tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55333972011-08-01T15:50:51.111-04:00<i>He's the idealist, he's the dreamer of a beautiful dream, and even if the dream doesn't come true it's rather thrilling to have dreamt it.</i> <br> <br> <i>To find that the utmost reward of daring should be still to dare</i> - Robert Frost <br> <br> <i>You can't give up hope just because it's hopeless! You gotta hope even more and cover your ears and go 'blah, blah, blah, blah'.</i> - Philip J. Fry <br> <br> Write to brianlee9k at yahoo dot comBriannoreply@blogger.comBlogger4471100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-4003876201763430372010-07-04T08:28:00.003-04:002010-07-04T08:34:02.931-04:00

I noticed my legs were slightly sore from yesterday's run. The weight room was in its normal disarray from the previous day's meatheads. Despite the soreness and 15 minutes racking up weights, I managed to do the following for this morning's workout:Chinup (40 lb)Dumbbell Bench Press (65 lb)Front Squatt (120 lb)Dips (40 lb)I'm beginning to noticed that it's getting easier to do the chinups

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-69878400015386039372010-07-03T11:34:00.002-04:002010-07-04T08:38:18.211-04:00

This morning, I managed to do my 13.6 mile route to Old Town via Custis Trail East and Mt. Vernon Trail. By the time I reached the Mt. Vernon Trail, I noticed a fair number of running groups out and crowding trail. In righteous indignation, I picked up the pace to pass a fair number of runners. At point where one can take Four Mile Run or Mt. Vernon Trail, I followed one runner who broke off

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-78150854442809203392010-06-20T13:59:00.000-04:002010-06-20T14:19:41.792-04:00

After waking an hour later than planned, I managed to do the following for this morning's workout:Chinup (40 lb)Dumbbell Bench Press (65 lb)Front Squatt (120 lb)Dips (40 lb)After finishing the above, I did supersets of chest presses and rows using the Hammer Strength machines. For the bench press sets, I used the following scheme:Set #1 - 1 rep of 160 lbSet #2 - 10 reps of 150 lbSet #3 - 1

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-63708969054759307992010-06-15T14:22:00.000-04:002010-06-20T14:27:07.641-04:00

Today's workout was a mostly biceps and back exercises. The first portion consisted of the following biceps exercises:Dumbbell Hammer Curl (25, 35, 40, 45, 50 Ibs)Dumbbell Curl (2 sets of 30 Ib)Reverse Curl (2 sets of 20 Ib)The second portion consisted of the following back exercises:Bentover Row (110, 130, 170, 180, 190 Ibs)Reverse Grip Bentover Row (2 sets of 140 Ib)Wide Grip Bentover Row (2

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-82066675661608023672010-06-14T20:06:00.002-04:002010-06-20T14:21:05.177-04:00

I didn't get a chance to do anything in the morning. The following exercises comprise one circuit from the afternoon workout:Goblet Squat (40 Ib)Mountain ClimberSingle arm dumbbell swing (30 Ib)T-pushup (10 Ib)Snatch (40 Ib)Dumbbell Row (30 Ib)Dumbbell Side Lunge (10 Ib)Renegade Row (25 Ib)Dumbbell Lunge and Twist (25 Ib)Dumbbell Push Press (30 Ib)I did each exercise for 1 minute of work and

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-89265696488781155232010-06-13T08:33:00.002-04:002010-06-13T08:46:32.195-04:00

It's been a long time posting or something like that.Since the last post, I have been using the RunWell tool from the New York Times to keep track of my runs. Week 5 was a bit a rough because of final exams and projects. Yesterday, I managed to run my Custis Trail East to Mt. Vernon Trail to the corner of King Street under 2 hours. At this point, the 'formal' portion of the marathon training

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-84715998728296250012010-01-27T07:50:00.003-05:002010-01-27T07:56:44.022-05:00

The past couple of weeks have been intense. I've been going to lab to complete a modeling project that's now behind schedule. Although I haven't been posting, I've been keeping with my workouts. Because I have to go to the lab in the morning, I've been rising at 5 AM to get to the gym. This morning's workout was doing as many sets in 10 minutes of the following:Deadlift at 175 lb (5 reps)Push

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-41109382027309638452010-01-05T16:03:00.001-05:002010-01-27T07:58:05.210-05:00

Today's workout included superset between bench press to lower chest and bicep curls. After three warm-up sets, I progressively increased weight for both exercises alternating number of reps between sets (moderate loads with 5 reps, heavier loads with 1 rep). I finished off with five sets of bench press (at 145 lb) and pull-ups to failure.For today's run, I did 5 miles in about 42 minutes, 5

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-38070290268248635372010-01-04T10:42:00.002-05:002010-01-04T10:58:12.616-05:00

