WHAT I’VE LIKED – Jan. 2

The following are some of my favorite waves
from my web surfing over the last couple weeks.

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 QUOTE:

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FAITH:

I ran across this article through a link at Already Not Yet.  I appreciated 7 Ways to Become a Better Sermon Listener as a nice change from many articles.  I read a lot on how preachers need to improve but I don’t hear much advice about what we in the pews can do to get more out of what we are hearing.  This was a good reminder for me.

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POETRY:

Today more than ever,
we need to be alert . . .
when with temptation
we begin to flirt.

We need to treat,
all temptation as a threat
so that we’re not filled
with remorse or regret.

We need to consider,
the warnings they create
our spiritual senses . . .
we must always elevate.

We need to be sober,
to the flags that are red
unless unto temptation
we might fall into bed.

Today more than ever,
we must not be ignorant
temptation must be treated
as a threat imminent!

Deborah Ann Belka, Red Flag Warning

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RUNNING:

While How to Stay Motivated to Run this Winter had some good motivation to stay running, it was trumped by the 12 lbs that I have gain during this off-season.  So, I found weight loss to be the motivator that actually got me back to pounding the pavement.  I love the motivational stories in 15 Incredible Stories of Weight Loss Through Running

A winter run – I actually did one!

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CYCLING / TRIATHLON:

Good advice to change my bike trainer attitude:  Make Peace With Your Bike Trainer

However, I will take a ride in the cold over a ride on the trainer any day.  This article has a lot of good advice for those who are willing to embrace the cold: Why I Bike in Cold Weather–And How You Can Too

Best Motivation for Winter Cycling – The Beardcicle

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GARDENING:

I can always get my garden fix from FLORATUBE.ORG.  As I am surrounded by white snow, I was contented to see all the green from this video which FLORATUBE.ORG linked to.  So, I will do the same:

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SCIENCE:

I have a new excuse – my tapeworm made me do it.  This article freaked me out.  Hidden Epidemic: 
Tapeworms Living Inside People’s Brains gives you all the reason you need to make sure your pork is cooked properly.

People forget that science is a process pursued by fallible people.  I was dismayed by the number of retractions cited in The Top 10 Retractions of 2015 due to shear fabrication of data.  It is always good to remember that many scientist have motivations other than pure science.

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ART & CRAFTSMANSHIP:

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FUNNY/HEART-WARMING:

You have got to love someone with a style all their own.

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WHAT I’VE LIKED – Dec. 26

The following are some of my favorite waves
from my web surfing over the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

 

FAITH:

Never underestimate what God may use to draw the lost to himself.

 

POETRY:

In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain;

Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.

In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

Enough for Him, whom cherubim, worship night and day,

Breastful of milk, and a mangerful of hay;

Enough for Him, whom angels fall before,
The ox and ass and camel which adore.

Angels and archangels may have gathered there,

Cherubim and seraphim thronged the air;

But His mother only, in her maiden bliss,
Worshipped the beloved with a kiss.

What can I give Him, poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;

If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;

Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.
~ Christina Rossetti, In the Bleak Midwinter

 

INSPIRATION/ENCOURAGEMENT:
This article by Derek Rishmawy was a very encouraging reminder, “to strive to become Spirit-empowered readers who are disciplined in the interpretive virtues.”  Admiring v. Flying Boeing 747

RUNNING:
Since I still haven’t done any running this winter, this article was truly needed.
How to Stay Motivated to Run this Winter

TRIATHLON:
A lot of good reasons to get a coach…we’ll see if this advice is enough to shell out some cash.  Why Did You Start Using a Coach

The article was encouraging to remember that the primary aspects of triathlon are mental.  11 Traits of Top-Notch Triathletes

GARDENING:
I love the power of gardens!

 

SCIENCE:

We live in amazing times.  I was once again amazed by our Creator and the incredible nature of DNA.  The concepts of using DNA to store data is more than a few science classes beyond my understanding.  Data Storage on DNA can Keep it Safe for Centuries

Molecules Arranged in Double Helix — Image by © Imtek Imagineering, Inc./CORBIS

The contrast of God’s hand in the molecular and the macrocosm (Hubble Snaps Breathtaking View of Colorful Veil Nebula) can be summarize as simply astounding.

