tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14027753257661397222024-03-05T19:49:30.490-06:00RazorbackTri-ingA semi-regular record of my pursuit of the elusive m-dot tattoo beginning from less than zero, while trying to help raise 2 daughters and get liquor to the people.Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-1317632169730730522011-11-24T12:38:00.000-06:002011-11-24T12:38:18.411-06:00Happy Thanksgiving!!!A good trip becomes a great one when the right people are bombing down the hills with you!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.enduranceconspiracy.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/footsteps.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6497" height="640" src="http://www.enduranceconspiracy.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/footsteps.jpg" title="footsteps" width="480" /></a>Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-61905989644322782552011-11-06T20:06:00.000-06:002011-11-06T20:06:37.926-06:00Character<span style="font-family: Arial;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;"><strong> Disciplines, practiced over a period of time, become habits or lifestyles- habits and lifestyles, repeated over a period of time, become character- and character over time shapes a life! So, it follows that if you want to change a life- start by establishing an appropriate discipline which will lead to a habit/ lifestyle which will develop new character which will change how life is lived.</strong></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Saw this on another blog today. I thought it was great. We have been talking to Tapp about establishing good study and organization habits recently. She has started to adapt a few things. Everyone is pitching in to help her.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided I need to establish a solid exercise habit. The blog I stole the quote from just began a 40 day quest to run at least 30 min per day. I am going to adopt a swim/run habit everyday until the end of the year. At least one day of swimming will be lost due to the club being closed for Christmas holiday. Thanksgiving may be the same. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part two of the habit is to do all I can to remind my dad that he is measured by the depth of his life not the length of it. Just two months after being told he was essentially NED (no evidence of disease) his melanoma has spread to his lower spine. It was a tumor that could not be completely excised by surgery. He also has a new occurence of mets in his lungs. Small ones that are not the same as previously treated. He is will begin radiation after Thanksgiving. Back to the fight. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part three is helping my mom out with her current health issues. She needs some tests run and some back surgery. My parents are independent stubborn people. Challenges to there mobility does not make them happy, especially my mom. She always saw after me when I was sick. She is one of the heroes of my children. I owe it to her to make sure she gets to celebrate her life. Again depth not length of life. If you want to the depth of her life, just hang with one of my daughters for a day. You will see my mom in both of them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Langley out!</span><br />
<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-87603897084433870602011-08-27T11:37:00.001-05:002011-08-27T12:07:27.294-05:00Ironman?? Missed it and I don't caretWednesday I was supposed to be on the road for Louisville. Earlier this year I was looking forward to completeing this Ironman. In January my father was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma. He had skin cancer that had moved to his lung. <br />
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He immediately started treatments through clinical trials in January. The chemo was too hard on his body and had to be stopped after 8 weeks. I was training regularly at that time and feeling pretty good about the approaching summer. He was switched to a brand new drug that had showed great results in some patients. The problem was it only worked in 20% of the receipients. When switched, the scans showed his cancer was maintained but no tumors had shrunk.<br />
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This medication was much milder to Dad's system. However, the mental side of the situation was catching up to him. He was struggling to see that a positive result was possible. As time passed, I began spending more time assisting him and dealing with this internally. As a result the training suffered. At the beginning of July he had an event that appeared to be a stroke. Adding a new medical condition was not a welcome option. Turns out it was a side effect of the cancer medication. If his body had not sounded the alarm with a seizure, he wouldn't be with us today. <br />
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After a round with the Dr's and hospital stays, he found out all side effects could be managed with medication. However the cancer medication had to be stopped and he had not completed the initial 4 treatments. He won't admit it but he was very discouraged. He was sure this medication was going to be the thing that saved his life. Now he couldn't have it anymore, ever. We had to wait 6 weeks until the Dr. was willing to do the scans. By this time I was pretty sure the ironman was out of reach this year because I had let myself become distracted from training. <br />
