Marching with Marshall

Marching with Marshall
Sam Houston National Forest Ranger Station

Friday, June 25, 2010

Troop 941 Oorah!

Marchers,
A great thanks goes out to Alan McGaffin and his fine son, Adam. Alan took a truck load of Boy Scouts, the Troop trailer, and loads of equipment to help support the March. He was in great company, while his only complaint was, he was not marching. He wanted to March more then most, and perhaps should have, but we need him to help support the March. He sent us, the Marchers, off with a hearty propane cooked breakfast the second day, and made us feel comfortable at each break stop. He never stopped helping and supporting.

Alan, the troop leader of Troop 941, brought along some very nice young men, and a a couple of fathers who helped make a difference. Kevin Nguyen and Greg Sanzo, came along as supporters, and made sure, along with Alan, their Boys were taken care of. Their sons, Calvin and Tyler, walked on the first day, with Tyler finishing that day's March. Calvin went home the second day of the March, but Tyler stayed the entire time helping set up camp, refilling water containers, and handing out the chow at the stops.

A young man by the name of Cody, walked the two and a half days, with blistered feet, only ending his march, when the sight of his back and chest, red and swollen with heat bumps, forced him to stop. He did not want to, but I felt he needed to take a break. He never complained, and had a interesting sense of humor.

Alan's son, Adam, who, with numerous chigger bites and other issues , sat out Day 3, but rejoined the March to finish up Day 4, and end the March with the view of Addison at the finish line, was a stalwart companion. If it had not been for the bug issues, and his reaction, we would have had him for the entire four days. His Dad should be very proud of the young man they have raised.

A big thank you goes out to Boy Scout Troop 941 and their leader, Alan McGaffin. Also, thank you to the Fathers who helped us make this March a success.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Can Someone Please find the ...ah..er... butt paste?

Marchers,
Instead of letting the interviewer know why we Marchered, and what we were trying to do, I laid the ointment on thick with the mention of Boudreaux's Butt Paste.

Jack did an excellent job presenting Addison update and the situation. And, had Jerry been miked, we would have righted my wrong; the third mike was to go to Mrs. Marshall, and should have, but I took it, and did not get to give credit to Jack for all his work on mapping, adjusting, and GPSing the course, while fixing a flat in the woods, and driving on a small bent doughnut spare back home to Fulshear.

Jerry's role was placed in the blog earlier, but credit was due to him because of his hard work and can-do attitude.

There was no second question put to me about what Addison means to me, so to clear up the matter, I will ask myself: I would be honored by his character, for him to be my son. I would be humbled by the strength he has shown through this ordeal. Most of all, I am blessed to have known him, and shared a friendship. That is what he means to me.

So, this next March, whenever that is, Addison will be first to the gate, and out of the chute to add his name to those who Marched with Marshall. That is the type of man he is.

Picture Pages

Marchers,
It is Picture Time...
Take a walk with us and enjoy the wooded view.

Below is a link that will bring you to a series of fabulous photos that will help you reminisce and savor every ache, pain, blister and moment of our four day walk.





Special thanks again to our unofficial, officially wonderful photographer and super sister, Cathey Morrison.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Superman or just Super Trooper: Krogel

Marchers,
Mrs. Marshall wrote a great blog about her husband, Jack Marshall. I think his value was well mentioned and his talents. I will leave that as his great tribute, and not try and match pens with the fine quality of writing, Mrs. Marshall displays, not to mention the love that shines through her words.

But, I will lay fingers on the keys to mention a friend of mine, who took over the role of XO, and brought intelligence and order to our March. Jerry Krogel is one of the finest products the Army has ever produced, outside of West Point. He is really is West Point material, but the Army made him the youngest helio pilot they have ever had at 17 years of age.

He advised me to walk the whole course, but as I did not have time, I relied on the coordinates taken by someone else, and the maps from the forest service and one by Karen Somers of the Lone Star Hiking Trail. While these were good, they were not eyes on the target, and the lack recon lead to some stressed episodes while on the trial. Jerry never waviered, he took in his role, and tried to work with Jack to make sure the course was set and he could get to us in an emergency. He came prepared to help, and lead, if necessary.

