The Man of Steel Leg

Real Leadership

2010-01-10T06:10:00.007-05:00

Have any of you ever thought how this life would be if we had no leaders? No one to inspire, or motivate us. Thank goodness life is not like that. We all have leaders, don't we. People like our modern day or scriptural prophets, and the General Authorities. Maybe our local church leaders. Captains of industry, sports stars, military hero's, or even fictional leaders like Yoda or Captain Kirk inspire us to be better than we thought we could be. Personally, I regard common people who stage enormous, courageous efforts everyday in pursuit of lofty goals and dreams are some of the most inspirational leaders I will ever know. To this end I want to talk about a leader who has done so much for my wife and I that "thank you" just doesn't cover how I feel. She has strengthened our marriage by giving my wife and I goals and dreams for the future. Her motivation propelled my wife and I into accomplishing goals that not long ago either of us would have comprehended doing, and continues this day to inspire us to even greater goals for our future. I will be forever grateful to this leader for being my escort and support during my first 5k when Sylvia couldn't because of her first foot surgery, or stay with me at the hospital during her second surgery. You all have probably figured out by now that the leader I want to salute and give a shout out to is the team captain of Pink Princess Racing, and our very dear friend and "sister" Maura Prince. Her raw determination to accomplish her extremely lofty goal of running a half marathon is in a word, INCREDIBLE. Her example of leadership to us in our teams is very inspirational, and I can't wait to witness that glorious, life changing moment when we wildly welcome her back after she crosses the finish line on that day. It is going to be a great day indeed Other notable events for that weekend will be:
. Sylvia's first 5k since recovering from foot surgery.
. my first Flying Pig 5k and second ever 5k event. ( this time I'm going with Sylvia and can't wait to finally finish a 5k along side her.)
. and the main event, Maura and Mikayla Prince's first ever half marathon.
Sylvia and I joke that all this is Maura's "fault, but Sylvia and I couldn't be happier that the truly God given blessing that is Pink Princess and Silver Knight racing has become such a huge part of our lives. And we have one very special friend to thank for it. The original Pink Princess, Maura. I finished the Turkey Trot in 1 hour 15 minutes. My goal for the Pig is 1:05. I know I can do it. We have a great example to follow. Lastly, I want to wish the teams the very best of luck at this years Pig, especially Maura and Mikayla in the half marathon.

Glimpses of Greatness

2009-08-04T09:33:00.006-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows how much I absolutely love a good race. Last weekend was no exception at the running of the annual Jenni Evans road race. Pink Princess fielded three of its best at this years race and they were AWESOME. Mikayla was first back, and as I said, "she crossed the line like she was in a car." She looked like she had just run a 100 yard dash as she completed her 3.2 mile run. The kid is a great runner Not to be outdone by his sister, Tanner came by about a minute or two later, smiling and waving as he ran by Sylvia and I on his way to the finish line. (Sylvia sat this event out due to a sore foot in hopes of nursing it back to health for the Black Squirrel 5k next month in Glendale.) A few minutes later, around the bend and up the hill came a hard charging Maura, running with all her strength towards a very impressive top 5 finish. What was the true beauty of Maura's run that day was that a couple of days prior to the race she had a very poor training run at Winton Woods which left her a little discouraged, This in mind, after she had such a good strong finish her smile was beaming and her overflowing happiness was an absolute joy to witness as well as be part of. So once again I say " Atta - girl Sis I couldn't be prouder of you. Once again you stood up to your challenge, and totally destroyed it. That thought in mind I just want to touch upon a moment in time that changed me. This didn't even involve our team. After Sylvia and our team left to go to the starting line, I went to find a place to sit while I waited for Syl to come and rejoin me for the finish of the race. I came across a young man, I would say he was in his early to mid twenties. He had a learning disability and wore braces on both of his knees, making his stride slow and quite awkward. Oh, did I say that he was also wearing a runners number bib? HE WAS A RACE ENTERANT. Although he was short in stature, he was giant in my eyes. I will never forget what I thought was superhuman bravery in this one lone individual. As I came to him I commended his courage for entering the race. He thanked me and asked me if I knew where the starting line was. He then left to go start the race. I never heard how he finished or even saw him again on Saturday, and I will more than likely not see him again, but I think now that every time I don't want to work out or walk that extra 10th the image of this one person is going to be with me. If there is one thing that this brief encounter said to me, It would be "Stop whining and do it ." or maybe "You have no reason to complain."

Flies are people too

2009-06-22T10:47:00.003-04:00

Hey friends. I come to you today still sobered from the blatant act of horrific violence against an innocent creature that I witnessed a week ago. I now am outraged with the members of P.E.T.A. that our president during a Sunday morning political interview TV show would have the audacity and nerve to (gasp) kill a fly. Think of that poor creature, just innocently buzzing around looking for something dirty to land on, having his life so brutally cut short by our, I mean your elected leader. Just think about the poor fly's hundreds of now fatherless children that will never get the joy of seeing daddy come home again just because someone felt like swatting him.

I'd keep going on this subject, but Im crying too hard now and I'm afraid my tears will short out my keyboard.

I'm sure glad P.E.T.A. was here to teach me that a fly was infact an animal that can be abused.

