Tonight, we are just hanging out and watching movies. This is a highly anticipated "do nothing" weekend.
We're all tired.
BRING IT!
KoP
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
The Doctor Visit
Again, thank you all for your kind words, thought, and prayers.
Lets say: It worked...
...because Tristan is ok!
So here's the deal before I explain the details. The doctor does NOT think that the lesions are malignant and does NOT think they need a biopsy or any kind of surgery at this time. He does think Tristan should be scanned again in 6-12 months, but only as a precaution. If they've gotten bigger, then we can think about a biopsy and go from there.
When we first got to the hospital, the doc asked Tristan lots of questions about how he felt, and if he ever had any trouble breathing. Then he asked about our family medical history, if Tristan has had any bad infections in the past.
Bottom line is he's a bit puzzled as to what the lesions are, BUT as a pediatric surgeon who has done many pulmonary surgeries, he does not think this is anything to worry about... 99% sure.
For that 1% remaining, he thinks we should get a second opinion by a pulmonologist(his word), but he really feels like it's nothing to worry about.
Needless to say, we were thrilled to hear this, especially after everything we had heard from the doctor's assistant:
"...multiple lesions, some can be removed through surgery, some are inoperable... biopsy... surgery before September."
THOSE phrases really freaked us out, and frankly, I think the doc was a little irritated at his assistant for doing that.
Also, I think she is an idiot.
She was basically reading from a computer generated diagnosis on the actual CT scan results.
I think that was a big no-no on her part.
A little pissed, yet ENORMOUSLY relieved is what we are right now.
I am incredibly thankful for my family with whom, I don't think I would want to live without...
...and you guys gotta know, I am extremely thankful for you too.
You can make a grown man cry.
WHEW!
Now, let's party.
KoP
Lets say: It worked...
...because Tristan is ok!
So here's the deal before I explain the details. The doctor does NOT think that the lesions are malignant and does NOT think they need a biopsy or any kind of surgery at this time. He does think Tristan should be scanned again in 6-12 months, but only as a precaution. If they've gotten bigger, then we can think about a biopsy and go from there.
When we first got to the hospital, the doc asked Tristan lots of questions about how he felt, and if he ever had any trouble breathing. Then he asked about our family medical history, if Tristan has had any bad infections in the past.
Bottom line is he's a bit puzzled as to what the lesions are, BUT as a pediatric surgeon who has done many pulmonary surgeries, he does not think this is anything to worry about... 99% sure.
For that 1% remaining, he thinks we should get a second opinion by a pulmonologist(his word), but he really feels like it's nothing to worry about.
Needless to say, we were thrilled to hear this, especially after everything we had heard from the doctor's assistant:
"...multiple lesions, some can be removed through surgery, some are inoperable... biopsy... surgery before September."
THOSE phrases really freaked us out, and frankly, I think the doc was a little irritated at his assistant for doing that.
Also, I think she is an idiot.
She was basically reading from a computer generated diagnosis on the actual CT scan results.
I think that was a big no-no on her part.
A little pissed, yet ENORMOUSLY relieved is what we are right now.
I am incredibly thankful for my family with whom, I don't think I would want to live without...
...and you guys gotta know, I am extremely thankful for you too.
You can make a grown man cry.
WHEW!
Now, let's party.
KoP
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Good News
I just wanted to drop by quickly and say, Good news from the doc!
I'll be filling in the blanks tomorrow. Gotta run.
KoP
I'll be filling in the blanks tomorrow. Gotta run.
KoP
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Thank You (Blogger Peeps And KCL Peeps)
Guys… thank you so much for your care and concern. In some strange, internet community way it absolutely helps.
We have decided to wait until our designated appointment to see the doctor before we make a huge fuss. This is because I believe we are being seen just about as early as we can. This particular doctor comes highly recommended, and we like his manner. We want him.
When Amy had called their office back to schedule an appointment, the secretary told her it would be end of August.
Amy told her that she was obviously talking to the wrong person.
After a couple of transfers, she got back to the Doctor’s Assistant who set us up with that ‘first day back’ appointment. We don’t want to mess up that relationship… I guess.
At any rate, we’ll see where things go tomorrow at 1pm.
We’ve decided to only tell Tristan that we are being seen by the doctor to go over his scan results. He’s 12 years old, but believe me when I say, he is much MUCH better off not knowing right now… not when there is nothing that can be done about it. He will worry and fret himself to death, and it just won’t do any good at this point.