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Turned out the scans were yesterday, the Friday before the ironman. Couldn't be at the Dr's. office and make it to Louisville in time to check-in for the race. Dad's day started about 5 am with drive to Little Rock. That is followed by hours of waiting, a few minutes of tests then a visit with the Dr.<br />
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The Dr's main nurse came by to take some information. Dad was immediately convinced this meant he was going back into clinical trials and the medication had not worked. In reality she just wanted to take his history to make sure it was accurate after the last hospital stay. The Dr. came in for her visit. She went through all the tests except the scans. They had not been posted to the computer yet. She went to check on them She came back and said they had not been read yet. We needed to stay in the examining room and wait until she came back. Needless to say the modo was very tense. Dad and his wife were very nervous. <br />
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Dr. shows comes back in with a great poker face. Dad's tumors had disappeared or shrunk from 4cm to 1.2 cm. Almost within acceptable levels. It was amazing three doses of medication had almost completely erradicated his cancer. I am pretty sure the magnitude of the event is still settling in everyone. Lots of speechless people.<br />
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Missing Ironman Louisville to be in the room when my Dad realized his life had been handed back to him was well worth it. I will definitely be in Louisville next year celebrating the anniversary of this momentus day. Hopefully he will come and watch me finish my journey since his is going to be a lot longer than he thought. <br />
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Langley OutMichael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-47181202429797554642011-03-06T20:45:00.000-06:002011-03-06T20:45:20.387-06:00March MadnessMarch is here and the training is going on in earnest. Not much new to report there. Working to be in racing shape by June with a strong final Race at the end of August. Weather is wonderful for training. Running from the house is a new experience as a result of all the hills that surround me now. Great work out once a week for 6 miles. Training and the girls are my baseline these days. <br />
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The legislature is the first item of March Madness. The partisanship is strong around the drinking tables. The talk is bland in the capital. Each side is waiting to see who will blink first over how the money is spent. Bill filing ends tomorrow and the real fights can begin. I have never seen a session this late with so little business. Some committees don't have more than a couple of bills to consider. More on this as the days progress.<br />
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Charlie Sheen is a 50 car pile up in the opposite lane on the interstate. I want to hurry up and get past it but not until I slow down and get a complete view. Everyone should go to <a href="http://www.ustream.com/">http://www.ustream.com/</a> and check out Sheen's Korner. I cannot say he is on drugs but I can say he has fully liberated himself from the expectations of society. I think he will make more money while his show is on hiatus than the 2 million he would make from his sitcom. I know at least one person in this world who could reach Sheen's levels if he ever lets himself out of his straight jacket. There are flashes when enough liquid permission has shot through his system.<br />
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Hogs lack the discipline in basketball to grow. The talent is obvious but the dedication is not there. While the coaching is suspect at times, a player has to hold his teammates accountable. This team doesn't have that person. Darrell Hawkins taught the national championship team how to be great. This team isn't interested. What a shame.<br />
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Time to hang with Hank and Runkel.<br />
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Langley out<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-33649348466739081872010-12-09T15:38:00.000-06:002010-12-09T15:38:58.030-06:00Why I do it!!This is the best example of why I am trying to complete an Ironman that I can find. Enjoy it. <br />
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Langley Out<br />
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Race season begins with the Little Rock half marathon and builds into New Orleans then Memphis in May then Louisville. I may run the hogeye half again if the urge hits. The fundraising call will come later this year. Those who gave last year get a pass due to my shortcomings. Those who committed but I didn't din will be getting a call plus a few more.
Littlest one, Wesley, is home with Strep throat. She looked pitiful this morning. She had a hard weekend in Paragould to boot. She is getting the short end of the stick right before she turns 6. She is so pumped for it!!
Tapp has found fun in swim team. Her competitive spirit is still hiding from her but she gives great effort and never misses a day of practice unless her parents make her. That kind of consistency is going to make her a solid triathlete in the future.
So proud of my girls. The coolest chicks I know!!
Hog talk tomorrow.