I have heard P.E.T.A. is now organizing a candle light vigil in this fly's memory at the new houefly habitat at the Cincinnati zoo. I will not be attending however because I've heard that I am being brought up on domestic terrorism charges for the hundreds of flies I've killed in my lifetime.

GET A GRIP PETA. It was just a fly.

?????????

2009-06-05T08:24:00.002-04:00

"You think?"

wow

2009-05-04T09:11:00.017-04:00

"What a day" There was a song released by Whitney Houston several years ago that said; "Give me one moment in time. When I'm more than I thought I could be." I've never really listened to or particularly enjoyed her music before, but after last Saturday this song now has a very special place in my heart........Because I experienced it. Over the last couple of months I've had the pleasure of watching Sylvia and Maura train for the Flying Pig. It was so inspirational and thrilling to be able to watch my beautiful "sister from another mother" mold my precious eternal best friend, and companion into a powerful, healthy, ambitious woman ready to take on anything life could throw at her. This picture shows one of those moments in time. I will not forget the pride that swelled in my chest as I stood and watched these two beautiful women jog towards me on one of our final training sessions prior to the Pig. Then came the big morning. It was a great morning, filled with fun and anticipation as the team gathered for the beginning of the 10k event and the performance by "The Three 10ers."

They were so primed and ready for their event as we all said our goodbyes, good lucks, and shared some hugs before sending them to their starting grid for a special treat. A pre-race stretch with Denise Austin. It was so wonderful to see how well these women did in their event. All three finished very respectably with Maura and Mikayla smashing their previous personal bests and Maura's sister-in -law Rhonda setting the bar very high for a long, promising racing career. ( she is a very experienced runner, but this was her first race.) Then came the sad part of the day when we went to the finish "swine" for the end of their event. Due to some weird rule change on the part of the event organizers we found the finish line area completely fenced off from spectators.
Because of this rule change, I was unable to go to the starting line again, so I said my goodbyes and good lucks with just one other special request. With a tear in my eye I said to Maura just one thing, " Take care of her for me." With that I made my way back to our car for a bite of lunch and to wait for the 5k participants to reach the finish swine. I went back out later and found myself a good viewing spot as close to the finish as I could get. It was not to long before I was treated to a beautiful sight, that one moment in time that made the entire day in a word, glorious. Up the road came my sweetheart, and my dear sister from another mother, dressed a like and both had just beaming smiles as they jogged side by side towards the finish line, well ahead of Sylvia's previous best finish.

Sylvia went into this event with one basic goal in mind, finish in less than an hour eclipsing her previous best time of 1:02 set at last year's Run for the Nuns. I cheered wildly as these two beautiful ladies went past me towards the finish swine. It was then that it came, the one moment in time that overwhelmed me with total joy and will be in my memory forever. As I watched towards the finish line I suddenly saw both Sylvia and Maura's hands shoot upward in celebration as they crossed the finish line with the official time clock showing 58:03. They had done it! My happiness was overwhelming. I couldn't help but repeating to myself "They did it, dog gonnit they did it" as the tears flowed freely down my cheeks. Not only is my team, Pink Princess Racing truly my new racing heroes, but it re affirmed my resolve to be on the road with them in 2010. In my 46 years, I've never known the level of love and friendship that I know now.

(Bloggers note; after the adjusted time compensating for the time between when the race started and when Sylvia and Maura actually crossed the starting line was released, their time is now posted at an awsome 55:43. WAY TO GO LADIES.)

P2R, I love you.

2009 is going to be Beyawsome

Thank goodness for the news

2009-04-16T09:12:00.005-04:00

Every now and then the evening news reports a story that you could have never figured out without an "expert's" help. Stories such as " If your outgoing bill payments exceed your income you will go into debt," or "This basketball game is going to come down to whichever team scores the most baskets." I just wanted to give special mention to a new one I heard a couple of days ago, "Today's small cars do not fare well in collisions with larger cars." Well, who would have thought? I always knew that large cars have never fared well in collisions with freight trains, but this one escaped me. I wonder how many times it took this overpaid study group running Hummer's into Scion's to figure this one out. You know, I think this phenomenon just might explain why when I had my accident last year, My SUV wasn't quite as damaged as the mid-sized, 4-door sedan I hit. I did hear however that they did find similar conclusions in last year's NFL linebacker colliding with a pee wee league running back. (except in Cincinnati), or the milatary's' M1 battle tank versus mini coopers experiment. Well, if their is one thing that I took from this earth shattering news that larger cars are potentially safer than small ones, it is this, I now know that when it comes time to replace our Kia, I need to do it with a car I can protect my beautiful wife in and feel safe driving. I think I found my choice

I am SO glad that their are so many groups out there dedicated to making our lives safer and easier and as they do, we have the evening news to make sure these breakthroughs are shared with all of us.

Oh yes I'm now proposing continuing these studies with a new experiment:

How well would a horse jockey fare in a collision with a sumo wrestler? I start looking for volunteers tomorrow

Hmmmmm.

2009-04-09T09:11:00.002-04:00

While watching TV last night I saw a commercial advertising photos with the Easter Bunny available at Bass Pro Shops.

(thought:) Is it really very smart being in a Bass Pro Shop dressed as a rabbit?