This image shows a small section of the Veil Nebula, as it was observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope. This section of the outer shell of the famous supernova remnant is in a region known as NGC 6960 or — more colloquially — the Witch’s Broom Nebula.

 

CRAFTSMANSHIP:

FUNNY/HEART-WARMING:

 

WHAT I’VE LIKED – Nov. 28

The following are some of my favorite waves from my web surfing over the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:
“It’s nice to be great, but far greater to be nice.”
~ Joe Newton

FAITH:
I appreciated this article of strategies to help enjoy continuous communion with God.  Nancy gives 10 very practical aids to help set our minds on God.  I particularly liked her reminder, “our all-gracious God chooses to bless us when we seek to bless him.”  Ten Ways to Keep Mindful of God

POETRY:
“And then one day He wasn’t there –
no voice, no touch, no sense
that He was watching over me,
the heavens just seemed dense.
And then I knew just how it felt
to be an afterthought.
To not be top of someone’s list,
the first thing they sought.
It took some time to make it up,
I learned to make amends.
But now I guard it preciously
that God and I are friends.”
~ Ann Marie Thomas, Neglect, My Stroke of Inspiration

INSPIRATION/ENCOURAGEMENT:
This article by Tim Challies was very encouraging as he exhorts, “You can be far holier, far purer than you ever thought possible.”  A Simple but Life-Changing Realization

RUNNING:
It is a familiar story –
I am seeking inspiration to run;
maybe some running movies will help.
12 Great Running Movies

CYCLING:

I hate it when the weather gets too cold and I am forced onto the indoor trainer.  I just can’t take long trainer workouts so that is why I liked this article.  The author recommends short, hard efforts to build our aerobic energy system—in less time.  Work a little harder but get it done in less time – I like that.

The article has workouts to do two to three times a week.  I am going to give these a go this off-season.  How to Ride Inside:  Indoor Trainer Workouts for Cyclists

GARDENING:
I will warn you – if you like great gardens, it is hard to watch only one episode.

 

CRAFTSMANSHIP:

AMAZING:

 

WHAT I LIKED – June 29

The following are some of my  favorite internet waves from surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

“God is pleased continually to vary His mode of dealing with us, in order that we may not be tempted to trust in donors, or in circumstances, but in Him alone, and to keep our eye fixed upon Him.”
~ George Mueller

FAITH:

Brian Welch has a testimony that is simply incredible.  No one is too lost for God to still save.
Brian Head Welch – I am Second

A beautiful prayer that reminded me that we always need Christ in everything.
Need Of Jesus – A Puritan Prayer

This article is a great reminder that the gospel is huge.
Your Gospel Centered Outlook is too Small

POETRY:

Cling to Jesus; He is our all in all.  Jesus in Mine 

 I love the imagery of  “God’s tireless chisel crumbles me into a shape I don’t understand.”  Probably the Wrong “Somewhere”

May we not be hesitant to let Christ in and make us shine.  Made to Shine

WRITING:

I find concise writing difficult.  I tend to think that more words are better.  Thankfully, my wife helps me with editing and she is very good at cutting.  I appreciated the suggestion in this article of reading concise writers to help in concise writing.  Concise Writing is Usually Clear Writing – Dorothy Parker

This article has some helpful tips for us bloggers on how to cut through the volume of content on the internet.  Become a Pro Blogger with these Tips

TRIATHLON:

I have to admit that I have made many of these excuses.  It is good to remember that they are all simply that…an excuse.  50 Excuses Why You Didn’t Get Your PB

This was a surprising article.  I guess this might explain why the Kenyans are so good at the marathon.  Is Training in the Heat Good for You

I have a race coming up.  I guess I should have been working on this a while ago.  I hate the bike to run transition.  It just hurts but following these suggestions might make it a little less painful.  How Transition Runs Boost Your Triathlon Performance

CYCLING:

It is not that I plan on doing this but I think it is just cool that I could.  How to Calculate Your Drag

You need to eating every 30 minutes…while you are cycling.  I find that advice so easy to follow while on my couch but so easy to forget while cycling.  How to Avoid Bonking

I am new to cycling so I know that I mess up the etiquette.  This little test was helpful in teaching me some of the un-written rules.  Group Dynamics

I have been transforming my bike between a tri setup and a road setup as I have been training for different events.  This invention will be awesome.  I hope they get it off the ground.  Switch Aero System: One Bike, Two Rides

RUNNING:

I wasn’t prepared to give up my coffee.  It is good to know that I don’t have to.  8 Things Runners Should Know About Coffee

I have always struggled with managing my pace while running.  These are some great tips for managing your pace on race day.  How to Run at a Perfect Pace

I made the mistake of running without socks.  I wanted to see if I could go without socks on an upcoming race.  Turns out, I can’t.  Now, I have five blisters to deal with.   How to Treat a Foot Blister.