After our first night in open air sleeping, Jerry put up his Taj Mah Hooch tent to give me a better sleeping arrangement, and get my back off the ground. He put almost 500 miles on his Suburban and always had a map or GPS in hand. He made sure the Support Staff was working, putting the camp together and, when a break was mandated, he had the crew there with chairs, and snacks to keep us going.

He regaled us with tales of the Army, humorous quotes, things he had learned. He knows quite a bit about everything, and is a willing learner by listening to others. Thank you Jerry for all your hard work, and joyful attitude while we took your time away form the family, and keep your sweating through the night in the Taj Mah Hooch. PS. I know I have misspelled some words in this blog Jerry, but the message is heartfelt.

Next time you can hit the trail and I can work on support, not as well as you, but with a lot better understanding of my job, thanks to you.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

A Gathering of the McStravick Clan: A Special thank you

Marchers,
There are too many people to thank for their support but I would like to try and do so, one day at a time.

Today, it is my family. My wife, Peggy, made two days of the walk and helped keep everyone going. My son Patrick, worked two of the first days, and did a fine job moving and shuttling between areas. My nephew, Robert, made forty miles of the walk on the first two days and never complained, even as his feet began to like like ground beef. But he did not quit, we just needed him to drive for the last two days, and again, he did not complain, he just jumped in the truck, smiled and took the trailer wherever Jerry told him too.

By Day Two, my sister Cathey, just up for a visit, began to hand out grapes, drinks, and became the picture taker of merit. She allowed her two daughters to go on the trek Sunday, and they made the whole distance, walking and talking. Molly never left Katie's side, as they want side by side through the forest. Cathey shows up on the Day Three with my Mother, who stays long enough to watch the day turn dark, and get bitten by a bee trying to take in our dinner. Cathey had not forgotten our needs and brought grapes, ice, and celery to our whole crew, leaving Jerry with directions for us to eat it all. Her energy was contagious and fun filled.

Day Four brought out my older brother, Peter, who brought, ice, kolaches and much needed coffee. He stayed half a day, but left me in great spirits with his presence and help.

Keep in mind, I did not ask them to help, they offered or just showed up. For their love and help, I am forever grateful.

The Race is One, Won with Marshall

Marchers and Supporters,
I cannot thank all Participants and Supports enough. Jack took us to the finish line, with enough day Marchers, that we felt like we all made it, no matter the distance; we all made a sacrifice show our support and love for Addison. Some Marched, because others did, some Marched because they like the exercise, and all Marched because they were there for Marshall, Addison Marshall.

I will write some more tonight or tomorrow and let you in on our fun, sores and laughs, but the most important thing was, Addison was there with us both in spirit and in person. He was a fine sight for five sore footed men, as we crossed the finish line on FSR 219.

Jack took in the role of leadership or the C.O., Jerry Krogel handled all the duties of the X.O., and I played the part of the older sergeant bringing up the rear. Maps, support and supplies were excellent provided for by Major Kroger, while Jack took the guidon and the forward position on the March, taking care of all the spider webs and snakes up front along the way.

The guidon was carried by all Marchers, at one time or another, through out the March, covering all 80 (just under 80 ) miles in beautiful colors. It was handed to Addison by his Dad as we hit the finish line sometime after two o'clock.

Most of the men who had sacrificed their time in support of their March. let me know, that if we did it again, they wanted to March. That helped smooth out the fact we did not have all the numbers of Marchers I had hoped for. But then again, maybe they would not have made it, and we would have had to get them back to their cars to head home in down cast, humbled spirits.

We changed our plans and let girls and women, who wanted to March, go with us, as long as their Dad, or Mom where there. Most only planned to go for one day, but my wife made two days without any problem. I think the number of miles scared people more then the act of doing it.

I will say this, if there is a next time, and I hope their is, with Addison by our side, I will be more comfortable in all-terrain tennis shoes instead of hiking boots. Those that wore sneakers, had much better feet then those of us who wore boots. The terrain was not too tough nor the water too high.