Life's great Moments

2009-03-29T10:26:00.005-04:00

We all have those moments in life that we will never forget. Moments that will probably be etched in our memories forever. Examples are probably to many to list but I had one yesterday. that I would like to share.
As our readers now know, The girls of Pink Princess Racing have been training hard for the 5k and 10k events at May 2nd's Cincinnati Flying Pig. I too have been going with them . As P2R's humble crew chief and greatest fan I have been engaged in what I refer to as "spectator training." Their is a whole bunch of walking and standing involved in being a "squealer" and I need to work on my stamina and endurance to be able to be there for my team.

We have been going to the hike\bike trail at Water Works Park But while Sylvia and Maura have been going out on the trail, I would choose to walk around the parking lot, leaving the ladies alone to train for their race without being slowed down by having me in tow. I determined that around the outside of this parking lot was approximately 2/10Th's of a mile and I would usually walk just 1 lap around it . (Pretty wimpy huh.) Friday, Sylvia got off work early and her and I went back to the park , We knew this day was going to be special when we came around the bend and found Maura there. Syl went out and joined up with her and I set out towards the parking lot. I guess I was feeling a little more ambitious this time because by the time the ladies returned, for the very first time I had completed 2 Laps. I happily stated that I was only a half a lap away from a half mile' and the ladies basically said to me "Well, lets go." The pleasure of completing a personally un precedented third lap was only rivaled by having two such beautiful women to walk it with. BUT THEN CAME SATURDAY. Sylvia and I returned to the park with the same arrangement. I would do 2 laps and wait for her to return when her and I would do a 3rd lap. I set out and did my first 2 laps, but as I sat in our car waiting I came to a decision, I would give my darling best friend a surprise. I set out to complete my 3rd lap. As I completed it an exciting and indescribable happiness came over me. As I completed my 3rd lap I could feel a huge smile on my face and a tear streaming down one cheek as I looked towards the sky and quietly spoke one phrase, "Thank you God." I returned to our car again and sat quietly listening to my mp3 and drinking water, several minutes went by and still no sign of Sylvia returning yet. Then something remarkable happened . I stood up and set out on my 4th lap. Halfway into lap 4 I could see Sylvia coming around the bend RUNNING. That was an indescribable thrill to see and I stepped it up a notch to get back to the car before her. I did and met her at the end of the trail We embraced and kissed and enjoyed a beautiful moment together that was only amplified when I told her that the lap she saw me complete was not my second, but my FOURTH. We rested for a moment but then came the pivotal moment of the morning. Syl asked me "Do you want to go again?" My mouth wanted to say NO! but the rest of my body won out and my reply was a proud and confident, "HECK YES." My wife joined me for my 5th lap. This was my Victory Lap, because I had now for the first time since my last visit to Kentucky Speedway in Spring of 2007 walked a full mile outside. What an awesome experience that is going to be an enormous confidence builder for years to come. I also want to thank my beautiful wife and my sweet sister from another mother for not giving up on me. Sylvia, no man loves his wife more or is more grateful for her than I am for you, and Maura I am so thankful that you came into our lives You have been such a blessing to Sylvia and I, and I say again, I couldn't be prouder of you if I was your blood brother

Ladies, Thanks for loving me.

another quote for the week

2009-03-26T10:47:00.002-04:00

"Our economy is like a slow moving ocean liner." -Pres, Barak Obama

Quote of the week:

2009-03-24T10:22:00.004-04:00

"Ring ring, Who is it? Destiny? I've been expecting your call."
-Rhino the Hamster

Returning to where it all began ( I sure hope there's no rain this time.)

2009-03-10T10:46:00.007-04:00

Many of you may remember this cherished photo of mine from a rain soaked 2008 Flying Pig. That was a day that changed my life forever. It was the day that my beautiful, beloved wife and eternal companion and I through the influence of a fabulous, God-sent friend and my sister from another mother, steered our lives towards, more healthy goal oriented living. It literally brought tears of extreme heart felt joy to my eyes as I watched these two beautiful women cross the finish line in their respective events on that day accomplishing some very lofty goals and enjoying the fruits of their training. As I have spoken of before though, this was also the creation of something that has become one of the most beloved things in my life, my team, "Pink Princess Racing."

well folks, in a little over 5 weeks, on the morning of May 2ND "Pink Princess Racing" will make it's 2009 debut returning to the streets of Cincinnati, in the event that started it all at the 2009 running of the Flying Pig

P2R '09 is a stronger, trimmer team whose goals are even more ambitious this year. It really excites me that the team for the Pig will grow to include, Maura's daughter Mikayla, Our sweet niece Courtney, and in her first event ever, Sylvia's younger sister and my darling "Lil Sis" Margaret. These ladies are truly my newest racing hero's Sylvia is entering the same event she participated in last year with one slight twist, she's entering as a runner rather than a walker this year. although she will both run and walk. It has been an inspirational thrill to watch Sylvia and Maura train together for this event and I am looking so forward to witnessing the accomplishment of their goals this year. I feel a little somber that my original goal of joining my team on the streets at this years event wont be realized but my time will come later this year. To sum things up, I couldn't be prouder of my team. All my adult life, I have had a profound respect and honor for fighters, I don't mean like in the UFC or the WWE, but common people who have set goals for themselves or are doing battle with physical infirmities and fighting to improve themselves every day, To me this is what Pink Princess Racing is all about. I love my team and vow to follow their example So I want any of you who see any of my team over the coming weeks to be sure to wish them luck.