SWIMMING:

This is a training test that I had never thought of.  That does not mean I have done it yet but it looks like a good idea.  Assessment Sets for Triathlon Swimming – The Pace Maintenance Set

I am starting to get a little nervous about my upcoming open water swim.  Here are two articles I found helpful:
Open Water Swimming Tips
Top 5 Triathlon Swimming Problems And What You Can Do About It

This article talks about using a Finis Tempo Trainer in your workouts to help maintain a consistent stroke count as you begin to fatigue.  I didn’t know that even existed.  I will need to look into getting one.  Interpreting your Swimming Efficiency Test – Improve your Swim Training for Triathlon

ART / CRAFTSMANSHIP:

This is an incredible library.  It would be hard to keep your eyes on the text.  Strahov Monastery’s Theological Hall

It is amazing what can be made from wood.  Wood Illusions

This is a Bible that I will want.  Language, Art & Scripture

AMAZING:

Here are some trails that I will not be traveling.  10 Terrifying Trails Around the World

Bucket list item; just one night is all I want.  Aescher Hotel In Appenzellerland, Switzerland

Big weather is awesome.  Just think about who commands it with a word.  A Supercell near Booker, Texas

There are some pretty amazing people out there.  Best  of Web 5

PHOTOGRAPHY:

There are some things that should never be forgotten. Auschwitz & Auschwitz II Birkenau

Very cool cloud.  Alienlike Cloud (or is it ?! ). Taken yesterday in my country (Serbia)

Now I know the origin of the tipping birds.  Birds on sticks

HUMOR

We all knew that the world needed this.  Burger King creates hands free Whopper holder

Just a reminder that you can race anything.  EXTREME BARBIE JEEP RACING 2012

High diving giraffes – why not?  Highdiving

WHAT I LIKED – May 19

The following are some of my  favorite internet waves from surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

People tell me judge not lest ye be judged. I always tell them, twist not scripture lest ye be like satan. ~ Paul Washer

Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength- carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength. ~ Corrie ten Boom

FAITH:

“These are the elements of praying with strength:  passion, simplicity, and faith.”  I need to be reminded of these essentials.  Not Length but Strength

This post on defining willpower was helpful in thinking about self-control and temptation.  Defining Willpower 

This article is a reminder that I need daily.  I can become so focused on what I have obtained through the gospel that I begin to think it is all about me.  The Gospel Isn’t About You

God does push us to face the impossible.  God wants us to go beyond ourselves.  God’s Mercy in Making us Face the Impossible 

God truly is enough.  Why do we tend to forget that?  God is Enough ~ How Hannah Found True Happiness

POETRY:

“I’m feeling so sick and so tired, Of living this life uninspired”; a wonderful poem that expresses feelings that we all have experienced.  Infiltrate

We all need to be rescued no matter the show of strength that we put on.  Rescue

The prayer of my heart; this poem captures it so beautifully.  The Way

INSPIRATIONAL:

I was surprised that this speech was made by Charlie Chaplin but I wish it were real.  If only more world leaders believed these words.  The Greatest Speech Ever Made – Charlie Chaplin

WRITING:

Here are some key things that we writers can incorporate into everything we write.  How to Write with Style

I never really thought of myself as a writer until about a year ago.  However, I might have had writer tendencies long before according to this list.  25 Signs You’re a Writer

This post has some very good suggestions on how to do this blogging thing better.  Save Time with these Great Running-A-Blog Tips

TRIATHLON:

Fitness is always about finding time to do it.  This article has a 7 minute workout that should remove all excuses or at least show us the excuse in our lack of time argument.  The Scientific 7 Minute Workout

I really need a running breakthrough so this article was timely.  How to Have a Running Breakthrough