WPS!!!
Langley out<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-69020171097970471272010-10-05T21:53:00.000-05:002010-10-05T21:53:14.358-05:00I love October. College football is in full swing. Fall is trying to assert itself in Arkansas. Runs are fantastic in the middle of the day. School activities are rolling too. Tapp and Wesley have the fall festival on Saturday. It will be big fun at Forest Park. Then on to watch the Hogs!!! at Dugan's.<br />
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Dugan's is a new pub in downtown Little Rock that opens this week. It is owned by a lifelong friend. It looks amazing inside. Everyone should come down, have a cold adult beverage and eat some fantastic food. Donald runs a great place. He has been operating Markham Street Pub for years. This is a great step up.<br />
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I add another year of life tomorrow. Last year was about change, learning and adapting. <br />
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I am looking forward to a year of growth, completion, satisfaction and success. Spent a weekend in Fayetteville at a motorcycle rally. All makes and models of people came from all over the world. It was amazing to see people sharing something they are passionate about. You could tell from their expressions and the tone of their voices how much love they had. It was really cool. I want that. Great to have goals. <br />
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Birthday dinner with Tapp and Wesley tomorrow. Cannot wait to spend my birthday with the coolest chicks I know. Gotta get 5 miles in at lunch. I am in a 90 day run bloc. I am planning to run at least 4 miles six days a week until new years. Riding will be less but swimming is going to get a kick up in intensity too. <br />
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Langley out.<br />
<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-73321147429971470522010-08-29T23:46:00.000-05:002010-08-29T23:46:57.873-05:00Out of the AshesToday was supposed to be the day that I completed my journey. As you can see from the lack of posting this summer things took a different direction. Training continued. Life became a jungle safari and I got lost several times. As a result of life, I could not get to Louisville in time to prepare and race properly. I needed to stay in Little Rock to get the next phase of life rolling. <br />
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I am proud of Ernie, Adiel, and Stephanie. Especially proud of Doc Lyle. He jumped in with both feet and never looked back. Distance was not as important as heart today. <br />
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This was a lost year as far as racing goes. Gary Taylor says when you get down to it, this is for fun while family is for real. I took that to heart every time I made a decision about races. Getting back on the Blog and racing horse. Before the week is out I expect to be signed up to participate in Austin 70.3 so I can say I raced at least once this year.<br />
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Coach Biscay is ready to launch another year. I have a plan to race in New Orleans, Kansas, and either the full Vineman or Louisville. Vineman is looking like the goal because entry fee is less. I can use the left over money for travel. Wine Country is a great place for someone in the alcohol industry to get this done. Plus a week in SF after the race would be fantastic. It is my favorite city.<br />
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Going to do all I can to convince Doc Lyle to join me in some of these races. He will be swimming like a fish before next year is here. That IMLouisville swim was a trail for him and if you see him you should congratulate him. He looked alot of fear in the face and beat it. I hope I am as resiliant as he is when I need to be. He is a hero in a race just like he is in the NICU every day. Thanks for being my friend Doc!!!<br />
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Moving into a new house this week. Going to be setting up the training studio first thing. Will post pictures once everything is in place. Will be looking for the right treadmill soon. The computrainer/Movie Mania wall will be up and running within the week. <br />
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Have convinced Coach to put the next 90 days in as a big run block. I am going to do Austin but am hopefully going to convince Hillary to set-up my training block as though New Orleans is my first race. I will also be mixing in some Arkansas racing as well next year. <br />
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Will be back with a kids update soon.<br />
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Langley outMichael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-7839155069626697352010-06-05T15:29:00.001-05:002010-06-05T15:29:10.212-05:00Promotion<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/06/05/1738.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/06/05/s_1738.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Yesterday Wesley was promoted from Pre-K to Kindergarten. We are so proud of her. She did great during the ceremony.
Tapp has moved up to 5th grade. She made honor Roll. She finished 2nd in AR reading and was recognized for ETC. She could not have had a better year.
