited a very important member to the advisory team, and had a killer workout. When I say killer, I mean KILLER! I think I'm going to die.... Some of you know, I have a kidney bothering me. (Sucker Punch from Tyson Cervantes) Anyway, did some running in Tennessee and it didn't really cause any problems, but last night I pushed pretty hard and ran a little under 4 miles. Then we had a great Jui-jitsu workout. When I got home my kitney<- was acting up, so not much sleep! I needed to push hard yesterday due to the impending white-out we are forecast for the weekend. It is at times like right now when you have to push yourself to the limits. When you think you are so tired you can't go another step, something inside tells you.... You can do this, failure is not an option, suck it up and keep going. When you finish your task set before you, the reward comes. No one is standing there waving a checkered flag, but you know what you have accomplished! That is what "The Quest" is about proving to ourselves that, no matter what the circumstances are you can overcome them with the three tools... Heart, Head, and accountability!
God Bless
Mat
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Wednesday 03/25/2009
Good Morn!
Wednesday came and went without much fuss. I had a dinner to attend last night at the Oklahoma History Museum. It was a function for Oklahoma City Thunder season ticket holders. There were players, cheerleaders, cheerleaders, the mascot, did I mention cheerleaders? The owner of the team Clay Bennett was suppose to be there, and my goal was to give him a Mat's Quest business card, but I never found him. As usual we got there early, because that's how I roll, and Rumble (The Mascot) was walking around, he autographed the newspaper with him and Trey on the front page, and a program from the game he was introduced. As soon as the doors opened we went to the autograph table, where Desmond Mason, and Robert Swift were suppose to be. Desmond showed up on time.... Robert made a dramatic entry about 30 minutes late, but they allowed us to stand to the side and work back in to meet him. Desmond and I attend the same church, and we talked about that a little. I ask Robert if he remembered the Golden State game where I was court side wearing my Swift shirt with the tattoo sleeve's. He said he did and we had a good laugh. Most of the time, Robert has his finger nails painted black... Jordan ask him why his nails weren't painted and he had a good chuckle about that! We walked around a bit and went upstairs were the team chef had prepared dinner. Smoked salmon, roasted pork loin, grilled veggies, a mountain of cheese, and a giant dessert table. Well to make a long story short.... There weren't any chicken fingers, or pizza, so my family decided we would not eat there and we went to BJ's where my free meal from the Thunder turned into $$$$. Anyway... What did I accomplish for the Quest? I started 10 new letters begging for support, and one new letter for the advisory board. They will go out later today! If you need any cold weather gear, hiking, or just plain cool clothes or shoes, go see John at Summit Co. in downtown Edmond. They are having and end of season closeout on winter stuff!
God Bless
Mat
Wednesday came and went without much fuss. I had a dinner to attend last night at the Oklahoma History Museum. It was a function for Oklahoma City Thunder season ticket holders. There were players, cheerleaders, cheerleaders, the mascot, did I mention cheerleaders? The owner of the team Clay Bennett was suppose to be there, and my goal was to give him a Mat's Quest business card, but I never found him. As usual we got there early, because that's how I roll, and Rumble (The Mascot) was walking around, he autographed the newspaper with him and Trey on the front page, and a program from the game he was introduced. As soon as the doors opened we went to the autograph table, where Desmond Mason, and Robert Swift were suppose to be. Desmond showed up on time.... Robert made a dramatic entry about 30 minutes late, but they allowed us to stand to the side and work back in to meet him. Desmond and I attend the same church, and we talked about that a little. I ask Robert if he remembered the Golden State game where I was court side wearing my Swift shirt with the tattoo sleeve's. He said he did and we had a good laugh. Most of the time, Robert has his finger nails painted black... Jordan ask him why his nails weren't painted and he had a good chuckle about that! We walked around a bit and went upstairs were the team chef had prepared dinner. Smoked salmon, roasted pork loin, grilled veggies, a mountain of cheese, and a giant dessert table. Well to make a long story short.... There weren't any chicken fingers, or pizza, so my family decided we would not eat there and we went to BJ's where my free meal from the Thunder turned into $$$$. Anyway... What did I accomplish for the Quest? I started 10 new letters begging for support, and one new letter for the advisory board. They will go out later today! If you need any cold weather gear, hiking, or just plain cool clothes or shoes, go see John at Summit Co. in downtown Edmond. They are having and end of season closeout on winter stuff!
