Roberts On The Run™

French Kiss

2009-06-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

C'est magnifique! There is no more doubt concerning who is the greatest tennis player in history. By winning the elusive French Open title yesterday, Roger Federer became only the second player in the modern era to claim every major tournament - the Grand Slam - and is now tied for the most major wins ever. Jackie and I are a bit of tennis freaks and Fed is our guy. It was a fun day of tennis watching in the Roberts' household yesterday morning - although Aubrey rooted for Federer's opponent, Robin Söderling, just to be difficult! Next up - Wimbledon!

Summer for the Roberts family is now in full swing. Watch for a post regarding our latest adventures, coming soon! Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Fiesta Friday!

2009-05-29T12:09:00.001-07:00

It's been one of those weeks. You know the kind where work is so crazy the days fly by and your Monday blog post suddenly becomes . . . well . . . a Friday blog post. But no excuses or sulking here. Let's say goodbye to the work week and get ready to say hello to the weekend! Par-tay!!! I'm still excited over yet another one of my favorite athletes (and people), Helio Castroneves bringing home a storybook Indy 500 victory (his third) just days after being fully acquitted of tax evasion charges that would have sent him to jail for years. After closer review, looks like the Feds never had much evidence against the first-class Brazilian and the celebratory milk at Indy must have tasted oh so sweet, er flavorful(?), ummm wholesome(?) - well, you get the idea! Just goes to show you that you can't keep good people down. Greatness always rises to the top. I was there for Helio's first two victories and my buddy George was in attendance for this one last Sunday. Good times, great guy - great story!

Want to witness a special "feel-good" moment? Watch as a teary-eyed Helio is nearly speechless after his victory.

And yes, it's that time of year again - school is almost over! For all you graduates out there, as you enter the next phase of your life, remember to walk proudly - and carefully!!!

Have a great weekend everyone. And until next time, remember to watch your step, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Paradise Found

2009-05-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

During our recent visit to North Carolina, we stayed with my sis Sheila, bro-in-law Roger and their family at their beautiful home (more like a resort) on Lake Norman, just north of Charlotte. Quite simply, it was paradise. One thing we realized, though, is that the Baughan family's paradise is independent of where they live. These special people have such a positive spirit and sense of family about them that you can't help feeling uplifted in their presence - and you always feel right at home. So thanks to Sheila, Roger, Derek, Meagan, Colby, and Brock for giving us the gift of one of our favorite trips ever!

One thing I've learned about Jackie is that she has a passion for adventure. Watch as she gets the feel for a wave runner in the first video clip, then is tearing up the water in the second clip with Murph, just a few minutes later!

Roger is the perfect captain and basically rules the waters of Lake Norman. When I asked him who has the right of way when two boats are headed toward each other, he simply grinned and said, "Whoever has the bigger boat." There is a metaphor for life in there somewhere.

Colby did a little tubing as we cruised by . . .

Then caught a ride with Murph back to the dock.

Derek followed our wake - and flipped his wave runner.

Aubs absolutely loved playing with Aunt She-She and Meagan on the dock.

Blake stopped by the day of his wedding for a little fun in the sun on his big day.

We were also honored to be all together for Mother's Day during which Roger, Sheila and Meagan cooked yet another incredible meal and we just enjoyed each other's company.

My bro (actually my nephew), Brock.

Later in the day, Derek took Aubrey and Jackie on a fun ride in a luxury golf cart.

Sheila's gorgeous fish pond was a big hit with Aubrey, too!

We also took a drive through downtown Charlotte - very cool place.

Great times, great fun, great family. Thanks again to the Baughan family and hope to see you again soon!

Have a Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone! Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Don't Give Up The Ship

2009-05-21T06:31:00.000-07:00

Ever meet one of those people who just seems to have the world at their feet? That's my niece, Meagan - a real-life Elle Woods. After the wedding ceremony was over, guess who was at the helm of the largest boat on the lake? As always, Meagan seemed to have everything figured out and all was calm on the waters.

Of course, not everything was going so smoothly on the rest of the boat. As you can see from their expressions, Sheila and Mom came across a soda that had a few more ingredients in it than expected.

Later in the day, the ship was rocking from the gyrating motions of Aubrey and Jackie who were bustin' a move near the dance floor.

Coming up in the next post, we'll take a look at everything else that happened during our Charlotte trip including lots of adventures on Lake Norman, (Word to the wise: Jackie turns into a daredevil when you flip her the key to a wave runner!), and our beautiful accommodations that we like to call The Baughan Resort!

Talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

The Love Boat

2009-05-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Every wedding is special and can bring a tear to the eye of even the most manly of men (are you reading this Roger?). But add my nephew Blake (one of my favorite people), his lovely bride Amber, my family, and a beautiful boat on a picturesque lake, and you have the makings of what can only be called . . . The Love Boat. This very special ceremony took place aboard "The Lady of the Lake" on Lake Norman, just north of Charlotte, North Carolina. Leave it to Blake and Amber to plan such a classy event - one we'll always remember. Quite simply, it was honor to be there and I am sure they will both look back at this wonderful day as the beginning of a lifetime of happiness. Murph was also honored to be one of the photographers, so sit back, relax, and get ready to set a course for adventure as you join us for the happy nuptials as seen through Murph's lens.

Thanks, Blake and Amber, for sharing your special day with us - and congratulations! Of course, there were more stories from the wedding (you will NEVER believe who was actually the captain of the boat) and our adventures in Charlotte. Watch for more exciting tales, photos and videos, coming very soon.

Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Good Charlotte

2009-05-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

The Roberts family is spending a few days in Charlotte, North Carolina, or more specifically, Lake Norman. Lots of wild and crazy adventures will be documented in blog posts to come. Talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

What's All The Racquet?

2009-05-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

I've always been inspired by greatness. And although he may be in a little bit of slump lately, Roger Federer is another one of my heroes in life. As a spokesperson for Gillette, along with Tiger Woods and Derek Jeter, Roger was recently featured in a new TV ad campaign (that almost made me wet my pants). Check out the new spot below.

Federer's Nike commercials are legendary as well. Check out what happens when he gets an unexpected - and creepy - visit from his "coach".

Another Federer Nike spot in which Coach Creepy instructs Roger on the fine art of jammin' out . . . with his racquet.

You probably know by now that Lance Armstrong is another one of my inspirations. After recently breaking his collar bone in several places, he "recovered" by riding in the Tour of Gila, a five-day race, mainly through the terrain of old mining towns in New Mexico. Since it is not an internationally sanctioned event, Lance could not officially ride for his pro team, so he talked two other world class cyclists - Levi Leipheimer and Chris Horner - into riding with him as a warmup for the Giro (the Tour of Italy, which starts this Saturday). Note the Mellow Johnny's jerseys - the name of Lance's bike shop and the official "sponsor" of the team. Needless to say, they kicked butt. Here is a lighthearted video before one of the stages.

Stage 2 Tour of the Gila -- powered by http://www.livestrong.com

A couple more things before before we part ways for the week:

Big congrats to my niece, Meagan who is graduating from West Virginia University after a standout scholastic and athletic career as a star cheerleader. Way to go, Meg!

My buddy George just started a blog of his own. It's sure to be insightful, irreverent, and entertaining - just like The George himself. Check it out now . . . before he gets arrested. http://wisdomofpeeps.blogspot.com

Thanks for reading. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Happy, Happy Birthday, Jackie!

2009-04-29T03:16:00.001-07:00

Sending out very special birthday wishes to my very best friend, Jackie! Aubrey, Murph and I hope you have a very special day. And thanks again for being my wife - we love you!

XOXO,
Jeff

Sky's The Limit

2009-04-27T10:50:00.001-07:00

How many times in life do we underestimate someone because of how they look, how they act, or, in a situation I witnessed personally over the weekend, how old they are. Our little girl, Aubrey is really beginning to grow up. Jackie, Murph and I laugh about her assertiveness and the fact that she is never at a loss for confidence. She really believes she can achieve anything - a trait that has taken me years to develop. So as we headed to the park yesterday to fly her new Elmo kite that Jackie had recently purchased for her, we painstakingly explained to her that this was a toy that she could watch but probably couldn't fly herself. Of course, after each of us had a try at launching this little piece of plastic and canvas into the air, we finally determined that Elmo was indeed not meant to fly. As you'll see in the video below, little Aubs had other ideas. After picking the handle and string up herself, the kite miraculously went airborne and, showing all of us how it is done, she enjoyed the best flight of the day. The moral of the story? Never underestimate the power of the human spirit . . . even if it comes in a body that is just two years old and weighs less than 30 pounds.

Although Jackie's birthday is this Wednesday, we started the party early, as the Roberts family headed out for a night at one of our favorite restaurants - Bravo!

You realize you're a very lucky man when one of your favorite people in life just happens to also be your son!

We ended our night by playing in the backyard, where Aubs was inspired to actually stand up on a skateboard after watching Murph show her how it's done. (We have a great video of this but are experiencing technical difficulties. We'll save it for another post!)

Thanks, as always, for reading. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Every Second Counts

2009-04-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

How much time does it take to realize - or miss out on - a dream? How about seven little seconds. The time that separated Kara Goucher, Nike poster girl and one of my favorite athletes, from becoming the first American to win the Boston Marathon since 1985. Just seven seconds behind the winner, Kara completed her second ever marathon this morning by finishing in third place. Although an obviously outstanding performance in just her second marathon, Kara was devastated and reduced to tears. A true competitor and all-around nice person, she'll be back.

On a much, much, much lesser scale, I have to say I can relate to how she feels. On Sunday in the St. Louis Half-Marathon, I finished in the Top 100 of 10,000 runners but came up 18 seconds - 18 seconds - short of qualifying for this year's New York City Marathon (my very favorite race). And I can honestly say that the tears rolling down my cheeks at the finish were raindrops from the torrential downpour! (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.)

Like Kara, I have a short memory when it comes to endurance sports disappointments. She probably is already contemplating how she can gain an extra second here or there in next year's race. And me? I was out the door early this morning and back on the run. Lots to train for - more half-marathons, races, and triathlons this summer, followed by the Chicago Marathon in October, where I will attempt to qualify for Boston - the holy grail of marathons.

Here's to making every second count - on and off the course.

Talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Less Talk. More Hop.

2009-04-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

If a picture is worth a thousand words, consider this a very long post. The Roberts family had a great Easter weekend. Murph spent the first part of it with us before heading north with his mom to visit family. Jackie kept us busy all weekend with Easter fun, including coloring eggs and an early morning Easter egg hunt on Sunday morning that absolutely thrilled Aubrey. After that, it was off to visit Grandma Roberts for Easter brunch. Hop on board and join us for a little Easter fun!

Happy Easter everyone and talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Rejected!

2009-04-06T06:26:00.000-07:00

Ever have the opposite of writer's block? You know the scenario where your mind is spinning with so many timely topics and ideas that you can't choose just one? Here are a few that didn't quite make the cut:

TOP 5 REJECTED BLOG TOPICS

5. "Barney Is Dead" - Tips on how to explain to your two-year-old that Barney has gone the way of all dinosaurs and is now extinct - along with all of his DVDs and CD soundtracks. We can continue to be a "happy family", just without purple T-Rexes.

4. "In Your Face(book)" - What to do when you no longer recognize all of your "friends" on facebook and are inundated by constant updates such as "Taking my dog Fluffy to the groomer, then stopping by my doctor to have a hemorrhoid checked out." TMI anyone?

3. "D.C. Overexposure" - Coping with a president who seems to never stop campaigning although he has already been elected. Maybe some of my hard-earned stimulous dollars can go toward buying this guy his own TV network so he doesn't keep bumping my favorite shows? Just a thought.

2. "That Sinking Feeling" - Channeling your inner plumber to cope with good sinks that go bad. (As in your son accidentally knocks a candle into your porcelain sink and shatters it. But if Murph had not done this, I probably would have!)

And the #1 Rejected Blog Topic:

1. "When April Fool's Pranks Go Wrong" - Repairing relationships with friends, family, and co-workers in the aftermath of a tall tale involving bicycles, croissants, and berets.

Talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Je Suis Désolé !

2009-04-02T06:22:00.001-07:00

English translation? I am sorry! Yesterday's April Fool's ("poisson d'avril" in French) post created an instant firestorm of email replies, text messages, and voice mails. To those of you who instantly picked up on it, good catch. To those who didn't - GOTCHA! To everyone, je suis désolé. I KNOW there will be paybacks and I am sure I will end up French Fried.

As I told my sister Sheila (who is finally speaking to me again after being "misled" by the news), the best part of writing the post was an opportunity to describe my dream job. For a split second, in spite of my devious intentions, it felt like it was really happening - and it felt great! My wife Jackie said to bookmark this post and maybe one day soon we will be sending it out again - and it won't be a prank. Added incentive to pick up the pace and chase more dreams, no matter how distant they may seem. I send that positive wish to each one of you.

Until next time, remember - don't believe everything you read!

- Jeff

Bonjour Paris!

2009-04-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

After just finishing up a full morning of negotiations, I am excited (and terrified) to announce that the Roberts family is moving to . . . France! And very soon. I have accepted a position as the European Blog Director for VeloNews (www.velonews.com), the cycling industry's premier online and print publication. I will be providing web updates and interviews for all of cycling's major races, including the Giro d' Italia (Tour of Italy) in May, Le Tour de France (July), and other key events throughout the year. This is a full time gig, so we will be living in Paris (and traveling throughout Europe) for approximately nine months out of the year, then spending three months each year (November, December, January) stateside in New York City, where VeloNews is headquartered.

My head is spinning and sorry I have not be in touch with each of you personally, but time is of the essence. We leave for Paris a week from Friday. I am assigned to cover all of the Spring Classics, beginning with Paris Roubaix on April 13th in northern France. Jackie has found an American academy in Paris that will accept Aubrey for her schooling and Murphy will be joining us later this summer. We will be staying at a condo near the center of Paris that I negotiated through the publication. I will forward more info - new phone numbers, addresses, etc. as I have them.

My focus on learning French was only partially a hobby. I had proposed this position to the management at VeloNews about two years ago and finally it has all fallen into place! Now I will get to merge three of my great passions - writing, travel, and cycling. Jackie is nervous, but very excited for our new adventure! Merci et au revoir! We will be in touch soon!

- Jeff

Day Late, Dollar Short

2009-03-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

I received many emails yesterday wondering why this week's edition of the blog was MIA. Well, you Gold Member Roberts On The Run™ Subscribers (and you know who you are - Jackie) know that you did have access to this post on Monday. Remember, just $79.95 a year upgrades your subscriber status so that you receive timely issues, insider information, great incentive programs such as FREE Jiffy Pop® popcorn for one full year, six-months of FREE gas at any Amoco nationwide, a $500 gift card for your nearest Apple Store, and many other great incentives. So buck up, support a great blog and its outstanding advertisers.

Okay . . . I made this whole thing up. There are no "Gold Members", no advertisers, and, well . . . probably no actual readers . . . except you. I just plain missed my deadline and was looking for an out. Sorry. But since you bothered to open the page, let's keep this thing moving. This week, let's take a look at some of the things on the web that have caught my attention recently.

My son, Murphy, has always had a talent for photography and videography, even at an early age. Take a look at this video he shot with a small pen camera during his early years. It's footage of one of his friends actually being struck by a passing car. My heart skips a beat every time I watch this, but thankfully the young man was fine, although obviously traumatized. Listen for the honking car horn just before impact. Murph recently uploaded this to YouTube.