Now it is on to swimming, sleeping late, summer art projects and lots of Red Mango smoothies. It will fly!!!
Go Hogs!!! Great day for baseball at Baum. Looking forward to tonight.
Langley Out
-- Post From My iPhone<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-36178559441687930682010-06-01T19:28:00.000-05:002010-06-01T19:28:00.837-05:00A Candidate without Character - LJ BryantI was raised on the notion that politics is a noble profession practiced by people of high character. The link below shows lack of character by a candidate and his friends, in my humble opinion. The candidate endorses the creation of a website that bashes his opponent and then denies any connection to it. If it is yours, make it yours.<br />
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This is taking a serious race for a job that effects thousands of people across the state of Arkansas and reducing it to a high school clique spreading rancid gossip across the lunch room to embarass and outcast a person without cause. The actions exhibited by Mr. Bryant and his ilk in the emails contained in the link are the exact reason why he should never be elected to public office. He has no respect for his opponent and even less respect for the voters whom he chose to decieve. Not the character of a man I want to be a representative of Arkansas and her citizens. <br />
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Please read:<br />
<a href="http://www.bluehogreport.com/2010/06/01/ar-land-comm-breaking-bryant-behind-greedymontydavenport-com/">http://www.bluehogreport.com/2010/06/01/ar-land-comm-breaking-bryant-behind-greedymontydavenport-com/</a> <br />
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Then vote for Monty Davenport in the run-offMichael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-28223000346444272672010-06-01T16:11:00.006-05:002010-06-01T16:27:13.047-05:00Training/Hogs, so cool!!!The heat is really here to stay. The humidity is the worst. It has made the runs miserable after the first mile. In about two weeks I should be acclimated. It was really fun either way.<br />
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Coach Hillary managed to finish 4th and IM Brazil and earn her World Championships slot in Kona. That is the race you see on NBC every year. She had a great race after a long IM Lanzarote last week. That is still amazing to me. <br />
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Long run yesterday was great. Looking for the right nutrition on the run. Clif Bloks, strawberry, seem to work the best. One every 15 minutes during a run seemed to work well yesterday. I have also decided to start using a Camelbak water reservoir on Monday long runs. It will take some getting used to but I can run bigger loops without stops for water. The heat and addition of bigger hills makes water much more a necessity. <br />
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Working on getting Dr. Lyle to enter the Cardinal Harbour half with me in July. It is a chance to race on the IM Louisville Course and get used to the heat. Get over to <a href="http://www.ironneo.blogspot.com/">http://www.ironneo.blogspot.com/</a> and tell him to sign up. It is all in from here on.<br />
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Let's call those Hogs this weekend!!! Headed to Fayetteville as the Razorbacks host a NCAA baseball regional. It is a chance to show off the best stadium in America to those watching on TV and attending. It should be great baseball and 3 days of great fun. Hope to see some of you there.<br />
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Go Hogs!!!<br />
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Langley OutMichael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-87887457957870851342010-05-28T20:02:00.000-05:002010-05-28T20:02:16.705-05:00Women and Shoes - The initial onsetWesley, my 5 year old, asked me if I had bought her new shoes today. I told her she did not need any shoes. She told me that she did not have enough. Then she said <strong><em>"Daddy, you cannot tell me 'no' when I ask for shoes!"</em></strong> <br />
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I am now convinced that a woman's addiction to shoes is a trait that will be identifiable as a result of mapping the human genome. <br />
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90 miles in the hills tomorrow followed by a hot run. Should take about 7 or 8 hours including refueling stops. Hope everyone enjoys their Memorial Day weekend. Cheer for Coach Hillary. She is competeing in Ironman Brazil. This is her second Ironman in a week. Last week she did Ironman Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. To complete Ironman Lanzarote, travel to Brazil and then do Ironman Brazil is an amazing feat of physical endurance. I predict she will finish in the top two professional women. <br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-65765320305647556332010-05-27T14:26:00.000-05:002010-05-27T14:26:37.775-05:00The End of the RutFinally had a good run this week. It wasn't at the right pace but it felt good. I was able to find a rhythm with a solid stride. Cadence was down. Hopefully that means everything is falling back into place. I changed the time of the workout and that seemed to help. Also made sure I fueled up earlier. Now it is time to get the swim back on track. I had nothing in the pool. I felt like I was treading water. Usually the swim is my fall back. I can always smooth out and get in a groove. Not lately. Have to schedule lunch in the pool for a while. <br />