Our race is run, Addison's race is still on. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Seek to give him some of your strength, not that he needs it, but to keep him needing it. He ain't heavy, he is just Addison. God grant him strength, and let him stay here amongst us to realize his potential.

Till the race is won, we are one, We are Marshall.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Thank you Huntsville Lion's Club

Marchers,
Saddle up, we're moving out.

Today is pack up and shut up day. For those of us going, we need to be packed up, for those not going, and still are deciding, figure it out.

Jack Marshall and I had a great time in Huntsville as guest of Jason Dyches and the Huntsville Lion's Club. While my poor efforts of thanks came near the end, I made my spiel before Jack made his. My speech forgot a few necessary items, such as the March; day and distance. Jack did not.

Jack spoke as a person who had seen Addison's issues from afar. He spoke of the diagnosis, the fear and strength of Addison's mother, Val, of the Foster football team and the bracelets they sold, of meeting the football coach of Marshall University, of the strength of Addison, himself, as he dealt with this deadly issue. Then he stated his name and his familial connection. He received a standing ovation, and I willingly joined them, on my feet, hands snapping together in support of the father.

My message did not do justice to what I think of Addison, or how I see him; his father had moved the crowd of Lion's. I left the meeting with Jack's words in my ears, and wishing I had told more of my feelings, but as I dwelt on the speech, I got the message in one huge sigh which feed oxygen to my brain; this is not about me; this is about a young man named Addison, whose father spoke of his son with love and emotion. This speech came from a man, who in the early morning hours had given Addison two shots in his thighs, while Addison made plans to go work out with his friends.

So, my friends, I wish you peace this morning and happiness. I am off to do my packing and loading. The men and women who have donated their time and talents to this enterprise, need a big thank you. One is Jerry Krogel of CES fame. He has volunteered his time, to coordinate our ground support; he is our Support Chief, well trained by the U.S. Army, and as intelligent as they come. Alan McGaffin, the local troop leader who is giving of his time and talents, while others of his young charges are putting out and collecting flags this weekend. Drew Chipman, a builder, who, some how, in this poor economy, made time to drive his trailer and support the Marchers for the next three days of the March.

Hats off to the technology fairy, who made time to put forms, maps, information together and even set up the blog site so I can express myself to the five people who read this daily. Thank you.

Last but not least, thank you to Addison Marshall, who has shown me the face of strength and courage, one that I need to take with me and use on my own journey through life.

May our Lord watch over him, and protect him from the wages of this disease. May he grow as strong in body, as he is in mind. May the victory of health, come quickly for him, and allow him to play football, and enjoy his youth. And, most of all, may we one day march together, he and I, for someone else of like qualities, who needs our love and support. Amen

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

To Strive, To Seek, To Find, and Not to Yield

Marchers,
Thinking and good intention times are over. We will hit the trail in about about 35 hours. You are either with us, or not. I will miss those of you who wanted to go but could not, due to deaths in the family, sickness and injury. Those who found out last minute about the hike or had a job or family obligation, I understand that also.

For those of you not joining us for other reasons, you will be missed. But the harder thing to bear, will be that play in your mind, when you hear someone else talking about going on the hike, and how hard it was, what happened that scared them, or what happened that made them laugh, and how you would have reacted had it been you. There is something about shared discomfort, and the laughs that follow it after it is over. While we will miss your presence, you will miss this time of solidarity, and growth.

We will all drink form the same cup as Addison somewhere in our lives; the bitter dregs of why me, why do I deserve this, why does everything happen to me. This does not reflect the way Addison has dealt with this disease that has invaded his body, and is in mortal combat with the chemo. One or the other will win, but both will take a toll on Addison's health . He deals with it, not in despair, or defeat, but in the present and the now; God love him, for he is not defeated.