Think some of the touchdown celebrations in pro football are becoming a little excessive? Well check out this victory "dance"(?) from the world of ping pong. Yes, ping pong . . .

Excessive Ping Pong Celebration @ Yahoo! Video

Murph recently introduced me to one of my favorite things on the web - Pandora radio. Are you listening? If you're not, well you should be. You simply type in the name of your favorite artist, then this site customizes a complete "radio station" with similar music based on your selection. I started by typing in "Brian McKnight" and LOVED every song that followed. Check it out now at www.pandora.com.

Okay, so have you been "Skypeing"? My movin'-and-shakin' bro-in-law Roger (who is always ahead of the technology curve) told me about this great online communications tool a few weeks ago, and I'm hooked. This (FREE) innovation instantly turns your laptop or computer into a video conferencing center. You can call and talk face-to-face to virtually anyone that has web cam capabilities. The screen clarity and sound is impressive. Look me up (jeffrobertsnyc) in the Skype directory now at www.skype.com.

Thanks, as always, for reading. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race,

- Jeff

Walk In The Park

2009-03-22T21:39:00.000-07:00

Ever have people who come into your life and inspire you? You know the type – if you told them this, they would probably humbly roll their eyes and say, “Who me?”, which of course makes you appreciate them even more. As luck would have it, I am blessed to have those kinds of people in my family. And on Sunday, Jackie, Murph, Aubrey and I decided to take a break from our fast-paced schedules and literally take a walk in the park. Come along and go for a stroll with us.

Aubrey's hero in life is definitely Elmo (of Sesame Street fame), but her brother Murphy is not far behind. If you've ever wanted to discover the true mean of "hero worship", just take a closer look at the opening photo above.

Aubrey has boundless energy and always keeps everyone in the Roberts family "On The Run"!

Just when I thought I had discovered all the outstanding qualities in my wife Jackie, she revealed one more - loving mother.

I can honestly say that if Jackie, Murph and Aubs weren't my family, I would choose them as my best friends. I thank God every day that they are both.

Thanks for reading and talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Persistence

2009-03-16T07:12:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to avoid them, negative confrontations come across your path. Whether it’s a run-in with a difficult and seemingly unreasonable boss, a meddlesome “friend” who you just can’t seem to please, or in my most recent instance, a black Mustang that recklessly strayed from its own lane. After swerving, honking, braking and doing virtually everything that could be reasonably expected of me in a split second to avoid the racy vehicular pony, there was sudden impact. Thankfully it all occurred at a low rate of speed and Jackie and Aubrey were fine. The female driver of the other car however, instantly sprung into action, tersely calling the police, madly snapping photos of the accident with her cell phone and acting like, well, a victim.

As the police arrived on the scene, I was calm and serene in the knowledge that when the accident was documented and the stories were told, the truth would prevail and a double helping of justice would be served in my favor. Fate, as it often does, had other ideas. The first policeman on the scene had Mustang woman move her car, which effectively eliminated the visual evidence of her lane violation, a second policeman arrived after this to record the evidence, Mustang woman told a falsehood-filled account of the happenings, and before I could say, “Good afternoon, officer”, I was being informed that this was all my fault and I was responsible for the damages. Calmy, still knowing that the truth was on my side, I asked the officer if he wanted to hear my side of the story. He half-heartedly listened before informing me again that, indeed, I was in the wrong. Twice more, to no avail, I tried to state my side of the details.

Now the old me (as in the first-40-years-of-my-life-me) would have simply given up and become resigned to the fact that quite often life is not fair, and sometimes you pay the price for things that are not really your fault. But then a switch tripped within me and everything came completely into focus. The accident suddenly, in my mind, was less about the details and more about basic principles, about personal responsibility. As if in fast-forward mode, a reel of recent events quickly ran through my mind – other happenings that, like this accident, seemed a bit uncomfortable and well, just not quite right:

• The recent story I read of a children’s soccer league that refuses to keep score and gives all the kids trophies “because we’re all winners in life”. (I meet people who are more talented and accomplished than me every day – it inspires me to do more, be more.)
• Magazines that plaster their covers with content indicating how they are “going green” yet continue to litter my floor with tons of wasted paper in the form of those annoying subscription cards that seemingly fall out of every page. (Don’t tell me you are environmentally responsible – show me.)
• The nauseating fact that Jackie and I, after striving for years to live within our means, may now actually be paying someone else’s mortgage.
• The troublesome dilemma of why, if G2 contains only 33% of the calories of regular Gatorade, it actually costs more . . . I think this was the one that bothered me most of all.

Snapping back into reality, I took a step back from the accident, and decided to try one last time. “Wait!,” I said firmly yet respectfully. “Just for future reference, if I am ever in this situation again . . . “ then I proceeded to once again describe what had actually happened but this time spoke as if I were describing an accident involving someone else. After completing the scenario, the officer paused for a moment, then said, “Well, now that would be different. Are you telling me that is actually what happened?” And the rest was history – and vindication. Almost like those one-hour TV shows that resolve the storyline all too conveniently in the final five minutes of the episode, Mustang woman admitted that yes, she might have been in my lane, may have been a little confused with where she was going, and also confused on the details. The responsibility of the accident, it was determined, actually rested with the woman who was unable to reign in her horse . . . er, car. Case closed.

As were driving home (with a drooping fender), Jackie and I talked about how all too often in life, it’s more convenient to sit quietly and watch things happen in front of you, even if you don’t feel good about them. Especially lately, it seems that the loudest people are the ones that are heard - and followed. We decided that now more than ever, it's important to speak your mind, no matter what your point of view, to ensure that you always live the life you want and not the one someone else thinks you should be living. I read somewhere the other day that we are all the scriptwriters of our own lives. Maybe now's the time to focus, be persistent when you know you're in the right, and make sure that every chapter is a positive as possible.

Thanks for reading. Remember to use those turn signals when changing lanes. And until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Vacation Day

2009-03-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

As I've always said, "just because you're at work doesn't mean you can't be on vacation." (That wisdom is sure to take you very far in life!) So, as we enter into yet another big week, let's pause, catch our breath and have a little fun. Heck, you don't even have to surf the 'net. This week, I'm bringing some of my favorite video clips to you that I've come across over the past couple of weeks. Let's get this party started . . .

Have you seen "Man v. Food" on the Travel Channel? Each week Adam Richman travels the nation in search of eating challenges. Jackie and I agree that it hurts our stomachs just watching these calorie-filled episodes, but Adam is one of the funniest people on the tube!

This guys reminds me exactly of how Jackie acts when we're at a sporting event and they turn up the music! Let's get our groove on now with this rhythm-impaired but enthusiastic dance maniac at a Boston Celtics game.

I always love it when people say that animals don't dream. Check out this sleep-walking (sleep-running?) pooch that seems to be chasing a imaginary hot biscuit . . . or pesky feline.

When anyone asks why I ride a bike instead of a motorcycle, I show them this video.

In one of my favorite movie clips, Peter LaFleur (Vince Vaughan) decides that playing dodge ball is just too challenging - so he quits. Then he just happens to run into Lance "Never Say Die" Armstrong in an airport. Awkward!

Hope you enjoyed the clips and have a great laugh-filled week!

Talk to you soon. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Everyday Moments

2009-03-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

They say the best things in life happen in the everyday moments. Lately, I have witnessed the infinite truth of this mantra. Often, I am guilty of wondering what's next - what's the next big event, major happening, or earth-moving experience that will come my way and continue to shape my life. But when my mind, body and soul are at peace, there is a silence and sudden clarity to the world around me. As if sharpening the focus with a camera lens, it suddenly becomes clear that even the seemingly smallest things that I often take for granted collectively reveal the true meaning - and happiness - of life. I'll share a few of these everyday moments now.

I'm so lucky that my two favorite girls in the world both live with me in my family. Here Jackie and Aubs share one last cuddle before Aubs has to say goodbye to her morning cartoons and head out the door to school.

Like many great photographers, Murphy hates to have his OWN picture taken. But my son continues to inspire me with his many talents and interests. Here is his interesting take on a palm tree from a recent trip to Florida with his mom. Murph always has an interesting point of view - with or without his camera.

The old adage is true - children grow up in the blink of an eye. I've seen it happen with Murph - now watch as Aubs experiences another milestone. She just can't wait to show Mom her first big-girl bed.

One of my many blessings is to have the opportunity to work from home AND have Aubs with me a few days every week. Share a "business" lunch moment with us now.

True friends are hard to come by. But my friend George is actually family - someone you can count on no matter what the situation. Here we share another adventure, holding down the back row during a weekend spin for charity. Of course, Murph was on hand to shoot the event. (It's nice to have a pro photographer in the family.)

I'll leave you with a quote that I heard (and loved) just the other day: "God's greatest gift is today - that's why it's called the present." Here's to making the most of every "everyday" moment.

Talk to you soon. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

The Conference Call

2009-02-23T07:37:00.000-08:00

Working for myself, I tend to wear many hats. Typically, when I don’t have a day of meetings, it’s my trusty NY Giants slouch cap. Another one is the welcome responsibility of taking care of my baby daughter Aubrey for a couple of days a week, as I run my writing business . . . at the same time. It’s not as crazy as it sounds. Although a very demanding boss, Aubs is easy to be around (and love) and can be bribed for up to a half hour at the time, simply by popping in her favorite DVD. This gives me opportunities to sneak a few steps away into my office for things such as conference calls with my clients. As a matter of fact, let’s join one now, in progress:

Client (Male): So, you understand what we need you to do on this?
Me: Perfectly – not a problem.
Client: I’ll put you in touch with Mr. Jackson for further reference, before you start writing the ads.
Aubs (From The Room Next Door): Baaaaaaaarney!!!!!!!
Client: That’s Mr. Jackson – not Mr. Barney . . .
Me: Yes, right.
Client: Are you okay?
Me: Yes, of course.
Client: You sure you can meet the deadline?
Aubs (Now In My Office And In Hysterics): Baaaaaaaaaaarney!!!!!!
Client: You sound upset.
Me: No, actually I’m just here with . . .
Aubs: DVD!!! DVD!!!
Client: You understand we’re writing prints ads, not a video – right?
Me: Yes, wait, hang on . . .
Aubs (SCREAMING): Broken, Daddy!!!!!!
Client: Wait, what’s broken? And did you just call me "daddy"???

Me (LAUGHING): Actually, I’m here with my baby daughter, Aubrey. Something seems to be going on with her Barney DVD. Do you have kids?
Client: No.
(LONG AWKWARD PAUSE, THEN AUBS LAUGHS HYSTERICALLY).
Me: Look, Jim, I think I have everything I need to get started. Sorry for the hysteria, but it’s all under control. I really appreciate the opportunity and will meet the deadline.
Client (Sternly – No Sense Of Humor): Well, I hope so.

Me: Thanks - and bye, Jim.
Aubs: Byyyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeeee!!!!
(PAUSE)
Me (To Aubs): You know, sweetie, I hope you always keep your sense of humor. Life is just too short to deal with sour pusses.
Client: Um, Jeff, I’m still on the line.
(EXTREMELY AWKWARD SILENCE)

Being in business for myself has brought my priorities into sharp focus. And Aubrey, Jackie and Murphy are always at the top of my list. Although I completely love my job, sometimes it's important to realize that we're all working to live, not living to work. And I'm reminded of that important fact every time Aubs smiles and calls me Daddy.

Talk to you next week. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Virtually Yours

2009-02-15T11:34:00.001-08:00

As I sit here jammin' on the keyboard of my Apple MacBook, monitoring my TweetDeck twitter updates, glancing through my facebook news feed, emailing clients, checking the latest sports scores on the ‘net, listening to a streaming radio feed on iTunes, and watching the latest MTV video download in the upper corner of my laptop screen, while simultaneously texting on my BlackBerry, I’ve come to the realization that we live in a virtual world.

With all of the communications technologies and “social media” that are always at our fingertips, staying in touch with family, friends, customers, complete strangers and events around the block and around the world, is an easy process that is always just a click away. The techno-cynics would have you believe that this inundation of electronic connectivity is the literal downfall of modern society; the cause of everything from carpel tunnel to Attention Deficit Disorder to the collapse of personal and meaningful relationships.

Call me an interactive apologist, but I have a virtually opposing point of view. My closet office (insert “closet” joke here) in my house has gone from a place where faded t-shirts and tattered overcoats went to die to a literal nerve center of interactive communication that has allowed me to stay in closer touch with the people I care about most, keep up with the latest info on the topics and happenings that interest me, and even start my own business. Granted, your interactive connection is what you make it. At its worst, it is a poor substitute for human contact and personal conversation. But at its best, it is a priceless opportunity to stay up to speed with family and friends, near or far – the fact that you are reading this right now effectively illustrates the point.

So at this time of year when we celebrate our relationships with loved ones, here’s to continuing to use the best available technologies to connect with the people who mean the most to us . As always, I am virtually yours.

XOXO,
Jeff

Extra Mileage

Congrats to my niece, Meagan (pictured here with her mom, Sheila and her crazy dad, Roger!) on celebrating her Senior Night at West Virginia University. Meagan has been a very prominent cheerleader for both the football and basketball team and will be graduating this year. Way to go, Meagan!

Murph has been at Disney World with his mom for the week and shot this image on his iPhone to share with us. (That young man has a very rough life - ha!) Watch for lots of additional photos from Florida coming soon to his web sites.

Thanks to my beautiful dates for Valentine's Day. Note Aubs's popcorn at the movies - she couldn't take her eyes off the screen!

Lance rides again at the Tour of California this week. The man himself continues to promote cancer awareness and he prepares to ride himself into shape for The Giro (Tour of Itay) and Le Tour de France this summer.

Not sick enough of my web presence already? Here’s where else Roberts is on the run (at least on the Internet):

http://www.robertsontherun.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/jeffroberts
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1454040460
http://www.youtube.com/jeffrobertsnyc
http://www.powerbar.com/user/JeffRoberts.aspx
http://www.athlinks.com/racer/46773555/Jeff-Roberts.asp...
http://www.jeffrobertsink.blogspot.com

Thanks for reading. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

Tri It Indoors

2009-02-09T02:34:00.000-08:00

So what do you do when after weeks of sub-freezing weather, you're finally presented with a beautiful, balmy day with temperatures comfortably near 70 degrees? If you're like us, you take it inside and work up a sweat in an indoor triathlon - at least for a few hours. My good bud George and I had participated in this early season, fun-filled event last year and couldn't resist a return performance. And this time, we were lucky enough to have Jackie and Aubs as a welcome cheering section! The Jewish Community Center Indoor Triathlon consists of an indoor pool swim, a ride on a spinning bike, and finishes with a treadmill run. Let's get ready to bring the pain!

Aubrey stays busy "carbo loading" for the big event with her very favorite treat - Cheez-its!

No, it's not the Loch Ness Monster - this is me on the swim during the first leg of the triathlon.

George is slightly startled - and gets a case of the giggles - when I surprise him with the camera at the end of the pool.

Let's get those legs in motion as we head for the second leg of the competition - the spinning bike. I'm waving to Jackie with the camera and to Aubs, who was a little embarrassed by Dad looking like a maniac. Also note the nervous girls walking behind me and keeping a safe distance from my sweaty self.

George turns up the heat in this documentary-style video of him powering through the bike stage. Note the "toweling off the face" move for effect. Sweet.