CYCLING:

You feel every rock and crack in the road on a road bike.  I think I need some of these wheels.   The British Engineer Who Really HAS Reinvented the Wheel

Evidently, I need to start watching my cadence readout during my climbing training.   Cycling Skills: Climb Smarter

I have no doubts that these workouts will work but they look like they will hurt.  2 Workouts to Boost Your Cycling Speed

RUNNING:

I really want to get faster as a runner.  I am a slow grinder of a runner.  I think I will try to include some of the suggestions from this article.  Essential Drills for Speed and Efficiency

I never really know what to do with my arms while running.  I have tried to just forget about them and let them do what feels natural.  This articles gives some better suggestions. Proper Arm Carriage and Mechanics: Adam St. Pierre, MS Exercise Physiology

SWIMMING:

There was a man who had a heart attack and died during the swim at the triathlon I did last year.  Evidently, this has become more common; sort of freaks me out.  Swimming Deaths Trouble Triathlon Officials

GARDENING:

The maze seems to be the perfect expression of a gardener.  I have always wanted to make one of these.  Mazes of the World

I guess my style is that of a country garden.  Style Counsel:  Country Gardens

ART / CRAFTSMANSHIP:

Wonderful detail and a little freaky.  Matchstick Men Installation

It is just awesome to watch someone draw without an eraser.  Art Attack // Styrofoam Cup Artist Boey

AMAZING:

I have no idea how a dog can learn a subway schedule but evidently they can.  How much is that doggy on the subway? Woof. Woof.

I am a sucker for cycling videos.  Here is a whole round-up of them.   Friday MTB video round-up

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Here are some photographs with beautiful color:

Red Sunset  
Splendid Yellow Forest  
This is Extremely Pretty   

These photographs capture the art of life so very well.  Epic Train

So very cool; a glowing beach.  We live in an amazing world.  Pic of the Day: Luminescent Beach

HUMOR

Beware of getting baptized in Alaska.  Just for Laughs – Baptism

This couple is awesome.  There are some talented people out in the world that never get the spot-light.  Pumpcast News, Part 1

WHAT I LIKED – April 28

The following are some of my  favorite internet waves from surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

Whoever is not satisfied with Christ alone, strives after something beyond absolute perfection. ~ John Calvin

FAITH:

These wonderful words remind us that the Lord will not allow us the misconception that we are strong.  The Lord’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.  Weakness is not a condition to be avoided.  It is a condition to be embraced.  Weakness is the Way by J. I. Packer

I appreciated the careful explanation of how to view the interaction between science and faith.  God vs Science  God vs Science – Part 2

This article provided a vivid reminder of the eternal care that is continually being shown to us by our Lord, of which we are often unaware.  God’s Protection

POETRY:

Man’s heart has not changed in 400 years.  This beautiful poem will resonate will all who have walked by faith through difficult times.  Obsession (After George Herbert’s “Affliction (IV)”)

Praise God for lifting us up, “high off the ground making my steps solid and sound.”  He Lifts Me Up…

INSPIRATIONAL:

The power of encouraging words and not listening to the critics.  The Last Pick – Jeremy Lin

This one is for all those in Scotland.  God has given you a beautiful isle.  It makes me want to go visit Scotland and see for myself.  HDR Timelapse Scotland, Isle of Skye

WRITING:

For those who desire to glorify God through the written word, these scriptures will be an encouragement.  25 Encouraging Bible Verses for Writers

TRIATHLON:

Open water swims still have me a little nervous since I do all of my training in a pool without people bumming up against me.  I can use all the advice I can get.  My tips for Open Water Swimming

CYCLING:

I know the importance and benefits of stretching but it is mostly theory for me.  This article took away many of my excuses.  3 Stretches for Time-Crunched Cyclists

RUNNING:

This is a post that I can relate to.  There have been many times when I have been convinced that I have been born without a diaphragm.  Old Dog, New Tricks

SWIMMING:

Videos are so helpful to evaluate technique.  This is a really good demonstration.  Part 2 – How to ‘Work Less, Swim Better’ in Triathlon

Here are some very good steps to focus on in the pool.  The relaxed part is so crucial and so hard to do.  How to Swim Fast and Relaxed

GARDENING:

I found a little maple sapling that was tucked safely away beneath some boxwoods.  I think I might try my hand at bonsaing the little bugger.   Bonsai 101

This is just a clever idea for reducing the time behind a hose.  PicPost: Bottle it up

ART / CRAFTSMANSHIP:

I have never even heard about painting on water.  This is pretty cool.  I want to know who first thought that this would work.  Painting on Water

I love to watch art spring forth from the unexpected.  Making of de l’installation de Bernard Pras à l’Institut Français de Ouagadougou

AMAZING:

This is ridiculous.  How can someone flip like that?  Gymnast Got Some Ridiculous Backflips!