This whole situation hits Amy and I on and off at odd times, the worry I mean. It very well could be nothing, and that’s what we are hoping, but, unfortunately in this case, I was born with a pretty vivid imagination.
We try not to think about it… we even went ahead to a 20 year highschool reunion and enjoyed it, but mostly, we are focused on spending lots of quality time with him and moving forward.
There is a lot of anticipation (and anxiety) about tomorrow for that same reason, so we can learn what we need to, move forward, and fix it.
Our son is going to be ok.
Thanks again, everyone for your kind words and concern. When Amy and I read your comments, it moved us to tears.
KoP
We have decided to wait until our designated appointment to see the doctor before we make a huge fuss. This is because I believe we are being seen just about as early as we can. This particular doctor comes highly recommended, and we like his manner. We want him.
When Amy had called their office back to schedule an appointment, the secretary told her it would be end of August.
Amy told her that she was obviously talking to the wrong person.
After a couple of transfers, she got back to the Doctor’s Assistant who set us up with that ‘first day back’ appointment. We don’t want to mess up that relationship… I guess.
At any rate, we’ll see where things go tomorrow at 1pm.
We’ve decided to only tell Tristan that we are being seen by the doctor to go over his scan results. He’s 12 years old, but believe me when I say, he is much MUCH better off not knowing right now… not when there is nothing that can be done about it. He will worry and fret himself to death, and it just won’t do any good at this point.
This whole situation hits Amy and I on and off at odd times, the worry I mean. It very well could be nothing, and that’s what we are hoping, but, unfortunately in this case, I was born with a pretty vivid imagination.
We try not to think about it… we even went ahead to a 20 year highschool reunion and enjoyed it, but mostly, we are focused on spending lots of quality time with him and moving forward.
There is a lot of anticipation (and anxiety) about tomorrow for that same reason, so we can learn what we need to, move forward, and fix it.
Our son is going to be ok.
Thanks again, everyone for your kind words and concern. When Amy and I read your comments, it moved us to tears.
KoP
Monday, July 27, 2009
Training
I just got home from a really good workout. My brother-in-law is in town and we've really been working on "building". I'm definitely getting stronger, and can't wait to see how it's improved my swim/bike/distance run.
I think the supplements that I've been taking are helping a lot too, protein, complex carbs, and some other stuff that you take before a workout that just gives you a HUGE amount of energy. It also rushes a massive amount of blood to whatever muscle group you're working... or something like that. My BIL is really the one who uses most of this stuff, I'm just kind of along for the ride. It seems to work.
I also like getting these workouts in the evenings rather than the ungodly early morning hours that I do my distance workouts.
Eventually, I'm going to start back with those longer endurance workouts. One thing that I need to figure out is how to build my speed/endurance/conditioning without losing all of my muscle gain. I spoke with a trainer tonight, and I might do a few sessions with him with focus on finding a balance of performance/physique. I'm sure it's it can be done. He had a point though: Muscle isn't exactly "bouyant" and it's going to be a little harder keeping 15 lbs of extra muscle afloat on a long swim.
Ah, this is the burden I bear. haha
KoP
I think the supplements that I've been taking are helping a lot too, protein, complex carbs, and some other stuff that you take before a workout that just gives you a HUGE amount of energy. It also rushes a massive amount of blood to whatever muscle group you're working... or something like that. My BIL is really the one who uses most of this stuff, I'm just kind of along for the ride. It seems to work.
I also like getting these workouts in the evenings rather than the ungodly early morning hours that I do my distance workouts.
Eventually, I'm going to start back with those longer endurance workouts. One thing that I need to figure out is how to build my speed/endurance/conditioning without losing all of my muscle gain. I spoke with a trainer tonight, and I might do a few sessions with him with focus on finding a balance of performance/physique. I'm sure it's it can be done. He had a point though: Muscle isn't exactly "bouyant" and it's going to be a little harder keeping 15 lbs of extra muscle afloat on a long swim.
Ah, this is the burden I bear. haha
KoP
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Reunion Second Night
Saturday night's reunion dinner was "meh". The food that is, the company was great. I saw more friends from school that didn't make it to the Friday night bash. I was actually a little surprised at how few people were at the reunion. There were somewhere between 50 and 60 couples total. my graduating class was around 370 or so.
Oh well, maybe more will show up next time... but probably not.