Bringing it home on the run. Aubs is just looking for more Cheez-its.

George shows no mercy to his fellow competitors as he completes the race.

Extra Mileage

Big news from Murph's photography adventures - he just sold his first stock image! He has sold photos in the past directly to companies and advertising agencies but now he has some of his work represented on "stock" sites that allow people to buy directly from the web site. It's a very competitive industry and although Murph is very modest about all of this, it is a huge accomplishment. Congrats, Murph! Also, in addition to Murph's personal site on www.flickr.com (http://www.flickr.com/photos/murphyr), he has also started a new blog at www.murphyrphotography.blogspot.com to chronicle his daily and weekly photo shoots for his school newspaper, yearbook and other endeavors. He never slows down - check it out!

That's all for now. Talk to you next week. Until then, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Shred Headz

2009-02-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

This week, don't read the blog - watch it! Join us for a day of shreddin' on the slopes. Your snowboarding experience begins when you click the first video below.

Thanks for watching. Until next time, pick up the pace and shred your own race.

- Jeff

P.S. Thanks for the great photos, Murph!

Catching My 2nd Wind (Chill)

2009-01-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

This was not the blog entry entry I had planned to write today. In fact, I had something else on a completely different topic finished and ready to post. But as I've experienced quite a bit lately, situations - and goals - can quickly change. I personally witnessed this fact firsthand last Saturday as I stepped outside before sunup to check the weather conditions before preparing to leave for the Frostbite Series half-marathon (13.1 miles) in the park. After breathing in a lung-searing dose of wintery air, I checked the temperature on the Internet - 12° with a wind chill of -7°.

Now I've run in some cold races in my day. I reflected back to the 1994 Chicago Marathon that began with a comfortable temperature in the 50s before the city lived up to its windy nickname and blew in a cold front (don't say front) dumping a bone-chilling mixture of snow and sleet on me as I hobbled the final six miles along Lake Shore Drive. A woman, who obviously felt my pain or simply couldn't bare to watch a grown man both shiver AND cry, gave me her jacket with a toasty fur collar. As I crossed the finish line that day, I wasn't sure if my fellow runners were laughing at me because I was swaddled in a woman's jacket, or because the brown suede clashed horribly with the yellow Nike running shirt I was wearing beneath it . . . I'll never know for sure.

Anyway, let's leave that disturbing vision behind - permanently - and return to our present-day story. As I bundled up in my layers of dri-fit clothing (not running was never an option) and arrived at the starting line, I reminded myself that I was running this series of races simply to get a training base for the big races coming this spring, summer and fall. I plan on running the St. Louis Half-Marathon in April, during which I hope to run a time that will qualify me for a top starting position at the Chicago Marathon this October and also qualify me for the New York City Marathon (my favorite race!) in November. For today's race, I was in survival mode - simply finishing in these conditions would be victory in itself.

After the first mile, I realized I couldn't feel my legs. Not in a bad, hurtful way, I simply couldn't feel them. I also noticed that ice crystals formed on the back of my throat with every breath - an odd feeling but kinda cool in a weird sort of way. I tucked in with a group of runners to try to stay out of the wind and learned that they were teenager members of a local high school cross-country team. They didn't seem to mind that a father figure was in their midst and keeping pace with their youthful strides.

At mile marker 8, I veered off the course to grab a G-2 (Gatorade) bottle out of the back of my truck. I took a quick swig and glanced at my watch. What? I was actually well ahead of my planned pace and my mind and body felt as if the race had just begun. Jumping back on the road, I began to pick up the pace even further and felt better than I have all year. I pondered a headline of a magazine article I had read earlier in the week that asked the provocative question, "Why now? Why not!" and couldn't decide if the chills I was feeling were from inspiration or the howling wind (I decided it was a bit of both). I'm not sure if the daunting elements had taken all the pressure off of me, or if my off-season training had finally starting to come together but as I glanced up at the digital clock at the finish line, I was happily startled to realize that I had just qualified for my coveted top 1000 starting position at the Chicago Marathon and will need to shave off just three more minutes of time in April to qualify for New York City.

Walking back to my truck, I realized that too often in life, I have my mind made up of how things are supposed to be and when there are supposed to happen. This race result was an exciting revelation and lesson to me - why not seize every opportunity as you have it? Why not go for it when the odds seem against you? Why put a timetable on your goals? Just as I caught my second wind at mile 8, I am ready to catch my second wind in all aspects of my life and am open to all of the possibilities and blessings the universe has to offer. And remember . . . that woman's coat story is just between us . . . okay?

Extra Mileage
Murphy continues to stay busy with his photography and recently sold another one of his photos, this time to an advertising agency. Check out his latest work at: http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr

Little Aubs's latest fascination is a big bag of popcorn at the movies (she takes after Jackie, me and Murph!). We found that she can be bribed to watch even non-animated movies, such as "Bride Wars" last weekend (love that Anne Hathaway) with this tasty, salty treat!

Thanks for reading and talk to you soon. Until next time, remember to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Monday Morning Musings

2009-01-18T11:02:00.000-08:00

Even days later, I am still in utter astonishment pondering the events that occurred during last week's "Miracle On The Hudson." In an era in which we are constantly bombarded with negative politics, gruesome murders, and detailed reports on unsavory situations and characters, how refreshing it was to witness the heroic actions of pilots, crew, passengers, FDNY, NYPD, and private ferry crews that resulted in beautiful stories of life taken from a seemingly hopeless situation. Bravo to Captain "Sully" Sullenberger and all those involved in the rescue of US Airways Flight 1549 who inspired the people of New York City, the nation, and the world!

Anyone else find it amusing or ironic that on a day when our nation was covered in a virtual modern ice age of wintery weather and worldwide we are experiencing one of the coldest seasons in a century, our president-to-be proudly appointed a "global warming" czar? Now I like to think of myself as a reasonable conservationist, but I couldn't tell if the shivers I was experiencing upon hearing the news were from uncontrollable laughter or the fact that the outside temperature was then a balmy two degrees. Obviously one more reason I will never be qualified to run for our nation's highest office. (Or is it because I would never be bold enough to throw myself a $150-million inauguration in a time of major recession?)

He's baaaaaaaack!!! My man Lance made his official comeback on Sunday in southern Australia, riding a warmup criterium that will lead into this week's Tour Down Under. Although he is riding for Team Astana (for free, I might add), his mission this time is less about the results and more about the message. The Tour de France is no longer his sole focus, as he will be riding in many races around the world to spread the Livestrong message and encourage countries across the globe to step up the effort to eliminate cancer. Note his Livestrong bike and helmet. And remember when you buy any Livestrong workout clothing, 100% of the proceeds go to those who are living with cancer - incredible! Good luck Lance and Livestrong!

The family and I saw "Mall Cop" over the weekend – one of the stupidest movies I have ever encountered. And I mean "stupid" as in I was laughing so hard throughout the movie that Jackie and Murphy (and okay, Aubs too) had to physically restrain me during certain scenes. If you were ever into that Chris Farley-style slapstick onscreen humor (and I was), this movie is for you. Also a better story than you might expect. Definitely not an award winner, but lots of fun!

Okay, I know that, being involved in the world of advertising, I am supposed to be generally cynical about TV commercials. But this one gets me EVERY time . . . and maybe because it's something I could see myself accidently doing. I'm sure you've watched it countless times on the tube, but enjoy!

I've been braving the elements over the past couple of months and running in the "Frostbite" distance series. Coming up next weekend is the half marathon. It's been fun training in the "off" season and can't wait to participate in the full series of races, triathlons and marathons this spring, summer and fall. No matter what your goals, I hope you're well on your way to achieving them as well.

As always, thanks for reading. And until next time, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

The Lunch Hour

2009-01-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

A lunch hour has always been a sacred part of my workday, not so much about the food as the welcome escape. But as I learned the other day, a lot can happen in 60 minutes. Just last week as I glanced at my watch in the home office, I eagerly finished my lunch hour to-do list and was quickly out the door. First stop? The post office to ship a package. As I rushed in the front door and grabbed a number for the waiting line, I was instantly besieged by a crazy-eyed, wild-haired gentlemen – “Don’t you agree President Bush was a failure?! Aren’t you mad about the economy? Ya know, I thought he should have resigned years ago . . .” Helpless, I glanced around at my fellow line waiters who seemed relieved that I had distracted Wild Man away from them while still offering me sympathetic glances. One woman simply shook her head and frowned slightly at my misfortune – I was the new sacrificial lamb. Thinking quickly, I pulled my trusty BlackBerry out of my pocket and began talking into it, which made no sense because it had not rung and I had not dialed it. Wild Man didn’t seem to notice as I continued to talk to no one but myself as I tried to look as preoccupied as possible while edging away to safety. Of course, when my BlackBerry actually did ring (oh, what timing), Wild Man was instantly alert – “How did your phone ring like that when you were already talking to someone?! Further proof that they’re watching us, man!!! Our privacy rights are being trampled and you don’t care!!!” Half laughing, half crying I answered the call – from my wife, Jackie – and simply held the phone in the air so she could hear Wild Man’s rant (I felt the need for a witness). After quickly finishing up my call with Jackie, I did something I am not proud of, something so vile, it probably makes me a terrible human being . . . but at this point it was sink or swim. As an elderly gentleman innocently strolled in and took a number, I quickly pointed him out to Wild Man and said, “See that guy that just walked in? He LOVES President Bush.” Wild Man was livid and instantly pounced on his new, terrified victim, giving him an earful as I quickly dropped off my package at the counter and raced out the door. (C’mon, work with me here, it was for the greater good!) As I jumped in my truck and reflected on the fact that it’s beginning to seem like it is the post office customers who are going postal, I drove out of the parking lot and headed for my next lunch hour destination . . .

Aubrey’s daycare. It’s a great place – an old historic mansion with rooms so cozy that I find myself lingering with Aubrey each morning, checking out the latest toys and drooling over the smell of the pancake breakfasts. Today, however, I was simply stopping by to pay the monthly bill. Still shaken from my postal experience, I was relieved to see the smiling, familiar faces of the ladies behind the front desk. “Hi, Jeff, are you here for Aubrey,” said Anne, looking suddenly stunned as I leaned over the counter toward her. “Oh, no, just here to pay the bill.” Soon, Jan, another worker at the school (and also a neighbor), was standing by Anne, looking curiously at me, but they both began laughing at my every word. “Hey, don’t tell Aubrey I was here or she’ll really let me have it tonight.” The snickering steadily increased. “Wouldn’t want her to give me a timeout or anything.” They continued to laugh in a disproportionate amount to the humor I was delivering. But who am I to judge? I was clearly making their day, a ray of sunshine in a probably otherwise dismal afternoon. I am the man, I thought as I walked out the door – spreading laughter, spreading joy – that’s my mission today. I jumped back in my truck and, still feeling as if something wasn’t just quite right, I made the mistake of glancing in my rearview mirror and, as my stomach sank, I realized they had been laughing AT me, not WITH me. Now, I don’t want to gross you out, but let’s just say that there was something the color green protruding so prominently from my right nostril that I literally screamed when I saw it. Obviously, I had received an unhealthy (and well-deserved) dose of karma from my devious actions at the post office. Now feeling sick and disoriented, I pulled myself together as best I could and headed for my last stop . . .

Whole Foods. They have the world’s best organic salad bar, not to mention delectable vegetarian chili. But after what I had just experienced, my appetite had completely disappeared. I simply wanted to pick up a gallon of milk. Glancing through the refrigerator case, I selected one with an “Organic Valley” label when suddenly an older woman with a German accent grabbed my arm. Still gun shy from the Wild Man post office incident, I quickly pulled away but Milk Lady followed me. “You know, my son works for Organic Farms in upstate New York.” After chatting with her for a few moments, I learned the great measures that her son – an independent dairy farmer – takes to ensure we all drink healthy milk. Milk Lady was very charming and was clearly just looking for someone to talk to (and since she wasn’t laughing at me, I also figured that my nose was clean). As we stood together in the check out line, she said, “Now some people have problems with the price of the milk, but you seem like you really care about your family. At it’s a small price to pay for your good health.” The price? Suddenly, the checker, with cool dreadlocks and a Whole Foods bandana, pulled the milk carton out of my hands and marveled, “Dude, you do know this is an eight dollar carton of milk.” Come again? “Yeah, we sure don’t sell many of those . . . ” I carefully weighed my options. Of course I love my family and care about my health, but c’mon, eight dollars for a small portion of milk?! Just as I was trying to sneak past Milk Lady to swap my selection, she glanced up and said, “Oh, are you going back for another carton? I will hold your place in line – you are a good man.” Suddenly, eight dollars seemed much more reasonable than 16 dollars, so I made an excuse that I was just going to grab a magazine behind her. “Do you want Women’s Health or Female Medicine Today?” As I finally made my way home, I realized a lot of (really weird) things can happen during the course of something as seemingly insignificant as a lunch hour. The eight-dollar gallon of milk and February issue of Women’s Health sitting in the grocery bag on my back seat were proof of that troubling revelation.

Thanks for reading. And until next time, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Thinking Outside The Bun™

2009-01-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

Okay so believe it or not, there is a business side to Jeff Roberts (don't you hate it when people refer to themselves in the third person???). Jeff . . . oops, I mean I am the owner, operator, CEO, janitor, lunch lady and only employee of Jeff Roberts Ink™ (www.jeffrobertsink.blogspot.com), my freelance writing business. I have to admit, I am the second best boss that I have ever had and am now venturing into my fourth year of business. I was an accidental entrepreneur. When the advertising agency I had been employed by for over a decade suddenly tanked with virtually no notice, I took a deep breath . . . and went out on my own. Recently, I was cleaning out all of my old electronic files, when I found one of my first Jeff Roberts Ink™ writing assignments - a short story contest in which you were supposed to articulate how you were lead to your current job. I thought it would either amuse you . . . or scare you . . . or both. Read at your own risk below. And please note that, true to my eating habits, the image above is a veggie burger!

Thinking Outside The Bun™

I didn’t ask for this. The Ind-e-ges-tion™ and The Heartbreak of Psoriasis™ that suddenly beset me upon learning that the ad agency I had called home for a decade was closing. As an established copywriter, I had become mistakenly confident that my company would Keep Going, and Going, and Going . . . ™.

While It Takes a Tough Man to Make a Tender Chicken™, it takes an even tougher individual to dive into the unknown corporate abyss with No More Tears™. Nothin’ Says Lovin’ Like Somethin’ from the Oven™, so while I started my first day of unemployment with a Breakfast of Champions™, I weighed my financial status. All that was left was my employee stock, which at that point bought me only A Coke and a Smile™.

How Do You Spell Relief™? I decided to start my own copywriting organization and I Liked It So Much, I Bought The Company™, which isn’t saying much since I am the only employee. As scary as it was venturing out on my own, I felt like I was striving toward something positive. After all, A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste™ and I wanted to Be All That I Could Be™. So I cleaned off my shabby desk, set up my Apple® iBook™ computer, decided to Think Different™ . . . and waited for the phone to ring. Was I destined to be The Loneliest Guy in Town™?

After shaking hands, kissing babies and emphasizing that at my new business, Quality is Job 1™, I landed my first assignment – a request for slogans, of all things. Where’s The Beef®? The client said the ideas had to Absolutely, Positively Be There Overnight™. “You’re In Good Hands™,” I assured the client. After all, at my company, We Try Harder™. Even though the pressure was on, I was determined to Just Do It™.

