I hate roller coasters. I have never liked them and I'm not ashamed to admit they scare the heck out of me. I don't think they are safe and then I read a story like this where a 12 year old boy dies after riding a rollercoaster or a story like this and it just confirms this.
Why am I writing about Roller coasters? I don't know, just felt like sharing.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Mid-Life Crisis
This might be the first of many posts on this subject.
I am turning 40 in 58 days (but who's counting) and I'm not too happy about it. Even as I sit back and read that last sentence, it is hard for me to believe I am going to be 40. When I look in the mirror, I still see an early twenty something looking back at me.
I have heard about mid-life crises but never really understood what it might be like. Now, I'm not out looking for a younger woman because I value my life too much and I know Shelley isn't kidding when she says she would kill me in my sleep. Also, I'm not looking to go out and buy a little red sports car because I am too cheap for that. But, I am having the urge to change something or open a new chapter in my life, I just don't know what that might be.
Maybe instead of a "crisis" it is an "opportunity". To be continued..
I am turning 40 in 58 days (but who's counting) and I'm not too happy about it. Even as I sit back and read that last sentence, it is hard for me to believe I am going to be 40. When I look in the mirror, I still see an early twenty something looking back at me.
I have heard about mid-life crises but never really understood what it might be like. Now, I'm not out looking for a younger woman because I value my life too much and I know Shelley isn't kidding when she says she would kill me in my sleep. Also, I'm not looking to go out and buy a little red sports car because I am too cheap for that. But, I am having the urge to change something or open a new chapter in my life, I just don't know what that might be.
Maybe instead of a "crisis" it is an "opportunity". To be continued..
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Hardheaded
Growing up I often remember being described as "Hardheaded". Dictionary.com defines "Hardheaded" as "unreasonably rigid in the face of argument or entreaty or attack". Synoymns for "Hardheaded" are stubborn, bullheaded, headstrong, obstinate, pigheaded, and unyielding.
As we have watched Seth grow up we have seen these traits in him. Shelley and I have joked that he got a double dose of of stubborness. Well, he may have gotten a triple dose of it after observing my wife recently.
She has dug her heals in on an issue despite receiving wise counsel directing her to do otherwise. Pray for Chase that this gene skipped him.
As we have watched Seth grow up we have seen these traits in him. Shelley and I have joked that he got a double dose of of stubborness. Well, he may have gotten a triple dose of it after observing my wife recently.
She has dug her heals in on an issue despite receiving wise counsel directing her to do otherwise. Pray for Chase that this gene skipped him.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
God Wants Me to Play Basketball
Tonight as we were putting Seth to bed, he was all wrapped up in playing with the Nerf Basketball my brother got Chase for his birthday. I was trying to get him to stop and say his prayers but he just wanted to play basketball.
At one point the ball rolled under his bed and I said, "Seth, that is God's way of telling you he wants you to say your prayers."
Undeterred, he reached way under the bed and continued his game. He then took a shot that knocked the goal down and I said again, "See Seth, God wants you to come say your prayers."
He looked at me and said "God wants me to play basketball."
And there you have it....
At one point the ball rolled under his bed and I said, "Seth, that is God's way of telling you he wants you to say your prayers."
Undeterred, he reached way under the bed and continued his game. He then took a shot that knocked the goal down and I said again, "See Seth, God wants you to come say your prayers."
He looked at me and said "God wants me to play basketball."
And there you have it....
A Letter to Chase
Below is a letter sent to Chase from my brother, one younger brother to another.