Some cool things that DID come out of this reunion are the connections Amy and I made with people that are from Houston. One guy even lives in a neighborhood right across the street from me. He has lived there for the past 13 years!
Anyway, there is a group of us that want to have some get togethers at least before school starts back.
I'm really looking forward to it since we don't really have a lot of people that we hang out with. We're kinda lazy like that.
Another cool thing is that I'm seriously thinking about doing a race with a couple of old school friends. It's in Dallas and consists of a 10k run through a military style obstacle course... buried and covered in mud. I've never tried anything like that before, but you know me, I'm willing to try almost anything once.
Bring on the dirty.
KoP
Oh well, maybe more will show up next time... but probably not.
Some cool things that DID come out of this reunion are the connections Amy and I made with people that are from Houston. One guy even lives in a neighborhood right across the street from me. He has lived there for the past 13 years!
Anyway, there is a group of us that want to have some get togethers at least before school starts back.
I'm really looking forward to it since we don't really have a lot of people that we hang out with. We're kinda lazy like that.
Another cool thing is that I'm seriously thinking about doing a race with a couple of old school friends. It's in Dallas and consists of a 10k run through a military style obstacle course... buried and covered in mud. I've never tried anything like that before, but you know me, I'm willing to try almost anything once.
Bring on the dirty.
KoP
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Reunion First Night
We had a good time last night in spite of ourselves. It was so good to see old school friends again. I hadn't seen some of them in twenty years.
Last night was more of an informal, relaxed gathering. it was at some country club place. I haven't been out to a club of any kind in more that 3 years, but as soon as we got there(a little late) we were swarmed by people and cameras. haha it felt kind of like the paparazzi. The funny thing is, back in school, I wasn't all THAT popular or anything. I mean, I was sort of the funny guy/artist/nerd type I guess.
It's actually Facebook, that got me reacquainted with all the school folks over the last year in the ramp up to the reunion. I've "met" school chums online that I never hung out with at school, never even spoke more than a few words, so it was a little odd coming back and being treated like a long lost friend.
I gotta admit, I kinda liked it. Sure, the cheerleaders aren't as hot, but they were STILL cheerleaders right?
...Right? ha!
Twenty years of life will change a person.
Tonight will be the more formal gathering and dinner at a Hotel in Beaumont. I suppose there will be a lot more people there too since not everyone likes to parte'.
Should be lots o' fun.
KoP
Last night was more of an informal, relaxed gathering. it was at some country club place. I haven't been out to a club of any kind in more that 3 years, but as soon as we got there(a little late) we were swarmed by people and cameras. haha it felt kind of like the paparazzi. The funny thing is, back in school, I wasn't all THAT popular or anything. I mean, I was sort of the funny guy/artist/nerd type I guess.
It's actually Facebook, that got me reacquainted with all the school folks over the last year in the ramp up to the reunion. I've "met" school chums online that I never hung out with at school, never even spoke more than a few words, so it was a little odd coming back and being treated like a long lost friend.
I gotta admit, I kinda liked it. Sure, the cheerleaders aren't as hot, but they were STILL cheerleaders right?
...Right? ha!
Twenty years of life will change a person.
Tonight will be the more formal gathering and dinner at a Hotel in Beaumont. I suppose there will be a lot more people there too since not everyone likes to parte'.
Should be lots o' fun.
KoP
Friday, July 24, 2009
Reunion
We are leaving for the class reunion which begins tonight through the weekend.
More later.
KoP
More later.
KoP
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A Call From The Doctor
So here's the deal...
We got some very unexpected news from the doctor the other day concerning our son, Tristan.
A few weeks ago we had taken him to Texas Children's Hospital to have a CAT scan of his chest. The reason is, he has a condition know as "Pigeon Chest" where the sternum and ribs have some sort of calcium malformation, or something like that. It basically makes the middle of his chest poke out further than it should and can cause some difficulty breathing. It's not terribly common, but it is repairable with a surgical procedure done by a pediatric surgeon. It's mostly a "cosmetic" disorder.
At any rate, Tristan is embarrassed of it, and we wanted to see if we could have something done about it.
Well, Amy got a phone call from the doctor's assistant last Friday. She wanted to talk about the scan. Of course, she was glad to hear from her and asked if we would be able to get his chest taken care of.
The assistant seemed a little confused by this and said, "Has anyone called you yet?"
No, she was the first person we had spoken to since the scan.