God Bless
Mat
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Tuesday, March 24th, 2009
Good Wednesday Morning!
Yesterday was a semi-productive day.... Back to work after five day's off had potential to be bad; However, Our corporate company did not show up, and our patient load is down. This gave me the opportunity to catch up quickly! I was suppose to match up with one of my sponsors last week, John from Summit Company, because I was out of town I ended up going by at lunch, and they hooked me up with a "SWEET" pair of Marmot hiking pants. John also took a lot of time to discuss proper layering and materials I should use, we also looked at boots, and packs. Summit Co. is having a end of season sale right now, and if you are in the greater Oklahoma City area.... You would be crazy not to go by! John showed me a picture of him Summiting Wheeler Peak. Wheeler is the highest peak in New Mexico. I have been to Wheeler several times, when I am in Taos, and Red River, but have never climbed due to the physical exertion it requires. I put it in my head I could drive to Taos this weekend, summit Wheeler, and drive back home in 72 hours. I told the little lady about my plan and she vetoed. Northwest Oklahoma is suppose to get 10 inches of ice and snow on Friday. I will look at the calender and summit Wheeler before the end of April! It is not a technical climb, more of a hike but I need the altitude training. If anyone wants to go.... You know how to get a hold of me!
God Bless!
Mat
Yesterday was a semi-productive day.... Back to work after five day's off had potential to be bad; However, Our corporate company did not show up, and our patient load is down. This gave me the opportunity to catch up quickly! I was suppose to match up with one of my sponsors last week, John from Summit Company, because I was out of town I ended up going by at lunch, and they hooked me up with a "SWEET" pair of Marmot hiking pants. John also took a lot of time to discuss proper layering and materials I should use, we also looked at boots, and packs. Summit Co. is having a end of season sale right now, and if you are in the greater Oklahoma City area.... You would be crazy not to go by! John showed me a picture of him Summiting Wheeler Peak. Wheeler is the highest peak in New Mexico. I have been to Wheeler several times, when I am in Taos, and Red River, but have never climbed due to the physical exertion it requires. I put it in my head I could drive to Taos this weekend, summit Wheeler, and drive back home in 72 hours. I told the little lady about my plan and she vetoed. Northwest Oklahoma is suppose to get 10 inches of ice and snow on Friday. I will look at the calender and summit Wheeler before the end of April! It is not a technical climb, more of a hike but I need the altitude training. If anyone wants to go.... You know how to get a hold of me!
God Bless!
Mat
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Saturday, Sunday, & Monday, 03/21 - 03/23
Good Morning!
What a crazy weekend. As I wrote on Friday, I was in Waynesboro, Tennessee for my Aunt's funeral. The circumstance I was there for was very sad, but the time I had to spend with my family was precious. My cousins Sonya, and Belinda, are inspirations. We all need to show that much love for a parent. They have dedicated the last two and a half years, of their and their family's lives, to make my Aunt Jeanette comfortable. Saint's! I was able to spend time with my niece from Atlanta, (We even had time to shoot her Senior Pictures!) My cousin Angel and her family from Nashville, and everyone from Waynesboro.... Funny thing, not being around the extended family from a little town like that, I was introduced to hundreds of family members (Basically the whole town is related in one way or another.) Who would tell stories about... "Well last time I saw you, you were knee high to a grasshopper!" The food that was brought to the family was CRAZY! The temptation was difficult, but I did not gain an ounce while I was gone. I did quite a bit of education about "The Quest!" I know I have all of their support. Things I did to prepare for "The Quest!" I ran a ridiculous circuit from My Uncle Gerald's house, (On top of mountain) to the Hospital and back up the mountain. I video taped it and will post it soon. I went swimming with my cousin Dakota, in thirty three degree Hardin creek. That is another story.... There is video of that as well. My cousin Angel wanted to go to "Lover's Lane" We use to spend hours down there swimming, fishing, and camping. We drove outside of town with, Angel's family, my uncle, and myself. We parked and walked down to the edge of the creek, where there is a low water crossing. Angel and I stepped in to the water to take a picture, then we got brave and crossed the low water bridge, and walked over to the swimming hole, about two hundred yards away. Dakota had come over with us, and when I said I'll jump in if you will, he started stripping down. Well you all know I can't be outdone by a twelve year old. Sooooo, down to the undies and off we went. We came out fairly quickly the first and second time, but the third time we swam down stream a couple hundred feet. Funny thing, after getting out my skin felt really tight, and very refreshed. What did this do for "The Quest"? I'm calling it... climate change practice! (Or just Crazy!) Anyway... Home, ready for work, Have to take Boomer to the Vet this morning. I think he has a dislocated foot. Ready to get focused on "The Quest" again.