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I have signed up for the Cardinal Harbour Half Ironman on July 17. This serves two purposes. I get in a solid training day 6 weeks out. I also get to do the race on a large portion of the IMLOU bike course. It will be a great gauge. Make no mistake, I will not be racing this one. I will be treating it completely as training. I say that now because I have no idea if I can convince myself of that once the race starts. Don't want to do race intensity because I might no recover enough in time to excel on August 29th. <br />
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Was invited to a dinner party at Doe's last night. About 20 guys for great food and fellowship. My buddies Walter and Harry got us into a discussion about what I am doing and the cause I am trying to serve with it. If the discussions are any indications the Jackson Graves Foundation will be getting some more small donations before August. That is fantastic!!!<br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-84742392904894680482010-05-25T22:02:00.000-05:002010-05-25T22:02:52.608-05:00MAKE A DIFFERENCE RIGHT NOW!!!!<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="374" id="ep" width="416"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" />
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Triathlon is a passion and this is a great journey for an Ironman finish. The reward is what all of us can do for the Jackson Graves Foundation. <a href="http://www.jacksongraves.org/">http://www.jacksongraves.org/</a>. This video from CNN reflects the difficulties families face around the world when their most precious treasures begin their lives in a NICU. <br />
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The Jackson Graves Foundation is working in Arkansas to help families just like this. Your donations make days less stressful for parents with children in NICU's across the state. Your money buys gas cards and daily living supplies that are necessary for families in these situations. The added expenses of gas, meals, clothes and boarding blow up a budget. Families are forced to weigh working extra to cover the added expenses against the need to be at the hospital. It can be a no win situation. Your donations can make the added stress not necessary. <br />
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A NICU child may have several sibilings. Child care is expensive and often times unavailable. Your donations to this Ironman effort will aid in the construction and furnishing of a sibiling playroom at Arkansas Children's Hospital so child care isn't a burden and neither is the discomfort of a child stuck in a waiting room with nothing to occupy their mind. Let's create some peace of mind. Click on the Razoo donation button and give today. The five minutes you take to give can, for hours or days, ease the weight of worry on parents shoulders. <br />
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Thanks,<br />
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Langley Out!!!!<br />
<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-30808520541655119992010-05-24T19:01:00.001-05:002010-05-24T19:49:15.333-05:00A FriendElizabeth Page Tyer is one of the great people in the world. She is one of those mothers who does everything and never shows a bit of frazzle. She is dripping with Southern gentility. She loves unconditionally. She speaks her mind. She defends all that she believes. She sacrifices herself everyday for her daughters and her husband. She is to be admired.<br />
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I stole this from her facebook page today. It screamed at me. She is wise beyond her years. She said in reference to the quote below:<br />
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<em> I know this is supposed to be about "love," but it made me think of my best friends. They are the ones who listen to me, know when to let me vent, know when to hush and know when to offer advice or tell me to suck it up. And I listen</em>. <br />
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On this day, God wants you to know...<br />
... that the way you know you have found the right one is the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with the person. Having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful h...and will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away. - a quote by Dinah Craik<br />
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I am acquainted with lots of people. Very few do I call friend. Each passes the test above. My training is mostly solo and without an ipod (train like you race). From that solitude come appreciation of friendship, and loyalty. That makes the pain go away<br />
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Langley Out!!!<br />