Chase,
On the occasion of your first birthday, I wanted to share some facts of life that I have learned while being the baby brother in a Dowdle household with two boys. First, notice the date of this note. I'm 3 days behind in writing it, and it still has to go into a box and get shipped with your presents. Lesson: It's ok to be a little late. "Better late than never" usually applies. Second, your older brother probably has more talent than you. That's ok too. The few times you manage to beat him at a video game, golf or some other game will be very sweet for you, and leave your brother wondering if he has already started to lose his edge. You'll know this when it happens because he will get really angry and refuse to play with you for a few days. Enjoy his pain. Third, your big brother will probably make your life miserable at times. Just hold on until you get to be about 8 or 9 and you soon will become his best friend. This usually occurs about the same time your brother starts to be interested in girls. He will do or say something stupid in your presence, pay attention. This is an opportunity to black mail your brother into letting you drive his car or something else equally satisfying. Used properly, this information can be used time and time again. Be careful, though. An astute brother can use this same tactic on you. Say little, listen a lot. Finally, learn to type as soon as you can. Writing notes like this one will give you cramps that will mess up your golf swing.
I've enclosed a few gifts that should help you build some of your strongest childhood memories.
1. Nerf basketball set. This is great for years of fun. Don't get stressed out if the net breaks or the dog chews the ball. This stuff is cheap and your dad should run right out and get you a replacement. Don't let him give you that "maybe for your birthday" stuff. That is just him being cheap and lazy.
2. Ping Pong paddles. You can use them for Ping Pong if you like, however, they are great for hitting just about any type of projectile. Unfortunately, these paddles are best used for hitting Nerf basketballs that aren't made any more. You can try to hit the one I've enclosed but I'm not sure what the result will be. The true test of any indoor baseball simulator is the screwgy. Your father should be able to teach you how to throw it. Once mastered, your brother won't have a chance to beat you at indoor nerf baseball. Remember, over the bar and into the wet sink is an automatic grand slam!
3. Table top football. To truly enjoy this sport, you must train to build the perfect paper football triangle. I have lost the skill for this activity in my old age. Until your hands are big enough to form a proper goal, you can use the enclosed game to hone your skills.
4. Musical Instrument. I've randomly selected the enclosed electric instrument for your experimental pleasure. It is necessary for you to get this out of your system as soon as possible. You don't want to be carrying one of those stupid black cases on and off the bus when you hit junior high. Those things are just an invitatation to get picked on by bullies and ignored by girls. Just ask your father.
5. Finally, your cousin Lucy wanted you to have a stuffed animal to cuddle with. This is ok, but don't let Seth find out. If he discovers that there is something that is near and dear to you heart, and/or helps to bring you peace during the rough times, he will take it away from you. He will hide it, he will pretend to flush it down the toilet. This is the best time to throw a huge hissy fit and see if mom and dad will punish him. It has to be done once in awhile to keep the natural balance of your relationship intact. When you're older, I'll teach you all the things I wish I had known about taking revenge on your older brother while I was a kid. Once you are strong enough to tear duct tape, Seth will have to start treating you better.
Well, that's it for this birthday. I hope someone takes the time to read these notes of wisdom to you. Remember, when the day comes that you get a present on Seth's birthday because someone is concerned you might throw a fit and ruin the party, you have them right where you want them.
Love,
Uncle Tim
Chase,
On the occasion of your first birthday, I wanted to share some facts of life that I have learned while being the baby brother in a Dowdle household with two boys. First, notice the date of this note. I'm 3 days behind in writing it, and it still has to go into a box and get shipped with your presents. Lesson: It's ok to be a little late. "Better late than never" usually applies. Second, your older brother probably has more talent than you. That's ok too. The few times you manage to beat him at a video game, golf or some other game will be very sweet for you, and leave your brother wondering if he has already started to lose his edge. You'll know this when it happens because he will get really angry and refuse to play with you for a few days. Enjoy his pain. Third, your big brother will probably make your life miserable at times. Just hold on until you get to be about 8 or 9 and you soon will become his best friend. This usually occurs about the same time your brother starts to be interested in girls. He will do or say something stupid in your presence, pay attention. This is an opportunity to black mail your brother into letting you drive his car or something else equally satisfying. Used properly, this information can be used time and time again. Be careful, though. An astute brother can use this same tactic on you. Say little, listen a lot. Finally, learn to type as soon as you can. Writing notes like this one will give you cramps that will mess up your golf swing.