God Bless!
Mat
What a crazy weekend. As I wrote on Friday, I was in Waynesboro, Tennessee for my Aunt's funeral. The circumstance I was there for was very sad, but the time I had to spend with my family was precious. My cousins Sonya, and Belinda, are inspirations. We all need to show that much love for a parent. They have dedicated the last two and a half years, of their and their family's lives, to make my Aunt Jeanette comfortable. Saint's! I was able to spend time with my niece from Atlanta, (We even had time to shoot her Senior Pictures!) My cousin Angel and her family from Nashville, and everyone from Waynesboro.... Funny thing, not being around the extended family from a little town like that, I was introduced to hundreds of family members (Basically the whole town is related in one way or another.) Who would tell stories about... "Well last time I saw you, you were knee high to a grasshopper!" The food that was brought to the family was CRAZY! The temptation was difficult, but I did not gain an ounce while I was gone. I did quite a bit of education about "The Quest!" I know I have all of their support. Things I did to prepare for "The Quest!" I ran a ridiculous circuit from My Uncle Gerald's house, (On top of mountain) to the Hospital and back up the mountain. I video taped it and will post it soon. I went swimming with my cousin Dakota, in thirty three degree Hardin creek. That is another story.... There is video of that as well. My cousin Angel wanted to go to "Lover's Lane" We use to spend hours down there swimming, fishing, and camping. We drove outside of town with, Angel's family, my uncle, and myself. We parked and walked down to the edge of the creek, where there is a low water crossing. Angel and I stepped in to the water to take a picture, then we got brave and crossed the low water bridge, and walked over to the swimming hole, about two hundred yards away. Dakota had come over with us, and when I said I'll jump in if you will, he started stripping down. Well you all know I can't be outdone by a twelve year old. Sooooo, down to the undies and off we went. We came out fairly quickly the first and second time, but the third time we swam down stream a couple hundred feet. Funny thing, after getting out my skin felt really tight, and very refreshed. What did this do for "The Quest"? I'm calling it... climate change practice! (Or just Crazy!) Anyway... Home, ready for work, Have to take Boomer to the Vet this morning. I think he has a dislocated foot. Ready to get focused on "The Quest" again.
God Bless!
Mat
Friday, March 20, 2009
03/19 & 03/20, 2009 Thursday & Friday
Hello All,
I am coming to you live from the parking lot at Micky D's in Waynesboro, TN. After nine hours and twenty seven minutes, we made it safely to my uncles house. After several tears and hugs, we spent a few hours visiting, then to the funeral home for visitation. Today will be spent with family. My niece Alex drove up from Atlanta this morning. She called me at 5:20am to let me know she had crossed into Tennessee. I am taking her out to dinner tonight... We have several options here in Waynesboro, McDonald's, Sonic, or Pizza Hut! (I'm leaning towards Pizza Hut! My cousin owns it!) Any way... As I stated yesterday "Where ever I go Aunt Jeanette goes, because she will always be in my heart!"
God Bless!
Mat
I am coming to you live from the parking lot at Micky D's in Waynesboro, TN. After nine hours and twenty seven minutes, we made it safely to my uncles house. After several tears and hugs, we spent a few hours visiting, then to the funeral home for visitation. Today will be spent with family. My niece Alex drove up from Atlanta this morning. She called me at 5:20am to let me know she had crossed into Tennessee. I am taking her out to dinner tonight... We have several options here in Waynesboro, McDonald's, Sonic, or Pizza Hut! (I'm leaning towards Pizza Hut! My cousin owns it!) Any way... As I stated yesterday "Where ever I go Aunt Jeanette goes, because she will always be in my heart!"