FLYING PIG '09 HERE WE COME!

Happy 22nd

2009-02-19T09:03:00.006-05:00

Yes folks, tomorrow I will be looking back on 22 wonderful, fun filled, years of marriage with a beautiful, God sent young woman whose love and patience I don't always feel deserving of. Sylvia has been so priceless to me over these 22 years. I haven't been exactly the state of the art hubby, but she still freely and abundantly treats me as though I am. I love her so much, and thank God for helping us make our 22nd anniversary a reality. I've always felt that our relationship started on a special note after a very memorable event on that cold Friday morning in the Jordan River Temple that I wanted to share.

After changing into our temple clothes, myself, my father, and my escort (my best friends father) were taken to a bench to wait prior to going to the sealing room. We sat and enjoyed the spirit and quietly visited. While this was going on, I noticed a door in the corridor where we were sitting open, and out came a temple matron escorting an elderly woman also in temple clothes. The matron brought her over, and sat her on the bench next to me. The matron noticed the "To be married" name tag I had pinned to my chest and said, "Oh Brother Johnson, This is Sister Benson, Sister Benson, Brother Johnson is getting married today." (GASP) Sister Benson congratulated me and told me that she had just celebrated a big number anniversary with her husband. (the exact number of years escapes me now, but I did just remember seeing in Church News about President and Sister Benson recently celebrating their anniversary and the number of years that Sister Benson just spoke to me of sounded very familiar to the total mentioned in the church news. (GASP AGAIN) Sister Benson and the matron escorting her soon left, leaving me with a burning question now raging through my mind. "Was this a Sister Benson or THE Sister Benson?" The answer came in a very dramatic fashion a few moments later when around the corner came President Ezra Taft Benson, flanked by his aides. The three of us snapped to our feet and greeted the Prophet with handshakes and smiles. Later I came to find out that President and Sister Benson routinely did sessions in the Jordan River Temple on Friday mornings. Talk about being at the right place at the right time, huh. It took a moment at that time for it to sink in that I had just been given the privilaged honor of shaking the hand of the Prophet of God. Since then I've always considered this experience a good omen on our marriage.

I guess what it all boils down to with this post is I want to give honor and praise to a precious beautiful and marvelous woman, who despite all my shortcomings ( there are a few things I fall short on other than just my right leg,) still loves me like I was perfect and allows me to be me. I love you sweethaert.

Thanks for 22 fabulous years

In Loving Memory

2009-02-06T18:50:00.001-05:00

"Lad"
1998-2009
"You will be missed"

Quote of the week:

2009-01-29T15:55:00.001-05:00

"Classy sophisticates like us should not stain our lips with cursing." -Patrick Star

AULD LANG SYNE (at least I think that's how you spell it)

2008-12-30T03:35:00.001-05:00

Well it's 3:45am and I'm staying awake so that the dog will let Syl sleep preparatory to her work day. HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone ! I am sure that I, like all of you are now looking back and re counting the memories of 2008. There were a lot of them, weren't their. The windstorm and blackout, the economic turmoil, the presidential election result, the Bengals, and other hardships and disasters plagued our lives this year, but I'm sure that the choice good times far out-weighed them. I wish to share a couple of my personal favorites.

This was the year that my darling sister in law, Debra, took my even darlinger wife and the rest of the Gardner girls on the adventure of a lifetime. I will always be very grateful to Deb for this generous gift. To see Sylvia's eyes and smile light up when she shares memories of her cruise is a true delight to me. In my book, eventhough I wasn't invited, as were any of the men in the family, this truly made it a gift for me too. Thanks again Deb.

This was also the year that on a VERY rainy early spring morning I got the pleasure of seeing two beautiful women accomplish a very lofty goal when they took to the rain soaked streets of Cincinnati and completed the 2008 Flying Pig 5k, and in doing so creating something that will not only be about my favorite memory of 2008, but a very cherished memory of mine for years to come if not the rest of my life. It was the birth of Pink Princess Racing. When this happened I got to watch an amazing thing. I got to see our lives improve and change as we turn towards more healthy goal oriented living as Sylvia and I set our sights on being more physically conscious. The team eventually grew to include Maura's daughter Mikayla, Sam Hoffart, my adorable niece Courtney King, and in 2009 we are all very anxious to be joined by none other than Toni McElwain. My team participated in three other events during 2008 and we are all looking forward to a great 2009 season, when even I, P2R's crewchief and photographer plan on getting off the sideline, and out on the road with my team. I can't, however post a tribute to the Pink Princesses without a special shout-out to the woman whose influance, friendship, and personality made P2R a reality, Our dear friend and sister, Maura. From the bottom of my heart Maura, thank you for all the smiles, love, and laughter you've given Sylvia and I through the year, and I'm looking forward to a whole bunch more in the year to come. This leads into another fond memory of 2008. I feel that this was the year that our friendship with the Prince family really began to flourish and grow. This friendship has truly made me feel "ten feet tall and bulletproof," as a country song I once liked said.

WE REALLY love you guys.

