Do Not Worry...

We all tend to worry every now and then. How am I going to pay this months bills? What if? Will he/she like me? Too often, we spend more time worrying about what ifs than we do about living in the present. We end up chasing our tails, or chasing something we may not even know exists. Therefore, we must focus on today....the here and now, and how we can impact the lives of those around us through our words, our attitudes, and our actions.

I know - easier said than done. And I fully admit, I too was once a worrier. Yet, somehow life has a way of changing our perspective. People and organizations are put into our lives to help us see there is a greater good. Something bigger than we are. And as I continue to become less of me, and more of God, I also must be willing to relinquish that worry. I choose to replace worry with trust - trust in God's plan for me and  His unending love in my pursuit of pleasing Him. 

Take account of your blessings today. What, or even who, has God placed in your life as an opportunity to share His love? How are you giving back to others, helping to spread that love and kindness to others? Where do you need to let go of control and let Him take over? What is it that God gave you the unique ability to do and how can you share it with others?

What I've learned is that if I listen to the details, if I believe in the talents and passion He has given me, then He will take care of the how. He will find a way to help my passions intersect with my talents so that I can share His love and kindness with others. For me, this comes in three different areas of my life. First and foremost is with my children. God has blessed me with three amazing gifts that I strive to make proud every day. I get to choose what kind of a father I want to be and how to model His love to them. And while I work on putting my selfish ways to rest, I continue to look at those three amazing and beautiful children as an opportunity to harness His love and teach them about patience, kindness, grace, humility, and love.

Second, comes from the continued opportunities to work with and share the mission of myTeam Triumph. As I continue to train and focus on giving of my athletic talents, I look forward to building life-long friendships. Friendships that will give others the opportunity to feel a sense of belonging and accomplishment in communities and events across our state and country. An opportunity to engage others in giving back through a commitment to serving others in His name. He continues to give me opportunities to be engaged and share with others - He knows the how!

And finally, I feel He is asking me to go back into the classroom. He knows my passion for engaging others in education, helping them believe in and achieve their goals, is something that has been missing from my life for too long. And as opportunities become available to pursue my passion for teaching, I believe He will take of the how. He will open doors that He knows I am needed to walk through. I must be willing to put myself out there, to take chances, and to trust in His plan! 

#OwnYourDestiny

The Power of Giving

To Give to the Sponsor a Chair campaign - click here

The holiday season has quickly fallen upon us as we say good bye to Thanksgiving and prepare for Christmas. And as the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season can cause some to chase down the perfect gift to share with loved ones, perhaps this is a great time to consider giving back to others! As the late Winston Churchill stated, 'We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give!' If you're looking for a worthwhile and generous cause, look no further than myTeam Triumph - Wisconsin Chapter and their Sponsor a Chair campaign.

All funds raised during this Giving Tuesday Campaign go directly toward the purchase of a new chair. Why a chair might you wonder? myTeam Triumph prides itself enriching the well being of individuals with diverse abilities and fostering lifelong relationships through community athletics. Each chair is used to embrace, celebrate, and empower those with diverse abilities in the completion of races. Your donation supports the purchase of a very unique and special chair this year!

I can personally attest to how powerful giving to this organization has been in my life. As I started giving of my time and legs to push, I have begun to create amazing friendships that continue to inspire me. From a leadership team that puts people and captains first, to crew members that go out of their way to make each event one of a kind, right down to the captains sharing life with you - myTeam Triumph has inspired me to give back more of myself. This organization has helped me see how life is less about me and more about we. I have learned that success is not measured by my bank account, fame, or size of my house. No, life is meant to be shared with others, pursuing inclusivity and equality for all. 

Please consider donating to myTeam Triumph and help support a mission that truly puts people first. To donate today, please visit: https://www.classy.org/campaign/giving-tuesday/c147585 

#WheelsOfInclusion #OwnYourDestiny

Committing to a Better You

Yes, it's Saturday of opening Deer Hunting Weekend - no I am not a hunter! Instead, I sit inside reflecting on the week about to end and the commitment to training and eating better. I just finished a 13 mile ride outdoors on a windy, rainy morning. For me, there is nothing like getting outside and letting your wheels hit the pavement. As I was riding today, I started to think how this past week has really felt like the starting point to a better me.