God Bless!
Mat
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
03/18/2009 Wednesday
Today at 9:00am I received a call from my cousin in Tennessee. My Aunt.... Sylvia Jeanette Brison passed away after a long battle with cancer. She beat the cancer but the effects of chemotherapy damaged her organs beyond functionality. Aunt Jeanette was a strong willed, fiery woman, who never let anyone, or anything stand in her way. She was an accomplished business woman, Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, and Friend. I will take Aunt Jeanette to Everest with me. I will take her everywhere I go, because she is, and always will be a part of who I am. Although we all have lost a loved one, we know God has gained an angel. I will be traveling to Waynesboro, Tennessee tomorrow to be with my family. All prayers will be appreciated, as I will be driving my mother, and she will be driving me! (Crazy)
This Blog in Loving memory of Aunt Jeanette!
God Bless!
This Blog in Loving memory of Aunt Jeanette!
God Bless!
03/17/2009 St. Patricks Day
Today was great. After a stop at Starbucks it was off to work, work was OK.... My Regional Director of Operations will be here next Monday so there is a lot of stuff to be cleaned up and organized. I spent quite a bit of time out on the floor with the staff, OMG.... We have one of the best, and one of the worst nurses you will ever see. I guess that's the way it works. Anyway at the gym last night Tyson Cervantes took his membership test. Monday night I was sparring with Tyson, and putting the hurt on him, after I tapped him out for the fifth time he hit me in the kidney with a sucker punch. I ended up having to have an ultrasound due to the fact I was bleeding. Last night I got my revenge. Tyson did great in his test but I guarantee he is hurting this morning. When I got home I checked my email and had a response to one of the first 10 letters of support that went out. Summit Co. here in Edmond, ask what equipment I need and it looks like they may be a Gold sponsor. They are going up on the website today. What got accomplished for the "Quest"? Summit Co. added as a sponsor! AWESOME!
God Bless!
Mat
God Bless!
Mat
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
03/16/2009 Monday
I will try and stay short and sweet since, I am posting this Tuesday morning! Yesterday was quite eventful, as it was Jordan's actual Birthday! After work I headed home and picked up Trey for his Monday workout. Before the kid's got started, I ran my gym cir cut, which ends up being 2.75 miles. Had a great workout, with the kids. When the girls started, I ended up working with Tyson, he is testing for his membership tonight, and I worked him hard. He landed a sucker punch to the right kidney, and it is giving me fits. Anyway, when I got home I logged onto "Skype" which if you don't know is a telephone system that runs through the Internet. You wear a headset, and can talk to anyone, anywhere for free. I hooked up with my guy in Nepal. His name is Naba. We talked for 25 minutes about different options. He is encouraging me to do the 14 day Everest trip, which is nine up and five back, and try to spend one week in Southern Nepal in the jungle. I really think that I would like that. They have herds of Elephants, Rhinos, Tigers, and other carnivores. He has me so jacked up I can't contain myself. So what got accomplished for the "Quest"? I mailed my first 10 letters seeking financial support, talked to Naba about other options, and started filling out IRS forms seeking a 501 (c) (3) exemption.
God Bless!
Mat
God Bless!
Mat
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sunday, March 15th 2009
The morning was cold and dark... Just kidding! I overslept, for the first time in a long time. I jumped up and hurried around to make it to the 8:45 service at church. I like to go early so I can get other things accomplished. In the middle of the service I got a text from a friend who will remain nameless, and he said he would be in the 10:00 service, so I stayed for the second service. Anyone who knows me, is probably saying two services is a good thing for that guy! After church I came home and started a little lawn work. I bought a new weed eater with a edger attachment and I was dying to try it out. While I was working on the front yard a gentleman came by and offered to take down my dead Bradford pear tree for $150.00. The last estimate I got was around $800.00 so I let him do it! He did a great job and hauled it off. I scalped the yard, threw down some weed and feed, and then hit several spots with round-up. My sister Anna that lives in Atlanta, is in town and she came by for a visit. She looks great! After she left I washed the car and headed to Wal-Mart,for trail-mix supplies. I make my own mix and it is healthy and nutritious. I also picked up a web cam and microphone for the computer. My guy in Nepal says it will be easier to communicate using Skype. The web cam works great but the microphone is crap. I IM'ed Naba a little but he is very busy do to excellent weather, and some of the summit groups are heading out. Not a lot accomplished towards the "Quest" but we will get there.