Happy New Year everybody. Two days ago I heard a blurb on the news that refered to 2008 as "dismal." I disagree. I think anyone can find more happy and joyeous memories if they look for them, and it is my hope that anyone reading this posting will be able to find great happiness in the year to come.

once again from the MOSL:

HAVE A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS
NEW YEAR

Quote of the month

2008-12-18T20:01:00.000-05:00

" Christmas is Jesus' birthday, and WE get the presents." -Savanna Prince

FOR SALE BY GOVE er oh OWNER, yeah thats it OWNER

2008-12-16T11:18:00.000-05:00

For Sale, one genuine, U.S.Senate seat representing the state of confusion, uh I mean Illinois. Previous owner moving out of state for the next four years. (at least I hope it's just for the next 4 years,) so must sell. Seat hardly used and in like new condition. No experience necessary to purchase. If you are Democra, uh I mean, INTERESTED, call The Illinois State House at, 1 (800) CRO OKED, ask for Rod

She Tagged Me

2008-11-16T15:08:00.001-05:00

OK, so I was blog surfing the other day when much to my pleasant surprise I discovered that my sweet sister from another mother Maura (http://pamperedprincessmaura.blogspot.com/) had tagged me. Never having been one to turn down a challenge, here it goes.

The rules, as I understand them are simple;
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2.Mention the rules on your blog.
3. Tell 6 un-spectacular quirks about yourself
4.Tag 6 other unsuspecting bloggers by linking with them
5.Leave a comment on each of their blogs informing them that they too have been tagged

So Buckle your seat belts everyone, here we go

QUIRKS, (as if)

1. Like Maura I too once had an interest in learning a new language. But i didn't pursue this interest because I decided there was really no practical need for a knowledge of social Klingon. I have however over the years learned enough Spanish to order a meal at Taco Bell or any other Spanish fast food establishment. I can however after my mission to North Carolina speak fluent southern,

2.Being the life long car-guy that I am, I have had a dream of owning a classic muscle car and having it pictured in Hot Rod Magazine. I remember browsing the pages of Hot Rod as a kid and seeing all the pictures of the beautiful vehicles in there and thinking how absolutely cool it would be to have a car that I owned and created pictured in such a great magazine. I realize now that my beloved and dearly missed old yellow Chevy might be the closest I will ever come to accomplishing this dream due to today's economy, I did get a taste of this dream however when I got pictures of three of my model cars featured in the Nascar models page of Modelers Corner at http://www.slixx.com/.

3.My late father fostered a deep love for world war 2 era aircraft in me. One of my very fondest memories of my childhood with him were the times that he and I would go and park at the airport and watch the planes and sometimes much to my pleasure the helicopters come and go. My father was a vetran of the Army Air Corps and a non-combat pilot in WW2 so he had a love for the aircraft of that day which he passed a long to me rather easily. I think that today, I love the P-51D Mustang as much as the Ford Mustang. One day after returning to work following my dads funeral I was outside in the yard at Western Building Supply on a beautiful cloudless day. I heard an unmistakable sound overhead. It was the sound of an AT-6 Texan trainer airplane passing by. This airplane's wings and fuselage were polished chrome, and in the brilliant sunlight on that day this beautiful old warplane was shining so blindingly bright that it almost looked celestial. I stood and watched it, crying

To this day I think it was my dad checking on me.

4.I may possibly be the only 46 year old male in captivity to love Spongebob Squarepants

5. I love C.G.I. laid en movies. If the special effects are off the hook, the more I enjoy it. That is a big reason why I loved the movies "Iron Man," "Independence Day," "Transformers,""Pearl Harbor," and "Poseidon" as much as I did.

6.My bucket list is simple, I want to attend races in Daytona, ( its awesome that my wife now would love to travel back to Florida, but I fear that doing it on the second week of February will be a tough sell.) I also want to attend races in Talledega and Bristol as well as own a new Dodge Charger

I now Tag:

Our dear and relocated friend Leslie (http://www.throughrose-coloredglasses.blogspot.com/)

My Friend Scott (http://www.low-techworld.blogspot.com/)

Good Friend and leader Shaylene (http://www.luntfamily.blogspot.com/)

Friend and fun lover Luanne (http://www.louonblog.blogspot.com/)

A true friend and inspiration Patti (http://www.betchadidntknow.blogspot.com/)

Another Great friend, Our Mama, Michelle (http://www.mamadehotel.blogspot.com/)