I racked my brain for hours, looking for the perfect idea. Then Snap! Crackle! Pop!™, it came to me. I quickly Let My Fingers Do The Walking™ across my keyboard, emailed my concepts to the client and anxiously awaited the reply. “M’m, M’m, Good™! . . . They’re Great™!” came the response as I excitedly jumped up and down in my Nike® Air Shocks™. Something Special is in the Air™, I thought. Then it happened: the happy client spread the word about my good work to other organizations, then They Told A Friend, And So On, And So On™, until I was so busy I could barely type fast enough. When It Rains, It Pours™!

Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz, Oh What a Relief It Is!® Just a few months after starting out on my own, I’ve Come A Long Way, Baby®. New business cards: $35. New suit to meet with clients: $200. The opportunity to work for myself: Priceless™. I’m Lovin’ It™!

Jeff Roberts is a freelance copywriter in St. Louis, Missouri. His wife Jackie, son Murphy, and daughter Aubrey are The Pause That Refreshes™ in his life.

Thanks for reading. Until next time, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

An Open Letter To The Universe

2008-12-16T06:51:00.000-08:00

Lately it seems as if the world around us has been spinning at a rapid pace. All this talk of “change” has caused me to slow down and reflect on principles and values that, to me, always stay the same. Don’t get me wrong – this is not meant to sway anyone’s opinion or change someone’s mind. It is simply a few thoughts that have been on my mind that I am sending out to the universe. So here goes:

I will not apologize for believing in God and His son, Jesus Christ.
I say “Merry Christmas”, not “Happy Holidays.”
I believe we live in the greatest country in the world, protected by brave and noble soldiers who do NOT callously “air raid villages and kill innocent civilians.”
I believe in the Law of Attraction and have witnessed that we create our own world in which we live.
I believe in personal responsibility and that we should all strive to be self-sufficient.
I ask for nothing from my government – not a stimulus check, not a tank of gas – only an opportunity to earn a living on my own, free from high tax structures.
I believe that “Bail Outs” should be called what they really are – “Hand Outs”.
I am a capitalist and believe that companies that cannot succeed on their own merits should fail.
I believe that if I choose to buy an American car, it should be because it is the best vehicle in the world and not because a union tells me I should buy it.
I believe that I should not have to navigate through three screens on an ATM machine, just to find instructions in English.
I am choosing faith over fear in this “negative” economy, knowing that my true source of abundance comes not from man, but from a Higher Source.
I will purposely choose to remove myself from the negative people and the naysayers and will set a positive pace that they will be unable to keep up with.
I believe that if you are still reading to this point . . . you must be really bored – ha!

Merry Christmas to all and have a Happy New Year, too. Remember in the coming year to pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Summer Road Trip!

2008-06-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe we did something a little unethical last weekend. But with airline and gas prices at an all-time high, Jackie, Murph and I kind of convinced Aubs that she was on a NASCAR thrill ride at Disneyland. (Thank you Lowe's - your shopping carts are some of the coolest we've ever seen.)

SO, all loyal readers of the blog, as little Aubs grows older and starts asking questions about her "2008 Summer Vacation", let's remember to keep our stories straight - okay?

Until then, pick up the pace and run (or drive) your own race.

- Jeff

Impeccable Image

2008-05-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

Skateboarder, snowboarder, all-around great son and big brother - and now, published photojournalistic! Murph recently added to his list of credentials as his dramatic image of recent flooding in the St. Louis area appears in the May/June issue of Paddler Magazine. An editor from the magazine came across the photo on Murph's web site and contacted him to request permission to use it in the flood article. Murph's name appears in the magazine as a photo credit (click on the image above and note Murph's name at bottom right) and the image is also featured in the table of contents in the opening pages of the magazine. (NOTE: The above photo features blue in the image, when it should actually be red. Not sure why it didn't translate in the blog - but you get the idea!)

Read more about the magazine at http://paddlermagazine.com/.

Congrats, Murph! And please remember us all when you are rich and famous!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

H2Ohhhhhhhh!

2008-05-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those weeks when a common theme begins to emerge? It starts out as a series of seemingly small coincidences, followed by an undeniable pattern, and finally a "okay, you don't have to hit me over the head, I get it" kind of thing. Last week was one of those times, and for whatever reason, all roads flowed to water.

Let me give you three quick examples. The first was anything but a liquid asset, as first our basement drains backed up, followed by our toilets, then our showers. After much plunging and baling, we let the experts take over, and Jackie and I knew that the problem was much bigger than the both of us when we glanced around the corner to discover that the plumbers had placed one of toilets on our kitchen floor. Although the repair process seemed never-ending, and at one point, Jackie actually threatened to use the toilet in the middle of our kitchen, the job was finally completed and the results were Roto-Riffic. (Thank goodness we have a health club across the street from us with spacious locker rooms - and toilets!)

Secondly, if you live anywhere near the St. Louis area, you would swear we are now a suburb of Seattle. I can't remember a year when it has poured this much . . . and I absolutely love it. I'm no manic depressive but something about the dark, damp days has always put me in a great mood - something so cozy about it. (Jackie agrees.) Not to mention that I love to throw on my old shoes and visor and go for long runs in it. I've really turned up my training it recent days and wet weather always seems to encourage and motivate me to higher levels. Go figure.

Finally, and I was saving the best for last, our daughter, Aubrey, experienced the zoo for the first time. Wide-eyed and amazed, she smiled and giggled as she marveled at the animals and crowds of people. Jackie and I felt thrilled and humbled to see her so joyful as she rode on the carousel and constantly pointed to the new and interesting images that surrounded her. It was like seeing everything through her eyes for the very first time. Just as we were about to leave the zoo, Aubs pointed to a man-made stream flowing through the park, and proudly exclaimed, "WAT-ER!" While her vocabulary consists of all the everyday words we have taught her thus far, we didn't even know she had learned that one. It was yet another milestone in her childhood . . . and yet another indicator of the liquid pattern that had become our unofficial theme for the week. Coincidence? I think not.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Let There Be Light

2008-05-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago, my always-up-to-something son, Murph took a small flashlight and vanished into the dark of night toting his Nikon D80. Less than an hour later he came back with the images below. How did he do it? After setting the shutter to stay open for a long exposure, Murph would "draw" images with the flashlight. The camera picked up this movement as a continuous stream, or line of light. We went outside and watched in amazement as he created more of these photos. Let's just say that this is further proof that the boy ain't right. But these photos attracted a lot of attention on his web site, and one awards annual is featuring a photo entitled "Piano Man" in an upcoming edition. Congrats, Murph!

To see all of Murph's latest work (and there is some really good stuff there), visit http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Oh, Hoppy Day!

2008-03-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter, everyone. Thought you might enjoy a few photos of Aubs on her big Sunday!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Take A Ride On The Wild Side

2008-03-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

"Do one thing every day that scares you." I've always been inspired by this Eleanor Roosevelt quote and try to stretch my comfort zone as often as possible. Ready to take a vicarious ride on the wild side yourself? Check out these hellions on wheels that combine two of my favorite things in life - cycling and The Big Apple. Clip in to your pedals and get a tight grip on your handlebars . . . you gotta go strong to survive and thrive in the urban jungle - and life.

Take another roll around the NYC, this time with only one wheel and no handlebars required.

What's your next challenge? It doesn't have to be death-defying. Maybe it's speaking in front of a group. Or taking a class that you feel is "over your head." Or making it a point to wave to the rude neighbor across the street. Or volunteering to help people you don't know or understand. What will you do today to get your heart racing?

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Zen Snowboarding

2008-02-27T09:20:00.001-08:00

So what colors do you dream in? For me, at least for today, it's in lovely hues of . . . white. Actually, I'm at my desk daydreaming about hitting the slopes and shredding on a board down the side of a mountain. Or at least a few big hills. Murph and I had planned to sneak out to Hidden Valley (our local "resort") to get a few rides in this afternoon but unfortunately we've encountered obstacles that are blocking the fun: homework for him, pesty clients for me. So as the snowflakes continue to relentlessly tease me as they dance just outside the window, I'm trying to live in the moment, clear my mind and senses, and re-focus. Which makes me think of . . . snowboarding.

You see snowboarding can be an almost spiritual experience. Fresh air, fresh powder, best friends. I'm in the part of my life where I love experiences in which you participate as a group, yet are uniquely individual in nature. While you're surrounded by other boarders carving paths around you down the hill, you're free to go your own way, at your own speed, in your own style.

When I am really boarding "in the moment", my mind is silent, my body loose, and my board seems to almost become one with the snow - the ultimate definition of going with the flow. As Murph and I are on the lifts headed back up to the top I often look around me and think that this must be a small slice of heaven. We've had some of our best conversations on those hills. And what could be more spiritual than that?

It's odd how you can often find peace, happiness and serenity in the most unexpected places. Where do you go to find yours?

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

あなたは日本語の「punked」と言うことができますか？

2008-02-18T08:58:00.001-08:00

Okay, so what happens when you finally make it to the Big Leagues, have a great year with the team and love your life? As a reward, you find out that you've been traded to a team in Japan and have to fly out the very next morning. This was the elaborate hoax that was played on Phillies player Kyle Kendrick, involving his manager, his teammates, and the media. Take a second and paste this youtube link, then watch poor Kyle as he thinks that the world as he knows it has changed forever.

Pretty mean. And pretty funny. Watch it now at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nKKqPOiJxI&eurl=http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/-Trade-to-Japan-leaves-Kendrick-in-shock?urn=mlb%2C67246

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

Keneshi-wa,
-Jeff

Let Levi Ride

2008-02-18T06:50:00.001-08:00

Today's blog entry is about cycling. Okay, before you quickly click out of this post for lack of interest, please bear with me. You see it's a much bigger story than just bicycles racing up steep mountains and sweaty guys in Spandex shorts. It's a question of right and wrong. Of good guys and bad guys. Of underdogs against the establishment.

Last year was the final season for Team Discovery, Lance Armstrong's former team. A team that when formed was laughed at by Tour de France organizers as a ragtag American-lead team whose feature rider was a relatively unknown cancer survivor. This team turned France - and all of Europe - on its collective berets by winning eight of the next nine Tours de France. Last year the team, after winning the Tour once again, was dissolved for lack of sponsorship. Although none of the riders on Team Discovery EVER failed a drug test, the prevailing drug culture in cycling frightened away potential sponsors from investing millions of dollars back into the sport.

SO, this group of champion riders, suddenly without team, is re-formed taking over the sponsorship of Team Astana. Last season, this team was riddled with drug scandals and talk was that they would be disbanded. Instead, Johan Bruyneel, former director of Team Discovery, took over Team Astana, fired all of the riders in question, hired a respected physician to set up a voluntary drug screening program, and brought most of the riders from Team Discovery onto this new team, including last year's winner Alberto Contador of Spain and third-place finisher, American Levi Leipheimer. They did everything necessary to set a new standard of clean riding and clean competition in what has become a very dirty sport. And guess which team is the only one not invited back to the Tour de France this year? You guessed it - Team Astana.

ASO, the French governing body of the Tour, said that even though the team has completely new riders and new management, it was holding this group responsible for the past discretions of others. BUT, they are inviting all the other teams who were mired in previous drug scandals. Once again, it comes down to French whine and sour grapes.

Here's how you can help and it only takes a second. America's top rider, Levi Leipheimer, who was hailed last year for saving the Tour with his sportsmanship and clean riding has in effect been banned from this year's Tour for doing . . . absolutely nothing. Go to www.letleviride.com and simply enter your email address at the bottom of the page to sign a petition asking the ASO to re-instate Levi Leipheimer and Team Astana in the 2008 Tour de France.

I agree that the ASO should take every necessary measure to clean up the Tour. But excluding one of the few teams that has never been guilty of performance enhancing drugs is pure insanity. Thanks for taking the time to read this. And thanks for helping a good cause.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Straight From The Heart

2008-02-15T06:15:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was your chance to celebrate your inner Cupid. So what did you do? Jackie and I had the opportunity to celebrate over a sumptuous lunch date at one of our favorite restaurants (although every day with Jackie is like a celebration of the heart . . . ). Aubrey enjoyed a special card and presents before a day of play with her girlfriends at school. Unfortunately Murph came down with a touch of illness and had to cancel his dinner date with his girlfriend, at least for now. One thing that was interesting about yesterday was that in every email exchange with my clients, there was the inclusion of a Happy Valentine's Day wish, which was pretty cool or kind of creepy depending on who was the sending the well wishes. It seems everyone was feeling the love.

Last weekend, Murph had the chance to fire up the Nikon and take some shots of Aubs for her Valentine's Day photos. The weather was nice and Aubs was ready to power pose. Thought I would share these with you as a Valentine's Day present to you . . . from the Roberts family with love. (And don't forget to check out all of Murph's latest work at: http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr.)

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- (LOVE) Jeff

Writer's Strike Over! The Blog Is Back!

2008-02-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

It's official: The Writers Guild of America strike is over. And Roberts On The Run is back! As a virtual member of the WGA, you'll note that my lack of blog entries coincided with the exact strike dates of my brother and sister scribes. The result? The best WGA contract in history and well deserved! So while you wait for new episodes of your favorites shows on the tube, celebrate the fact that Roberts On The Run is back and it's bigger, badder . . . well, let's just say it's back.

Speaking of comebacks, let's take a look at the top 5 greatest in American history:

5. Dewey Defeats Truman
Or does he? The ultimate example of never counting your chickens happens during the 1948 presidential election.

4. Jordan Returns
On March 18, 1995, His Airness comes out of retirement against the Indiana Pacers. Shortly after, the "rusty" Jordan drops 50 points on the rival Knicks in the Garden.

3. America Wins Revolutionary War
Against all odds, the American victory at Yorktown in 1781 marks the upset of upsets.

2. Giants Win Super Bowl
David Tyree makes the greatest catch in Super Bowl history and Eli Manning adds to the family legacy as the best road team in football history shocks the world - go G-Men!!!

1. Roberts On The Run Returns
Strike over. Blog back. 'Nuff said!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Happy 1st Birthday, Aubs!

2007-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:00

Exactly one year ago today Aubrey Avalon Paris Roberts made her grand entrance into the world - and she has NOT slowed down since. Happy birthday, sweetie - we love you!

Also, after a brief holiday break the blog is back. We have a lot to catch up on - watch for an all-new post coming Monday, only on Roberts On The Run™!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

New York State Of Mind

2007-11-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

Is it the skyline, the larger-than-life atmosphere, or just an undefined energy? No matter how you describe it, it's hard not to be in a New York State Of Mind, with eye-enticing scenery and adventures waiting around every turn. Let's explore the southern tip of Manhattan. Climb aboard the Staten Island Ferry just east of Battery Park and let's head out into Hudson Bay for a closer look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Step out onto the back deck of the ferry boat for a breath-taking view of lower Manhattan. That's Brooklyn just to the right. And look just to left - to the southwest - and you'll glimpse Lady Liberty herself.

Cruising the Hudson headed toward Staten Island.

After a journey to Staten Island, we stepped back onto Lower Manhattan and explored the narrow streets of where the city was born. The New York Stock Exchange rises proudly above Wall Street and is at the center of the world economy.

Look north across Wall Street and you'll see Federal Hall where George Washington was inagurated as the first U.S. President in 1789.