Have a great Monday!
MJ
Have a great Monday!
MJ
Saturday, March 14, 2009
03/14/2009 Saturday
Hey Everyone!
Today started with a great run. I left the house at 5:30 and ran my home circuit, which is different from my gym circuit. It's about 2 & 3/4 miles round trip. The weather was nice, about 40 degrees and zero wind! Anyone who has been to Oklahoma knows that days without wind here are rare. When I got back Boomer greeted me at the door barking like crazy, and woke everyone up. He doesn't like people in hats and I was wearing a beanie. Monday is Jordan's 16th birthday, so we were, and are currently having her birthday party. I spent several hours cleaning the house, and waiting for my guide from Nepal to call. When he did call, our connection was bad and we could barely hear each other. He is going to call me back tomorrow from a different phone. Funny thing.... Jordan thought I was getting a prank call. Had a great meeting at lunch today, had some gym business to handle. I hope it was well received! I met Jordan at the mall and tried to help her pick out an outfit for her birthday party. That really sucked. We don't really have the same taste in clothes, or anything else for that matter. I was the DJ for the party and it was kinda weird, these emo, goth, stoner kids like hip-hop music! Well what did I get accomplished for the "Quest"? I wrote several letters begging for donations. All I need to do now is mail them. Tomorrow looks busy as well; However, I am going to work-in an hour nap. I think I deserve it!
MJ
Today started with a great run. I left the house at 5:30 and ran my home circuit, which is different from my gym circuit. It's about 2 & 3/4 miles round trip. The weather was nice, about 40 degrees and zero wind! Anyone who has been to Oklahoma knows that days without wind here are rare. When I got back Boomer greeted me at the door barking like crazy, and woke everyone up. He doesn't like people in hats and I was wearing a beanie. Monday is Jordan's 16th birthday, so we were, and are currently having her birthday party. I spent several hours cleaning the house, and waiting for my guide from Nepal to call. When he did call, our connection was bad and we could barely hear each other. He is going to call me back tomorrow from a different phone. Funny thing.... Jordan thought I was getting a prank call. Had a great meeting at lunch today, had some gym business to handle. I hope it was well received! I met Jordan at the mall and tried to help her pick out an outfit for her birthday party. That really sucked. We don't really have the same taste in clothes, or anything else for that matter. I was the DJ for the party and it was kinda weird, these emo, goth, stoner kids like hip-hop music! Well what did I get accomplished for the "Quest"? I wrote several letters begging for donations. All I need to do now is mail them. Tomorrow looks busy as well; However, I am going to work-in an hour nap. I think I deserve it!
MJ
Friday, March 13, 2009
March 13th, 2009
Today is Trey's 11th birthday... We started early again today, 4:22 am. After a little work out, I started writing letters to potential sponsors. I only got three done, but that's a start. Work was OK today, went by really fast I needed to get out on time because Trey's party started at 5:40. I got a couple of emails from my guide in Nepal. There are a couple of alternative routes I am considering. One is to summit Goyko Peak after Everest Base Camp it's only one extra day. Then there is the Everest Traverse, it would extend my trip by five extra days and would cost a little more, but the experience would be well worth it! I will continue to research the three options and make a decision by this time next week. I am going to Sportsman's Warehouse tomorrow to get a camel back. Joy & Caleb Brown gave me a gift card for Christmas and I have not used it yet. I also need a set of Trekking poles. I will see what else I can find. Tomorrow night we are having a Birthday party for Jordan. God Help Us All!