This March will be a reflection of Addison's fight. " We few, we happy few, we Band of Brothers", will step off at 0800 on Saturday morning, June 12th, with only a select few. We have more then enough food, we have more then enough water, we have more then enough people on Saturday and Sunday in support of the March. The doctors and nurses represent the support staff , the food and the water represent the medicine, and we few will represent Addison- with determination and guts- and will set our faces toward the goal, without resentment, or without accepting defeat; just as Addison has to do everyday he wakes up, with his body the battle field and his mind the setting the path towards victory. We are Marshall, if only for four days.

Though much is taken, much abides; and though
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are---
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. Alfred, Lord Tennyson "Ulysses"

On this march, let us not yield to the temptation of comfort, let us strive to find the strength that makes us pure in thoughts and deeds. So, as Tennyson stated in "Ulysses", and Addison demonstrates in real life, "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield", until we have finished this March for Addison, and brought everyone home safely to their Mom and Dads.

If you would care to bless this enterprise, we will accept your blessing. If you are not given to prayer, we will take your kind thoughts. If you cannot give us those, get the heck out of the way, we are Marching through. Vaya Con Dios, Mi Amigos.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Priceless, just priceless

Link to Marching with Marshall Map

Marchers,
We are four days away from the March, and we know very little about who is going. If possible, come to Wednesday's Orientation Meeting in Pitts Road Park at 6:00pm. There is nothing worse then planning for something, and when you get there you find out you cannot go because you are not prepared, or do not have the right forms.

Training has been scarce of late, but it is not the fault of the rain, but the fault of this organizer and trying to get it organized.

I am excited by the prospect of seeing some of my former players, and how much they have changed. I am excited by the challenge of the March, and look forward to seeing how the lads are doing each day on the trail.

Personal Vehicles: If you are going to drive yourself, you will need to bring money to pay for four days at Double lake Rec. Area. If you plan on camping at Double Lake, on Friday night, the reservations are up to you, as is the payment.

If your parents are going to drive you, or you are car-pooling, you will need to be picked up at FSR 219, the terminus of the March on June 15th about 1300 hours.

If you are going to come on a later date then the Step-Off date of June 12th, you may want to think about having someone drop you off, and then coming back for you on June 15th at FSR 219. There is no one around Big Woods Hunter's Camp to watch your car, and you will pay for parking at Huntsville St. Park.

Rides will be at a premium when we reach the end of the March (FSR 219). Please make arrangements in advance to get shuttled back to your car, if you are at Double Lake.

The coast of a football at Wal-Mart this summer is $16.54( Roll Back special); the cost of a physical, if you have insurance, for football will be $20 this summer; the cost of supporting Addison with your sweat soreness, and bites- Priceless!

Gary Joseph is the Katy High School football Head Coach. He was a large reason for the success they had prior to him becoming the head coach. As one of the junior high coaches for Coach Joseph, I had the opportunity to see him in action. Forgive the story teller's liberties, but this is the way I remember that day of Lazarous, as I call it.

I was late coming out of my office, and there was a darkness to the sky, which was a bit more than just twilight. As I left my office, I made my way out to my car, in the shared parking lot with the high school. Next to my car, was a round white object, which caused me to heave a sigh as I thought of one of my students leaving out another one of our sport's balls; I knew I would have to put it up.

The closer I got to the ball and my car, I noticed, there were other colors near it, but the whiteness of the ball kept me mesmerized. As I drew closer, I noticed there were parts, that were not part of my car next to my car, and the white thing moved gentle on it's own. That was when I realized it was a person, a football helmeted person. I moved quickly towards the person, now preparing to give CPR, or whatever First Aide was needed. I put down my bag, my dress clothes, and my shoes, took off my cap, and tried to make some type of communication between the two of us.

"Are you OK?, Do you need help?" These are the things I was asking, as out of a cloud of mist a man made manifest. I was surprised, and a taken back, until the man spoke.

"Hello, Coach McStravick."
"Coach Joseph, I just saw this young man here by my car, I think he is hurt, and I was preparing to start CPR."
"Watch this, Coach McStravick"
"get your @$$ up, get the *&## up, now!"

