Festivities

This was a busy day. Considering it’s the last weekend before four consecutive weekends of tennis officiating, I prepared for the busy period (like laundry). The UMTR fest and a CD release party were mixed into the day. One was great, and one was disappointing.

The UMTR fest was fun. There was great food, great people, and great weather. It was a nice festivity with some surprises. It wasn’t surprising that Helen Lavin won several awards. Her success inspired me. The best part was the recognition of Wayne Nelson. He won an award, I think it was the Larry Pederson’s Founder’s Award/ UMTR Trail Person of the Year award. Steve Quick informed me it was the Steward of the Year award. He received a unique award at the UMTR Awards Night. These awards are made from the heart, unlike professional awards. They have a story and are unique. Wayne Nelson is humble and deserves this award.

Daryl Saari was the inaugural recipient of the Gnarly Bandit Award. This year, he achieved five consecutive 100-mile finishes, along with numerous other notable accomplishments. During races, he was often seen at aid stations, where he and his wife provided unwavering support to athletes across the sport. I had the privilege of working at an aid station with them once, and their contributions significantly enhanced the quality of the station. I believe they would be equally formidable running partners if my speed were comparable to theirs.

Numerous deserving individuals were recognized in this year’s celebration, making it a memorable end-of-year event. If you missed the event this or last year, I highly recommend attending in the future. The UMTR’s dedication is commendable, and membership is a relatively inexpensive investment of $20.

After the UMTR fest, I went to Bunkers for a CD release party for Pamela McNeil. I was super excited because her first three CDs got better and better, and Nightingale is one of my all-time favorites (right up there with Springsteen). I was really looking forward to the new one. But guess what? It was a total letdown. Instead of the awesome lyrics and music combo I’ve come to love, it was more like a home-grown jam session in my living room with a keyboard while I sulked in bed and wrote lyrics on a CD. I compared it to the movie Music and Lyrics, but this time, it lost Drew Barrymore, and something was missing.

On the bright side, the night was still a blast. She performed a bunch of her old songs with her incredible voice. And if you’re into old rockers like me, her husband is Dugan McNeill (remember Chameleon from the 80s?). He was one of the first unsigned original bands to make and sell their own albums. They even sold out the Rolling Stones' tickets one week, which were featured in “Rolling Stone” magazine. He plays bass, and he can make any concert awesome. To me, he’s in a league of his own, working hard on stage and being a top bass player in the world!

Now, let’s talk about the award fest. Some of the food and conversations there made me think. One thing that caught my attention was homemade energy bars and juicing. I spent an hour searching the web this morning and found a recipe I’m going to try. I’m not sure if it will be a game-changer, but it sounds promising!

Big Sur Power Bar Recipe

If you can't find the crisp brown rice cereal, no worries—just use regular rice cereal, such as Rice Crispies. Stay clear of "puffed" rice cereal, as it will throw the recipe off. Feel free to substitute other types of nuts, seeds, or whatever little goodies you can dream up. 

1 tablespoon coconut oil (or regular butter)

1 cup pecans, chopped

1 cup slivered almonds

2/3 cup (unsweetened) shredded coconut

1 1/4 cups rolled oats

1 1/2 cups unsweetened crisp brown rice cereal

1 cup brown rice syrup1/4 cup natural cane sugar

1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt

2 tablespoons ground espresso beans

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a baking pan with the coconut oil. If you like thick power bars, opt for an 8 by 8-inch pan; for thinner bars, use a 9 by 13-inch pan.

Toast the pecans, almonds, and coconut on a rimmed baking sheet for about 7 minutes or until the coconut is deeply golden. Toss once or twice along the way. Mix the oats, toasted nuts, coconut, and cereal in a large bowl and set aside.

Combine the rice syrup, sugar, salt, espresso, and vanilla in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as it comes to a boil and thickens for about 4 minutes. Pour the syrup over the oat mixture and stir until it is evenly incorporated. 

Spread into the prepared pan and cool to room temperature before cutting into whatever size bars you desire.

If I cannot run a race early next year, I may be domestic and try some ideas to test out on the runners at an aid station. Best test group in the world.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

SteveQ - The official name of Wayne's award is: The Larry Pederson's Founder's Award/ UMTR Trail Person of the Year. Not surprised you couldn't remember it! Good to see you there. The night has me thinking forward to next year.   Sunday, November 15, 2009 at 12:55:52 PM CST

Wayne  - Thanks, Londell. I was wondering why I didn't talk with you at the end, but you must've boggied out of there for the other party. Which means 

you probably missed one of the best parts of the night - I got my picture taken with the Runner of the Year! :) Get walking so we can see you on the 

trails in 2010!  Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 8:29:28 AM CST

Been a while now random thoughts.