First workout of 2010 consisted of following circuit for 5 sets of 6 reps:Chinup (40 lb)Dumbbell Bench Press (65 lb)Front Squatt (120 lb)Dips (35 lb)After the circuit, I banged out 4 sets of back extensions and rows (140 lb). I finished off the gym trip with 3.5 mile run (32 minutes) on the treadmill. I set the treadmill to increase the incline throughout the run. Towards the end of the run,

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1702000063880989762009-11-08T22:47:00.003-05:002010-01-27T07:58:32.564-05:00

There hasn't been too much time to post since school started. I've started running again and it feels good. I've also continued to progress with my deadlifts - I'm up to 260 Ib now. In addition, I've also been using the Smith Machine for bench presses. About three months ago, I could barely do 140 Ib on the Smith Machine. Now, I'm able to do about 160 Ib.I will try to post more often.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-33387531748200334292009-08-03T22:50:00.003-04:002010-01-27T07:58:46.614-05:00

This morning's workout was like last week's workout of presses and rows but I added slightly more weight:First superset was incline bench press and wide grip bentover rows for a total of 5 sets. Warmed up with 110# and 120#, worked with 150#.Second superset was regular bentover rows and bench press for 2 sets of 10 reps at 125#Third superset was decline press with dumbbells and dumbbell bentover

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-22525269745366015862009-08-03T22:39:00.002-04:002009-08-03T22:47:07.464-04:00

Friday night was a re-enactment of bygone high school days. I met up with Cornett for dinner and we later caught up with KM. KM played the chauffeur and we drove around looking for something to do. It turned out all we could find to do was get ice cream and hang out in the main promenade of the Kingstowne development. I didn't get home in time to do the day's exercises.Saturday was like

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-25520506068215206322009-07-29T23:00:00.002-04:002009-07-30T16:02:31.313-04:00

Tonight was just calisthenics and jumping rope. After the main course, I did some 4 rounds of the following for time:12 burpees24 push-ups36 Squats100 elbows/jabsI did the 4 rounds in about 9 min, 47 sec. For the first 2 sets, I did jabs which would have been better if I was hitting something. Elbows seem easier for these intervals. By elbows, I was in a square stance and pivoted as if I was

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-41752195017219514832009-07-28T22:05:00.002-04:002009-07-28T22:15:04.856-04:00

I attended the United Health Foundation's reception celebrating its many scholars. It was good to meet a lot of the APIASF-UHF scholars. There was pretty good grub, a chance to see the new Capitol Visitor's Center, and inspiring the students. Though he's done and will be doing great things, I felt the APIA scholar who spoke lacked emotional content in his speech. This evening's exercises was

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-36647106831189024022009-07-28T10:59:00.003-04:002009-07-28T11:25:32.237-04:00

Since I've joined Twitter and Facebook, it seems silly to even post blogs. Well, here we are!This morning's workout consisted of alternating sets of bench presses and bentover rows. Here's the breakdown:First superset was incline bench press and wide grip bentover rows for a total of 5 sets. Warmed up with 110# and 120#, worked with 140#.Second superset was regular bentover rows and bench

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-62431126253789270582008-07-04T14:09:00.005-04:002008-07-04T14:18:36.715-04:00

Yesterday, I ran for 45 minutes (approximately 5 miles) along the Custis Trail going east.After getting up late this morning, I managed to deadlift 190 lbs for 4 reps. As a way to visualize this feat, this is the equivalent of me picking up my father if he were laying on the floor and sprouted suitcase handles for easier gripping.Today's workout was 6 sets of deadlift and alternating with a set

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-53589106673281453212008-06-30T21:16:00.003-04:002008-06-30T21:21:40.652-04:00

Tonight, I ran 6 miles in about 49 minutes. This morning was an assortment of light squats, weighted pullups, and weighted dips.In August, I'm running in the Mother of All Relays. It's going to be epic. I hope that I don't crap my pants. I hear that losing control of one's bodily functions can really kill the group atmosphere. It's convenient that the training for the HTC fits in nicely with my

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-3587740204172056572008-02-17T21:13:00.002-05:002008-02-19T20:27:43.849-05:00

The 10-miler training isn't turning out the way I had planned. In fact, the whole general training hasn't been going as well. I have always maintained a minimum level of conditioning. Unfortunately, that level has been slowly lowering recently. The Gripped by Grace Sunday school class was a success. Although a lot of the people who came were already familiar with Wesleyan theology, there was

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-37413595166068651942008-01-15T13:08:00.001-05:002008-01-15T13:12:57.483-05:00

Yesterday, I started running for the first time since the marathon. In December or so, C signed us up to run in the Cherry Blossom 10-miler. For this race, I decided that I will actually train for it. I ran 4 miles in 37 minutes last night. After the run, I realized it really has been a while.