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Wonderfully symmetric images; there is just something relaxing about balance.  Symmetrees

Having just been to San Francisco, I love the time lapse of the city lighting up.  Time Lapse – The Bay Bridge Lights

HUMOR

Hey, if you are given a ball, you are supposed to throw it…right?  Child Throws Back Foul Ball

Always good to know your favorite color… and the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow.  The Bridge of Death

WHAT I LIKED – April 20

The following are some of my  favorite internet waves from surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

Laying up treasures in heaven will draw the heart heavenward. ~ George Müller

FAITH:

This article offers a very helpful perspective of what it means to “not love the world”.  We so often misunderstand and misapply this teaching.  FIRST-PERSON: What does it mean to ‘not love the world’?

I was so blessed by how this video describes and highlights just how great the love of God is.  How He Loves Us – David Crowder (Matt Chandler & John Piper)

This is a wonderful reminder of the promises of God after the week that we have had.  We do not have to be fearful even after a week of frightful actions.  Lay Aside the Weight of Fear

POETRY:

I have never been much of a poetry guy.  I have always thought of poetry as the craft of hippie, new agers, and/or the feminine.  I was very wrong in that assessment and have lost many years of the meditative fruitfulness that the counting of syllables can bring.  This is a series of posts that does a very good job pointing to the poetic life of Christians.

The Poetic Life of the Christian – Part 1

The Poetic Life of the Christian – Part 2

The Poetic Life of the Christian – Part 3

INSPIRATIONAL:

I am embarrassed by many of the things that discourage me and frustrate me.  I can be such an ungrateful and self-centered man.  Roger is a wonderful brother in Christ.  It broke my heart when he spoke of his loneliness.  Please watch his story.  I hope that you will be as blessed as I was. Living with Cerebral Palsy

You are never too old; you are never too out of shape; you just have to start and you will be amazed where you will end up.  The most inspiring video you will ever watch!

What makes a triathlete?  This just got me pumped to get after it.  What Makes a Triathlete

This video just makes me want to get out there and compete.  It is fun to watch these guys fly to the finish line.  Triathletes are just awesome.   Bevan Docherty – Super-human Triathlon Sprint Finish

WRITING:

The best way to stay motivated to express thoughts in the form of sentences is to read the works of people who do it very well.  Writers Inspire: 10 Ways Authors Inspire Me to Write

This is a good reminder to be aware of not making logical fallacies in our writing.  Cherry picking is a pretty easy one to fall into.  Fallacies (2) – cherry picking

There is so much written on the blog-o-sphere.  Many write as a presentation of facts.  Writing that excites people has to first excite the author.  Blog Your Passion

TRIATHLON:

My fear of the longer distance triathlon is bonking out.  It is good to know what you fear and prepare accordingly.  This is a very good article for those, like me, who fear the bonk.  Science Behind Bonking

CYCLING:

I am planning on doing a ride later in the year that is going to have a lot of climbing.  I am a little nervous about getting into climbing shape by the time of the ride.  This is a good video on tips to get to the top of the mountain.  Here is the advice:

Relax

Find techniques that works best for you (in saddle / out of saddle)

High cadence

Stay over the gear

Enjoy the scenery

Cycling Survival 1 – How to cycle in the mountains – Climbing Technique

RUNNING:

Running is about more than the run.  There is so much that running can teach us about life.   17 Things Running Teaches You About Life

SWIMMING:

Often, it is good to see what you are doing wrong so that you can work on doing it right.  The key points for doing it right in this video are:

Look down to the bottom of the pool

Swim by rotating the torso; think about breathing through your belly button

Kick from hips (small and fast) with straight legs

Pull arms back straight; fingers should be pointing downward

Breath early in stroke

Common Freestyle Mistakes in Swimming

You have got to know when to breathe.  This is a very good video on proper body position for breath while swimming.  Triathlon Swimming – Breathing in Freestyle

This is an excellent video that clearly shows the correct timing of a good free-style stroke.  Observe where the elbow is at the exit and the lead hand stretched in front at the same time.  Alexander Popov Swimming Technique

These are some excellent drills that I am going to incorporate into my swimming work-outs; slow arm recovery, quick catch, and high swingers.  I need to work on all three of these areas.  Top Three Swim Drills

GARDENING:

Gardening should be fun and making little fairy gardens just looks fun.  Fairy Gardens 

CRAFTSMANSHIP:

Whatever we set our hands to; we should do it to the best of our ability.  The art of building a surfboard.  The Sound of Dust

HUMOR

Just be careful when you go for the personalized license plate.  We All Need Space, Especially Al.

I don’t know but there is just something about putting words to the expressions of dogs that just make me laugh.  Their eyes do tell a story.  Dog Wants a Kitty  Ultimate Dog Tease

WHAT I LIKED – April 13

The following are some of my most favorite internet waves from my surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

As we grow in the knowledge of God’s holiness, even though we are growing in the practice of holiness, it seems the gap between our knowledge and our practice always gets wider. This is the Holy Spirit’s way of drawing us to more and more holiness. ~ Jerry Bridges

FAITH:

I love testimonies of our God’s amazing mercy and grace.  I love to hear of the wonderful road to salvation that he draws his children along.  My Journey: Atheist…to New Age…to Christ.

Depression is a battlefield of faith.  This is a wonderful reminder that God is with us when we are low.  “He will care for us while in our despondent state, but He will not allow us to remain there. He will tell us to get up and eat. Then, He will tell us to go. He has prepared works for us to do, whether it’s raising a child with special needs, homeschooling different ages of kids, working to support a family, caring for a sick relative, bringing a meal to someone who just suffered loss, praying with someone who has been abandoned by her spouse, or sharing the gospel with friend. Though spiritual depression can seem so paralyzing, we must, by His grace, get up and go, and He promises to be with us.” Struck Down but Not Destroyed

I am a fan of the reality TV show Duck Dynasty.  This presentation of the gospel makes me like Phil Robertson even more.  Duck Dynasty Star Phil Robertson Preaches a POWERFUL Sermon – Perfect For Easter!

POETRY:

The wonderful saving work of Calvary!  Upon a Hill

We so desperately need to get past the masks that we create.  Mask

INSPIRATIONAL:

Most of you will have probably seen this video but it is worth another watch.  It is a good reminder to look beyond ourselves.  Little Jack Hoffman an inspiration to Nebraska football

WRITING:

This article gave me some very good food for thought.  My writing is more along the lines of what these individuals do not like; “…narratives with emotional hooks, bolding and italicizing things occasionally, metaphors, potent images, rhetorical questions, and so forth.”  It is good to be reminded that we should work to follow the example of Biblical testimony in our writing. “Biblical testimony is not intended to subvert the intellect, but engage it, as well as the more affective dimensions of our souls. Paul gave his own testimony to be sure, creatively used potent imagery, and so forth, but then gave a sustained biblical argument that can be followed, disputed, and wrestled with.”  Somebody Stop Me If I Start Doing This (A Thought on Blogging)

TRIATHLON:

This is a skill that I need to work on.  I started to swim off into oblivion on two occasions in my last open water swim.  Thankfully, the folks in the canoes were kind enough to alert me to my poor route choice by banging on their boats but I did waste a lot of precious strokes.  The Right and Wrong way to Sight and Breathe

It is good to remember that triathlon is a competition that involves complete fitness.  Our training should include more than just the swim, bike, run.  Strength Conditioning, A Triathletes Secret Weapon

CYCLING:

This is the best and most honest answer as to why cyclists are so inclined to seek out the razor.  Why Shave Your Legs

I had never really thought that much about what all my muscles are doing in terms of biomechanics.  The idea that our minds start searching for different muscle combinations to perform a task when fatigue starts to set in is fascinating.  It explains why the 10% rule is important.  The 10% rule is the principle of not increasing distances by more than 10% at a time.  Injury is more likely when you rip off big chunks of great distance.  The reason might be is that you are relying upon these other muscle combinations that are not conditioned for that sort of stress.  Injury: an incorrect solution to the human movement problem