Currently, I have been engaged in various endeavors. Given the current job market, with a significant number of individuals unemployed and my position being relatively stable, I was fortunate to have recently participated in a job interview in another state. This opportunity arose unexpectedly when I dropped my son off at school and encountered an old acquaintance who informed me about a position that would represent a substantial advancement from my current role. While I am content with my current position, I acknowledge the growth potential and am exploring new opportunities.

Today, I came across a post by Steve Quick, who expressed dissatisfaction with lamps. While the subject matter may seem trivial, it serves as a poignant reflection on the societal values that have evolved over time. (Steve’s insights often prompt thoughtful contemplation, which is commendable.)

His post prompted me to reflect on my own career trajectory. Remarkably, this is the most extended period I have dedicated to a single job, spanning 14 years. Throughout my 35-year career, I have held over 12 jobs. Consequently, I am considering a transition to a new role, which will diverge from the traditional pattern of employment stability. 

In addition to the disposable nature of material goods, we have also witnessed a shift towards a transient society. This transformation raises concerns about the erosion of long-term relationships and the lack of commitment to personal growth and development.

I often read websites about this issue. Patrick Deneen’s blog, What I Saw in America, and his Front Porch Republic site are thought-provoking. However, Margaret and Helen offer a different perspective.

The absence of employee dedication is another concern. Companies no longer exhibit loyalty towards their employees; individuals are regarded as commodities reliant on stock performance. Is this accurate? I am uncertain about this notion. It is merely a recent thought that has occurred to me.

I discovered a diet and exercise software application called Nutrition, which I find more satisfactory than FitDay. It meticulously records food intake and provides comprehensive nutrition analysis. The software is web-based and offers an iPhone application that functions exceptionally well. I can conveniently add food items immediately after consuming them, rather than recording them later. This feature enhances convenience.

I had scheduled an appointment with my doctor yesterday to address my knee issue, but an out-of-state interview postponed it. Fortunately, all examinations have concluded without any significant findings. My symptoms have improved, but I intend to engage in short running sessions to minimize knee strain. This may prove beneficial as the onset of winter and the reduction in daylight hours approach.

The UMTR festival will be held this Saturday. While I eagerly anticipate attending, I have a prior commitment to witness a local artist’s CD release party at Bunkers. I will depart at 8 p.m., thereby missing several awards and presentations. Despite this, I am confident that the Ultra attendees will provide an enjoyable and lively atmosphere.

I extend my best wishes to all. This weekend marks the final free period before four consecutive weekends of tennis, two weekends of respite, and subsequently five weekends of tennis to commence the new year. While I had intended to reduce my commitments, the cost of tuition has necessitated a temporary adjustment.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to those who have sacrificed their lives and to their loved ones who endure after a soldier’s loss. I visited Fort Snelling Cemetery and took photographs. One particular image resonated with me, and I have shared it here. I could have easily spent the entire day exploring the cemetery. It is far larger than I initially perceived and holds a wealth of historical significance.

This post should be shorter. If you read this far, I must add a story. After leaving the cemetery where many lives were cut short, I thought of and read a favorite story. It’s about cherishing things, but forgetting that time with friends and loved ones is the most precious. The story goes:

It had been some time since Jack had seen the old man. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way. In fact, Jack moved across the country in pursuit of his dreams. In the rush of his busy life, Jack had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with his wife and son. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.

Over the phone, his mother told him, "Mr. Belser died last night. The funeral is Wednesday.”

Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days.

"Jack, did you hear me?”

"Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him. I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.

"Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him, he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over 'his side of the fence,' as he put it," Mom told him.

"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.

"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr. Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said.

"He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important... Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.

As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Belser's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.

The night before he was going to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door again.

Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time.

The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture... Jack stopped suddenly.

"What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked.

"The box is gone," he said.

"What box?" Mom asked.

”There was a small gold box he kept locked on his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.

It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it.

"Now, I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom.”

It had been about two weeks since Mr. Belser died. Returning home from work one day, Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.

Early the next day, Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention.

"Mr. Harold Belser," it read.

Jack took the box out of his car and ripped open the package. Inside were the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.

"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. Inside, he found a beautiful gold pocket watch.

He unlatched the cover by running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing. Inside, he found these words engraved:

"Jack, Thanks for your time! - Harold Belser.”

"The thing he valued most was my time.”

Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant, asked.