This pathetic figure- helmeted figure, that had not moved since I had seen him, jumped up and took off like a frightened rabbit, sprinting towards the lighted football field like he had seen the devil.

I could not believe it, I was stunned. It was as if I had seen Lazarus raised form the dead.
"Coach McStravick, you don't need CPR, just some encouragement."
Then this God-like figure disappeared back into the cloud of mist, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

I thought as I drove away, walking around my car first to make sure there were no more Lazarus in need of encouragement, I sure do not want to be that kid at practice tonight. Then I thought maybe I do; Coach Joseph thought enough of him, not to run him off, just encourage him.

So in case you Gents need any encouragement to come a marching, and borrowing a line or two from that saintly man, Coach Joseph, "get you @$$ up, get me those papers now, d&^^ it!"

Alright, you have been motivated. See you good people tomorrow at 6:00pm, or 1800 hours.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Foster Lads, Foster Moms: Need Some Help

Marchers,
I need you Marchers, who are reading this, to have the other ones read this and call me. We are almost out of time, and we need to coordinate rides.

I have spoke with Doug Webb, Thomas Raper, Justin Schindler, Stefan Koch, Zach Lazarine, and a few others I have called on the phone. I need you gentlemen to make some calls for me; I need you to call your friends and tell them to sign up, and read this site so they know what to bring. I cannot guess the numbers that may want to come, nor can I guess their intentions. The time has come for you young men to make the calls for me and get back with me, or have them call me so we have a close head count of who is going.

Some people have SATS/ACTS on Saturday, June 12th. These men want to go, but they will need to coordinate rides between themselves and their parents, and then meet us at Big Woods Hunter's Camp in the afternoon. This needs to be coordinated, and we need to know who is and isn't going.

Give your friends a push, then have them give us a call- ASAP!

Mothers, if you are reading to gain some understanding of what is going on, please start a phone tree, and give other Mothers a call to let them make the needed arrangements for their young man to go. Nothing could be worse then hearing the words, " I wish I had...", "If only I had taken the time to sign up...", "that sounded like fun".

My cell number is 281-857-4038, feel free to give me a call to let me know your questions or thoughts for your son. I want all these young men to have a chance to "March with Marshall", and support him during this time.

You wont find it, if you do not seek it. June 9th Wed 6:00pm

Marchers,
If you are wondering where the Orientation Meeting will be, do not worry your pretty little head about it, I have the answer. The meeting will be at Pitts Road Park, off of Pitts Road, near the Pecan Grove Subdivision. The time will be at 6:00pm, and plan on bringing you pack, gear, and registration forms for the March. Any and all people are welcome, including parents, but most importantly, we want our Marchers there to gain an understanding of what is going on, and what they need to do.

Things YOU need to buy and pack: hiking socks without cotton, a whistle- stay right there and blow if lost, a compass, a hat, long sleeve shirts, long pants- poison ivy, bugs, etc.., something for blisters- you will get blisters, something to sleep on, water shoes, and a willing, determined attitude.

Thing WE will provide: water, food, sun screen, and a plan of attack.

Things Mother-nature will provide: chiggers, ticks, mosquitoes, snakes, spiders, creeks, heat, humidity, and maybe rain.

For those that do not read this blog, you other Marchers pass the word onto them. Tell them to seek out this web site, because if they do not seek it, they will not find it, and they will not know what to bring. Some Marchers may be dropped off and left by their parents, but if the Marchers do not have their equipment or forms, they may have to wait there to be picked up again. We will be on the march, and we will not have time to wait for those that do not have their essentials items.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Orientation Meeting tomorrow at 5:00pm, Briscoe Jr. High School

Marchers,
Just off a heavy pack walk of two hours, legs a bit swollen, but not "muffin tops" yet; you know, where the calf swells over the sock rim, looking for the world like a little yeast went a long way- pretty huh?