<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-33576255144487919432010-05-24T14:48:00.000-05:002010-05-24T14:48:12.007-05:00Great Long RideWas under orders for a 90 mile ride on Saturday. It was cruise pace. In Coach Hillary terms that is "just ride and pace will take care of itself, but don't go too slow" Got done and had averaged a little over 18 mph for the distance. 4:50 for the ride Kept my cadence down in the 70's and light on the pedals. No mashing it. <br />
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Sent her my info today and her response was "90 miles?" I affirmed and asked why the question mark. She told me that was really fast. I was not fast. I did manage consistency on each lap. I am proud of that. Am bragging now because next week is 90 miles with hills. That will take a LOOOOONNNNG time. 7 hours probably. <br />
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The week after that I am supposed to push the pace on a flat course to better the 4:50 time. I am setting myself up for failure or pain. I will bet pain and success. Looks like she is going to give me a new goal or test every few weeks. I like the challenges. Will make for a great IMLOU in August. Hotter than Hell on Saturday gives me a head start on heat acclimation.<br />
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If you are in Fayetteville area get your Red, White and Baby Blue tickets before they run out. June 25th at the Garden Room. Music, food, drinks, and good fellowship for the Jackson Graves Foundation. Go by Everett Maxey Buick in Bentonville or find the foundation page on facebook for more buying information. If I can go 140 miles in one day you can go to a party. <br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-46584017619747443972010-05-22T11:20:00.000-05:002010-05-22T11:20:01.359-05:00Dogs with Dads<br />
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Had a great week with the Tapp and Wesley. Tapp and I had date night on Thursday. We went to the Racquet Club for dinner. She has such great ideas and dreams. I want her to see them all come true. We followed that up with a trip to the bookstore. She found three chapter books. That will last her until Monday. </div>
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Friday was Dogs with Dads day for Wesley's Pre-K class. We ate hot dogs, had lemonade and played on the play ground. Wesley made the hat. Isn't that cool!!!. We played a little catch and chase. She wanted to sit on the bench in the shade and talk too. I have amazing girls!!!<br />
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Time to go ride 90 miles in the record heat!!!<br />
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Langley Out!!!</div>
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<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-16436745533419862302010-05-20T21:51:00.000-05:002010-05-20T21:51:31.034-05:00FundraisingWe are approximately 100 days from race day. That sounds long but like school vacation, it isn't long enough. It will be an amazing summer. The support for this endeavour has been great. I am always surprised by the number of people who mention the blog. I am excited about the impact. One ultramarathoner and former top finisher at Ironman World Championships said a post inspired him to do something similar. That is really cool.<br />
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To date over 4000.00 has been received in cash and in-kind donations. We have over $15,000.00 committed so far. Thanks goes out to all that have participated. If you want to be part of this please click on the Razoo button to the left and make a donation. All amounts help. NICU patients and their families deserve all we can do. <br />
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Want a chance to attend a great party and help out, click here <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117921538246782">http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117921538246782</a> . Also click <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Jackson-L-Graves-Foundation/127409213941461?v=wall&ref=ts">here</a> and become a facebook fan of the foundation<br />
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Thanks for being a part of this journey!!!<br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-48883230035573256992010-05-19T14:56:00.000-05:002010-05-19T14:56:45.124-05:00America's Oldest Endurance SportThe election returns were quite an event. So much work by so many people and now it is transition to a runoff. Elections are an endurance sport. A candidate has to have enough fast muscle twitch to greet people, discuss issues, and ask for votes at every event. He/She must have the endurance to do this repeatedly. Consistent training is the key to triathlon success. The repeatable week is the be all end all. It is the same for a candidate. If you can bring strong energy and passion to same schedule week in and out, you will succeed. The kicker is you might win but still have to go another three weeks before it is over for a while. Like Ironman, if you don't finish close enough in second place there is no prize money or chance at a future. Just a podium and a see you next time.<br />
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Pat O'Brien is suffering deja Vue from his first race for clerk when he just missed the 50% barrier that night too. He will make a great Secretary of State. Everyone who can should get out and vote for him on June 8th or during the early voting period. He was relentless. Every day was the same high standard. Coach Biscuit talks about teaching people how to LIVE and train like a professional so they can perform on race day. Pat did that and he is on his way. <br />