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-18287485932548867742008-01-01T00:54:00.000-05:002008-01-01T00:55:00.518-05:00

Hello

Briannoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-83854968020949018062007-12-30T21:10:00.000-05:002007-12-30T21:14:47.541-05:00

The Big Apple is big. In some places, it smells like somebody forgot to flush the toilet.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-62380744187037349552007-12-17T13:29:00.002-05:002008-07-01T11:35:09.570-04:00

I do not drink.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-84042324701927874352007-12-17T13:11:00.001-05:002007-12-17T13:25:22.504-05:00

Saturday was the company's casino-themed holiday party at the Ritz Carlton. Talk about fancy, shamncy. Right before the meal started, a waiter came out to unfold the napkin and put on my lap. This year, I didn't win airplane tickets to the Caribbean. Instead, I won a $50 gift card to Regal Theatres. Because of the my extraordinary luck, the holiday party committee made the Caribbean tickets

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-33218063473591552522007-12-06T07:15:00.000-05:002007-12-06T07:27:01.156-05:00

Let's call November a "lazy month."Next year, I vow to run the Marine Corps Marathon again and run it in no more than 3 hours 40 minutes. Until then, I'm getting back to trying to deadlift twice my bodyweight and to be able to hold a full planche for 30 seconds. By next May, inspired by Fighting Irish, I'm also hoping to be conditioned enough to pass the physical fitness test for combat resuce

Briannoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-21739719191377743422007-11-03T23:54:00.000-04:002007-11-03T23:55:28.497-04:00

This isn't going to end well, is it?

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-79887095185246360152007-10-29T15:49:00.001-04:002007-10-29T15:53:16.852-04:00

Somebody in the DC office might be going to Haiti to open a new office in the next year or so. Now that things have become relatively calm, lots of work is starting to come into the country. All I need now is to become competent in French.

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-10946580238955897462007-10-28T20:27:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:34:50.617-05:00

For your viewing pleasure, my splits from the 32nd Annual Marine Corps Marathon. Oorah!SplitTimePacePredicted Finish5 miles0:40:09 0:08:013:30:1010 miles1:18:310:07:40-13.1 miles (Half marathon)1:44:270:08:213:28:5215 miles2:01:370:09:023:32:2119 miles2:31:490:10:04-22 miles3:20:300:12:103:58:35Finish4:11:580:12:15-As you can see, things fell apart at about Mile 18. My right knee started locking

Briannoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-73453596901358802432007-10-27T22:00:00.000-04:002007-11-04T00:00:19.157-04:00

I'm psyched. I have my clothes laid out and food prepared for tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, I won't be sporting the aviator's cap as I had originally planned.It's going to be awesome!

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-67664642273048973782007-10-25T06:08:00.000-04:002007-11-04T00:00:34.633-04:00

So, Sunday is the Marine Corps Marathon. For those of you who aren't in the area, you can actually track my progress via text messages on your cell phone and/or by e-mail. Follow the instructions on this website. Fortunately, there's only one Brian Lee (of Arlington, Va) running in this marathon. There can only be one! It'll be the closest thing I'll ever get to being like a tagged wild

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-3471461035377119642007-10-22T11:10:00.000-04:002007-11-04T00:02:11.462-04:00

For the first time ever, there's been a lot of comments concerning the State of My Hearing. It even sparked a PSA by hokiepundit. Let me assure you that the State of My Hearing is good and no one should think that I will be a member of the hard-of-hearing crowd.The tone (ringing or whatever it is) in my left ear is starting to dull a lot. Perhaps the damage wasn't as extensive as I had

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-18683026224456731622007-10-21T22:59:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:34:09.250-05:00

Yesterday, C and I took a little drive down to the Green Valley Book Fair. After a late start in the morning, we managed to arrive to the book fair after lunch at the Hi Neighbor Country Restaurant. Just for your information, I had the grilled corned beef hash with country potatoes, scrambled eggs, and biscuits.C and I were a little disappointed at what was left at the book fair. However, we

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-59509131493064320472007-10-20T09:12:00.000-04:002007-11-04T00:01:43.212-04:00

There's been a lot of comments about the results of last Saturday.On Wednesday, I went to get an audiogram and here's what I learned:Both of my eardrums are intact and functioning.According to the audiogram of my left ear, I may now have difficulty hearing sounds in the middle frequencies at lower intensity. (Here's an explanation of an audiogram. My looks like smile)The ringing in my left ear

Briannoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-51184842208318885842007-10-14T14:45:00.000-04:002007-11-04T00:01:57.853-04:00