Had a great time on the levy, as I moved along a bout a mile and a half into the stroll. This is where I encountered the cows, a gentle herd of them, not caring they may have been trespassing prisoner property, and in no hurry to move off. As I came into view, all activity stop, heads came up off the grassy deck with a sudden quickness, and all big brown eyes turned towards me. I was right where a middle child screams in his head, he wants to be: I was the center of attention. I was happily shy, almost embarrassed by this rapturous bovine attention; not wanting to take them away from their mowing duties, but enjoying this moment in the sun- literally in the sun, as I continued on my path towards the two hour mark.

How is your training going? How are getting prepared? What is your goal: to finish or not to finish, that is the question?

I had a person ask about my sexist remark, that this hike is for young men only, and not for young women. I would use this forum for that question, if only for a few moments of your time, marchers.

I believe in equal pay for equal work. I believe, that women are quite capable of making twenty miles per day, the same as all men on this March. But, I am sexist enough to believe that young men should open the door for young women though, and stand up when they are introduced, or just meeting. Also, they should watch their language, and stories around members of the opposite sex in the general public. That is my sexiest nature.

What I would like to say to any person questioning my motivates is, there are times when young men need to be mentored by older men; there are times when the attractive influence of a young females, makes it hard for a young males to concentrate. With the giddiness that comes from a young hopeful male, looking lustfully at a female marcher, in the youthful anticipation of a nocturnal rendezvous, we, the Organizers, can do without.

For the military services, they have many fine people of both sexes, who show that young men and young women can get along when they have a common purpose and goal. Our goal right now is to March with Marshall, and for the older men of this March to have an opportunity to spend time with the younger men, who do not have to prove they are the better candidate for a female's attention, then another member of the March. Their eyes are on the prize, and that is to finish the March, showing support for Addison by taking a few steps in his shoes, a few steps that can cause blisters, rashes, thirst, but give them the confidence to finish what they start; like Addison.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Orientation Meeting 5:00 pm at Briscoe Jr. High- Spread the Word

Marchers,
The OM will be held in the cafeteria of Briscoe Jr. High School, at five o'clock this Saturday. Please plan on attending, and bringing your pack and equipment, as we will be going over packing, and procedures for the trail. Tell other Marchers who might not have access to the internet, or this blogsite.

Paper work is due. Please bring that with you also. This includes: Registration, and Wavier. If under 18 yrs. of age, please have a parent sign it before you turn it in to Mr. Marshall, or Coach Mac.

Sun is down, nice time to get some training in, at least, for the legs. Get marching!

Walk awhile with me

" Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong."
1 Corinthians 16:13

Marchers,
"Be on your guard" means to prepare; "stand firm" means to stay committed to the cause; "be men of courage" means to be ready for things not to go your way; and "be strong", means to finish what you have started.

This statement is great advise for all of us, but as it pertains to the March, that is how I am looking at it. This includes getting in your paperwork; making the Orientation Meeting; knowing how to get to the Step-off area on time, and making sure you have a ride back to your vehicle once the course has been completed.

As far as the physcial conditioning, we are only as strong as our weakest Marcher; we can only move as fast as our slowest man. Take some time to get use to the heat, and take a few hours out of your summer to go for a hike. Unless your body is use to the heat, the adjustment will be a slow one, once on the trial. If you are reading this in the coolness of your house, with the AC blasting, and you are going to return to playing video games, you are putting yourself at risk to suffer a bit on this March. You are not on "Your guard", you are not preparing yourself for this hike.

Walking Staff: plan on brining a walking staff or walking stick to help you on the March. Also, we will plan on placing a heated brand on your walking staff for each leg of the journey you complete. This staff/stick is not just looks, but for assitance as you walk. It is very helpful, both for walking balance and keeping brush or animals away from the Marcher.

Compass: Buy, borrow or seek one, but get one. Plan on using it.

I also want to thank those young men who are making the choice to go with us. It takes some guts to do this for fun, but it is not just for fun for me. I am Marching with Addison. For those men I have coached in the past; I would March for you also.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Important Information! Make Time to Read!

Marchers,
Here are some links to some very important information. Please read if you are planning on assisting or hiking with us.

Parents, or Drivers for marchers, please read the Directions to the Rest Points, so that you are familiar with how to get to the Rest Area you are to meet us at.