"Oh" she say, "Umm, ok, well there seems to be a problem, are you sure no one has called you yet?"
"Nooo?"
"Ok, then I should tell you now."
"It appears that Tristan has several spots in his lungs... pulmonary lesions. There are quite a few, I count about 12. We need to get him seen by the doctor ASAP, however, the doctor is on vacation for two weeks out of country. Ok, I'm going to call the doctor now and let him know. He'll want to know this."
Needless to say this freaked Amy right out. So she shot off a few frantic questions like, what are pulmonary lesions? What does this mean? Will he need surgery? What does this mean? We want to be seen NOW!
Apparently, the lesions can be caused by a number of things, and until the doc actually sees the scans and does a biopsy, they won't know if they're malignant or not. She told us to call our pediatrician to get them up to speed on what was happening.
Amy did all that and then called back. The assistant looked at the scans again, and recounted. She said it looked like 5 definite lesions(I don't know why the number changed) in each of his lungs. She said some were operable, some were not... I don't know what THAT means either.
We're basically pulling our hair out at this point.
She said that she would have us seen as soon as the doctor gets back in country.
The day before yesterday, Amy called back and they have us scheduled for an appointment on the day the doc comes back to work, next Wednesday. I've taken the day off so I can be there for whatever news we get.
We're scared and we really don't know what to do at this point except wait.
We haven't told Tristan or anyone else for that matter... We don't know how...
Should we just let the doc tell him when we get there, or should I break the news to him on the way there? We DEFINITELY don't want to tell him now because all he will do is worry and fret. Nothing good can come of that right now.
It's gotta be our burden to bear until next week.
Pray for us.
KoP
We got some very unexpected news from the doctor the other day concerning our son, Tristan.
A few weeks ago we had taken him to Texas Children's Hospital to have a CAT scan of his chest. The reason is, he has a condition know as "Pigeon Chest" where the sternum and ribs have some sort of calcium malformation, or something like that. It basically makes the middle of his chest poke out further than it should and can cause some difficulty breathing. It's not terribly common, but it is repairable with a surgical procedure done by a pediatric surgeon. It's mostly a "cosmetic" disorder.
At any rate, Tristan is embarrassed of it, and we wanted to see if we could have something done about it.
Well, Amy got a phone call from the doctor's assistant last Friday. She wanted to talk about the scan. Of course, she was glad to hear from her and asked if we would be able to get his chest taken care of.
The assistant seemed a little confused by this and said, "Has anyone called you yet?"
No, she was the first person we had spoken to since the scan.
"Oh" she say, "Umm, ok, well there seems to be a problem, are you sure no one has called you yet?"
"Nooo?"
"Ok, then I should tell you now."
"It appears that Tristan has several spots in his lungs... pulmonary lesions. There are quite a few, I count about 12. We need to get him seen by the doctor ASAP, however, the doctor is on vacation for two weeks out of country. Ok, I'm going to call the doctor now and let him know. He'll want to know this."
Needless to say this freaked Amy right out. So she shot off a few frantic questions like, what are pulmonary lesions? What does this mean? Will he need surgery? What does this mean? We want to be seen NOW!
Apparently, the lesions can be caused by a number of things, and until the doc actually sees the scans and does a biopsy, they won't know if they're malignant or not. She told us to call our pediatrician to get them up to speed on what was happening.
Amy did all that and then called back. The assistant looked at the scans again, and recounted. She said it looked like 5 definite lesions(I don't know why the number changed) in each of his lungs. She said some were operable, some were not... I don't know what THAT means either.
We're basically pulling our hair out at this point.
She said that she would have us seen as soon as the doctor gets back in country.
The day before yesterday, Amy called back and they have us scheduled for an appointment on the day the doc comes back to work, next Wednesday. I've taken the day off so I can be there for whatever news we get.
We're scared and we really don't know what to do at this point except wait.
We haven't told Tristan or anyone else for that matter... We don't know how...
Should we just let the doc tell him when we get there, or should I break the news to him on the way there? We DEFINITELY don't want to tell him now because all he will do is worry and fret. Nothing good can come of that right now.
It's gotta be our burden to bear until next week.
Pray for us.
KoP
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Not Jealous
Amy is going to a Coldplay concert tonight with a friend.
I'm not jealous... nah... not at all.
KoP
I'm not jealous... nah... not at all.