I think I might have caused some permanent damage to hearing in my left ear as a result of my time at the range. Now I say I think because I also think that hearing in my left ear is slowly returning back to normal. I don't know for sure. The evidence I have of the damage is that when I listen to my cell phone with left ear, it sounds like everyone is on helium. Also, there's also the

Briannoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-33814741539042237102007-10-13T17:34:00.000-04:002007-10-14T14:45:06.932-04:00

You know what's better than a gorgeous autumn day? Tagging along with two tall dudes to the NRA Range for target shooting on a gorgeous autumn day. Arby was home for the weekend and I haven't seen Mauser in awhile, so today was also a good day of catching up. Because Arby and Mauser are proud gun owners and I've never fired a pistol, this was a good opportunity to show ol' Brian Lee how to

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-74895689448497774562007-10-12T18:30:00.000-04:002007-10-12T19:02:46.198-04:00

It's been a while since anything running related has been mentioned. Don't worry, I'm still running. After all, the marathon is only 12 days away.This week, it's just been 5 mile runs. After last night's run, I had some fun with the rowing machine and did the following:Row 1000 meters (3:53)50 Thrusters at 25 lb (1:45)Row 500 meters (1:55)25 Thrusters at 25 lb (1:06)Row 250 meters (0:59)15

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-31556946573759747332007-10-11T15:51:00.000-04:002007-10-11T15:52:45.495-04:00

Awesome.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-76279264330305282432007-10-09T23:26:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:33:52.008-05:00

I don't know, McClellan. I'm going to have to agree with Grant on this one.This past weekend, C and I went to visit her grandmother and aunt in Springfield, IL. It was good to see Greentree and to learn more about C's grandfather and uncle. As you can tell from the above photo, I also had many exciting conversations with wax generals about total war and tactics.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-42439766876361725122007-10-02T13:48:00.000-04:002007-10-02T13:51:21.946-04:00

Yesterday, there was no running. All I did was:5 pull-ups10 push-ups15 SquatsThe goal was to do all of the above every minute for 30 minutes. I was going pretty strong until minute 15 when I started falling behind the clock.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-21605276122767426312007-10-01T19:08:00.000-04:002007-10-02T13:48:19.862-04:00

No running this past weekend.On Saturday, I finally bought new shoes at the metro run & walk who helped me was one Alyssa Aiken - an up and coming track in Falls Church. I was lucky that the store still last year's model of Nike Pegasus which came with a 20% discount. The helpful storeperson, Alyssa Aiken, is athlete whose main event is the 400 meter hurdles. She doesn't have sponsorship yet,

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-91222047342551549042007-09-27T16:35:00.000-04:002007-09-27T19:12:18.044-04:00

Yesterday morning, I woke up to do:100 pull-ups (8:28)100 push-ups (2:44)100 sit-ups (2:19)100 Squats (2:36)It felt all right. After the marathon is over, I think I'm going to learn kipping pull-ups.Again, there was no running last night. Instead, I went to church for the enivronmental group meeting to hear about the Cheaspeake Bay Program. Walking home, I decided that I will no longer

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-29303944418499867552007-09-26T12:28:00.000-04:002007-09-26T16:32:05.880-04:00

Oh, the campaign goes badly.On Monday morning, the plan was to do the following in 12 sets with the first set at 12 reps of each and the last set at 1 rep of each:Deadlift at 160 pounds (bodyweight)Pull-up with 25 pound dumbbellPush-up to row with 20 pound dumbbells (this time, I did reps per side)I did the whole thing in 49:01. I ended up doing the last three sets (3-2-1) as one set of 6. After

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-40427745940572000802007-09-23T16:35:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:34:29.328-05:00

I did a long run on Saturday. I did it in 3 hours and 59 minutes. From the apartment, I ran to Ballston to get on the Custis Trail. From there, I ran east until I hit the Mt. Vernon Trail. Then, it was the standard run to Mt. Vernon. Shamefully, I walked a bit for this run. It didn't help that I woke up late, it was humid, and it felt like an uphill climb for most of the run.I was about to give

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1075238691632479582007-09-22T15:44:00.001-04:002007-09-22T23:03:40.738-04:00

...hired a powerful attorney and is currently suing me for an injunction to cease all running activities and compensation for all damages to it and its comrades.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-57065142853233648312007-09-21T08:33:00.000-04:002007-09-21T08:52:49.008-04:00

Last night, I managed only 6 miles in about 45 minutes. Not good. Not good at all. I didn't really feel motivated to run more.After the run, I did the usual calisthenics. Two rounds of the following:Push-up (30x)Dirty Dogs (30x)Crunches (30x)Hindu push-ups (15X)Donkey kicks (30x)Side Crunches (30x)Y-squat (30x)Steam Engine (30x)Just for kicks, I experimented with a Snatch breathing ladder. I