Perhaps the greatest commitment to a better me comes from what I am fueling my body with. It's rather difficult to commit to a training regimen if you don't feed your body with food it can use. I will be the first to admit, I love my carbs and sugar. Unfortunately, my body and mind do not! If I want to commit to training for an Iron Man, or even Half Iron Man, I must first commit to a better and more healthier diet.

And that's just what I did to star the week of. Starting with boycotting sugar and empty carbs - mainly bread. It was quickly followed with a trip to the grocery store to fill the fridge with much healthier and more colorful food options. It also meant dedicating time to prepare meals that include a healthy dose of protein and simple carbs my body can digest and break down...spinach, sweet potatoes, zuccini, sweet peppers.

What I also learned was that I needed to change how I ate my meals. Rather than dinner being my largest meal, I planned for breakfast to be my meal that packed the most punch. After all, it was breakfast that was going to be fueling my day. Dinner became my lightest meal, never eating past 8 pm. While it's only been a week, I can definitely feel the benefits paying off already. How do I know?

First and foremost, my mind has become more positive. I can approach each day with a positive and optimistic outlook. I sleep much better at night and don't seem to be as restless. Any my training - well I'll just let that speak for itself. I've trained for six days in a row this week, leaving Sunday for my day of rest. Most importantly, my body feels great after training so much.

The week saw three different swim workouts for a total of 5,300 meters. It included two indoor bike sessions for a total of 75 minutes, and one outdoor bike trip of 13.5 miles. There was one day of running two miles, and two different strength and core workouts. I've been busy and my body seems to be holding up in large part to how I'm feeding it. 

As you begin committing to a better you, be sure to focus on what your feeding your mind and body. Your body does a great job of telling you how it's feeling, what it likes, and what it doesn't like. You must be willing to make sacrifices if you wish to become a better you. #OwnYourDestiny

Pain Has a Purpose?

I'm not even going to try and hide it...I miss running. The sound of your feet pounding the pavement. The cool, crisp autumn air as it hits your face. Taking in the scenery as it passes by. I miss all of it. And as my running season ended quite early this season due to a sports hernia, I was quite bummed that I needed to stop early.

The pain of running had just become to much to bear. The only treatment - REST! That's laughable...rest. How in the world does someone that enjoys being active just rest. I was puzzled. Therefore, I needed to find an activity that was low impact and high cardio. One that would allow me to keep chasing Iron Man. Therefore, it was only natural that I look to tackle the one event I fear in triathlons - swimming. 

Only a mere month ago did I step foot in the pool to begin 'training' in something I wasn't too fond of. Only a mere month ago did I struggle to swim for 100m without needing to catch my breath. Or swim for maybe three minutes before I needed to grab the end of the lane. Yet, three times a week, I awoke before the sun was shining and found myself immersed in water.

A month later, I can say that I have learned to enjoy swimming. Not only has my stamina and distance improved, I've also learned that the pool is becoming my friend. It was only yesterday that I finished a 45 minute swim workout. A workout that saw me swim four sets of 500m at a crack, with two minutes rest between sets. Something I dreaded for so long is slowly becoming a strength.

And while I sat in the sauna afterward, I begin to realize something bigger was happening. The pain of not being able to run, not getting to be outside on the pavement was making way for me to practice what I was terrified of. The pain is helping me learn who I am, what I have to be grateful for, and how to build up my weaknesses. I never realized swimming could be such a mindful activity. The sound of the water rushing over your head. The synchronization of your breathing pattern. Watching the water rush by your face. The soreness of your shoulders and arms and you push the water past you. Swimming has become my release - my escape from the world. And dare I say I enjoy it. Dare I say I look forward to tackling a long swim outdoors.......when the weather is right of course!

Don't see your pain as a burden. Look to your pain as a venue to become a better you. To shape who you want to be and who you can become. Look to the pain as a way to build up your weaknesses and keep faith in who you are and where you are going! 

#OWNYOURDESTINY #RUNLIKEANGELS

Live for Today!

This past weekend, I had the unfortunate opportunity of saying good bye to a  young man that was taken from this world far too soon. At the young age of 29, he was tragically killed in a vehicle accident. Set to be married in December and an avid hunter and hockey fan, his death came as shock to his family and friends. While it had been at least ten years since I last say or spoke to him, I was quickly reminded what a great young man he was. 