KoP
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Starcraft
Tonight Tristan, my brother-in-law, and I will be consumed in a protracted game of Starcraft... just like back in the day.
Tristan wants it, therefore, it will be so.
He has an important doctor's appointment next Wednesday.
KoP
Tristan wants it, therefore, it will be so.
He has an important doctor's appointment next Wednesday.
KoP
Monday, July 20, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Pump You Up!
Good workout today with the Brother In Law. I've been focusing on building muscle lately rather than heavy cardio.
I need Power and more muscle mass is where I'm going to get it.
We're going to pump ::clap:: you up!
I've got more work to do, but it's coming around.
Another three weeks and I'll be ready for a real endurance build up.
Good stuff.
Sleep well.
KoP
I need Power and more muscle mass is where I'm going to get it.
We're going to pump ::clap:: you up!
I've got more work to do, but it's coming around.
Another three weeks and I'll be ready for a real endurance build up.
Good stuff.
Sleep well.
KoP
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Slick For The Reunion
last night and today, Amy and I went shopping for some outfits.
My 20 year class reunion is coming up in a week and we want to be looking sharp.
Mission accomplished.
She got a very sexy little black dress from The White House Black Market, I got a sleek black suit from Dillards. I've got a cool black shirt to go with it, but it looks like I'm going to go back for the right tie.
I want us to be trendy, but not overstated. What I don't want is business conservative, navy suit, blue shirt, red power tie.
No thanks.
Anyway, I can't believe that I've been out of school for 20 years. I truly am getting old now. I don't FEEL old, but I AM old...er.
It's going to be a blast hooking up with everyone from high school. I've been reconnecting with a lot of them through FaceBook.
Good times. Can't wait.
KoP
My 20 year class reunion is coming up in a week and we want to be looking sharp.
Mission accomplished.
She got a very sexy little black dress from The White House Black Market, I got a sleek black suit from Dillards. I've got a cool black shirt to go with it, but it looks like I'm going to go back for the right tie.
I want us to be trendy, but not overstated. What I don't want is business conservative, navy suit, blue shirt, red power tie.
No thanks.
Anyway, I can't believe that I've been out of school for 20 years. I truly am getting old now. I don't FEEL old, but I AM old...er.
It's going to be a blast hooking up with everyone from high school. I've been reconnecting with a lot of them through FaceBook.
Good times. Can't wait.
KoP
Friday, July 17, 2009
Bad News
Not a good day today. We got some pretty awful news that sort of rocked our little world.
I don't feel like talking about it right now. Maybe I'll catch up this weekend.
KoP
I don't feel like talking about it right now. Maybe I'll catch up this weekend.
KoP
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Anything...
I cannot think of ANYTHING to write tonight so I'm just going to say
Good Night.
I'm going to write in the morning for sure.
For sure.
KoP
Good Night.
I'm going to write in the morning for sure.
For sure.
KoP
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Harry Potter And The Half Ton Fat Dude Sitting Next To Me
Went and saw Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince tonight.
Yeah.
I tell ya... I am sick to death of this place. This town. This ghetto town.
It was a pretty good movie I guess... I dunno because I kept getting distracted by the 300lb LOUD guy sitting right next to me... almost on top of me in fact, scratching his balls every chance he got, making "HUH" sounds and grunt sounds when something remotely interesting would happen. And the breathing... that heavy, labored, fat breathing the entire time.
And it was so friggin' HOT in that place. It was a packed theater and all, but man, it was stifling. Amy walked out to go to the restroom. When she came back she whispered "It STINKS in here! It smells like pickles!"
When we finally left the theater later, she told me about the guys standing outside the women's restroom, eyeballing the women as they passed by... with that creepy "I dare you to look at me funny." kind of malice in their eyes.
I swear North Houston is turning into a huge ghetto.
I'm going to start carrying a handgun in the car, and I think I may get Amy one too.
We gotta get out of here!!
KoP
Yeah.
I tell ya... I am sick to death of this place. This town. This ghetto town.
It was a pretty good movie I guess... I dunno because I kept getting distracted by the 300lb LOUD guy sitting right next to me... almost on top of me in fact, scratching his balls every chance he got, making "HUH" sounds and grunt sounds when something remotely interesting would happen. And the breathing... that heavy, labored, fat breathing the entire time.
And it was so friggin' HOT in that place. It was a packed theater and all, but man, it was stifling. Amy walked out to go to the restroom. When she came back she whispered "It STINKS in here! It smells like pickles!"
