September 11: Twenty-Five Years Later

It is hard to believe that a quarter century has passed since that morning. Like many people, I can remember exactly where I was when I first learned what was happening. Some events become permanently attached to a specific place and time in your memory, and September 11 is one of those days for me.

I was commuting from Topeka to work that morning. At the time, it seemed like any other day. The drive was routine, and nothing felt out of the ordinary. When I arrived at work and walked into the building, I immediately noticed people gathered around the television in the breakroom. That alone was enough to tell me something was wrong. As I joined them and watched the news, it quickly became clear that this was not an ordinary day.

Like so many others, I spent the rest of the day trying to understand what was unfolding. The images, the news coverage, and the uncertainty are memories that have never really faded. Even now, 25 years later, I remember that day like it was yesterday.

Over the years, life has moved forward. New generations have grown up with no personal memory of September 11. For those of us who experienced it, though, it remains one of those moments that instantly takes us back to where we were and what we were doing when we first heard the news.

Today, I am remembering the nearly 3,000 lives lost, the families forever changed, and the first responders who ran toward danger when others were trying to get away. Their courage and sacrifice deserve to be remembered, not just today, but every day.

Twenty-five years later, the memories remain, the lessons endure, and the people impacted by that day are not forgotten.

Please take a moment today to remember.

Happy Mother's Day to All the Moms Out There, Especially Mine!

Tongue Out and Sleeping

Every year on the second Sunday of May, we celebrate Mother's Day, a day dedicated to honoring the incredible women who raised us, nurtured us, and loved us unconditionally. But where did this tradition even begin?

The origins of Mother's Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations who celebrated fertility and motherhood. In the modern era, credit for the holiday goes to Anna Jarvis of West Virginia. After her mother passed away in 1905, Anna campaigned tirelessly to create a special day to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of mothers. It wasn't until 1914 that President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother's Day an official national holiday in the United States.

Why is Mother's Day so important? Mothers are the cornerstones of our families. They are the ones who bandage scraped knees, celebrate our victories, and offer a shoulder to cry on during our defeats. They are our biggest cheerleaders, our confidantes, and our guiding lights.

This Mother's Day, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to three amazing women: 

Carrie (Wife and Mom to Oliver), you take good care of Oliver and me. Oliver wanted to wish you a Happy Mother's Day which he did with kisses first thing this morning when he saw you wake up. Oliver cannot wait to snuggle on the sofa with you to celebrate.

Mom (Nancy), thank you for your unwavering love and support throughout my life. You taught me the importance of hard work, kindness, and resilience. Your endless patience and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today. Of course Oliver had to be part of the day to help celebrate.

Joan, Happy Mother's Day! Your warmth and thoughtfulness aren't reserved for holidays – your delicious cooking and special gifts are a constant reminder of your love and support. Thank you.

To all the moms out there, Happy Mother's Day! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and appreciation. You are all truly heroes.

The Cooldown from Peloton a Year of Stats in Review

This year as the year came to an end, Peloton sent “The Cooldown” showing stats from my use of Peloton over the past year. I stuck with it for many months and then let it slide for a few months before getting back on the bike and working out. It was a little difficult during the Christmas break too only working out a few times, but I am fully committed and expect to be back on the bike for 2022.

I hope your workouts have met your expectations for 2021 and set new expectations for 2022. Enjoy the year working out!