I've enclosed a few gifts that should help you build some of your strongest childhood memories.
1. Nerf basketball set. This is great for years of fun. Don't get stressed out if the net breaks or the dog chews the ball. This stuff is cheap and your dad should run right out and get you a replacement. Don't let him give you that "maybe for your birthday" stuff. That is just him being cheap and lazy.
2. Ping Pong paddles. You can use them for Ping Pong if you like, however, they are great for hitting just about any type of projectile. Unfortunately, these paddles are best used for hitting Nerf basketballs that aren't made any more. You can try to hit the one I've enclosed but I'm not sure what the result will be. The true test of any indoor baseball simulator is the screwgy. Your father should be able to teach you how to throw it. Once mastered, your brother won't have a chance to beat you at indoor nerf baseball. Remember, over the bar and into the wet sink is an automatic grand slam!
3. Table top football. To truly enjoy this sport, you must train to build the perfect paper football triangle. I have lost the skill for this activity in my old age. Until your hands are big enough to form a proper goal, you can use the enclosed game to hone your skills.
4. Musical Instrument. I've randomly selected the enclosed electric instrument for your experimental pleasure. It is necessary for you to get this out of your system as soon as possible. You don't want to be carrying one of those stupid black cases on and off the bus when you hit junior high. Those things are just an invitatation to get picked on by bullies and ignored by girls. Just ask your father.
5. Finally, your cousin Lucy wanted you to have a stuffed animal to cuddle with. This is ok, but don't let Seth find out. If he discovers that there is something that is near and dear to you heart, and/or helps to bring you peace during the rough times, he will take it away from you. He will hide it, he will pretend to flush it down the toilet. This is the best time to throw a huge hissy fit and see if mom and dad will punish him. It has to be done once in awhile to keep the natural balance of your relationship intact. When you're older, I'll teach you all the things I wish I had known about taking revenge on your older brother while I was a kid. Once you are strong enough to tear duct tape, Seth will have to start treating you better.
Well, that's it for this birthday. I hope someone takes the time to read these notes of wisdom to you. Remember, when the day comes that you get a present on Seth's birthday because someone is concerned you might throw a fit and ruin the party, you have them right where you want them.
Love,
Uncle Tim
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Another Guilty Pleasure
I may have found another guilty pleasure. It is America's Got Talent, a creation of American Idol's Simon Cowell. It is a pure talent show with acts ranging from Bobby Badfinger's, the professional finger snapper, to Sid the Kid, the 8 year old stand up comic.
It reminds me of the old Gong Show. It has 3 celebrity judges; David Hasselhoff, Brandy, and Piers Morgan. If all 3 judges "buzz" the performer they have to stop their performance before it is done and they won't get to go onto the next round.
It has only been 1 week so we will see if it can hold up in the upcoming weeks, but it is a nice summer diversion.
It reminds me of the old Gong Show. It has 3 celebrity judges; David Hasselhoff, Brandy, and Piers Morgan. If all 3 judges "buzz" the performer they have to stop their performance before it is done and they won't get to go onto the next round.
It has only been 1 week so we will see if it can hold up in the upcoming weeks, but it is a nice summer diversion.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Dallas Cowboys' New Stadium
The Dallas Cowboys are building a new stadium and it is scheduled to be completed in 2008. I am going to track the monthly progress of the construction here. This is the first photo.
Click on the image for a larger view.
Click on the image for a larger view.
Game Six
All I have to say about the game is ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Ok, I feel better
Congratulations Miami!
Now, it is time to move on. The Rangers are in first place and it is 38 days until Cowboys' Training Camp begins.
Congratulations Miami!
Now, it is time to move on. The Rangers are in first place and it is 38 days until Cowboys' Training Camp begins.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Games Three and Four
The Mavericks have let the Heat back into this series by losing both Games Three and Four. I still feel like the Mavericks will win the series and I think my original prediction of winning it in 6 looks good. If it has to go to game seven, then I will be a little concerned.