When we finally left the theater later, she told me about the guys standing outside the women's restroom, eyeballing the women as they passed by... with that creepy "I dare you to look at me funny." kind of malice in their eyes.
I swear North Houston is turning into a huge ghetto.
I'm going to start carrying a handgun in the car, and I think I may get Amy one too.
We gotta get out of here!!
KoP
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Gearing Up
Man, that bike ride kicked my butt last night. I hadn't ridden since the CB&I Triathlon so I was rusty.
We did almost 20 miles with pull intervals. I definitely need to kick it into high gear if I'm going to ready for a Ironman in November. Jury is still on that one. I may do an Olympic distance in September to wrap up the year.
I said I would I do four races this year and it looks as though I may be keeping my word.
Outstanding.
KoP
We did almost 20 miles with pull intervals. I definitely need to kick it into high gear if I'm going to ready for a Ironman in November. Jury is still on that one. I may do an Olympic distance in September to wrap up the year.
I said I would I do four races this year and it looks as though I may be keeping my word.
Outstanding.
KoP
Monday, July 13, 2009
Lucky
Going on a bike ride tonight with a friend. Should be cool. Tristan is spending a few days at his grandmother's... well, actually they are all going to Dallas for a few days to hang at Six Flags.
Lucky.
KoP
Lucky.
KoP
Sunday, July 12, 2009
What Is UP??
I dunno WHAT is wrong with me, but I have GOT to stop neglecting my (non)writing. I've been missing a lot of days the past fcew weeks.
p.s. We attempted to watch "Bruno" last night, but walked out and got a refund.
Pure filth. I mean, We GOT that he was gay, but he reeeeaally ruubs your face in it. Too much. Made me sick. I hope it flops.
KoP
p.s. We attempted to watch "Bruno" last night, but walked out and got a refund.
Pure filth. I mean, We GOT that he was gay, but he reeeeaally ruubs your face in it. Too much. Made me sick. I hope it flops.
KoP
Saturday, July 11, 2009
UFC 100!!
UFC 100 tonight!!
That's the 100th Ultimate Fighting Championship for the lay person.
We're going to have some friends and family over to watch it on Pay Per View tonight. I've never ordered a UFC at home before. I've always just gotten the DVD after the fact.
It's going to be a good one.
What are you doing tonight?
KoP
That's the 100th Ultimate Fighting Championship for the lay person.
We're going to have some friends and family over to watch it on Pay Per View tonight. I've never ordered a UFC at home before. I've always just gotten the DVD after the fact.
It's going to be a good one.
What are you doing tonight?
KoP
Friday, July 10, 2009
Working The Weekend
Looks like I'm going to be working tomorrow.
I volunteered, actually, but I didn't think they would call me in. I'm a little torn because I don't WANT to work, but I do want to make a little money for the next trip coming up in August. Wow... It seems like I'm always going on vacation.
That's not a bad thing.
If Amy gets her job this week, like we're hoping, that may change.
We shall see.
Have a great weekend!
KoP
I volunteered, actually, but I didn't think they would call me in. I'm a little torn because I don't WANT to work, but I do want to make a little money for the next trip coming up in August. Wow... It seems like I'm always going on vacation.
That's not a bad thing.
If Amy gets her job this week, like we're hoping, that may change.
We shall see.
Have a great weekend!
KoP
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Coming Down
This is Lamarr and I coming down from the peak. It started snowing about this time which was just incredibly strange it being July and all...
Gotta love Colorado!
KoP
Gotta love Colorado!
KoP
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
FYI
FYI
I am currently posting entries from the backpacking trip. In keeping the dates as accurate as possible, Blogger seems to be inserting the entries into their proper sequence, so just scroll down to read them.
Thanks!
KoP
I am currently posting entries from the backpacking trip. In keeping the dates as accurate as possible, Blogger seems to be inserting the entries into their proper sequence, so just scroll down to read them.
Thanks!
KoP
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Alive And Well
I have been terribly remiss in writing since I've been back from the trip.
Obviously, I'm alive and well.
I'm going to start transcribing my written journal entries today. I've also got tons of pics to show, over 1,400!
What a great trip. Just wow.
Stay tuned!
KoP
Obviously, I'm alive and well.
I'm going to start transcribing my written journal entries today. I've also got tons of pics to show, over 1,400!
What a great trip. Just wow.
Stay tuned!