I truely hope you have enjoyed this look inside the MOSL

Pausing to remember

2008-10-31T23:51:00.000-04:00

October 30th will be a day etched in my memory forever.This day, ten years ago was the day of my amputation, which cements it as a day that changed my life forever. As I pause to reflect on where my life has gone since that fateful day in 1998, I can say that the only things that I lost with my right foot are the ability to drive a standard transmissioned car, and to bowl, and I am certain that I could re-train myself to bowl if I ever wanted to. I can also say with full conviction that God loves me. I have been given so many blessings over the last ten years that I can't count them all, but I do want to give recognition to a few of them. Now you should be able to guess what the greatest blessing in my life has been. I think that if you were to look in the dictionary for the words "True Love'" you would undoubtedly see my darling wife's picture next to the definition. She truly is what love , and support are all about. In the last ten years I've given her more reasons to give up on me than I can count, and I'm not even counting last months car wreck after running a red light. She is still, however standing steadfast next to me showing me more love than sometimes I feel I deserve. I have also been blessed with the love and support of a great family, and good friends whom I love with all my heart and give thanks for daily. I have been given the support of wonderful in-laws. Dad and Bobbye have never been more than just a phone call away and they have always had our backs. Their support of us over the last ten years has been truly Heaven-sent. I can't however speak about being Heaven -sent without mentioning our dear friends the Prince family. My sister from another mother Maura has dad such a profound impact on us over the last year by instilling in us a desire to improve ourselves that I will be always be grateful to her and love her like the sister I never had.
I guess to sum this all up some people feel sorry for people who have lost a limb. I hope no one does for me. Heavenly Father has really taken good care of me.

Quote of the week:

2008-10-23T09:38:00.001-04:00

"Somedays you just can't get rid of a bomb." -Batman

My Heroes have always been racers

2008-10-05T10:03:00.000-04:00

As you may know I am a very profound "Car Guy." Race cars have been part of my life as far back as I can remember. In fact, I'm pretty sure my teething ring was a steering wheel. Some of the most cherished memories of my childhood were going to the old quarter mile oval at the Utah State Fairgrounds on Saturday nights with my dad. The local racing talent quickly became heroes to me. men such as Joel Terry, "Wild"Bill Madsen, and Danny Caputo. This went on until my teenage years when after the closure of the Fairgrounds Speedway I started going to the old Bonneville drag strip also in Salt Lake. There, with my friends of those years I got my first taste of big time auto racing being able to see some of the men who are now the biggest names in the sport of Drag Racing compete. This went on till my darling wife and I moved to Ohio and I was introduced to Nascar. And the rest, shall we say, is history.

I can now however say that I have new racing heroes. They are only loud when they are laughing together. They don't compete in beautiful, brightly colored race cars. They don't beat very many physical opponents, but they are fiercely aggressive against their personal ones. They aren't even particularly very fast. (except for Mikayla.) But I have seen more beauty, excitement, and life changing inspiration at their events than at most car races I've attended and I thank God daily for my association with them. Of course my new heroes I'm speaking of if you haven't guessed already are the girls of Pink Princess Racing

Yesterday, "my team" participated in the fifth annual Run with the Nuns at Winton Woods. There, all four members broke their previous personal best marks, with Mikayla taking an impressive fourth place for her age group. YOU GO GIRL!

But the "hero" I really want to brag up is my darling Sylvia. During her race she came across a young girl whose young companions were overwhelmed by the difficulty of the task at hand and decided to give up, leaving this sweet little girl all by herself and doubting her own resolve to finish the race, Syl spoke to her and encouraged her to continue the race. The two of them walked along as Syl heard delightful stories of the things and activities commonly important to a child until they could see the finish line and Syl pointed that the award was in sight and encouraged her to go for it and finish the race. As it turned out, Sylvia, my best friend and darling eternal companion freely sacrificed what would have been the exciting accomplishment of a benchmark goal, to see a young girl whom she didn't know prior to this race, accomplish hers. Incidentaly Sylvia still beat her previous best time by almost four minutes.

General conference was still several hours away, but I had already learned a profound lesson about living Christ-like on this beautiful Autumn morning.

Now don't get me wrong, I still love motor sports as much as I ever have, but my being the "crew chief" of Pink Princess Racing has taught me their is something much bigger to life.

So in conclusion I just want to say to the members of P2R, particularly the team captains My darling wife Sylvia. and my sweet sister from another mother Maura. Thanks for letting me tag a long. I can't wait till Thanksgiving.

Love you guys.

A retraction

2008-10-03T13:57:00.000-04:00

Any of you visiting my blogsite recently may have seen my sidebar item titled: "Welcome back KITT," endorsing the premier of the new Knight rider series on TV. I am taking back my endorsement of this show at this time. It saddens me that the day and age we live in took what was such a fun show in the 1980's and turned it into a poorly-acted, pornographic mess.
If any of you have any curiosity about this series, please don't waste your time with it. I couldn't be sorrier that I ever did.

Didn't really like Ike

2008-09-19T09:06:00.000-04:00

I guess last Sunday just didn't quite grasp the whole "day of rest" concept. I'm certain my wife and I aren't the only ones who came home from church looking for a quiet, uneventful evening only to have it blown away literally.

My first sign that we were all in for something really big was when I was in our kitchen starting to fix our lunch when out our back window I saw this huge tree limb go down in our neighbors back yard. I knew the wind was really whipping up, but I never would have imagined it was this much.

Hey Mama and Papa D, we had our front yard tree try to come into our house for safety too, although ours didn't actually get in. Ours just got to our front porch. By this time the power was out so the nervous adrenaline at least on my part was really starting to flow.

But I guess I didn't comprehend the full scope of what happened until I took a drive around our neighborhood on Monday and saw this on the other side of the block from us . There is a line from the movie "Twister" that I love that was really reminded to me on this day, " Woo hoo, It's the wonders of nature baby." But more so than this, one can't look at all the damage without marveling at the awesome power of God. The MOSL would like to give a special shout-out to Bro. Mark Anderson. who loaded his family into their van and went out to personally check on ward members, and our home teachers, The Cruz brothers, who were on the phone with us volunteering help and checking our welfare. From the bottom of our hearts, Thank you.