Although we had not initially planned it, our path lead us to the site of Ground Zero. We were all overwhelmed with emotion as we experienced much more than a site of tragedy, but the realization of lives unfulfilled, husbands who will never return to their families, daughters who will be forever missed. The simple, yet powerful, sign memoralizing the people who lost their lives on September 11th made this event all too real. This isn't just a horror of immense proportions, these were real people, just like you and me who never expected the fateful day to come as they left their homes that morning. May God bless them, and may they rest in peace.

Like America itself, the city of New York and the people within it don't seem to dwell with a defeated heart. Even at the Ground Zero site, there is a spirit of remembrance, yet energetic optimism as construction workers work feverishly to prepare the site for the new Freedom Tower to be completed in 2012. It will be the tallest building in city and is designed to pay tribute to the past. More importantly, like New York City, it will rise from the ashes toward its destiny of becoming a towering symbol of hope, perseverance, and freedom to the world.

The day is still young. Let's walk out onto the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge for beautiful views toward Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan.

You feel the refreshing breeze of the East River over a hundred feet beneath you as you admire the beauty of this bridge, completed in 1885 and featuring over 14,000 miles of steel cable.

A stunning view of Lower Manhattan from the bridge.

Catch a cab just north and you're in the heart of Little Italy which also borders Chinatown.

It's lunchtime so join Murph, Aubs, Jackie and me for authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy cafe.

Welcome to SoHo, just a few blocks northwest of Little Italy. A mecca for high-end shops and dining, SoHo is also home to celebs such as actress/model Molly Sims and many others.

Let's take a break in Washington Square Park, a place in the edge of Greenwich Village known as a gathering spot for musicians, artists and writers. Next to the Upper West Side and Midtown, this is one of my favorite spots in the city.

The Washington Square Park Arch, designed to mimic the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, pays tribute to George Washington and also marks the starting point of 5th Avenue at its southernmost point.

Okay, I know this photo is tilted on its side, but I really wanted to include it - so strain your neck and humor me! So how do you end the perfect day? With an excursion to the top of New York City's crown jewel, the Empire State Building. Murph shot this photo of us in the picturesque lobby before our ascent. I have to add that Jackie really stepped up this night - and throughout our trip - taking on her fear of crowds and enclosed spaces to make this all possible!

At the top of the Empire State Building, Murph captured what I think are some of the most incredible images of our NYC adventure. I won't clutter them with words.

The perfect - and picturesque - ending to the perfect day. Coming this Friday, a last look at the NYC, including the Upper West Side (we even found the site of Shop Around The Corner from the movie, "You've Got Mail") and some final skyscraper and Times Square shots from Murph. Plus, don't miss exclusive photos from BlogCam™ (I kept a box camera with me as I ran the New York City Marathon), and exclusive photos and video from the Lance Armstrong press conference at Macy's. Watch for it all right here, only on Roberts On The Run™.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Bright Lights, Big City

2007-11-11T16:46:00.001-08:00

Big adventures in the Big Apple. When we ventured to the Capital of the World, we went in search of a great vacation and get-away. We left with that and much more - and we're still in a New York state of mind. Murph, pictured above shooting the Empire State Building from a rooftop, gave the perfect description of Manhattan as a "movie set that's too big and endless to be real." With its fast-pace, diversity, and relentless energy and spirit, you quickly discover that you just don't get into New York, New York gets into you.

One of the comments we constantly received before our trip was, "You're taking a baby to New York City?!" What people fail to understand is that Aubrey Roberts, already a frequent traveler to Chicago and other high-end destinations is turning out to be the perfect traveler - an international jetsetter. Check out her relaxed demeanor - and her mom's - as we make our way toward Gotham at 35,000 feet.

Our home base for our five-day stay was in Midtown on 7th Avenue at 53rd, just south of Central Park and just north of Times Square, a surprisingly clean, vibrant and glitzy center of the city. All the energy of New York and the surrounding area seems to converge in this triangular area where Broadway meets 7th Avenue and legendary 42nd Street.

Stroll with Aubs (watch her wide-eyed expressions) and me as we check out the seemingly endless sea of humanity in the middle of Times Square.

Larger-than-life images surround you at every turn.

A quick jaunt just to the northwest of Times Square lands you at Rockefeller Center, home to NBC Studios and, of course, the legendary skating rink.

The day was windy and brisk - perfect for lacing up the skates.

Jackie and I cozy up for a photo opportunity. (It's great having a pro-caliber photographer in the family!)

Head with a couple blocks west of "The Rock" and you enter one of the most infamous shopping districts in the world - 5th Avenue. You'll find renowned boutiques and stores, plus . . .

the towering steeples of St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Light a candle, have a seat in a pew and show a little reverence.

Walk with us a few blocks north on 5th Avenue to witness another cathedral - to capitalism. Lean back and look up at the luxurious structure that is Trump Tower. You're fired!

Like Aubrey and Jackie, every girl dreams of breakfast - or least a closer look – at Tiffany's.

Jackie and I pose in Central Park with the Plaza Hotel as a backdrop. We are now in the edge of the Upper East Side.

Join us as we temporarily escape the hustle and bustle for a leisurely stroll through Central Park.

The city skyline forms a poetic border around the park.

Murph turns his Nikon around for a group portrait in the park.

Bethesda Fountain, featuring "The Angel Of The Waters", is one of the crowning jewels of Central Park.

Still much more to come, including Lower Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, top of The Empire State Building, Soho, the charming Upper West Side, plus much more. Watch for the next post, coming Wednesday, only on Roberts On The Run™. And be sure to check out even more photos from our trip at Murph's web site: http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Live From New York!

2007-11-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

After five days of adventures in The City, the Roberts family has plenty of great blogging material to share. Murph shot over a thousand incredible photos (including the one above), Jackie served as an expert tour guide and navigator, and Aubs did her part by acting as the perfect travel companion. I even took along a box camera (a.k.a., Roberts On The Run Cam™) with me through all five boroughs during the marathon. Watch for the first NYC segment, including photos and video clips, coming Friday, only on Roberts On The Run™!

Talk to you Friday. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Big Apple Bound!

2007-11-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

The Roberts family is leaving early Friday morning for our Big Apple adventures! Watch for blog updates from the NYC, if possible. If not, all the photos and stories from Gotham will be coming early next week - only on Roberts On The Run™.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

No Tricks, All Treat

2007-11-01T07:27:00.001-07:00

As we dressed Aubs in her duck costume for her first Halloween, she was a bit hesitant to embrace the evening. But as the night went on, she began to absolutely love the attention she received behind every door that we knocked on, and greatly enjoyed watching all the other children dressed in their Halloween finest.

In short, the girl's a ham . . . I mean, duck!

Although many mistook her costume for a chicken instead of a duck, Aubs had the time of her life!

Watch Aubs in action as she gets into the spirit of the night.

In the end, it was a wonderful evening that was no tricks, all treat. Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Getting Into The Spirit

2007-10-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

The bewitching hour is not only upon us - it's here! Tonight, our baby daughter Aubrey will take to the streets for her first Halloween dressed as a duck - her favorite animal. To get into the spirit of the day, she decided to wear appropriate colors to school! So just how did all of these festivities originate? Here's a quick look, courtesy of kidzworld.com.

Trick or treating is thought to have come from a European custom in the ninth century called souling. Christians used to knock on people's doors and ask for soul cakes. The more cakes they got, the more prayers they would say for dead relatives of people who gave away cakes. Back then, they believed that the dead remained in limbo after death and that prayers would send a person's soul to heaven. Later, children knocked on doors and they were given apples, fruit and other treats instead of cake.

Scary Facts About Halloween
• About 99 percent of pumpkins sold in North America are made into jack-o'-lanterns at Halloween.
• Americans buy about 20 million pounds of candy corn for Halloween every year.
• 93 percent of American children go trick or treating. Are you one of 'em?
• New York City hosts the largest Halloween parade in the United States. More than two million people join in on the festivities and another four million tune into the parade on TV!
• In the US, around 8 percent of pet owners put their furry friends in Halloween costumes.

Happy Halloween everyone! Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and keep those ghosts outta your face!

- Jeff

Countdown

2007-10-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

The one-week haitus from the blog was partially because I don't write this blog professionally (work and life have been crazy in a good way, but no excuses), but mainly because I just loved that last post. What great fun and what a great day it was. But now time to pick up the pace and get all caught up.

This Friday, the Roberts family will jetting for the Big Apple for five days of fun in the city. Murph has the Nikon D-80 prepped for the photo safari of a lifetime (watch for great NYC photos coming next week, courtesy of Murph); Jackie is furiously working out an itinerary to help us make the most of our time; Little Aubs is getting set to make a GIANT impression on the Capital Of The World; and me, well, I'm just putting the finishing touches on training for the big 26.2 known as the New York City Marathon.

This is my 22nd marathon, but the one I am most excited about. As you probably know, I'm running on behalf of the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Recently, I secured the funding to reach my fundraising goal - thanks to all of you who donated! https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=158934&supid=77548719.

Next Sunday morning, Lance and 100 of us LiveStrong Army runners will take to the streets, running through all five boroughs with about 45,000 other marathoners. The Foundation has been great to us. Recently in the mail, we received a bright yellow Nike LiveStrong running jersey, Nike LiveStrong cap, and an autographed Lance magazine cover. When we arrive, Nike is also hooking us up with complementary shoes - for one weekend at least, I will be an official Nike-sponsored athlete (my dream)! They are really encouraging us to wear yellow during our NYC visit as we'll be calling attention to the fact that cancer will affect 1 in 2 men and 1 in every 3 women. NBC is doing a one-hour NYC Marathon highlight show next Sunday afternoon, and Lance and Team LiveStrong are supposed to get a mention. Watch for our bright yellow jerseys running through the NYC!

Looking forward to some great adventures with the family and the opportunity to gather some great blogging material that you'll only find on Roberts On The Run™!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Two For The Road

2007-10-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Whenever you want to feel inspired to pursue your inner sense of adventure, find a friend like my best buddy, George. Just being around his infectious enthusiasm and tackle-any-challenge attitude makes you want to take on the world. Or at least an 80+ mile bike ride from the St. Louis area to our hometown of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, where we grew up together. Throw on a comfortable pair of cycling shorts, pack a few Power Gels, grab your bike and join us as we hit the open road in search of adventure, trouble, and a few good stories. Wild Hogs!

As we pull out onto Route 15, the sun is just beginning to peek over the horizon and we pedal toward the outskirts of Belleville. Stay on the shoulder and steer clear of the early morning traffic - to this point all the cars and trucks have been very respectful and give us plenty of room. After about an hour or so of pedaling, we cruise through the first small town on the route, Freeburg. We stop at a McDonald's for a natural break where the locals, who are swapping gossip over their early morning coffee, seem amused by my appearance. As I check my look in the bathroom mirror, I suddenly understand why, as I wipe the clomps of sweaty residue from my face and turn off the big red flashing light that's attached to the back of my jacket.

We pull out of Freeburg and as we enter the open two-lane road that takes us closer to our destination, we comment on how you notice the natural beauty of the surrounding farms and landscape a lot more at 15 miles an hour than at 70. Sometimes it's nice just to slow down and take in the scenery. Thus far, the ride not only is a good workout for the body, it rejuvenates the senses and soul, as well.

The sleepy town of Fayetteville is next. It's amazing to cross through these small communities seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

There's a certain charm and relaxed atmosphere that you don't find in the city.
We pedal over an old bridge crossing the Kaskaskia River. The sun is higher in the morning sky and temperatures are unseasonably warm and comfortable. You'll hear the wind on this video, but it's at our backs pushing us onward.

George rolls on the open road about 50 miles outside of Mt. Vernon. Although we keep a consistent speed of 13 to 15 miles an hour, the mood is relaxed and we have the opportunity to swap stories and trade "hey-look-over-there" moments.

We pedal into the rising sun and still closer to our destination.

George rides past an old church in St. Libory. We're nearing the halfway point.

We take a self portrait while riding down the highway.

Just outside of Nashville (IL), George suddenly shouts, "Hey, are those camels over there?" Before I can roll my eyes and attribute George's comments to our exhaustion, I see what he's talking about! Welcome to the Rainbow Ranch, home to camels, zebras and other animals you don't see every day in these parts.

George chats with Alan Blumhorst, zookeeper of the Rainbow Ranch. For more details on this truly unique place, visit www.rainbowranch.com.

We arrive in Nashville with about 27 more miles to go to Mt. Vernon.

Since it's almost lunch time, we enjoy an exquisite meal consisting of muffins, Gatorade and Power Gels at the local mini-mart.

In Ashley, our last stop before Mt. Vernon, George checks in with the outside world.

After just over five hours of riding, we reach the outskirts of Mt. Vernon!

George celebrates,

while I add a bike lift to toast the day.

George and I surprise my mom with a visit.

Then we stop by to see George's parents. George and his dad are pictured here.

Finally, we pedal out to see our friend Curtis (a.k.a. "Peanut") who was one of our trio of buddies while growing up. The trip takes us to Summersville - just east of Mt. Vernon - and helps us to tally just over 80 miles and 6+ hours on the day's ride. While we had the occasional crazy flip us off or drive a little too close to us, overall we were surrounded by well-wishes and smiling faces throughout our journey. The 1st annual Pedal For The Porkchop was a definite success.

Who says you can't go home again? The day was one of laughs, sweat, reflection, and - most of all - friendship. If life is a journey, this is one leg of it that I will never forget. Of course, just as we finish, George looks at me flashing a devious smile and simply says, "What's next?!"

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Pedal For The Porkchop

2007-10-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

It's on! My best buddy, George and I have decided to cycle a 100-mile or so route from the St. Louis area to our hometown of Mt. Vernon, Illinois and beyond. We leave at sunup, first thing Saturday morning.

Not affilated with any charity or sponsor, we are simply riding for a good time and a good meal - hence the ride name. Think of it as "Wild Hogs" on bicycles - open roads, small towns, and two pedaling amigos itchin' for trouble.

Watch for a full report complete with photos and video chronicling our adventures coming early next week, only on Roberts On The Run™!

Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

What The Devil Were They Thinking?

2007-10-18T11:46:00.001-07:00

The Bewitching Hour is quickly upon us. Time to select that perfect, horrific costume to wear to the party or just freak out the youngsters who tap on your door in search of complementary, tooth-rotting sweets. Let's take a look at some of the costumes that are truly frightening - further proof that there's nothing scarier than bad taste. (Special thanks to retrobuzz.com for the photos.)

Welcome Back Kotter – Remember the Sweathogs when John Travolta got his start? Yes, you too can go back in time as a retro Mr. Kotter - tacky mustache and mock 'fro included!

Flipper - Everyone's favorite dolphin (wait, can you really name any other one?) actually had a costume designed after him. Choose this one and it serves you right if candygivers forcefully ram minnows and other assorted bite-sized fish into your mouth.

Rubik's Cube - For you brainiacs out there, take off those horned-rimmed glasses and slip on the mask of America's most frustrating and puzzling (at least for me) cubic-shaped toy. Warning - it's the perfect invitation for someone to re-arrange your face, one row and color combination at a time!

Small Wonder - Perhaps, the worst show in the history of television, Small Wonder was a robot who dreamed of becoming a little girl. Small Wonder if this costume was ever actually sold to anyone.