As I waited patiently in what seemed like a never ending line, I caught myself flashing back to those early days of my coaching career. It was through my early years as a football coach that I met this young man and his family...and all his friends for that matter. Starting in 7th grade, then 9th grade, and finally as a Sophomore on the JV squad. He brought a smile and a wit to every practice, every game! He had this infectious ability to make you laugh, while he worked his tail off to be the best he could be. 

And so here I stood, waiting in line to pay my condolences. Surrounded by young men and women who I grew up coaching and noticing they are beginning to start families, a harsh reality hit me hard. Here lies a young man, destined for great things and eager to start a family, lying in a casket. Nothing in life is guaranteed. We are only given today as a gift and we must choose wisely how we live for today. We have the choice to make the best of each day, approach others with kindness, and share our positive attitude with everyone we encounter. 

And while the events of the day left me emotional, somber, and reflective, I realized I must continue to push on chasing my destiny in hopes of providing the opportunity for someone else to claim Iron Man status. When I don't feel like training, I must look in the mirror and remind myself of the time I was standing at his casket, wondering could this happen to me? I commit to Owning My Destiny and putting the hopes and dreams of someone else ahead of my own fear, pride, and pain. 

As I end, I feel remiss if I don't remind you to hug your loved ones a little longer the next chance you have. Pick up the phone and tell them you love them. Take hold of what you love the most and share love!

#OwnYourDestiny #RunLikeAngels

Let the Training Commence

As the cold winds turn in beautiful Wisconsin, I knew what lurked ahead. This certainly is an odd time of year to begin training for a Half Iron Man. Nonetheless, I knew it was time to start and stick to a schedule that will help me build physical strength, mental toughness, and an appreciation for opportunity I am given. While searching for and creating a training schedule, I knew most difficult part would be flexing my personal schedule to make training a priority. I am a father of three after all - which always take precedence above all else.

There in lies the dilemma of creating a routine training schedule that provides ample time to swim, bike, and run each week. While I've done my fair share of research, I'm learning that I need to be flexible - flexible in when I awake in the morning, how I use my lunch at work, and what I can quickly get in before the evening darkness sets in! The fear of being able to train appropriately cannot hold me back from chasing my dreams - after all, this isn't about me!

While I wouldn't normally call myself an early bird, I've recognized the need to get to the pool bright and early to get a good swim workout in. How early - 5:30 am at the latest! A good 30-45 minute swim regime is a perfect way to start my week, as I did this past Monday. After a day of work, I quickly scoot home to see if I can catch some rays of sun as I pedal my legs off on a short and quick ride! Mixed in with a few days of strength training to increase power, as well as a few days of short runs, I'd say I've got a 'routine' started and headed in the right direction.

Yet, I know that to overcome my fear of training enough, I will need to be flexible in how I use the time I have. One day, I may need to play dad and be at dance practice, or be the coach on the sideline. Either way, it's about creating time for yourself to #OwnYourDestiny and overcome the fears you face. What I would not have imagine, and cannot stress enough, is having a support network built around you. Whether it be through good friends, social media, or family, the support and surprises they give along the way are the fuel your heart and soul need to carry on.

What was the fuel for me this week? It was the following post-card/thank you I received in the mail! It was that subtle reminder that no matter how hard a workout, a training ride or run, there is a greater purpose it chasing an Iron Man. This isn't about me and my pain, it's about helping someone else fulfill a dream and goal. It's about the smile on his/her face - the perspective on life they share that encourages and empowers you to face those fears and know there is a greater good in this pursuit. 

#OwnYourDestiny #RunLikeAngels

A Moving Experience

Saturday, October 21, 2017 proved to provide another humbling and moving experience with myTeamTriumph at the Africa Hope Run in De Pere, Wisconsin, presented by Spring Lake Church. Given the unseasonable mid-60's weather, we had 12 captains join us for a 5K or 10K run, and well over 40 Angels helping to make that happen.