I don't know if it is good news or bad news but in both of the last 2 games the Mavericks have played horribly. If they just play like the Mavericks I don't feel the Heat can beat them, but they aren't playing like the Mavericks and that is concerning.
Go Mavs!
I don't know if it is good news or bad news but in both of the last 2 games the Mavericks have played horribly. If they just play like the Mavericks I don't feel the Heat can beat them, but they aren't playing like the Mavericks and that is concerning.
Go Mavs!
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Happy Birthday Chase
Happy Birthday Chase!
One year ago today we were blessed with a wonderful little boy. This year has been amazing and the one thing I will remember the most about this year will be Chase's laugh and smile. He can light up a room with his smile.
I love you Chase.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Sleep
How much sleep do you need? I have never needed more than 6 hours a night and if more of those hours are before midnight then even better. My high school baseball coach would tell us that the sleep you get before midnight is better for you than the sleep you get after midnight. I don't know if there is anything to that because I think he was just trying to figure out a way to get a bunch of 16 and 17 year olds to bed early before a game, but, it does seem to be true for me.
But, one problem with needing just a few hours sleep is that if you lose any of those hours, it is more costly than someone who sleeps 8 or 9 hours a night. If I lose 1 of my 6 hours that is a greater percentage of my sleep needs than someone who loses 1 of their 9 hours of sleep.
I lost an entire day of sleep this weekend because we were upgrading a major system at work. I must have been running on adrenaline because it wasn't until around noon on Monday that I started feeling tired. I imagine some people might have walked away from me after having a conversation wondering what we just talked about. I just hope I didn't say anything too ridiculous.
But, one problem with needing just a few hours sleep is that if you lose any of those hours, it is more costly than someone who sleeps 8 or 9 hours a night. If I lose 1 of my 6 hours that is a greater percentage of my sleep needs than someone who loses 1 of their 9 hours of sleep.
I lost an entire day of sleep this weekend because we were upgrading a major system at work. I must have been running on adrenaline because it wasn't until around noon on Monday that I started feeling tired. I imagine some people might have walked away from me after having a conversation wondering what we just talked about. I just hope I didn't say anything too ridiculous.
Monday, June 12, 2006
7 Years Ago Today
Seven years ago today Dallas beat the Buffalo Sabres 2-1 in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Why do I remember this? This was also the day Shelley and I got married.
Don't misunderstand me, the fact that Dallas beat Buffalo that night is not why I remember the day but the fact that I got to watch the hockey game on the day I got married was one of the first indicators that this marriage would be "different." Actually, the marriage isn't that different but the woman is, she is like no other and that is why I love her so much.
I could write pages and I have about how wonderful my wife is but today I will just say, Happy Anniversary Shelley and I love you.
Don't misunderstand me, the fact that Dallas beat Buffalo that night is not why I remember the day but the fact that I got to watch the hockey game on the day I got married was one of the first indicators that this marriage would be "different." Actually, the marriage isn't that different but the woman is, she is like no other and that is why I love her so much.
I could write pages and I have about how wonderful my wife is but today I will just say, Happy Anniversary Shelley and I love you.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Game Two
Double WOW!
Dallas wins game 2 99 - 85 and takes a 2-0 lead in the series.
Teams leading 2-0 in the series have one the championship 25 out of 27 times.
Dallas wins game 2 99 - 85 and takes a 2-0 lead in the series.
Teams leading 2-0 in the series have one the championship 25 out of 27 times.
The Little Brother
I'm an older brother and Shelley is a younger sister. When we had Chase, Shelley became "The Little Brother Advocate". She wanted to make sure Chase got equal treatment because she knew what it was like to be the younger sibling. This is fortunate because I originally underestimated how this dynamic would work but I have had the opportunity to view it from a different perspective and it is truly amazing.