Just a few more reasons to be afraid - very afraid - this Halloween season.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Walk In The Park

2007-10-15T04:23:00.001-07:00

Wanna get away? Join the Roberts family as we head to the local park for a little fun in the sun. In keeping with her new habits, Aubs grabs everything she can get her hands on, Murph finds the day to be yet another beautiful photo opportunity, Jackie relaxes on a blanket . . .

and I never miss a chance to toss the Frisbee!

Jackie and Aubs spend a little quality time up close and personal.

Jackie helps Aubs ride down the slide for the very first time!
Exclusive video of Aubrey's first ever ride down the slide!

Next, is a wild, out-of-control ride with Dad.

Aubs isn't sure about the swing, but gives it a try.

Aubs power poses for the camera.

As always, Murph put his Nikon D-80 to good use. His photos continue to attract major attention on his web site. (http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr)

Funny how life's sweetest moments can happen in the simplest settings.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Weekend Wonderings II

2007-10-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Random thoughts and wonderings while surfing the 'net on a cloudy, cool Saturday afternoon.

Anyone else freaked out by the whole "Body Worlds" craze, coming soon to the St. Louis Science Center and currently touring the nation? Something about these former living humans awkwardly contortioned into fun-filled poses is pause for ponderance. Hey, and if you want to donate your body to one of Gunther von Hagens' future exhibits, visit the site at: http://www.bodymobil.de/en/home.html

Okay, I have to admit that I've never had the best hearing. So my audio senses don't stand a chance at detecting the "Mosquito" and other high-pitch ringtones that are easily detectable to the teenage ear. Young cellphone users are utilizing these "dog pitch" ringtones to receive their calls and texts in classroom settings without being busted by their teachers who are typically (by nature) too old to pick up on the tones. Of course, my techno-advanced son Murphy was well ahead of this trend, having one of these ringtones a couple of years ago. Check out the latest tones now at: http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=A0oGkyL9ExBH9zAAK29XNyoA?p=inaudible+ringtones&fr=ush-news&fr=fp-today&cs=bz&sado=1

Hannah Montana hysteria continues. The daughter of the man who annoyed all of us a couple of decades ago with "Aikey Breaky Heart" (now try getting that one out of your head - sorry!), will soon be touring the country in concert. That's right, Disney Star Miley Cyrus, a.k.a. Hannah, is selling out venues nationwide with the parents of crazed teenaged fans shelling out up to $5,000 a seat to scalpers. Does this mean in the spirit of BeetleMania, years from now we'll be subjected to cheap knockoff Hannah imitators in MontanaMania shows? Oh, the humanity . . . Pony up for your scalped tickets now at: http://www.stubhub.com/hannah-montana-tickets

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Our Kind Of Town

2007-10-10T14:33:00.000-07:00

Before diving into the great images that Murph captured on our weekend trip with his new Nikon D-80, one more note on the Chicago Marathon as the controversy continues. Running with one of the packs in the top half of the race, we were completely unaware of the pending water shortage. We had heard that the aid stations had been overstocked and were ready for all of the runners under the brutal conditions. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Watch this chilling video from a waterless and Gatorade-less Mile 6:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=qbZTI7Cw0rM, and an in-depth story that appeared on CNN: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Y5T2DTuBXJQ&mode=related&search=

Now, on with the photos! Despite the turbulent marathon, we had a great time in one of our favorite hangouts. And, as always, Murph did an outstanding job documenting our travels and adventures.

"The Bean" in Grant Park.

The Wrigley Building on Michigan Avenue.

The new Burton Snowboard store just north of Water Tower Place. Winter is just around the corner!

A sea of runners on the marathon course.

Waving to Jackie and Aubrey at Mile 3.

Aubs does her arm exercises on the streets of Chicago.

Giordano's - our favorite restaurant!

Check out the complete selection of Chicago images at Murph's photo web site at: http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr/page1/

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Highway To Hell

2007-10-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

What started as the 30th edition of the Chicago Marathon soon morphed into a group of walking - and sometimes collapsing - Nike-clad refugees, dazed, confused and tortured by the searing heat. I knew the big day was destined for trouble when, on Saturday night, Jackie, Murph, Aubrey and I waited outside our favorite restaurant, Giordano's, for a table. The sun was down, but perspiration poured from all of us as we waited by the fountain in the courtyard.

Early the next morning, I wait in my starting corral amongst the 50,000 or so other runners for the race to begin. Jackie, Murph and Aubs are to see me on the course at Mile 3 and 12. "Hot and humid," I text Jackie. "Be careful out there and load up on the fluids." Good advice for them - and me.

Things are different from the start. I've run this race many times and no matter how fast you run, the Chicago Marathon has always had a parade-like quality - a sea of runners all pulling in the same direction, celebrating with the million or so boisterous spectators that line every mile. Within the endless pack of participants surrounding me, on this day there is little joviality. We all feel the heat beginning with our first few strides. At Mile 2, I'm already frantically dousing my head and body with water, trying to get comfort and relief.

Typically for me, the first half of the marathon - 13 miles or so - is on cruise control. A little effort and just getting prepared for the second half of the course. But on Mile 8 my legs are stiffening and I eagerly anticipate every water stop. People around me - and I am in an experienced group – stop and begin to walk. I shoulder on but warily eye the signs of heat exhaustion that are already overwhelming many of those around me.

At Mile 12, I enjoy one of the best presents I've ever received when I am greeted by my family displaying a beautiful, huge sign (made possible by treasured family friend, Charissa - thanks, Charissa!) cheering me on! By my wife's worried expression, I know I don't look myself. But it is the inspiration I need to continue on. And I make a decision at that point that I would not stop, no matter what. This is to have consequences later in the race! (By the way, Murph shot some truly unbelievable shots of the race and our trip - watch for some of them coming on Wednesday's post!)

By Mile 15, we lose the shade of the skyscrapers and are on the open streets. Jackie had handed me a visor at the halfway point, and it is a Godsend, protecting me from the relentless rays of the sun, beating down without mercy. Everywhere around me, veteran runners are reduced to a stop - the walking wounded. At every water stop, the first aid tents are overflowing with runners sprawled on cots with IV needles and tubes dangling from their arms.

I text my wife at Mile 16 - "Hot! But I am okay and will continue on." Mile 18 and there are people sprawled on curbsides and even on the course as medical personnel rush through the onslaught of runners. Reduced to a snail's pace, I check my pulse and evaluate my mental condition. I am moving on. But never have I been challenged but something so overwhelming in any race or athletic endeavor.

Mile 22 and police with bullhorns rush toward us pulling runners off the course. "The marathon has been cancelled," they scream. "Exit the course immediately and rides to the finish will be provided." A policeman takes me by the arm and instinctively, I pull away. Another runner grabs me and pulls me back into the pack. I continue on. At this point, with all the carnage around me, I figure I am safer moving toward the finish line than trusting my fate to the overworked - and overwhelmed - medics and race personnel.

Mile 23 – A police helicopter buzzes from around a building and hovers just barely above us, ordering us to walk if we will not stop. Reduced to a slow trot, we still continue onward. I've never been in a war zone, but this was a small taste of how I always pictured one. There just aren't enough medical personnel and race officials for the thousands of runners around me. We all stick together and shoulder on.

Mile 25 - Runners around me walk arm-in-arm, complete strangers helping one another to the finish. Rumor spreads that a person has died on the course. Very easy to believe this tragedy is true, especially based on the conditions I have seen all around me on the course. The race clock at the mile marker is set on 0:00. A garage band on the side of the road blares, "Highway To Hell."

Finish Line - I trot across the line within a mass of sweaty, tired and exhausted people. The medal placed around my neck feels like less of a symbol of accomplishment and more of a feeling of safety as I eye the triage units around me that appear well organized and ready to help those in need. I pull out my BlackBerry but it is fried. The result of pouring water on myself at every aid area and running through countless misting stations and open fire hydrants along the way. A policeman on horseback loans me his phone and I call my family now back at the hotel - I am safe.

Hailing a cab back to the hotel, my legs seize up with baseball-size cramps, throbbing to the beat of my pulse. I yell out in agony, frightening the cab diver who speaks little English. Limping out of the cab, I take the elevator up and knock on the door of Room 1414. Then I am greeted by a sight that calms my nerves and soothes my soul - my family! I am home.

Watch for more photos and stories from the big Chicago weekend, coming Wednesday, only on Roberts On The Run.™ And for more national coverage of the event, visit: http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/10/07/chicago.marathon.ap/index.html
and http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,299956,00.html

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Windy City Weekend

2007-10-05T19:58:00.000-07:00

The Roberts family is off to Chicago for fun, food, and of course, the big marathon. The Chicago Marathon weekend routine has become very familar, like meeting up with a treasured old friend. This is my 17th Chicago Marathon and the 30th anniversary of the race.

This year however, this Windy City classic is turning up the heat. The marathon web site has screaming heat advisory warnings on its home page. Time to load up on the fluids and avoid another trip to Northwestern Memorial for a round of IV bags (another story for another blog posting at a later date).

Watch for a complete rundown of the marathon and our adventures in Chi-Town, coming Monday only on Roberts On The Run™.

Talk to you soon. Until then, run your own race and pick up the pace. (I'll be trying!)

- Jeff

The Big 1-6!

2007-10-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

Happy, Happy 16th Birthday to Murphy Roberts! Hope you have a great day - we love you, buddy!

10/2

2007-10-02T14:03:00.001-07:00

"Eleven years ago on October 2, 1996, I was diagnosed with advanced testicular cancer.

To celebrate my cancer anniversary, I am dedicating myself to passing Prop. 15, a Texas constitutional amendment that will invest $3 billion in cancer prevention and research.

Join my cancer anniversary and celebrate cancer survivorship in your community."
- Lance Armstrong

For complete details on how you can support people who are living with cancer, visit www.laf.org.

And don't forget, on November 4th, I'm participating as an official teammate of Lance's in the New York City Marathon as a Livestrong Army Runner. If you would like to help me reach my personal fundraising goal for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, visit my personal web page at: https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=158934&supid=77548719

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

What's Up???

2007-09-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

So what's up:

With people who are rude to waiters and waitresses at restaurants? What a luxury to have someone rush around to serve you food for a typically small price. Rudeness to store clerks and retail personnel also falls into this category. My #1 pet peeve!

With people who take your turn at the 4-way stop? Is that extra five seconds they stole really gonna make a difference?

With people who eat off their plates while going through the salad bar and buffet line? They ram their mouths full of food while waiting to finish loading up their plates THEN touch the serving utensils that we ALL share with hands that were just in their slobbery mouths. This is how people die.

With people who are cheap for cheap's sake? I'm not talking frugal people who are smart with their money. I'm talking about the instructor in our recent childcare class who spent 15 minutes discussing the merits of mixing soap, water, and paper towels to make your own baby wipes and save money. I bought a thousand of those the other night at the grocery store for $2.50.

With people who sit directly behind (or in front of) you and talk during the whole movie? Maybe they have forgotten that they're not at home? I seem to attract these cinematic-verbose types!

With people (and now the gloves are really off) who are granted handicapped parking passes simply because they are overweight? Sad that overt obesity can actually be viewed as an incentive. And yet another reason we tip the scales higher than any country in the world.

If you have been affected by some of these same types of people, here's a great way to get revenge. Great ideas for "out annoying" all the annoying characters you come across! http://www.getannoyed.com/

Got another annoying situation or personality that drives you fruit? Feel free to add it to the "Comments" section below.

Talk to you soon. Until then pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

TV Thursday!

2007-09-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

They're baaaaaaack! All your favorite shows are returning to answer those lingering questions. Here's a quick rundown.

Grey's Anatomy
Thursday at 9pm ET on ABC
Everyone’s favorite McDrama is back, as “Grey’s Anatomy” launches its 4th season. Cristina and Meredith return from Cristina’s “honeymoon,” only to find that the ex-groom is nowhere to be found. Meanwhile, the residents take on their own new crop of fresh interns, which puts chief resident Callie into a rather awkward position (she’s now George’s boss!). As if things weren’t complicated enough, Meredith’s half sister Lexie is among the new interns, and Bailey is having trouble getting used to her new responsibilites.

The Office
Thursday at 9pm ET on NBC
Question: can life at “The Office” go on after everything that went down at the end of Season 3? Of course it can, because at Dunder Mifflin the only constant is constant insanity. Case in point: in the 4th season premiere, Michael becomes convinced that the office is under a curse. In the midst of the chaos, he manages to make everyone feel wildly uncomfortable about their religious beliefs as he prepares for a charity “fun run.” Also, you’ll get an update on the status of two important office romances: Pam/Jim and Dwight/Angela.

Survivor: China
Thursday at 8pm ET on CBS
Watch the 15th season castaways practice the art of war in the second episode of this groundbreaking new “Survivor” season. The contestants get down and dirty (and lose some clothes) as they mud-wrestle in order to win a grueling physical challenge. Meanwhile, strategy begins to unfold. Dave does his best to organize the Zhan Hu tribe, while Jean-Robert puts on an act of laziness as part of a strategy that will either work in his favor, or backfire horribly. And another young woman believes that God is reaching out to her.

And, look who's premiering Tuesday, October 2nd at 8pm on ABC! That's right, those wild & crazy (Geico) cavemen! Cavemen revolves around Joel, his younger brother Andy and best friend Nick. Joel is engaged to Kate. Even though he has some problems with her conservative parents accepting him, he is happy with his life and pursuing the American Dream. The pilot is based on the Geico commercials that claim their service is so easy, "Even a caveman can do it". Talk about Must-See TV!!!!

Gotta camp out in front of the tube. Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Buy The Book

2007-09-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

"Just because you're at work doesn't mean you can't be on vacation." For years, that was my mantra in Corporate America. I never meant it to sound disrespectful, but I was able to typically work very efficiently, completing my assignments ahead of schedule and being left with little else to do for the rest of the workday. Compatriots around me, however, would often procrastinate, create unnecessary busy work, and schmooze with the managers while basically contributing nothing to the company's progress. These were the types that were rewarded for their "hard work" and "dedication" to excellence. It just never made sense to me - one more reason I never really felt comfortable or fit into a structured business environment.

Then I came across a kindred spirit who has taken this point of view to a whole new level and is starting to turn the accepted notions of "productivity" in the workplace upside down. In his book, "The 4-Hour Workweek", Timothy Ferriss introduces revolutionary notions that question such topics as the 40-hour workweek - "The world has agreed to shuffle papers between 9:00 and 5:00 p.m., and since you are trapped in the office for that period of servitude, you are compelled to create activities to fill that time"; saving time - "The object is to create FREEDOM of time and use it how you want"; and effectiveness vs. efficiency - "Being efficient without regard to effectiveness is the defaul mode of the universe."

Ferriss outlines the parameters of what he defines as the "New Rich", a fast-growing subculture that has abandoned the traditional "deferred life plan" (slave-save-retire) and instead mastered the new currencies - time and mobility - to create luxury lifetsyles in the here in now. The thinking is that through technological mobility, opportunities abound to do more work in fewer hours, freeing yourself to escape the traditional office and enjoy the things in life you thought would have to wait until your retirement years.

In the free time he has created for himself, Ferriss has learned to speak six languages, runs a multinational firm from wireless locations worldwide, and has been a world-record holder in tango, a national champion in Chinese kickboxing, and an actor on a hit television series in Hong Kong, not to mention writing this book that is now the #1 "Wall Street Journal" Bestseller. He is 29 years old. Slacker!