"I need some time to spend with my son," he said. "Oh, by the way, Janet... thanks for your time!"

That is the story! We all could learn from that lesson. We are so tied up in a profession, we forget to cherish the one thing we can never control. Time!

Thanks much for your time, my friends. Carry on.

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Diane

What a sweet story!  Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 10:49:11 PM CST

Carl Gammon

Thank you for the story, Londell!  Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 7:55:33 AM CST

Mike W.

As you know I love random thought posts. Nice post and great story to cap it off.  Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 6:37:09 PM CST

SteveQ

Wow, great story.  From an earlier part of the post - my father worked for 3M from the age of 16 (he lied about his age) until 65, when they had mandatory retirement. They were a cradle-to-grave company until about a decade ago, when the stockholders wanted bigger profits, got a CEO who fired everyone, gutted research, closed American factories... and I sold my stock.  Thursday, November 12, 2009 at 10:30:53 AM CST

Surf the Murph aid station report

I had a blast at the horse aid station despite not running Surf the Murph due to the excellent weather course. Twelve hours flew by as I watched many friends complete their goals.

The day started off rough when Les had issues with the trailer, delaying the arrival of supplies until after 7 a.m. Duke had reached the station before we even started unloading equipment, but luckily, the support crews were there. This proved that even the best planning can be disrupted.

Subsequently, another unexpected occurrence arose. As the influenza pandemic spread, my two aid station volunteers were unable to attend. Initially, there were three of us assigned to this location, which comprises two stops for the runners. Several participants were at the second (50K) or third loop (50 miles) at the first aid station when I informed them that I would see them again, which caused them to become alarmed. They were unaware that the other side of the tree was the station they had previously visited. The expression on their faces was priceless, but I was unable to capture it with a photograph. The two volunteers who were unable to make it later that day (husband and wife) appeared visibly exhausted. I commended her unwavering dedication, but the station was experiencing a slowdown, and I advised them to take a rest. I sincerely hope that she recovers swiftly.

Kurt Neuburger and Caitlin were a gift from God. Kurt, a veteran aid station expert, couldn’t run due to surgery, but Caitlin did the last four miles with Carrie. It was rewarding for both. 

Kurt started a fire that we kept going all day. It was welcome early in the cool hours and later as the sun set. I’m not a Boy Scout, but he used Vaseline to start it.

Mary Knutson, the workhorse, helped me at the aid station. She had stomach pain and was paralyzed for over an hour, but she worked through it. I appreciated her company.

Cindy delivered a large pizza mid-day. Some runners loved the idea of pizza at the aid station. I may not have survived it, but they finished strong.

The costumes were fantastic. I missed the outhouse, but I included a few below.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

 

Mike W.

I enjoyed the pictures. Thanks for the support and for volunteering. It was a fun day (don't worry, my post will be up soon :-).  

Sunday, November 1, 2009 at 7:00:53 PM CST

wildknits

Londell, it's good to finally meet! Thanks for being out there - aid station volunteers (all race volunteers) are the best!!  Has been a hectic day (drive back to Duluth, another race, and two potlucks), so I will get to the race report soon!  Sunday, November 1, 2009 at 10:34:09 PM CST

Wayne

Thanks for all you did, Londell! It was great to see you each time through. The pictures are great to see (especially since we didn't get to see many of the runners from the other races), and you went the extra mile helping me multiple times with my gel. You and all the other volunteers were great! (And I have no idea when I'll get to my race report.) :). Sunday, November 1, 2009 at 11:13:07 PM CST

Kel

Thanks for being out there for us ALL DAY LONG! It was great to see a friendly face at every aid station and to have someone cheering us on.  Race report coming soon!  Monday, November 2, 2009 at 8:03:49 AM CST

Beth

I enjoyed all of the pictures and reading about your day. Having never done an ultra or a trail race, it's fun to read about running but have it be new and different. I'm sure you were very much appreciated out there!  Monday, November 2, 2009 at 6:07:50 PM CST

Anonymous

Hi Londell- I am the sick wife, and I feel much better- thank you! I'm sorry I missed out- I would have loved to have seen all these runners do what they do best.  Michelle.  Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 1:19:22 PM CST

Anonymous

Great pics! Thanks for the support and grub out there! We couldn't do it without the help.   The "Port-a-Potty on the run" appreciates you being out there freezing when you could have been inside and warm! ;-). Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 7:52:04 PM CST

Karen G

Thanks so much for all you did. It was so good to see you out there. If you see Mary thank her for me again for giving me the sweatshirt off her back!! It would have been a miserable cold loop for me without that.  Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 9:08:40 AM CST