RUNNING:

I know that there are people out there who love to run.  I can appreciate the benefits of running but I cannot say that I love it.  My issue with running is the first ½ mile.  It  is sort of miserable.  No matter how much warming up or stretching that I do (and I have tried the spectrum from none to 30 minutes worth of running preparation), that initial start is a battle between my body screaming in protest and my mind whipping it forward.  This article is not much help other than the reality of – Just Deal with It.  6 Tips to Push Past the Pain

SWIMMING:

Here is just a little history lesson that I did not know.  The History of Freestyle

This is so true and counter intuitive.  The more I relax and work on gliding through the water, the faster I go.  I am no Alexander Popov but he is a great example of how to get through the water fast.  Swim Slowly to Swim Fast like Alexander Popov

GARDENING:

There is something comforting in knowing that even experienced gardeners in making a successful garden have to remember this article’s direction – mass and scale.  6.  The Best Gardening Advice- Practical Experience

CRAFTSMANSHIP:

The musician cannot begin his performance until the craftsmanship has completed his.  The Art of Making, Alma Flamenca

AMAZING:

I don’t know how this dunk is even possible.  Doug Anderson dunk

I love videos of the earth from space.  They always remind me to check my perspective.  We have been blessed with an amazing world to live in.   Time-Lapse | Earth

I did not get any new home construction ideas from this article.  However, it is pretty incredible how they hewed this monastery into the side of a mountain.  Vardzia Cave Monasteries

PHOTOGRAPHY:

I love the colors of this photograph.  Pawel Kucharski

If hands could tell a story, then I am sure that these hands have a long tale to tell.  Robert Muller

HUMOR

There is just something about puns, even bad ones, that make me chuckle.  Puns for Educated Minds

WHAT I LIKE – April 6

The following are some of my most favorite internet waves from my surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:

“The happy ending of the Resurrection is so enormous that it swallows up even the sorrow of the Cross.” – Tim Keller

FAITH:

I was so encouraged by this reminder that Jesus came to be the New Adam.  It is because Jesus is the new Adam that we can be restored back to our original place and purpose in God’s plan. Is there any greater treasure than this?  And it is a gift to any who will acknowledge the grace of God, accept the words of Christ, and receive eternal life.  Adam doesn’t live here anymore…

This is a beautiful prayer of faith from centuries ago.

“O God of the highest heaven,
occupy the throne of my heart,
take full possession and reign supreme,
lay low every rebel lust,
let no vile passion resist thy holy war;
manifest thy mighty power,
and make me thine forever.”  Regeneration: A Puritan Prayer

This article is a wonderful reminder of the effectiveness of the gift of prayer.  “God made us in His image — with the ability to speak into existence things that are not.”  Effective, substantial prayers

POETRY:

I love the stanza, “You are the light that makes my heart rejoice!”  It is so very true.  We desperately need the filling of the Lord’s Spirit.  Fill Me With Your Spirit Once Again

This is such an encouraging telling of what real forgiveness is like.  Forgiven

INSPIRATIONAL:

Amazing grace is indeed a sweet sound.  It makes me cry like a baby every time.  Amazing Grace

This story is a wonderful reminder of the golden rule and not to let the little stuff get in the way of the glorious stuff.  The Wooden Bowl

RUNNING:

This is a really good article on how to pick the right running shoe.  It actually convinced me to go into a good running shoe store and have them do it for me.   How to Choose A Running Shoe

TRIATHLON:

This is a good reminder that training with other people will encourage us to keep going or get going again in our training.  There are no excuses.  Tri to be Inspired

My current problem is not packing ten pounds of stuff onto my bike.  My problem is the ten pounds that I am packing around my waist.  However, I found this article helpful because it makes you think about what you really need on a ride and what you are doing to all the careful engineering of that expensive bike you’re riding.  Nutrition,The Bike, and Aerodynamics

SWIMMING:

I am not even considering doing this swim but the photo in the article is great.  You have to check out this open water swim.  Wild Swimming On The Jurassic Coast!

This article has some very good thoughts and instruction for good swimming technique and avoiding injure.  Swimming Shoulder Injuries – Thumb Entry or Not?