This book is not only a great, humorous read, it explicitly outlines a plan that can be used to start doing the things you want to do in life, instead of just robotically doing the things you THINK you are supposed to do.

Roberts On The Run™ says BUY THE BOOK!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Weekend Wonderings

2007-09-23T12:55:00.001-07:00

Thoughts and musings floating through my mind as I go for an early morning ride on the St. Louis course of the Tour of Missouri (I know, I know - it's time to get over it and move on . . . )

The baby bears from Chicago's North Side have purposely not been mentioned in this blog for fear of jinxing them. But wow, 2-1/2 games up and just about a week left in the season - I can dream, can't I? I've been having flashbacks to my junior high and high school years of tagging along with Dad when he would have business meetings in downtown Chicago in the morning, then hopping the El train to Wrigley in the afternoon to watch my favorite team play - a team that, even now, leaves me an outcast in crazy Cardinal country.

And fond memories from 1984 of camping out overnight with buddies in college with our sleeping bags propped up against the leftfield wall in hopes of scoring bleacher tickets for the division-clinching game. (We did!) Other great trips to the Friendly Confines during the '89 playoff run and most recently, the best present a guy could ever wish for - luxury suite tickets at Wrigley for my 40th birthday from my wife. Rest assured, if the Cubs happen to make it to the World Series anytime soon (and that's still a HUGE "if"), the Roberts family will be reporting on this blog live from Clark and Addison - we will find a way!

Great news still continues to come from the Kevin Everett story. The Buffalo Bills football player, who was originally paralyzed from the neck down with a grim prognosis, was recently transferred home to Houston for rehab. The latest reports are saying that he might be able to walk in days! Miracles do happen! http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/football/nfl/09/21/bc.fbn.bills.everetthur.ap/index.html

Finally, I'm beginning to wonder why they call it "fantasy" football. When my nephew Brad recently formed an online league for friends and family members, I was one of the first in. Now after an 0 and 2 start, I'm starting to realize that my fantasy was never to have my butt kick around by relatives with vastly superior football - and sports - knowledge than myself. Looks like it could be a long season - it's hard to trash talk when you've got nothing to back it up.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Show Me The Tour - The Finale

2007-09-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

This was it - the final day of the Tour of Missouri. We secured the "$10,000 seats" directly across from the podium and just before the start/finish line. Legendary cycling photographer, Liz Kruetz, even took our photo before the race (above) and it appears on the thepaceline.com, the official web site of Team Discovery (unfortunately Aubs was asleep directly behind us in her stroller). http://thepaceline.com/members/view_gallery.aspx?cid=341 Before the day was complete, we would say goodbye to Team Discovery and Jackie would incite a near riot - but I'm getting ahead of the story.

This was the final stage of the Tour and would consist of seven laps of a 10.6-mile circuit that began and ended at Union Station in downtown St. Louis and included treks through Forest Park at its furthest western point. Murph captured this shot of Tour de France winner, Alberto Contador, warming up before the race.

An estimated 60,000+ plus people lined the course to watch the race, so we had to defend our position. I had driven down to the finish area early in the morning, set up our "luxury suite" by the barricades, then raced home on the train to wake Jackie, Murph and Aubs to return on the train and claim our spot. It was elbow to elbow, but thankfully the people around us were very considerate. Note the barricades directly in front of Jackie - they will become an integral part of the story before the day is done.

Murph steps across the street to capture the peloton zooming past. We would get to see them go by seven times. Note the Arch and Old Courthouse dome in the background.

Team Discovery leads the peloton past Union Station. Watch closely and you'll see George Hincapie, the race leader, go by in the yellow jersey in about seventh or eighth position.

The peloton passes late in the race.

George Hincapie of Team Discovery was awarded the final yellow jersey as winner of the Tour of Missouri.

Then Team Discovery took the stage to say a historic farewell to over a decade of dominance that included eight Tour de France victories.

But for us - and the crowd around us - the excitement was just beginning. Our front row seats to the podium suddenly became a beehive of pushing and shoving as everyone strained for a glimpse of the winners. Here's a video of the crowd around us.

Although we were semi-well protected by the positioning of our chairs and stroller, Jackie's claustrophobia kicked in and suddenly she attemped to scale the barricades in front of us - a near impossible feat. As the crowd watched in amazement, a man pulled out a knife and cut through the barracade bindings to free a panicked Jackie. Then the flood gates opened. Everyone spilled past us and pushed toward the stage. I quickly handed Aubrey to Jackie and they made their getaway as police attempted to restore order.

The police and security officers questioned the people around us to see how the incident happened and a man explained that a girl had been panicked by the crowd. Murph and I remained quiet as we waited out the festivities with our chairs and stroller and, thankfully, no arrests were made.

Like Johan Bruyneel, the mastermind behind Team Discovery, we also waved goodbye to yet another exciting adventure of travel, racing, and once again, a brush with the law.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Show Me The Tour - Part Deux

2007-09-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Next stop on our Tour of Missouri bike race - the charming village of St. Charles. Aubs started the day with a quick nap as Jackie, Murph and I claimed a prime spot by the finish line to set up shop. As the tour went on, we became very adept at the art of arranging - and protecting - our viewing area to prevent the rush of late-comers who tend to push the crowd forward just before the cyclists arrive.

We discovered that by carefully positioning our chairs and stroller, we could quickly create a mini luxury suite that surrounded us as we prepared to watch the action. Once our spot was secured, we were free to leave and see the sites while we waited for the cyclists to arrive after completing the 127-mile trek from Jefferson City.

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To pass the time, we toured the race expo that featured the latest cycling technology, and tour swag. Here. Jackie finds a Felt wide-tire beach cruiser to her liking that's styled after a New York City taxi cab.

Big-screen monitors throughout the finish area proved to be the perfect gathering place - and alerted us to the fact that the peloton would be shortly arriving in St. Charles.

We rushed back to our seats, where Murph quickly pulled out the long lens and captured a great shot (see below) of American Danny Pate of Team Slipstream celebrating his victory as he rides toward the finish line.

If all goes as planned, Danny Pate is scheduled to ride in the Tour de France next year.

Danny Pate breaks away to claim victory as a small chase pack follows from behind.

Murph captures another great shot of the peloton and the race for the finish.

American Levi Leipheimer of Team Discovery wears the stars and stripes jersey as national champion. (Can you tell that Murph's photos are just a bit better than mine???)

Finally, just as we were leaving the venue after the race, we were interviewed from a reporter from the Kansas City Star who was writing an article about the last ride of Team Discovery. Check out the last paragraph of the story at: http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/277217-p3.html

Next stop, the grand finalé in downtown St. Louis. We'd have to get up early the next morning to claim our viewing spot near the finish at Union Station. Little did we know that it was the calm before the storm - for the cyclists and for us! You simply can't miss the action-packed finish to "Show Me The Tour", coming this Friday, only at Roberts On The Run™!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Show Me The Tour

2007-09-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

It would begin with a late, lost night in Branson and end with Jackie inciting a near riot in St. Louis. In between, were brushes with the law, diaper changes on sidewalks, quotes in newspapers, and an all-around great time. This was the Tour of Missouri - the cycling stage that Team Discovery (Lance Armstrong's team) chose to say goodbye to America. And after Jackie and I had traveled halfway around the world to see Team Discovery race, life went full circle, when it all ended here in St. Louis.

As Jackie, Murphy, Aubrey and I have discovered, half the fun (and challenge) of following a race like the Tour of Missouri, is getting to the race itself. Here are some highlights from our our travels and adventures. Today, the first of a three-part installment of "Show Me The Tour" begins - where else - in the City Of Lights.

No, we're not talking Paris here, but when we arrived late Wednesday in the Ozark Mecca known as Branson, we were surrounded by the neon albatrosse that is The Strip - think Vegas meets hillbilly. Watch this clip below, shot circa 11:00 at night after I've taken us to the wrong hotel twice, Aubrey is exhausted, and Jackie is losing patience - fast. Of course, I deserved all the grief I received.

Bright-eyed and ready for the hilly Branson time trial on Thursday morning, Jackie and Aubrey traverse a steep hill to claim a good viewing spot at the finish. (I promise I didn't make Jackie carry all of our bags everywhere we went . . . )

The uphill finish at the Branson time trial - an 18-mile race in which cyclists ride one at the time against the clock.

Jackie and Aubrey enjoy some shaded playtime a short distance from the race course. Typical of our Tour trips, we dined on a sumptuous lunchtime meal of cheese sandwiches, peanut butter crackers, Power Bars, and Gatorade. Aubrey opted to go for the baby formula.

Legendary American cyclist, Levi Leipheimer, who finished third at this year's Tour de France, posts the best time of the day!

Alberto Contador of Spain - winner of the 2007 Tour de France.

American George Hincapie of Team Discovery wore the yellow jersey (just like Aubrey's) and maintained his race lead with a great ride.

(Partial) family fun (Murph couldn't miss school this day) and all smiles as we enjoy the day. Aubrey's yellow leader's jersey received lots of attention during the day!

Unfortunately, when the day was done, the racing wasn't over. "We" were clocked 85 in a 65 zone. But thankfully, when the officer walked up to my window and caught an aroma of diapers, baby formula, and my sweaty cycling jersey, he was all too anxious to give us a warning and escape the scene. Thank you Missouri Highway Patrol.

Next up, the road to St. Charles. Watch for installment #2 of "Show Me The Tour" coming Wednesday, only on Roberts On The Run™.

Talk to you soon. until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Off To The Races

2007-09-15T19:43:00.000-07:00

Brushes with the law. Hotel controversy. Changing diapers on sidewalks. Lost in the middle of nowhere. We're still chasing the Tour of Missouri bike race.

Today, we're in St. Charles and finishing at home in downtown St. Louis on Sunday. Watch for a complete account of our adventures, including photos and video, coming Monday - only in Roberts On The Run™!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Hangin' In The Hills

2007-09-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

Coming to you live from the side of a steep hill at the Branson time trial as we chase the Tour of Missouri cycling race across the state toward St. Louis this weekend. Hard to believe that Team Discovery (Lance Armstrong's team) will cease to exist after this season and they have chosen this inagural race in our state to say goodbye. Aubs is ready in her yellow jersey for all the action. After today, we're headed to two more stages in St. Charles on Saturday and back home to St. Louis Sunday. Watch for a complete Tour post wrap-up, featuring Murph's photography and some great videos, coming to the blog on Monday.

Thought with all the negative news articles, and doom-and-gloom media stories, we'd leave today's post with something positive. Last weekend, you might have heard about the horrific injury to Buffalo Bills player Kevin Everett which initially left him paralyzed. After doctors publicly speculated that he would probably never regain movement in his limbs, something inexplicable happened: Everett was able to partially move his arms and legs. Doctors have revised their prognosis, now saying that the chance of Everett walking again is a "realistic possibility" and calling his progress "miraculous". You can read a related article about the power of prayer and possibilities at: http://www.startribune.com/503/story/1420147.html.

Now back to the bike races. Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Campus Crawl

2007-09-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

Silent thoughts and (surly) mind wanderings while roaming the local university quad before my night class:

Hey, you walking between classes with the "Free Hugs" sign. Wipe that sly smirk off your face. You're not a cool guy trollin' for babes. You're a psychology 101 student. I had that sociological assignment thrust upon me circa 1983.

You in the trucker hat. You're not making a fresh fashion statement. Kids were wearing those in the late '70s. We called 'em nerds.

The young blonde chompin' on two packs of Dentene. That smoke breath is still gonna overwhelm your class - and there's nothing you can do about it.

Hey there in the dirty, patchwork, holey jeans. The thrift store called and wants its wardrobe back. Oh wait . . . what's that? They said you can just keep it.

And you there, in the throwback alligator polo, canvas shorts, Oakley backpack, and Nike skater shoes. Dude, you are WAY too old to pull that look off, especially here on campus. Oh, hang on - that's me. (Sometimes I guess everything just goes full circle.)

Anyway, gotta go to class. Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Fast Friends

2007-09-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

My buddy George is one of those people you feel blessed to call a friend. We grew up together and he was one of the first guys to hang around with me during my awkward-horned-rimmed-tri-focal-bad-haircut-people-thought-I-had-special-needs-junior-high years. As we grew older, we lost touch (completely my fault), but when my father passed this summer, there was George standing in line at the visitation, waiting to help console me and my family. Some people you can always depend on, no matter what.

After a couple of months of getting our families together, trading stories, and comparing interests, George decided to tackle his first biathlon, and today was D-day. We entered the team competition - I took on the run, George brought it home on the bike. You have to understand that anything George and I have ever participated in together has always taken on a hilarious life of its own and today was no different. From George changing our team name from "Slipstream" (my suggestion) to "Whipped Cream" (which is strangely appropriate), to George's wife, Beth, almost running him over on the bike course with the family truck as they raced to see him finish, the stories we walked away with were more than worth the sweat and effort.

After a celebratory pizza lunch, George's daughter, Lexi, gave us a tour of the nearby stables where she owns three horses. Aubrey was absolutely thrilled to get an up-close-and-personal look at the goats, mules and horses.

Who says you can't go home again? George and his family are the type of positive people that make you feel good about yourself just by being around them. I feel lucky that I've had a second chance to rekindle such a great friendship - and the story continues.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Labor (Day) Of Love

2007-09-07T06:42:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, there is great news to report on Sheila's brother-in-law, Steve. After suffering a stroke, he is now out of ICU and recovering well! According to Sheila, the doctors and paramedics said it was really touch-and-go at the beginning but the prognosis appears bright. Thank you for all of the thoughts and prayers!

On a less serious note, last week's Labor Day weekend seemingly began for the Roberts family with little fanfare and few plans. Since we will be traveling a lot in October and November, we had decided to keep it low key. Funny how even simple adventures find you when you have an open mind and are always ready to get out of the house.

The weekend began with excitement when Murphy (whose photo work you've recently seen throughout this blog) was contacted by an Israeli book publisher that wanted to use one of his Lance Armstrong photos in an upcoming book. These books, which are printed in Hebrew, are part of a non-profit effort to help young children learn how to read. Murph happily donated the photo, simply asking for a photo credit and a book. We were all so excited! Murph's work just keeps getting recognized - when we receive a book, you'll see and read all about it in an upcoming post - in Hebrew, of course!

Jackie used the long weekend to continue her heavy training for an upcoming half marathon. Aubrey and I surprised her at the halfway point of one of her long runs, meeting her in the park with water, Gatorade and Power Bars. Jackie has really been pushing the pace and is looking great!

Giving the weekend a distinctly European feel, we ventured to The Hill (the Italian part of town) and The Loop (a bustling college area) to catch part of The Gateway Cup, a local bicycle race that attracts top amateur riders from all over the country. Aubrey was fascinated by the speed of the bikes, and squealed when she felt the whoosh of the peloton (see this video), while Murph saw this as yet another photo op and recorded some great shots of the action.

One of the most tasteful highlights of our weekend was the discovery of authentic, Chicago-style pizza right here in a city that defines pizza as a cracker with a thin layer of cheese. Every time we're in Chicago, we always head for Giordano's just off Michigan Avenue. We often look for excuses to go to Chicago just for this gut-busting delicacy. Imagine our surprise when we came across a very passable version of this stuffed pie at a small, unassuming restaurant called Pizzeria Della Piazza. It was pure heaven and delicious way to top off the weekend!