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-33444630575875849602007-09-20T08:56:00.000-04:002007-09-20T09:02:15.285-04:00

This brings back great memories! You can find out more about Don and his other hilarious work at Bitter Films (link is under Of Interest)

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-47168324734682994812007-09-19T23:29:00.000-04:002007-09-19T23:33:27.113-04:00

I did 5.5 miles in about 40 minutes, a few push-ups, and some foam rolling. Nothing fancy tonight.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-4212033153173989862007-09-19T15:03:00.000-04:002007-09-19T15:38:41.237-04:00

The office potluck was great! Lots of good food. I probably should have done more socializing, but it's hard when your mouth is full of food and not very sociable.The diri ak pwa fared okay. When I picked up my dish, there was a little bit of diri ak pwa left. I think diri ak pwa may have been the last thing most people would want to eat compared to the other dishes present. I guess that's

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-16580505823097628572007-09-18T23:14:00.000-04:002007-09-19T12:55:00.319-04:00

"Among the rice, the pebble tastes grease"I was planning to do 5 to 6 miles tonight. Instead, I decided to cook diri ak pwa (rice with beans) for the company potluck tomorrow and some calisthenics. The calisthenics went like this:T-pushup (30x)Dirty Dog (30x)Crunches (30x)Wide push-up (30x)Y-squat (30x)Back Extension (30x)Side Crunches (30x)Lunges (30x)Spiderman Lunges (30x)It feels strange to

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-10720991192453873162007-09-17T11:44:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:35:31.383-05:00

There wasn't much running done this weekend. Saturday was an easy 5 miles with C to Bluemont Park to home via Custis Trail. Before we ran, I had gone up to the school to do calisthenics. Here's the routine:30 Push-ups40 Pull-ups50 Squats60 Sit-ups70 BurpeesThe first four exercises took about 6 minutes. The burpees took another 6 minutes.Later in the afternoon, we met up with my friend at the

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-28545157645254621032007-09-13T21:08:00.000-04:002007-09-13T21:26:22.086-04:00

...Marathon TrainingSave the greasy gyros for after the run, not the night beforeSave the greasy cheesesteaks with everything on them for after the runApparently, it's not a good idea to run 18 miles, run down 17 flights of stairs, deadlift your bodyweight for a couple of sets, and run up 17 flights of stairs with only a day's rest.Yes, that's your body asking why you're still running after 2

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-75298817426564024772007-09-13T15:57:00.000-04:002007-09-13T20:53:15.119-04:00

Tonight, I did about 12 miles. I don't know. I was running and running.Tomorrow, it'll probably be an easy 5. Saturday is still a mystery.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-37249731084311204192007-09-11T23:34:00.000-04:002007-09-11T23:38:18.273-04:00

Me: Why aren't you as voyeuristic as me?Wife: (Shaking head with disdain)Me: So, no?Wife: (Continuing to shake head with disdain with hint of exasperation)Me: (in high-pitched voice) I love you!

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-75294193077805216192007-09-11T23:22:00.000-04:002007-09-13T20:57:23.786-04:00

Last night, I ran about 6 miles outside. Talk about a painful experience. The humidity and the rush hour made the whole "breathing" thing difficult. I managed to make it back to the office to do calisthenics.Today started off with the following:5 pull-ups10 push-ups15 SquatsI did the above exercises every minute for 12 minutes.After a public meeting in Fredericksburg this morning, it was lunch at

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-84116530191140703682007-09-11T17:34:00.000-04:002007-09-11T17:45:57.247-04:00

Six years ago, I remember hearing the news after Statics. It didn't sound real, more like some twisted Systems scenario or something. I ran to my dorm room to call home and find out if everybody was okay.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-75791427297572992732007-09-10T20:30:00.000-04:002007-09-13T20:48:53.169-04:00

For our wedding reception, C and I decided that each table would be differentiated by lyrics from different songs that best describe our relationship to one another and to others in our lives. One song that didn't make the cut was Reason to Believe from Springsteen's Nebraska. Specifically, it was these lyrics that C thought weren't exactly "wedding-related".Seen a man standin' over a dead dog

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-28525838421953424882007-09-09T22:03:00.000-04:002007-09-09T22:29:17.139-04:00

Enter the bright orange jersey and short running shorts!You may have noticed the lack of marathon training updates this past week. I took the week off. It wasn't part of any set plan you would find on-line - I just felt like resting for the week.Physically speaking, last week was a strange one. I just felt exhausted every morning. I don't know if it was just physical exhaustion or just

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-42120458103621049682007-09-08T10:49:00.000-04:002007-09-08T10:54:21.429-04:00