KoP
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Marmot Food
Marmot. This one wanted something to eat and he wasn't taking "No" for an answer.
He pushed one of us off the mountain just to prove he wasn't kidding.
We gave him a Snickers bad...
KoP
He pushed one of us off the mountain just to prove he wasn't kidding.
We gave him a Snickers bad...
KoP
Saturday, July 4, 2009
4-Wheeler Mechanic On The Fourth
After I got home yesterday, Amy and I packed up and headed to her parent's in Madisonville for the fourth.
No fireworks because of the dry spell we've been having, but we still had a nice time. I got Tristan's 4-wheeler running and we rode that around until we hit some sort of metal spike thing. We wer about 5 miles from home.
I was kind of clever here: The spike was about 9 inches long and protruding from the center of the rear tire. Thinking fast, I carved a stick that was slightly larger in diameter than the spike and was maybe 3 inches long. I pulled the spike, then immediately jammed the stick bout halfway into the tire before the air had time to leak out. We were able to drive it all the way home without loosing all the air and ruining the tire. Sweet.
Later, the muffler fell off.
hahahaha
I fixed that by taking the manifold/muffler screws out of his little dirt-bike and used them on the 4-wheeler.
I was a regular mechanic that day. I think I'm also Tristan's hero which is a pretty cool way to be on the Fourth of July.
KoP
No fireworks because of the dry spell we've been having, but we still had a nice time. I got Tristan's 4-wheeler running and we rode that around until we hit some sort of metal spike thing. We wer about 5 miles from home.
I was kind of clever here: The spike was about 9 inches long and protruding from the center of the rear tire. Thinking fast, I carved a stick that was slightly larger in diameter than the spike and was maybe 3 inches long. I pulled the spike, then immediately jammed the stick bout halfway into the tire before the air had time to leak out. We were able to drive it all the way home without loosing all the air and ruining the tire. Sweet.
Later, the muffler fell off.
hahahaha
I fixed that by taking the manifold/muffler screws out of his little dirt-bike and used them on the 4-wheeler.
I was a regular mechanic that day. I think I'm also Tristan's hero which is a pretty cool way to be on the Fourth of July.
KoP
Friday, July 3, 2009
Long's Peak Expedition 2009 Day 6
Today, we fly out. What a great trip!!
I'll be glad to get back home though. We have some cool plans for the Fourth.
See you on the flip side!
KoP
I'll be glad to get back home though. We have some cool plans for the Fourth.
See you on the flip side!
KoP
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Long's Peak Expedition 2009 Day 5
7-2-09
Today, we hiked out of the Boulder Field and headed to the trailhead.
One of the other guys headed down earlier. Seems he has cracked a tooth or somesuch and is going to see if he can get a cell signal a few miles from here. For some reason, there IS cell service down there. He's going to schedule an emergency dental appointment to get a root canal or something.
It always seems like SOMETHING with that guy.
Anyways, we told him to take off and we would catch up later. We're taking our time packing up.
He's also the same guy that flipped out on us when we got down from the peak. You see, he panics at the notion of danger. I revel in it. He managed to get another guy panicked too and they almost left us on the peak to go down and find a Ranger... 7 miles away!
Sure, we didn't TALK about a time that they could expect us to be down (it took 3 hours), but common sense should have taken over at that point and they should have waited before getting so freaked out. As it was, these two guys were pretty upset when we finally made it down.
We more or less told them to get over it. This was one of the guys FIRST backpacking trip and he needed to understand that we knew what we were doing. The instigator of the panic attack may not be coming back.
Other than that little incident, the trip was a HUGE success. A great time was had by all, and now we're talking about doing another trip for next year.
Maybe a canoe trip that crosses state lines up north, Maine and New York. Who knows, but it'll be good.
KoP
Today, we hiked out of the Boulder Field and headed to the trailhead.
One of the other guys headed down earlier. Seems he has cracked a tooth or somesuch and is going to see if he can get a cell signal a few miles from here. For some reason, there IS cell service down there. He's going to schedule an emergency dental appointment to get a root canal or something.
It always seems like SOMETHING with that guy.
Anyways, we told him to take off and we would catch up later. We're taking our time packing up.
He's also the same guy that flipped out on us when we got down from the peak. You see, he panics at the notion of danger. I revel in it. He managed to get another guy panicked too and they almost left us on the peak to go down and find a Ranger... 7 miles away!