First, Chase doesn't want anything that he feels doesn't live up to what Seth has. For example, when Seth started T-ball, we gave Chase a little vinyl glove, not a leather one, and a cloth covered baseball. He instantly knew these were not as good as the glove and ball Seth had and has had nothing to do with them but insists on playing with the real t-balls we have in the house. We got Chase some Thomas the Tank Engines for 0 - 12 months age but he won't play with them but prefers to play with Seths "actual" Thomas the Tank Engines. You won't believe the tension in our this causes...
Also, if Seth can do it then Chase thinks he can do it, forgetting the fact that he can't even walk yet. He has no fear and will get right into the middle of whatever Seth is doing and try it.
I always thought it was silly when people would buy 2 of everything because both kids had to have one. Well, I can see I am going to be spending at least the next few years buying 2 of everything...
First, Chase doesn't want anything that he feels doesn't live up to what Seth has. For example, when Seth started T-ball, we gave Chase a little vinyl glove, not a leather one, and a cloth covered baseball. He instantly knew these were not as good as the glove and ball Seth had and has had nothing to do with them but insists on playing with the real t-balls we have in the house. We got Chase some Thomas the Tank Engines for 0 - 12 months age but he won't play with them but prefers to play with Seths "actual" Thomas the Tank Engines. You won't believe the tension in our this causes...
Also, if Seth can do it then Chase thinks he can do it, forgetting the fact that he can't even walk yet. He has no fear and will get right into the middle of whatever Seth is doing and try it.
I always thought it was silly when people would buy 2 of everything because both kids had to have one. Well, I can see I am going to be spending at least the next few years buying 2 of everything...
T-Ball is Over
We played our last T-ball game today and I have to admit I really enjoyed the experience. While Seth and I had a few "episodes", overall we both had a good time. I was actually all prepared when the season started for this to be a failure and to make the decision that Chase wouldn't play t-ball until he was at least 5 because 3 does seem very young. But, I think we often under estimate our kids and what they can do or accomplish but that is another post for another time.
I really enjoyed watching Seth. When he would hit the ball or run the bases he would have the biggest grin on his face and if he got the opportunity to field the ball, you could just see the pride on his face.
We are taking a break for a few months but soccer is next on the schedule so that should be hoot.
I really enjoyed watching Seth. When he would hit the ball or run the bases he would have the biggest grin on his face and if he got the opportunity to field the ball, you could just see the pride on his face.
We are taking a break for a few months but soccer is next on the schedule so that should be hoot.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Game One
Wow!
Mavericks win 90 - 80! The Mavericks didn't play their best game, Dirk only scored 16 points and Josh Howard only scored 10. But, I imagine Miami will argue they didn't play their best game either. It is going to be a great series.
On another note, this series is providing more examples of why I like Mark Cuban. Sure, he is a dork and can be a jerk but so can I so who am I to criticize. Besides, bringing a winner to Dallas, he is unlike any other sports owner.
He went down and shot baskets before the game because he couldn't pass on the opportunity to be on the NBA Finals floor. What other owner in sports would appreciate this? They are more concerned with who they are entertaining in their suite. Also, he did an interview with ABC last night just 30 minutes before tip off while he was working out on a stair climber. And, he is blogging during the game, what other owner will give you that kind of access.
Mavericks win 90 - 80! The Mavericks didn't play their best game, Dirk only scored 16 points and Josh Howard only scored 10. But, I imagine Miami will argue they didn't play their best game either. It is going to be a great series.
On another note, this series is providing more examples of why I like Mark Cuban. Sure, he is a dork and can be a jerk but so can I so who am I to criticize. Besides, bringing a winner to Dallas, he is unlike any other sports owner.
He went down and shot baskets before the game because he couldn't pass on the opportunity to be on the NBA Finals floor. What other owner in sports would appreciate this? They are more concerned with who they are entertaining in their suite. Also, he did an interview with ABC last night just 30 minutes before tip off while he was working out on a stair climber. And, he is blogging during the game, what other owner will give you that kind of access.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Monday, June 05, 2006
My Wonderful Wife
I have the most awesome wife and I don't tell her this enough. She had a rough weekend and I want her to know that she is appreciated.