Mat
Mat
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Thursday the 12th, of March
I slept in this morning! I didn't get up 5:40 this morning, and due to the sleet... I didn't run. Got a few things accomplished today. I bid on an expedition parka last night on eBay, and didn't win, but was offered a second chance, and before I bought it I thought I would go try one on to make sure of the size. I went to the Summit company here in Edmond, and told the guy's what I was up to, and they cut me a great deal on an AWESOME North Face Expedition jacket. I know the "Quest" is six months away but the purpose of the coat is two fold! One it will keep my booty warm in the rare air of Nepal. Secondly, everyone that sponsors me will have their logo or name on the coat. After work I had a meeting with a great friend of mine Kay Morton. Kay is a P.A. and owns Jon Ric International Spa and Salon at 33rd, and Broadway. Kay is going to be part of my medical team as well as helping to educate me about the disease process's related to morbid obesity. I sent letters to two other medical professionals today, who I would like in that role as well. We will see what happens. I need to work on a letter to send out requesting donations, but I am not much of a beggar. I guess I need to read the book "Never eat alone" My buddy Clark was telling me about it. It has a chapter named... "The audacity of the ask" meaning, sometimes you just have to ask! We had a great workout at the gym! We rolled all night, something I am very comfortable with. We have a young guy Conner, I love working with him, he is a freak of nature for a 15 year old! Ben, Tyler, Tyson, Adam, and Gabe also worked me over. Well tomorrow is my baby boy's 11th birthday. He is having his birthday party at Laser Quest at 5:40. It will be a rush getting there, but it will be over early and no mess to clean up at home.
Good night!
Mat
Good night!
Mat
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Wednesday!
Hey....
I had a crazy day! Started this morning at 4:30am when Boomer decided he needed to go outside. So I got up and started doing research on Kathmandu. I had several errands to run before I made it to Starbucks for my morning delight. I bought a day planner at Wal*Mart, so I can try to keep my thoughts together. Once I got to work I had several emails to answer, one from my guide service in Nepal. I got a shiver down my spine as I began to read it. I am so excited and still have six plus months to go. I had inquired as to heading back from base camp a little faster than the rest of the group, and they told me they could customize a trip down to fourteen days, if I was in the physical condition to handle that. They also gave me a list of references here in the states, so I picked the first name and shot him an email. He responded very quickly, and highly recommended the service I am using. In addition to that he gave me information on what is a must, and what is not worth the time. Great guy...... More shivers. I actually had to do some work today.... After work I picked up Trey and we headed to the gym. Trey worked out for an hour and then I helped teach the women's class. We have a couple of new students, and they kicked-butt! Anyway progress was made with the new contacts.
I had a crazy day! Started this morning at 4:30am when Boomer decided he needed to go outside. So I got up and started doing research on Kathmandu. I had several errands to run before I made it to Starbucks for my morning delight. I bought a day planner at Wal*Mart, so I can try to keep my thoughts together. Once I got to work I had several emails to answer, one from my guide service in Nepal. I got a shiver down my spine as I began to read it. I am so excited and still have six plus months to go. I had inquired as to heading back from base camp a little faster than the rest of the group, and they told me they could customize a trip down to fourteen days, if I was in the physical condition to handle that. They also gave me a list of references here in the states, so I picked the first name and shot him an email. He responded very quickly, and highly recommended the service I am using. In addition to that he gave me information on what is a must, and what is not worth the time. Great guy...... More shivers. I actually had to do some work today.... After work I picked up Trey and we headed to the gym. Trey worked out for an hour and then I helped teach the women's class. We have a couple of new students, and they kicked-butt! Anyway progress was made with the new contacts.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March 10th, 2009
Hello,
Welcome to the beginning of my quest. Today is the one year anniversary of my Gastric Sleeve procedure. In the past 12 months I have lost 240 pounds, through diet, exercise, exercise, and exercise. I have launched a quest to hike to Base camp of Mt. Everest. My tentative date is the first week of October.... I say tentative because I am relying on sponsorship to help fund this quest. Some ask why? I want to use this quest as a platform to speak about morbid obesity, and the stigma attached to it! If you would like to be a part of "Team Quest" let me know! I need a lot of support to make this happen.
Mat
Welcome to the beginning of my quest. Today is the one year anniversary of my Gastric Sleeve procedure. In the past 12 months I have lost 240 pounds, through diet, exercise, exercise, and exercise. I have launched a quest to hike to Base camp of Mt. Everest. My tentative date is the first week of October.... I say tentative because I am relying on sponsorship to help fund this quest. Some ask why? I want to use this quest as a platform to speak about morbid obesity, and the stigma attached to it! If you would like to be a part of "Team Quest" let me know! I need a lot of support to make this happen.
Mat
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