Flavor + Energy = Perfect Pick-Me-Up

When I'm doing long runs on weekends, enjoying extended walks around the neighborhood, or just working in the yard, sometimes I need a little something to give me a jolt.  

First off - I want a burst of flavor. I also want something to concentrate on to keep my mind from stinking thinking (especially if I'm getting tired or hungry or bored).

I have settled on two great options.

First, Gatorade Energy Chews have a great taste, they dissolve slowly (I even play a mental game to see how long I can go before I bite!) and they have enough sugar to give me a little extra oomph!

If you don't like Gatorade (this is for you Seminoles, Bulldogs, and any others), you might just try Gummy Bears!  I have a friend who swears by them!

Have a blessed day - and remember - losing weight is about what you put in your piehole...fitness is about aerobic and cardio health + stretching!

My Original Spiritual Mentor

Since I reached out to Jesus for help with alcoholism back in 1994, my life has certainly been interesting.  

Back then, though I had grown up in church, I was a spiritual lightweight.  I knew at the time that I needed to latch on to someone who could teach me, but wouldn't judge me.  While I was so very fortunate to have a wonderful pastor and many men of faith in my early years of this new walk, I knew I needed even more.

Billy Graham had always been a part of our family's conversation.  My dad and he grew up near one another and dad often wondered whether their paths may have crossed as boys.  He was a television icon in the 60's and 70's so he was a known and trusted quantity.

So I thought, what a better way to learn about him...and from him...than to read his own words.

Just As I Am by Billy Graham was my answer.  I read about his conversion. I read about his love for Jesus.  I read about his doubts and hopes and fears.  I read about his love for his wife and children.  I read about his calling and his dedication to that calling.  

And since, I have given him my ultimate compliment.  This keeper-of-books gave his book away for someone else to read.

If you're looking for a timeless message, read this book (and then give it to someone).

Teaching Our Kids About Money

 My dad was was a great father.  However, there was one area of parenting where he fell short - teaching me about money.

My lifetime has mirrored one of Jimmy Buffett's most classic lines..."I made enough money to buy Miami, but I pissed it away so fast."

I have been in deep credit card debt several times, I have taken out high-interest equity loans on cars, I have not always lived by the maxim "Make all you can, save all you can, give all you can."

I am fortunate right now to be debt-free (except for my mortgage) - through a series of good investments by my dad and me and the advice of a couple of good books.  I have a nest egg for retirement, a college fund for my two remaining college-age kids, and even 529 accounts for grandchildren..

I have talked to my sons about money (particularly my downfalls). But I also plan on giving my two college-age sons lasting advice in the form of two books as they graduate from their respective universities.  These books have helped me tremendously - I wish I had had them when I was a young man.

I encourage you to read them and pass them on.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Need an Afternoon Boost?

Like anyone over 50 - I get a little foggy right after lunch!  I have discovered Verb Energy Bars!  One of these is a great low-calorie offering to give me some energy - and it tastes like dessert!

I like the following three types!

Verb Energy Bar - Peanut Butter

Verb Energy Bar - Coconut Chai

Verb Energy Bar - Vanilla Latte

As many of you know, I've been a pretty serious runner for the last four years - mainly competing in 5ks and half-marathons.  I've been searching for something to help me on the long runs on weekend mornings - something to quickly munch on to give me a little boost - something that tasted good and didn't prompt a bathroom stop.  These are great for that too!

I want to encourage you to give them a try.

Click the link and order some from Amazon.  You'll be glad you did!