I once joked that "no wife of mine will have more than 3 jobs." I would say this because there have been times when Shelley actually had three jobs. I know that she would do anything for our family and this provides me with great comfort. When God created Eve he was creating a "helper" for Adam and I have the best "help mate".
But this weekend I remembered what first attracted me to her and that is her sense of humor. In this post I describe the night we met, and her sense of humor was a big factor in drawing my attention towards her. This weekend we had limited time together but we had some very funny moments that we got to laugh together about and it just reminded me how I love to hear her laugh.
I love you Shelley
I once joked that "no wife of mine will have more than 3 jobs." I would say this because there have been times when Shelley actually had three jobs. I know that she would do anything for our family and this provides me with great comfort. When God created Eve he was creating a "helper" for Adam and I have the best "help mate".
But this weekend I remembered what first attracted me to her and that is her sense of humor. In this post I describe the night we met, and her sense of humor was a big factor in drawing my attention towards her. This weekend we had limited time together but we had some very funny moments that we got to laugh together about and it just reminded me how I love to hear her laugh.
I love you Shelley
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Congratulations Mavericks
The Mavericks are the Western Conference Champions after beating the Suns 102-93.
I have lived in Dallas for 21 years and had the privilege of watching some very bad basketball. Very bad...
Like him or hate him nobody can deny what Mark Cuban has done for this franchise. By the way, I like him.
Also, if you are wondering about my latest sports superstition, my friend didn't watch the beginning of the game and when he turned it on the Mavericks were down 48-33. Once he started watching they out scored the Suns 69-45.
I have lived in Dallas for 21 years and had the privilege of watching some very bad basketball. Very bad...
Like him or hate him nobody can deny what Mark Cuban has done for this franchise. By the way, I like him.
Also, if you are wondering about my latest sports superstition, my friend didn't watch the beginning of the game and when he turned it on the Mavericks were down 48-33. Once he started watching they out scored the Suns 69-45.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Sports Superstitions
I think any man who loves sports and is passionate about a particular team has some sports superstitions or rituals that help guarantee his team a win. If I am standing and my team is doing well, I will remain standing or if I'm holding my tongue in a particular way I will not change until the streak stops.
A current one I have going is that a friend of mine who really has little interest in basketball or the Mavericks has watched every game in the playoffs that the Mavericks have won and not watched the ones they have lost. I am going to do everything to make sure he watches Game 6 tonight.
With the ebb and flow of sports, most sports superstitions run their course pretty quickly. The longest running one I had started in the first quarter of Super Bowl XXVII between the Cowboys and the Bills. Buffalo scored first and in my disgust I threw the Cowboys hat I was wearing across the room. Well, Dallas came back to score and win the game and I just knew the fact that I took my hat off is what led to that victory.
So, that started a long running tradition of me not wearing any Cowboy apparel on game day and because of me the Cowboys were able to win 3 out of the next 4 Super Bowls. The tradition finally came to an end in 1997 when they went 6 - 10 and missed the playoffs.
Go Mavs!
A current one I have going is that a friend of mine who really has little interest in basketball or the Mavericks has watched every game in the playoffs that the Mavericks have won and not watched the ones they have lost. I am going to do everything to make sure he watches Game 6 tonight.
With the ebb and flow of sports, most sports superstitions run their course pretty quickly. The longest running one I had started in the first quarter of Super Bowl XXVII between the Cowboys and the Bills. Buffalo scored first and in my disgust I threw the Cowboys hat I was wearing across the room. Well, Dallas came back to score and win the game and I just knew the fact that I took my hat off is what led to that victory.
So, that started a long running tradition of me not wearing any Cowboy apparel on game day and because of me the Cowboys were able to win 3 out of the next 4 Super Bowls. The tradition finally came to an end in 1997 when they went 6 - 10 and missed the playoffs.
Go Mavs!
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