Last night, C and I actually sat down and watched Enter the Dragon. In the almost three and half years of being together, we had never sat down to watch a Bruce Lee movie until last night. There was an attempt when we lived in Georgetown, but that was quickly ended. Last night was good.It almost crazy that in the time that C has known me, she never once watched a Bruce Lee movie, especially

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-85704540077199552712007-09-06T23:00:00.000-04:002007-09-06T23:09:45.198-04:00

Last weekend, C and I started to play Diplomacy. Because it's just the two of us, we've been playing World War I. C chose the Allies (England, France, Russia), which left me with the Axis powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Turkey).We're now three turns into the game. C won the coin toss and now controls Italy. I've advanced units into Russia (I've taken Sevastopol) and France (in Burgandy

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-45466781026363067782007-09-04T11:28:00.000-04:002007-12-17T13:35:56.638-05:00

So, I didn't run the test marathon. At around mile 21, I crapped out. I crapped out badly. I managed to get to Mt. Vernon in 2 hours and 59 minutes and took a brief 5 minute break to recover. When I started back up, it was hard to move at pace faster than a trot. I realized it was going to take a lot longer than an hour to get to the pickup point at King Street. I called C to pick me up at Fort

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-23380814895094467442007-08-30T22:07:00.000-04:002007-08-30T22:10:25.870-04:00

On Tuesday, I ran 5 miles. Tonight, I ran 8 miles. My shorts smell bad. This weekend, I'm aiming to run a test marathon. The plan is to run to Mt. Vernon from the apartment, then run from Mt. Vernon to King Street. It sounds crazy because it is crazy. Everybody knows how I like it crazy.

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-69874276699269458422007-08-24T13:21:00.000-04:002007-09-11T17:08:51.457-04:00

Yeah, I didn't run last night.For the past couple months, people in my office have had problems converting maps created in ArcGIS 9.2 to ArcGIS 9.1. Last night, I found out that a third service pack had been released last month. I installed this newest service pack and found that it finally worked! This was a big relief to me because it means I don't need to recreate maps.The rest of the post has

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-85306668743718741662007-08-22T13:06:00.000-04:002007-08-22T13:12:43.671-04:00

Last night, I ran the planned 7 miles. Being a smart guy, I continued on with the planned 1 kilometer row after the run. The rowing took about 4 minutes. After about 600 meters, there was a slight pause to wonder why I was rowing. By the end, I felt a little loopy from all the sweating and urge to eat.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1857291871404615862007-08-21T14:33:00.000-04:002007-08-21T15:02:46.880-04:00

Last night, I ran an easy two miles and rowed a quick kilometer.This morning, I did 50 pullups with 50 deadlifts. There was a guy in the weight room changing the channels between the various morning shows. When I asked him about it, he was lamenting how on all these "news" channels were full of garbage and he couldn't find the BBC. Tonight, I'm going for 7 to 8 miles and maybe rowing for

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-37344931760519407922007-08-20T16:30:00.001-04:002007-08-24T13:41:06.529-04:00

On Saturday, I ran about 18 miles in 2 hours and 50 minutes. The route was the entire length of the Mt. Vernon Trail. When I finally crossed the "Mile 0" sign, I felt a sort of euphoria. Also, I smelled bad.For this run, I used gels for the first time. They worked great! For the first time ever, I did a long run without the typical day long headache and nausea. Whoo!

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-31508125252568133842007-08-20T16:00:00.000-04:002007-08-21T14:31:26.270-04:00

Here's the obligatory apology for the lack of posting since my failed bid for the Senate. Sorry for not posting since my failed bid for the Senate.A lot has happened since the last post. Marriage, weight gain, big pay raise, and marathon training. Now that I look back on it, I really glossed over those big life moments that one would typically expect to be blogged about. So, let's start the

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1162501219502153092006-11-02T15:39:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:06.029-05:00

If you're a registered voter in the Commonwealth of Virginia, write me (Brian Lee) in as your choice for Senate.Think of me as a liberal conservative, a progressive with values, and an American with a simple name. Brian Lee. Yes, think of me as such.If there's a baby around, I'll kiss it.Controversial statements? Take your pick. Well, it's slim pickings because I haven't made too many. Or

Briannoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1160426286826065542006-10-09T16:28:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:22:05.512-05:00

Briannoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1158955700784647062006-09-22T15:57:00.000-04:002007-09-09T22:30:33.658-04:00

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1157912604532795122006-09-10T14:05:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:22:04.834-05:00

It's a been a long while.A few weeks ago, I had been in New Orleans to be part of the recovery effort. Hymns were sung and prayers prayed. Strangers spoke of things that I've heard before with resonant voices that reminded of my own people. For a short time, memories danced alongside with the present as if there was no past or present - I was experiencing all things at once.One afternoon, after

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1146134298990669952006-04-27T06:34:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:22:03.025-05:00

Or the Best 50 Days ever!