Also, if you haven't filled out your Registration Form or Medical Waiver, please do so and bring with you to the June 5th orientation meeting.

It's in Black and White!

A special thank you to Don Munsch for doing a great write up in the Fort Bend Herald helping us spread the good word about our hike.

For those of you going with us, take a moment to pass this Word on to someone you think would like to "Take a Hike!"

Click on the link below to read Don's article, then share it with others.



http://www.fbherald.com/articles/2010/06/02/news/doc4c0698499d4be492624075.txt

Orientation Meeting: Briscoe Jr. High Saturday, June 5th.

Marchers,
Two days ago, I hit the road with a light pack, and shuffled/walked two hours. Pretty confident in my ability and fitness until a woman, about my age, who I had seen about a mile back, calmly passed me with a smile a I shuffled down the dusty trail. That was when I decided I needed a break, and took off the pack, sat down, and had a nice long drink.

I followed that up with an hour walk, with a heavy weight pack. It is becoming more and more obvious to me, that street walking- not the kind to earn money- is hard on the feet. Take to the byways, bayous and dirt roads to give your "dogs" a break.

Yesterdays training was less intense, but still as frustrating for a competitive male. I practice the weight training with heavy step ups, and plate squats. Then, I hit the dirt trail for an hour jog- more of the shuffling gait- only to be passed twice by the same runner, who kept smiling and nodding, as if to encourage and sympathize with the snail paced path pounder he kept passing.
This was followed by a bike ride at a medium speed to return DVD's I had rented, and get the blood flowing in and out of the quad muscles.

What does your training look like? Let me know by using the "comment" button below and telling me how it is going.

School should be out for most of you young men, therefore, maybe, you have a bit more time to think and reflect on life. While you are doing this, congratulating yourself on your good looking health, take a moment to send a prayer upwards for Addison. A short breathe prayer, such as, "God, watch over Addison today", is a great way to start or end the day.

******Plan on attending the Orientation Meeting at five o'clock at Brisoce Jr. High School, 4300 FM 723, next door to Foster High School. Bring your pack, items you wish to pack, compass and questions for us to answer. We will plan on a stroll in the late day heat, to see how the pack fits you, and how to work your straps.

Also, bring your registration papers and waivers on Saturday to Briscoe Jr. High. I would like to get a head count.

Always train with the goal in mind; get as close to the actual skill/exercise as you can; stay hydrated in this heat.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

A Man's Love

Marchers,
" For God did not give us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." 2Tim. 1:7

How do we as Men define love? What is love and how do we seek it out?

There is romantic love, that of the spirit; then there is physical love, that of the lustful nature.

But there is also a physical love between men that is not one of intimacy or delicacy. It is almost a bond of brotherhood, shared between men. Maybe you have seen it at a sporting event, when your team has won a great victory, and hugs are not an uncommon sight among the victors; or perhaps is was in the sorrow of a loss, that a hug was made manifest between men, young or old, it does not matter.

We, as men, are not defined by the triumph or defeat that has been suffered; no, we are defined by the work, the commitment, and energy we have placed before the contest. We measure each other by that commitment, we share equally in the loss, or victory, and express our respect for one another in that moment of emotion. This is our love for one another.

When we see our son's triumph, we feel the release of moisture behind our eye, not out of some since of intimacy from the close connection of gestation periods, or the natural method of feeding our young, but out of a sense of completion, a sense of respect for our son, who will now share equally in our world. He has been measured by others in his tribe, his group, his team and found worthy of respect, of love due to his commitment and willingness to sacrifice for the goal, for the good of others.

"We few, we happy few, we Band of Brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother". St Crispen's day Speech

Let us share, for just a few days, the hardship of our brother, Addison. Let us unite in this goal, and let our feet support him and hold him up, during this time. Let the power of our faith, the love of Addison, and the strength of our discipline take us to the finish line that stands before us.

To do this, one must have a commitment to train and a commitment to finish; this is how you will earn respect, this is how you can show love.