-MOSL

(P.S. did anyone else notice that the church was completly unharmed. HMMMMM)

Quote of the week:

2008-09-07T17:10:00.001-04:00

"There is no charge for awsomeness
.................or attractiveness."
- Po, the Kung Fu Panda

Quote of the week:

2008-09-02T10:30:00.001-04:00

" Winners, never say no." -Dwayne ("The Rock") Johnson,

from the movie: " The Game Plan."

The meaning behind "Im preparing for rain."

2008-08-25T07:33:00.000-04:00

Any of you visiting my blog have undoubtedly seen my use of the statement, "I'm preparing for rain," and thought "OK, whatever." This quote comes from an absolutely great movie titled: "Facing the Giants" that I strongly recommend to all of my readers. This movie is about the coach of a totally dismal christian high school football team who decides to use his faith in and overwhelming love for God to turn the team around and make winners out of them. He uses a statement throughout the movie that I've grown to love, "We'll praise him if we win, and we'll praise him if we lose." During the movie a story is told about two farmers both suffering from the effects of a severe drought, Both prayed for rain, but then only one prepared his fields to receive it. He was the only one of the two who showed the faith that he would receive the miracle, and he did. Later in the movie as the team faced an extreme long shot chance to win the championship, the coach made a very highly risky play decision to go for the win. "THIS WONT WORK. WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" was the reaction from the assistant coaches, to which the coach in a very serious tone replied, "I'm preparing for rain."
Since then this has become my personal slogan as I prepare myself to receive a miracle when I finish the Flying Pig 5k next May

That'll be the day

2008-08-21T20:26:00.000-04:00

Like countless others in this country I have been following the Olympics. I too have thrilled at the accomplishments of stars such as Michael Phelps, Our two star gymnasts, Shawn, and Nastia and running's "incredible Hulk," Usain Bolt. However, it was because of my awe at the accomplishments of Mr, Phelps, that I was struck with such humor at the audacious claim that our own ( er, somebody Else's own ) Chad Johnson made that he could beat Phelps in a race. Yeah, on a jet-ski maybe. Now I think everyone needs a dream, but this one is a doosie. I am not a gambling man, but I think that if "Ocho-Cinco versus Aquaman" ever became a reality I would have to lay at least $1,000 on it. But now that I think about it, just think how famous Chad would be if he could do what the greatest swimmers on the planet couldn't do. Beat Michael Phelps. His name would be famous forever. I think I will issue a challenge of my own. I think that I could beat Nastia Luikin on the balance beam. Heck, I wouldn't have to do a thing on the beam because the difficulty score for me just getting on it and staying on it would be good for 500 points. I think that while I'm at it, I will challange Usain Bolt to a hundred yard dash, but only if he lets me choose the car I'd get to use. Now we all know that I'd have about as much of a chance to win either of these challenges as Mr Cinco would have of beating Mr Phelps in a pool without the help of a good jet-ski. I guess if I could say anything to Chad it would be, "It's always better to remain quiet and let everyone think you're a dummy, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
(Now, if Senator Obama would only learn that.)

Last night, I held my wife a little closer

2008-08-10T07:18:00.000-04:00

Last Night, I was shocked to learn as many of you will learn today of the passing of Kathy Chamberlain, I just want to ask any and all of you reading this to remember my good friend, her husband Bryan, and their family in your thoughts and prayers this week,

-MOSL

Quote of the week

2008-07-25T00:53:00.000-04:00

"Eagles may soar, But weasels dont get sucked into jet engines,"

An endorsement

2008-07-19T21:37:00.000-04:00

I am now endorsing my candidate for president. Here are some of the reasons why:

He's a hard worker, willing to work all hours.

Being a multi-millionaire, he's obviously an expert financial handler.

Very tough on crime.

Thousands turn to him when they are trouble.

and lets not forget:

He drives a VERY cool car.

For these reasons I am endorsing him for president.

Besides, I just dont want to vote for the Joker.

Quote of the week:

2008-07-17T20:42:00.001-04:00

"I will rid the world of nuclear weapons." - Sen. Barak Obama

And now a thought from your host

2008-07-13T15:53:00.000-04:00

I hope that all of you enjoyed a fun and thrilling 4th of July holiday, Syl and I enjoyed three days with good friends, family, and explosives. (I love fireworks.) I also got to personally enjoy one of my favorite holiday traditions, The holiday weekend Nascar night race at Daytona. It was exciting. During the race telecast the commentators said that they had asked several drivers the question; "Where do you want to be at the end of this race?' As the race wore on I marveled at the mind-numbing stupidity of this of this simple question. I mean come on, where else is a pro race car driver going to say he wants to be at the end of a race, could it be VICTORY LANE, Hmmm. But as the evening wore on I thought about this question, my mind was opened up and I found a real wisdom hidden under the true silliness of this question. Think about it, Where do you want to be at the end of this race? We all have races we run daily and whether the results come daily or months in the future, where do we all want to be when those results come. I am involved in a big race right now and I full well know where I want to be. Standing on the other side of the finish swine after completing the 2009 Flying Pig 5k along side my precious wife. I have found out that this question is such a huge help in striving for personal goals. I have the question printed out and posted where I can see it during my daily workouts and it has really been a strength to me. I would urge anyone to try this approach in competing in your individual races. write down this question, post it where you can see it and seriously concentrate on your answer.