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1139696040516323062006-02-11T16:32:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:02.766-05:00

I'm sitting at work, graphing DMR data for various dischargers in the Chester Creek watershed. There's snow falling from the sky and it looks pretty wet. I have my headphones on listening to 'The Rising' (the only album I've brought to work with me). My water bottle is less than half full.I'm feeling sort of vindictive at this very moment. I'm not sure whether it's the gloomy winter weather

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1138984245102847962006-02-03T10:03:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:02.437-05:00

Doug is a great many things, but he's not racist. He's not one to indulge in gross generalizations or hold on to base hatred. Because he's a light-hearted person, he does like to joke and tease. At times, he takes the joking a bit too far, but who hasn't? I once told a friend that if my girlfriend and I were to have a son, he would only have half a Chinaman's Chance. To a stranger walking by,

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1138897668981411182006-02-02T11:26:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:01.993-05:00

The following was written by my youngest brother, Pat. http://www.people.virginia.edu/~pjg2m/Fortnightly/120105Posh/EasternCuisine.htmlYou should check out the other pieces he's written.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1138897549784442442006-02-02T11:02:00.000-05:002007-09-13T21:05:25.744-04:00

..In the Office KitchenYou can get about five cups of tea from a single tea bag. Of course, by the time the fifth comes along, you're drinking hot water.The little plastic thing of single serve coffee is really only for a single serving of coffee.The things of (refrigeration not required) half & half should always be checked before pouring into coffee.There are indeed people who would eat things

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1138684771862595752006-01-30T23:17:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:01.210-05:00

It's time to write about something serious.It's about a friend of mine.My friend is a unique character. He has tremendous strength, endurance, and courage. He's a guy who has a good heart and good intentions. Though some people might call him weird or odd, I'm proud to call him friend. Of all the people I've known, he is one of the few I would call him a kindred spirit. He knows the

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1136639108960504322006-01-07T08:01:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:00.937-05:00

Featured on December 30, 2005 by Guy and Rodd

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1136556698114991462006-01-06T08:29:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:00.711-05:00

Do you hear the people singLost in the valley of the night?It is the music of a peopleWho are climbing to the light.For the wretched of the earthThere is a flame that never dies.Even the darkest night will endAnd the sun will rise.Last night, Caroline took me to see Les Mis. Man, that was so good. So good. It was good to experience Les Mis through song and stage actions. Though at times the

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1136407580868075842006-01-04T15:45:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:00.321-05:00

Most interesting news...

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1136322450595281882006-01-03T15:39:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:22:00.043-05:00

Nothing profound here. Just the following with me at the head of the train:Church congregation of people with Tourette's SyndromeLittle kids dress like cavalry officers on really big dogs waving plastic sabersRaving naked lady with machete (Gosh, mwen sonje Ayiti)Statue of me in a dramatic pose, pointing forward towards a brave, new worldA band of kazoo and plastic horn playersA bunch of people

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1136320549519466982006-01-03T15:23:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:21:59.635-05:00

After two cups of coffee and 400 mg of ibuprofen, all was made right in my head.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1135889690637359072005-12-29T15:26:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:21:59.295-05:00

I've been working.It has been good.I turn my head to look out the window and I see seagulls flying around some part of Rock Creek. Actually, there's a lot of seagulls. Enough to make one fear for one's eyeballs. Well, if seagulls were the sort of bird to go after one's eyeballs when in the company of other seagulls. Then again, with all the sort of toxic air releases that occur, I wouldn't be

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1134235250548748002005-12-10T12:05:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:21:58.904-05:00

This morning, as I got into the Metro, I was kissed by a clown named Rainbow!She told me not to tell Caroline.Well, actually, she stuck a sticker of a kiss onto my left cheek.On this fine Saturday morning, I had crossed paths with a bunch of clowns who's sole purpose for the day was to spread Christmas cheer with their antics and songs. As the train made it's way, the clowns were singing

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1130854451851593782005-11-01T09:09:00.000-05:002006-11-11T14:21:58.626-05:00

The leaves that were green have turn to brown.I'm feeling a little bit more tired. I suppose I ought to sleep a little bit more.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1128978242102175122005-10-21T17:02:00.000-04:002007-09-09T22:31:49.797-04:00

Tonight, being a rainy sort of night, I was at home thinking. So, here's something I had started almost 11 days ago and finally finished.I started listening to music again. Until recently, I was only listening to the WMZQ (the country station around here). Of course, the only music I've managed to dig out from my belongings is by Bruce Springsteen. The other day, when I was at work, I popped in

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1129122223791222062005-10-12T08:37:00.000-04:002007-09-09T22:32:13.081-04:00