Sure, we didn't TALK about a time that they could expect us to be down (it took 3 hours), but common sense should have taken over at that point and they should have waited before getting so freaked out. As it was, these two guys were pretty upset when we finally made it down.
We more or less told them to get over it. This was one of the guys FIRST backpacking trip and he needed to understand that we knew what we were doing. The instigator of the panic attack may not be coming back.
Other than that little incident, the trip was a HUGE success. A great time was had by all, and now we're talking about doing another trip for next year.
Maybe a canoe trip that crosses state lines up north, Maine and New York. Who knows, but it'll be good.
KoP
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Long's Peak Expedition 2009 Day 4
7-1-09
It is dark, raining, thundering, and lightening, but NOTHING can dampen, or take away from the fact that we made the summit of Long’s Peak this afternoon!
It was no easy task, I assure you. In fact, not all of us made it, only 3 of the 6 did. That would be Jonathan, Lamarr, and I.
I feel kind of bad for the other guys. One of them just had a “bad feeling” about the whole thing, another realized that he was afraid of heights when we got to the “narrows”, and the other guy was nervous about the weather, which was looking pretty bad and can turn very nasty, very fast. Those three DID make it up to 14,000’, which is still no small accomplishment.
These three had decided to leave while I was waiting under a large boulder/cave for the weather to clear. The other two guys came up to where I was and we waited… I told them that I was “…prepared to wait in this cave for the rest of the day if I have to, but I am GOING TO MAKE THE SUMMIT!” haha
Turned out, the weather cleared up in about twenty minutes. We strapped on our gear and climbed up a very steep 200’ snow/ice bank to the summit.
The view was AMAZING!
We found a capsule up there with a parchment inside with the scribbled names of those who had made it. Totally cool. We signed our names and the date there.
The hike up was grueling, maybe even harder that running in that 70.3 Ironman last year, but the hike back down was even worse because I started snowing pretty hard. That turned into sleet and freezing rain the further down the mountain we got. The granite boulders were really slick with the water. Not cool.
Anyway, by the time we got down, I was absolutely exhausted, just drained.
After some Excedrin migraine and a little food, I started feeling better.
The guys who had gone down before us, were flipping out a little, and really just over reacting because they had been worried about us. Apparently, we had taken too long to get down and there had been a really bad storm on their side of the mountain. I guess we should have given some sort of time frame on when we would be down. Oh well. Live and learn.
This was the best trip ever!
This was the last entry in my written journal. I'll be posting a bunch of photos and explanations from here on ou. Get ready. haha.
KoP
It is dark, raining, thundering, and lightening, but NOTHING can dampen, or take away from the fact that we made the summit of Long’s Peak this afternoon!
It was no easy task, I assure you. In fact, not all of us made it, only 3 of the 6 did. That would be Jonathan, Lamarr, and I.
I feel kind of bad for the other guys. One of them just had a “bad feeling” about the whole thing, another realized that he was afraid of heights when we got to the “narrows”, and the other guy was nervous about the weather, which was looking pretty bad and can turn very nasty, very fast. Those three DID make it up to 14,000’, which is still no small accomplishment.
These three had decided to leave while I was waiting under a large boulder/cave for the weather to clear. The other two guys came up to where I was and we waited… I told them that I was “…prepared to wait in this cave for the rest of the day if I have to, but I am GOING TO MAKE THE SUMMIT!” haha
Turned out, the weather cleared up in about twenty minutes. We strapped on our gear and climbed up a very steep 200’ snow/ice bank to the summit.
The view was AMAZING!
We found a capsule up there with a parchment inside with the scribbled names of those who had made it. Totally cool. We signed our names and the date there.
The hike up was grueling, maybe even harder that running in that 70.3 Ironman last year, but the hike back down was even worse because I started snowing pretty hard. That turned into sleet and freezing rain the further down the mountain we got. The granite boulders were really slick with the water. Not cool.
Anyway, by the time we got down, I was absolutely exhausted, just drained.
After some Excedrin migraine and a little food, I started feeling better.
The guys who had gone down before us, were flipping out a little, and really just over reacting because they had been worried about us. Apparently, we had taken too long to get down and there had been a really bad storm on their side of the mountain. I guess we should have given some sort of time frame on when we would be down. Oh well. Live and learn.
This was the best trip ever!
This was the last entry in my written journal. I'll be posting a bunch of photos and explanations from here on ou. Get ready. haha.
KoP
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