While I continue to recuperate from a nagging sports hernia, my time was well spent early that morning getting chairs and equipment ready for our Captains. Between assembling chairs, pumping up tires, and preparing the check-in area, the team moved quickly and swiftly in order to greet our Captains and Angels upon arrival. What I quickly learned as Captains arrived was how much I enjoyed seeing the pure joy and excitement on their faces as they checked in. What I wasn't prepared for was how moved I would be by simply having conversations with them. Whether it was talking to BJ about his regional bowling championship, speaking with Graccie and her family about middle school, or helping Teddy become comfortable in his chair - I quickly realized a fire and passion burning inside me to want to learn and hear more from them. 

As is customary for most races, myTeamTriumph starts a little earlier than everyone else. The crowd at Africa Hope Run was amazing as the Captains and Angels set out on the course! 




While we patiently awaited the return of our teams form the course, the excitement of the days events grew. We had 12 Captains enjoying the moment, embracing the friendships they had created before the race started, and sharing stories upon their return. As the first team came racing back down the street (finishing ahead of ALL competitors I might add) Captain Chad wanted to cross the finish line on his own two feet. The applause and cheering from the crown was moving...chill to the bone, goose bump moving. And as more of our teams came strolling in, the cheers and applause never stopped. To watch the likes of an 8th grade girl walk across the finish line in the arms of her angels, as her mother watched on with emotion. And to witness our smallest Captain Teddy walk hand-in-hand with his team of angels with the biggest smile I've ever seen. And to watch BJ, whom I've watched and raced with before, climb out of his chair and march toward the finish line with a bravado and confidence second to none. It was in these moments that I felt something move inside me...something that I cannot explain to this day. 

Only through a few days of reflection can I attempt to explain what I experienced that day and how it continues to motivate and push me toward my destiny of Iron Man. You see, I watched as angels from the age of 12 - 50 serve our Captains with pride, with hope, and with love. I watched as our Captains beamed with the love for life despite the outward appearances of a disability. I am learning that life isn't measured by what we have (money, fame, toys, career) - it's measured by how we live the life we have. It's measured by how much we give of ourselves to others in serving them humbly with love. That's why I choose to give hope and kindness...that's why I focus on helping someone else become an Iron Man. The more we spread kindness, the more we spread love. And that my friends is what life is all about!

#OwnYourDestiny #RunLikeAngels

Own Your Destiny

As a new chapter begins in my life, I find myself reflecting on the past and focusing on where I can go today. A journey filled with trails and tribulations, many of which were self-inflicted. Yet, I still stand here today, chasing my destiny knowing I am capable of anything I set my mind to with the help of God, my family, and my friends! As I let go of that history, I am reminded that I am loved and worthy of His praise.

Why a blog called 'Own Your Destiny' you might wonder? Why a web address with run like angels you might wonder? To understand, it's best I share my purpose and intentions of the blog. We all need a goal in life to focus on...something that is bigger than we are! What's my goal - to be part of a team that helps others become an Iron Man. To show my children that life isn't about living for yourself. That life is truly about the giving of your time, talents, and resources to help others feel included in the world in which we live! 

In July of 2017, I took a leap of faith and joined an organization called myTeamTriumph. An organization whose mission is to enrich the well-being of individuals with diverse abilities and foster lifelong relationships through community athletics. I was going to be sharing my physical ability to run with someone that was unable to do so for themselves. Little did I know, I was actually changing my perspective on life and what God's intentions for me were. (See my page on myTeamTriumph for more details!)

As I followed the organization on Facebook and became more involved with their mission and work, I began to realize I needed a goal that aligned with who I was becoming in life and how I could serve someone else. I wanted to establish a goal that would allow me the opportunity to truly work hard for someone else. To train and prepare for someone else. To help someone else accomplish a milestone that so many set out to reach. Through my time with myTeamTriumph, a passion and desire has built up inside to help others reach Iron Man status. 

To do so, I know I must put in the work and dedication. That I must be fully dedicated and committed to training my mind, body, and spirit to reach that goal. It might take me 2 years, 5 years, or even 10 to help someone become an Iron Man. All along the way, I will be reminded that this isn't about me...it's about the journey and destination for someone else.

Own Your Destiny was then created as a way to share this experience with others. To motivate others to think about looking to the future and living for today. Helping others see that there will be good days and bad days. But it is through faith, friendships, and hope that you can achieve any goal you set. I encourage you to follow along as I share my personal journey to Own My Destiny!

#RunLikeAngels