Last night, Rob called and we spoke for some time about the current happenings in our lives. It was good to speak to him since we hadn't heard anything from one another since we parted ways in March.Like most other conversations I've had with Rob, it got me thinking about where I stand. If you follow his blog, you know that Rob is a searching pilgram finding a faith community that realizes the

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1128350517648988042005-10-03T10:25:00.000-04:002007-09-13T21:07:01.052-04:00

...About Microwave PopcornThe time of microwaving depends on the size of the popcorn bag. (Small bag = shorter time) Burned popcorn doesn't taste good.Burned popcorn with salsa doesn't taste good.Pretending burned popcorn is edible popcorn still doesn't make it taste good.After rounds of experiments, it's been concluded that nothing makes burned popcorn taste good. BBlack popcorn should be

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1128113935761235362005-09-30T16:38:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:56.746-05:00

Last Saturday, I happen to walk across the anti-war rally. When I say happen to walk across, I really did just walk across because I was trying to find a place to eat that wasn't blocked off my the police. I wasn't shouting slogans or carrying a sign. I just was hungry. I saw a lady who carrying a sign that said bring the troops home and another lady carrying a sign that said her soldier was

Briannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1127822058732561502005-09-27T07:35:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:56.359-05:00

On Sunday night, I felt like Zhavigo.Lately, I've been taking the Metro a lot. I use it to get to work, to get to Caroline, and to get to places hard to reach by automobile. It's not the steam engine sort of train the Zhavigo traveled and there's no sweeping country landscape.But Sunday, while packed into the car by a large crowd of people, I couldn't help but feel like Zhavigo. As the train

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1127492779433207132005-09-23T11:57:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:56.065-05:00

Working life suits me because now I don't sit around being melodramatic or stupid. Now, I sit around staring at my navel and picking the ol' nose. I'm kidding. I actually do work because I'm not working for the government anymore. Oh, snap! Never mind.So to celebrate the fact that I am now a "Happy-employee-doing-what-they-tell-me-for-money-and-cookies", it's time for some Kudos!Kudos to Andrew Z

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1125943389312301632005-09-05T14:00:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:55.525-05:00

While sitting on sun-baked brick, I finished reading Les Mis today.Love each other dearly always. There is scarcely anything else inthe world but that: to love one another.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1125628508660244952005-09-01T22:30:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:55.233-05:00

It exists in all of us.That's all.It's there, always shining, even when you think you're lost in the darkness.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1124912579999284242005-08-24T15:24:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:55.013-05:00

At sixteen she quit high school to make her fortune in the promised land She got a job behind the counter in an all night hamburger stand She wrote faithfully home to mama "Now mama don't you worry none" From small things, mama Big things one day comeA new page is out and it's about that time to try again.Yesterday after five hours of talking to various people, I've finally landed a job

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1124236670040841542005-08-16T19:56:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:54.778-05:00

Things are slow.And it's raining now.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1123070673657584992005-08-03T07:26:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:54.158-05:00

It's difficult to think of anything anymore. I have always had difficulty in conveying what it is I thought and felt into some kind of form that could be understood. I could never mold clay, paint, or choose the right words to create something that would mean something. To try to make something, only to see the look of superiority in their eyes and pointed words disguised as praise.My words are

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122985341442383412005-08-02T08:14:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:53.794-05:00

To wake and feel the winds of change blowing on my heart. To raise my own voice to join the Great Song.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122906774027232162005-08-01T10:25:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:53.468-05:00

There is sanctuary in the quiet woods, a small house sitting among the high trees. Stillness exists here.Often, I have come here to sleep.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122751394570213962005-07-30T15:17:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:53.094-05:00

It comes in silent flashes of black and white. Everything is muted.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122666196005333072005-07-29T15:40:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:52.866-05:00

It's strange to see the banners flying in the air, the spectacle of the march, and to hear the fearful invoke words like honor and freedom.

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122405847944857712005-07-26T15:14:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:52.400-05:00

It was Sunday morning and I could tell it was going to be a warm day. The BBC World Service just wrapped up and I gave my radio a couple of good cranks. I started scanning the radio for music. I heard bits of konpa, rap, and ordinary pop music. Then, I found a station.I can see clearly now, the rain is gone, I can see all obstacles in my way Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind It's

Briannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5533397.post-1122245412439205092005-07-24T18:37:00.000-04:002006-11-11T14:21:51.776-05:00

Today was the sort of day when you realize being outside the circle was a good thing.I went to a Young Adults Sunday School class today at Messiah. It was interesting. Yeah. Nothing like sitting around a circle, hearing quotes from 'Christian' books, and confusing people when you mention 'pervenient grace'.Speaking of pervenient grace, does anyone know any good books/texts that help me learn more

Briannoreply@blogger.com0