I'm discovering that great get-aways are less about where you go and more about who you're with. And, for me, with my family is always the perfect place to be.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Prayer Request

2007-09-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

My sister Sheila's brother-in-law (brother of her husband, Roger), Steve, suffered a stroke yesterday and is currently in the hospital in stable condition. Steve is one of the finest people you will ever meet. Whether you are a family member or not, we ask that if you read this please offer up prayers on Steve's behalf. Thank you for your kindness!

Picture Perfect

2007-09-03T05:14:00.000-07:00

For today's holiday, I thought I would take a rest from my labors of writing this blog and let us all enjoy some beautiful images of our daughter, Aubrey, from Murphy's recent photo shoot of her. The whole Roberts family has been on the run this holiday weekend! Watch for highlights in the next blog posting. Have a great holiday, everyone!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Cyber Tailgate Saturday!

2007-08-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

Put on those school colors. Pour plenty of charcoal in the grill. And get ready to fire up those laptops for a Cyber Saturday Tailgate party! The opening weekend of college football is here. Don’t get me wrong - I love pro football, too, but for me nothing compares to the hype, spirit and excitement of the college gridiron.

My niece, Meagan is a cheerleader for the West Virginia Mountaineers football team, picked to contend for the national championship. Let’s get this season kicked off with links to the ‘Neers, plus my five other favorite college teams:

West Virginia Mountaineers Football – http://www.wvu.edu/~sports/men/football.htm
My niece is a cheerleader, my sister and brother-in-law, Sheila and Roger and their family have season tickets in Morgantown. How can I not root for them?! Go ‘Neers!

Texas Longhorns Football – http://www.mackbrown-texasfootball.com/
Austin is one of our hangouts – once you catch Horns fever, it sticks! Jackie and I were excited to be at DKR Texas Memorial Stadium for the 2005 National Championship celebration. QB Colt McCoy and WR Limas Sweed have Texas ready for another big campaign. Hook ‘em Horns!

Alabama Football – http://www.rolltide.com
QB John Parker Wilson is one of the top, up-and-coming players in the nation and a whole new era begins with Coach Saban. Roll Tide!

California Golden Bears Football – http://calbears.cstv.com/
Highly-touted running back, Desean Jackson leads Jeff Tedford’s Golden Bears toward another competitive year. Roll on you Bears!

Virginia Cavaliers Football – http://virginiasports.cstv.com/
I had season tickets at Scott Stadium a few years ago – great atmosphere! Al Groh leads his Cavaliers into a tough ACC schedule. Go Hoos!

Wisconsin Badger Football – http://www.uwbadgers.com/
Since my college – Bradley University – didn’t have a football team, the Badgers were my adopted team during my college years. Camp Randall Stadium is one of the rowdiest places in the nation on game day! Go Badgers!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race,

- Jeff

Golden Eye

2007-08-30T06:41:00.001-07:00

I’ve often heard that to relate to today’s teenagers, you have to see the world through their eyes. If that’s the case, understanding my son begins by glimpsing his photographs – and it’s a beautiful world to behold.

When my 16-year-old son, Murphy, becomes focused on something – really interested – he relentlessly pursues it until he virtually masters it. His infectious enthusiasm has lead me to become involved in ambitious activities I would have probably never considered: skateboarding, snowboarding (which is one of my new passions!), even better understanding tornadoes and storm chasing. These activities have stretched my comfort zone, opened my eyes to new possibilities, and often left me bruised and battered. But most importantly, they have given me a priceless opportunity to spend more time with my son in an atmosphere of healthy fun and friendship. I can honesty say that Murph is one of my favorite people I have ever met – how lucky am I that he’s also my son?

Another common interest that we share is photography. While I have always taken insignificant snapshots, Murph has really worked to develop his natural talent to produce what I think are some stunning results. Through the lens, he sees his surroundings in a special, unique way – he has what I call “the eye”. Very humble and unassuming about his photographs, he consistently amazes me with the vibrant images that are created by his efforts.

Shooting with a Minolta 35mm film camera (so he can “learn the way people used to take photographs”), and working with a Kodak digital camera, Murph is now actively saving toward a professional-grade Nikon D80 digital camera, so he can take his work to the “next level.”

Through his many interests and positive personality, Murphy consistently inspires me to explore opportunities to become the best I can be at whatever it is I am doing. And from all perspectives, that’s a wonderful gift for a son to give a father.

I invite you to take a closer look at Murphy’s photography at http://flickr.com/photos/murphyr. And feel free to leave comments on his site.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Virtual Tuesday!

2007-08-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

Is there a Dwight Schrute disrupting your office? Starting to feel like Michael is your boss? Is there a Jan practicing inter-office stalking? Well, then it’s time for a virtual sanity break. Escape to these fun-filled web sites, beginning with one from our friends at Dunder Mifflin!

http://www.dundermifflinpaper.biz/ - This fictitious corporate site features everything you need to know about “The Office” workers and their dysfunctional employer. You can even apply for a job. (But be careful – you just might get hired!)

http://careerbuilder.com/monk-e-mail/ - Why fight the monkey business in your office when you can join it? With Monk-e-mail, you can choose a chimp, dress him up, type in what you want him to say, then email to your favorite primate!

http://candystand.com/index.do - Navigate the Alps on a snowboard. Go to bat against the league’s best pitcher. Or just strive to become a pinball wizard! You can do all of this – and much more – at this virtual arcade.

http://spencerpratt.com/ - Get inside the warped mind of one of reality TV’s cheesiest villains. One of the “stars” of MTV’s hit show “The Hills”, Spence invites you to visit his site and “feel free to hate on me . . . daily!” Now who can resist an offer like that?

http://parisflyer.com/ - Looking for a little chocolate kick to get you through the day? Chocolatier John Paris offers his Flyer Candy Bars through this appetizing site.

Got a site you love, too? Feel free to add it to the Comments section.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Momentum

2007-08-26T18:35:00.001-07:00

For me, hitting the town on the weekend has always been about guzzling Gatorade instead of foo-foo drinks, pedaling bikes instead of pursuing parties, running long mileage instead of chasing trouble. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against anyone's choice of weekend activities, but for me it's an opportunity to tack on even longer mileage than I do during the week.

Typically, I'm up with the sun so my workouts never interfere with family activities. Saturday is for long morning miles on the bike; Sunday, it's logging long distance on the run. Both courses take me through diversified settings within the city, from fountain-filled parks to the skyscrapers of the urban jungle.

Along the way, I come across an interesting selection of people and personalities. The convenience store lady who smiles instead of grimacing when I hand her wadded-up, sweaty-wet dollar bills for a bottle of water. The street corner newspaperman who always shouts, "You go, boy", as I stride or roll past him. The bakery shop owner who always nods a friendly hello while sweeping the sidewalk in front of his store. These are my people - and this is my club. (And for all of you who refuse to sit near me on the MetroLink train on my way home after my 18-mile run across the river into Illinois, that's okay, I understand. You're still my people, too.)

This feeling of unspoken camaraderie extends from the training grounds to the race course, as well. As I've gotten older, I've found that endurance racing is less about competition - less about beating the other guy. When you are in a pack of runners at Mile 22 of a big race, it's amazing the power of momentum - the feeling that we are all moving in the same direction toward a common goal and can't or won't be stopped. It's an almost cleansing, spiritual feeling that is therapeutic for the mind, body and soul. Like my wife, Jackie, always says, "Don't be against something - be FOR something else."

This year, I'm striving to take that spiritual feeling to a higher level. On November 4th, for my 22nd marathon, I'm running as an official teammate of Lance Armstrong as one of 100 LiveStrong Army Runners in the New York City Marathon. We'll be racing through the five boroughs of New York City with 40,000 other runners, encouraging everyone to LiveStrong. If you would like to be a part of this positive momentum, you can visit my personal web page for more information at https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=158934&supid=77548719 - and be sure to sign the guest blog so I can personally thank you!

Talk to you soon. Until then pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

The Bookstore Beat

2007-08-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

One of the perks of a career as a freelance writer is that the world is your Virtual Office. Just give me a small space to set up my laptop, good reception for my BlackBerry, and (ideally) access to wireless Internet and the doors of Jeff Roberts Ink™ are officially open (not that they ever officially close – just ask my wife about my late-night work habits!).

Over the past few days, the Borders bookstore café has served as the headquarters of my transient work habits. Located near the magazine section, it consists of 10 or 12 tables with a small snack and coffee bar – I’m sure you’ve seen the type. Anyway, my natural people-watching tendencies lead me to discover a whole new subculture of activity that occurs on a daily basis.

While there is a seemingly endless variety of bookstore café characters, four types of personality classifications come immediately to mind:

The "Coffee House Canoodler" – Obviously barred from authentic coffee bars for her obnoxious behavior, this over-caffeinated piece of work loudly voices her displeasure at the limited selection of coffees and lattés available at a bookstore. (This ain’t Starbucks, honey – order your vanilla mocha with extra whip, shut up, and step aside.)

The “Bookstore Is My Babysitter” Dad – This creative kid watcher effortlessly projects disinterest as he monotonely and repeatedly tells his swarming brood of youngsters to “leave me alone and go look at the books, leave me alone and go look at the books.” The end result, of course, is that these little happy, grimy faces end up at my table, staring over my shoulder at my laptop, all the while squealing, “Hey, mister – whatcha doin’?”

The "Library Loser" – This cheapskate would never even THINK of actually purchasing any of the magazines, newspapers, or books that he drools over while inhaling his FREE muffin sample.

The “Captain Of Industry” – For this guy, it’s not enough to have a quiet place to work outside of the office. Obviously starved for attention, he sets his ringtone to the loudest possible setting and when he receives a call every few minutes, complains about his hectic schedule and busy workload. Of course, when the call ends, he goes back to reading his golf magazine.

The next time I set up shop at the Borders café, I’ll keep my eyes open in search of other classifications of this periodical-loving species.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Excuse Moi?

2007-08-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

I’ve thrown myself out of a plane from 10,000 feet. Completed an open-water, mile-plus swim – without water wings. Even periodically admitted to my wife that I forgot to take out the trash. But as I stepped through the doorway towards my latest adventure, I knew there was no turning back. Welcome to French 101.

It has been a couple of decades since my last collegiate course, and as I took my seat near the back of the classroom, the tank-top, flip-flop-clad students warily eyed me as if I were an unwelcome parent crashing the party. Little wonder I guess because these kids were only a couple of years older than my son. And the spit-up stains on my shirt from a fast-paced day spent with my baby daughter while working from home instantly labeled me an outsider – a stranger in a strange land.

Thankfully, just as class was about to begin, a disheveled-looking man rushed into the room who appeared to be only slightly younger than myself. Finally, I thought, another fellow adult in search of knowledge – I was not alone. Then he introduced himself as the professor. Ouch.

My intrigue for the French language had been born during an incredible adventure to France that my wife and I had shared a couple of years ago (watch for a blog story, coming soon). To prepare for our trip, I had dutifully listened to my “Learn French While You Drive” CDs. Unfortunately, the extent of my lingual skills consisted of simply being able to say hello or ask where the bathroom was – important, yet limited, vocabulary. I was ready to learn more and push my comfort zone and this class will definitely help me achieve those goals.

Since the class meets only one night a week (plus a weekly Internet session), the “learning” – or at least teaching – commenced at a breakneck pace. Paired into small groups we worked on simple words, phrases, and pronunciation. Then something miraculous happened. I’m not sure whether I was a sacrificial lamb or actually showed potential but my group selected me to represent them to stand and read aloud a page of text. After nervously stammering through the last line, “J’ai une pomme” (I have an apple), they all smiled and golf-clapped their approval. Tres bien!

Just before the end of class, a young woman’s cell phone startled everyone, loudly ringing out with the latest rap tune. She seemed completely unconcerned. The professor tersely asked if she was going to silence the annoying menace and she coldly replied, “Non.” Wow. Seemingly at a loss, the professor quickly looked to me as if seeking the moral support of the only other adult in the class. I simply looked away. I wasn’t going to betray one of my own. No matter what my age, I was now one of them. Just label me, Jeff Roberts, collegiate French student.

Talk to you soon. Until, then pick up the pace and run your own race. Au revior!

- Jeff

Virtual Monday!

2007-08-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

Trash that to-do list. Ignore that in-box overflowing with files and paperwork. Let the laundry rot in the pantry. STOP what you’re doing and take a little virtual R & R! Below are some of my favorite Web links that provide a great, enjoyable escape any time of day. Remember – just because you’re at work doesn’t mean you can’t be on vacation!

http://www.cavemanscrib.com/ - Okay, I gotta tell you – much to my wife’s dismay – those Geico cavemen make me cry with laughter. This new site gives you a virtual tour of the “Caveman’s Crib” allowing you to piece together what ACTUALLY happened the night of the big “Does going with Geico make me less of a caveman?” party.

http://the9.yahoo.com/ – Spunky web host Maria Sansone gets your day off to an energetic start as she takes you through the Top 9 Internet links of the day as chosen by viewers. Cool links and funny material.

http://mtv.com/– Okay, I have to admit it – reality TV is one of my guilty pleasures, although I SWEAR my wife makes me watch it. Check out all the drama-filled links to The Hills and Real World Australia.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/ - Who’s number in the world of sports? Catch all the latest scoops and scores with this easy to navigate, well-written gameday resource.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/murphyr - Maybe I’m a little biased – but I don’t think so! My son’s photo web site is an inspiring example of what a young man can accomplish with a lot of talent and a lot of enthusiasm. Watch for more about him coming soon to a blog link near you!

Got a few favorite Web links of your own? Feel free to list them in the “comments” section.

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff

Lace 'em Up!

2007-08-18T18:34:00.001-07:00

“They’re here!” exclaimed my wife, Jackie, as she ripped open the package containing her new running shoes with kid-on-Christmas-morning enthusiasm. There they were, bright and beautiful – Nike Air Zoom Elites. “Wow, those are almost too great looking to run in,” I marveled. “Are you kidding?” she said. “I can’t wait to get these bad boys on the road and scuff ‘em up,” she added with a mischievous grin.

That made me think of a story I came across the other day about Fred Astaire, the famous vaudeville dancer/actor. He said that any time he received a shiny new pair of dancing shoes, he instantly threw them against the wall to ding them up. Astaire said that this served to remind him that the shoes were not to just be admired – they were a tool to help him achieve big goals and help him reach his full potential.

For my wife, her new shoes represent an opportunity to run new places and train for new races – a blank slate of exciting potential. I have really been inspired by her infectious competitiveness, positive attitude and willingness to dive headfirst into new adventures. Over the past few years, she has gone from rarely working out to completing triathlons and half marathons. I was recently amazed by her when she conquered the ultimate endurance sport – the birth of our daughter!

I’ve come to realize that when you surround yourself with positive people, positive things happen. My wife, by her example, has inspired to me to lengthen my stride and aspire higher. Today, I rode bikes with my buddy, George, who is enthusiastically training for his first biathlon. And lately, my writing work has lead me to cross paths with talented people who are dreaming big dreams and making them happen.

It’s all rubbing off on me – or so I hope. I’m running three marathons this year, growing my business, watching my baby daughter two days a week while working, and scripting out a book idea. But here’s the thing – on Monday, I’m going back to college to attempt to add a French minor or major to my resumé. And THAT scares me! I mean how do I reprimand my son for not getting high grades if I fail to do so myself? Once again the pressure’s on – I guess it’s time to lace ‘em up and go for it!

Talk to you soon. Until then, pick up the pace and run your own race.

- Jeff