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Monty Davenport, another fine candidate for Land Commissioner, had a rough night. He finished in the money so he gets a second shot. He has to gut it out and finish strong. Some triathletes, Hillary Biscay for instance, can do two Ironman races in back to back weeks and produce better in the second one. It comes from preparation and total commitment. If Monty wants to win he has to give long days and lots of travel for 3 weeks. Then he can sleep. The votes are there. He has to ask and you have to give. I hope he meets you, impresses you and you vote for him in return. <br />
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Congratulations to Rep. Steve Harrelson in his Senate primary. He pullled out a solid victory. He is an accomplished marathoner and triathlete. His discipline showed in the race. Good luck to him.<br />
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Training was good yesterday. Solid time in the aerobars chasing fitness 3 minutes at time as fast as I could go. It hurt in the end but was tempered by the parties and political junkies celebrating the holiday. I loved it. So many good people and fun arguments about who should do what. None of my political friends kibitz my training. They think I am crazy. But the difference of opinion in how to run a political race was in full swing. <br />
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Next is a fundraising update I hope. We have made great progress and will bring it home on a good note.<br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-6992508766193552662010-05-18T08:54:00.000-05:002010-05-18T08:54:25.298-05:00Election Day!!!It is election day in Arkansas. Please go vote if you haven't already. I hope you will consider my friends:<br />
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Pat O'Brien for Secretary of State<br />
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Monty Davenport for Land Commissioner<br />
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These are leaders Arkansas needs!!!<br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-24544094911042096452010-05-17T20:43:00.000-05:002010-05-17T20:43:19.647-05:00Back to TriathlonI cannot tell you how cool it is to trade emails with Coach Hillary when she is halfway across the world. The instance response is amazing. She is getting ready for Ironman Lanzorate this weekend. It has a reputation of being the toughest Ironman course that exists. It is also one of the most beautiful. I think she will do great. <br />
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On the coaching front she has upped the work from here on out. I have a 90 mile ride on for Saturday. I didn't see 90 until July of last year. Hit a solid 15 mile run today too. I am stoked to have some good training in the works. A great time to have focus on one thing at a time. <br />
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Swimming is taking a jump too. Longer intervals and shorter rest periods. On top of that I have decided to give myself some extra swim work because I never feel comfortable in the water for long periods of time. Too much time to think. Boredom sets in at the 1.5 mile mark. <br />
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Tapp learned how to dive today. An important skill on swim team. We are beginning to see the essence of a long smooth stroke. It is just a flicker but she will be amazing in the near future. Glad she is getting the time. We have date night on Thursday. Her class was divided boys and girls last week to have their first "sex" talk with the school nurse. I am afraid every time she starts to ask a question now. <br />
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Friday is Hot Dog Day with Dad's for the Pre-K kids. I get to eat lunch and play games at school with Wesley. There can be no better way to close out a week. I will be in the right frame of mind for that 6 - 7 hours riding on Saturday. That includes water breaks and refueling stops that will be necessary. At least this round is flat but all in the aero position. I expect a major case of monkey butt before it is over.<br />
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Vote early, Vote often, Vote O'Brien!!!!!<br />
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Langley Out!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-85227685382643793822010-05-16T22:03:00.000-05:002010-05-16T22:03:11.423-05:00The view of childrenAvery Tyer is the daughter of Elizabeth and Andy Tyer, my friends. She is one of the sassiest girls I know. She, like her sisters, would fit with the Langley daughters any time. I think the poem below is a masterful expression of how 10 year olds see the world. Tapp, my 10 year old, will agree with this anthem. Enjoy!!! <br />
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AVERY TYER<br />
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All day I work very hard.<br />
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Very hard I work indeed.<br />
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Even though my grades aren't perfect<br />
