Monday Morning Musings

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