CYCLING:

This article has some very helpful tips on how to get faster on the bike. I need to try the isolated leg training.  I am pretty sure I have a lot of dead spots in my pedal stroke.  5 Ways to Boost Your Average MPH on the Bike

GARDENING:

This is just cool.  I have no idea how you would decorate around it but I would be willing to give this treehouse its own room.  The smallest treehouse in the world

I don’t know if I could go this far.  It just seems the opposite of why you were just taking the shower.  I guess I need to get over linking moss and fungus together.  Natural Moss Bath Mat

CRAFTSMANSHIP:

I just love to watch talent doing its special thing.  I wonder how many similarly amazing artists out there that we may never hear about.   O.K., So Craftsmanship Isn’t Dead Yet

AMAZING:

The weather has been very nice this last week so I was thinking about taking my mountain bike out for a ride in the desert.  Unfortunately, the forecast is for wind and rain.  I will just have to wait to knock the rust off of my mountain biking skills.  This video shows off Danny MacAskill biking skill.  I don’t know how it is even possible for him to do some of the things he does .  Calling what he does biking just does not seem appropriate.  There must be another term because what he does and what I do are not the same thing.  Inspired Bicycles – Danny MacAskill April 2009

PHOTOGRAPHY:

This is a beautiful photograph of a lake in South Carolina.  I am looking forward to summer and getting back up into the mountains.  Bluffton, South Carolina

WHAT I LIKE – Mar. 30

The following are some of my most favorite internet waves from my surfing the web the last couple weeks.

QUOTE:
 “Prayer will make a man cease from sin, or sin will entice a man to cease from prayer.” ~ John Bunyan

FAITH:
I appreciated this article on what the Church should be based on the Priesthood of the Christ.  You need to follow the links and get a cup of coffee because it is a bit long but well worth it.  Mission and the Priesthood of the Christ

We have such a special gift in our Bibles.  This post is a reminder of ten things the Bible tells us it will do for us.  10 Things the Bible Can Do

POETRY:
This is a wonderful reminder that Jesus did not seek a home for himself while in this world.  He Had so Little in this World

Such an encouragement from Psalm 73:28 to see our Lord on each new day.  Each New Day

This is a poem that I like so very much for speaking of the truths of stumbling along the narrow path.  Stumbles and Skinned Knees

INSPIRATION:
Beautiful photograph and reminder from Psalm 91:1-2 that our best protection and shelter is in Christ.  Gods Shelter

I smile every time I read the opening lines, “Don’t be a well that withholds, Be a well that overflows”.  A needed reminder from Numbers 21:17 to be the wells that we were created to be. An Overflowing Well

RUNNING:
I want to get my running speed up.  I had my first real outside run of the season and realized that speed is not my issue.  When I get back to that point, these are some really good tips for getting back home quicker. 5 Tips to Run Faster

SWIMMING:
Swimming can get a little monotonous.  So I am always looking for new combinations of workouts.  These two sites are great about mixing things up and have a wide variety of workouts.

Chino Valley Masters

PTS Sports Coaching 

TRIATHLON:
I am not even remotely close to overtraining; particularly after this last week of only two workouts.  However, the indicators of overtraining discussed in this post are really good to be aware of.  Overtraining are you a Victim

GARDENING:
Dinner in this garden has to be a unique experience.  I just hope the salad course is not self-serve.  Outdoor Living Garden Table

PHOTOGRAPHY:
Makes me want to go to Alaska.  Ocras Surfacing in Alaska

CRAFTSMANSHIP:
I thought the mechanical man from the movie Hugo was made up.  I guessed wrong.   Just watch everything that has to happen to draw a simple picture.  I am unconvinced that a single cell could evolve to match this mechanical man, which is much less than all the amazing things that the human body can do.  Alexandre Pouchkine by François Junod  

I did not even know that people were allowed to carve with ivory.  This is about the world’s premier ivory carver.  The detail is amazing.  You have to see the tiny ship rigging that he makes from ivory.  David Warther Carvings Museum

AMAZING:
So you think you can fly?  Well I guess you can.  The best wing suit /skydive

Andy McKee amazes me by the amount of sound that he can get out of an acoustic guitar.  Andy McKee – Guitar – Drifting