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Really, it's true. My grades aren't perfect<br />
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You should see them, but it's not worth it.<br />
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Time to go.<br />
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You really need to go.<br />
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Even though you are obviously attracted to me<br />
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Really you need to go. But before you do, go get me some flowers or something.<br />
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By: Avery TyerMichael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-75213100466317939572010-05-15T17:34:00.000-05:002010-05-15T17:34:32.148-05:00Week that was - Vote on Tuesday!!!This was a difficult week. Family and personal life took priority and workouts had to suffer just a bit. A giant void was created Monday. Have no way to replace it. Getting by has been made possible because I learned about the great friends I have who listen and give honest, sometimes difficult advice. It has been awesome. <br />
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Training kept me going. It was not the quality I needed but I am making process. Long run was good on Monday. I am always surprised I can run that far. Ride on Tuesday was half ass and half way done. It will get better. Wednesday was good on the road. The rest of the week was useless. However, I got to take Tapp to swim workouts twice this week. It is cool to watch her go at it. The potential for growth is awesome. <br />
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On Friday Wesley stood me up. She and I were supposed to hang out while her sister took a friend to the movies. We went to eat at the Purple Cow and she broke the sad news to me. "Daddy can I have one of your pickles?" "Sure" I said. "Even if I am not hanging out with you?" All the while using her angelic expression and giving a kiss every few seconds. She is such a little con artist. Swim was done but weather wiped out the run.<br />
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Before I hit the bike tonight, I spent the morning watching cartoons and Hannah Montana with the girls. It is really cool way to spend a Saturday morning. With rain off and on, it will be a long evening or morning on the computrainer and Louisville bike course. <br />
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If you are in Arkansas, don't forget to vote on Tuesday!!! If you don't vote you cannot complain about the state of things. I encourage you to vote for my friend Pat O'Brien. He will make a great Secretary of State.Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-87973496490043663862010-05-07T19:42:00.000-05:002010-05-07T19:42:58.694-05:00Week that wasChecking in!!. It has been a week. Had a cruising 14 miles on Monday. It was the first move toward 26.2. The Tuesday ride was tough. That big gear work really wears on me. Made the run after feel great though. Wednesday I had the best 200 meter swim with paddles and pull buoy since I started. It was 3:37. Much faster than normal. <br />
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That my friends is adapting to training. I love that feeling. Thursday was a cruise at pace on the bike and a short run. Friday is a pacing swim and 6 mile run. I will be falling in the pool in a just a bit. Seeing results makes training much better. <br />
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Tomorrow is an 80 miler. Luckily it will be realtively flat and the weather should be perfect. Ready to roll. Wind should push me like a jet one direction!!! The head wind will be a fight. Good to build strength. <br />
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Several mental challenges this week. I think I am worn out because this solitary training gives me waaaay too much time to think!!! I have managed to keep it out of the ditches.<br />
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Tapp has started swim team. It is great to see her out there working. Once the light goes off in her head she will be rolling. Wesley has started swim lessons. She has caught on quick. Already swimming in the the deep end. Most importantly she can do perfect CANNONBALL!!!! It will be great when they are in the lanes next to me going back and forth. <br />
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Langley Out!!!Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402775325766139722.post-2883415299937436222010-05-04T20:50:00.000-05:002010-05-04T20:50:53.599-05:00A Great LossErnie Harwell, the voice of the Detroit Tigers, died today at 92. He was a great voice and patron of baseball. The guy who owned Domino's fired him after he bought the Tigers. That lasted about a year before he returned. Some traditions should never be touched.<br />
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Ernie lived a full and vibrant life. It was reflected everytime he was heard on the radio. He proved rewards come to those who follow their heart with good deeds and hard work. God bless you Ernie!!!!<br />
<br />Michael Langleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00627607675230927842noreply@blogger.com0