"WHERE DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN THIS RACE HAS ENDED?"

I did want to give special shout-outs to first My darling wife and best friend Sylvia, Thank you for freely showing me far more love and support than I deserve. and to our dear friend and my "sister from another mother, Maura for making sure that where I want to be stays in focus.
I know full well, that with the love and support of my team, I will be where I want to be when my race is over

Question of the week

2008-07-12T12:35:00.000-04:00

"If Barrak is elected president, will America become an Obama-nation?

Quote of the week:

2008-06-28T20:56:00.000-04:00

"What doesn't kill you, probably will on the second try."

-Mr. Krabs

Thank You

2008-06-19T13:00:00.001-04:00

As many of you know Sylvia and I are one of the families truly blessed to enjoy a weekly visit from Maura to help us out around the house. Last week she redid our flower bed, and if you saw the bumper crop of weeds, and dandelions that Sylvia and I had growing through a protective layer of last year's dead tree leaves, it's very simple to see just how incredibly far above and beyond the call our dear friend went for us last Tuesday evening.
Maura, the flowerbed is gorgeous. Thank you so much for everything you do for us, and giving us the pleasure of having you visit our home weekly. I really wish we could pay you more than we do, but hopefully our heartfelt gratitude will cover that. We love you and THANK YOU.

-MOSL

BRAKING NEWS

2008-06-14T14:06:00.000-04:00

High speed chase peacefully stopped in downtown Cincinnati, Film at 11:00

Keep Your eye on the goal

2008-06-08T14:27:00.000-04:00

Like probable millions of others, yesterday with a strong sense of dismay, I watched the seemingly invincible and unbeatable race horse "Big Brown" falter to a meager last place finish while his owners and jockey tried to race him into triple crown , horse racing history. This got me thinking especially after Maura asked me today "Have you had any fun this week?" What I heard from this friendly, caring question was, Did you continue pursuing your goal this week? In honesty, I had to answer no. This took me back to yesterday's horse race and how all the hype, talk and speculation was met with such disappointing results. I really don't want this in my life. We are all told throughout are lives as members of the church that we are to "endure to the end" and I think this is especially true with those of us who are striving for "triple crown" goals like my entry into the 2009 Flying Pig 5K. I want to re affirm my dedication to my goal as well as send my best hopes and prayers to any of you who are striving for your own, personal goals and having a hard time pursuing them. I hope that we will be able to stay strong, resolute and dedicated to seeing the accomplishment of all of our goals come true.

-MOSL

Quote of the week:

2008-06-03T17:22:00.000-04:00

"It would be easier to leave if you were all jerks." -Leslie Merrell

(Sorry Leslie, I tried.)

Welcome to the Vroom Vroom room

2008-05-28T09:38:00.000-04:00

As you probably all know, my hobby is Nascar memorabilia collecting. This began shortly after our moving to Ohio and meeting my racing buddy Jim. Slowly my collection began to grow to what it is today. Sadly, over the course of last Summer through Winter, my beloved hobby room or "Sanctuary," as it became affectionately known fell into a state of total disrepair while some deep house cleaning was going on. (my room was trashed.) This lasted until just recently when I finished the cleanup, and much as the mythical Phoenix, The Vroom Vroom Room rose from the ashes of my beloved Sanctuary

As an explanation as to how the Vroom Vroom room got its name, I need to go back to just shortly after I was released as a ward clerk and called as a Primary nursery leader. At that time my darling wife Sylvia asked me if I had a group of 1/64 scale ( hot Wheels car size ) race cars that I would be willing to contribute to our nursery. I did, and happily made the donation. Maura has been assisting us in the nursery while also keeping her young son Jared company ( Jared is one of our nursery kids. ) Upon the debut of the race cars in nursery, Maura informed us that Jared just loves cars and calls them, you guessed it, "vroom vroom's." Fast forward now to just a few weeks ago. As work was nearing it's completion on my room, and as we sat in Sacrament meeting this week a long side the Prince family, Jessica was holding Jared on her lap as he thumbed through his cars and trucks picture book. Occasionally Jessica would point to a picture in the book to which Jared wold respond with an enthusiastic, "Vroom vroom." Syl and I both enjoyed the total cuteness of the moment, but I was inspired. At that moment I knew that my rebuilt sanctuary would be officially known as "The Vroom Vroom room."

Some of the things the vroom vroom room includes are two actual used Nascar stock car tires , an engine piston a race car hood lock pin , two wheel lug nuts, many driver autographs and over 300 cars. Well folks, I hope you enjoyed a glimpse into my labor of love, My salute to gas-guzzling v-8's. The all new E,H Johnson Vroom Vroom Room.

F.P.2009; week 1 report

2008-05-26T09:25:00.000-04:00

11 POUNDS LOST

3 MILES WALKED

IT HAS BEGUN

2008-05-20T09:03:00.000-04:00

F.P.2009 officially began today as I kick off my drive to join my team at next years Flying Pig. I have a whole bunch of walking to do and at least 60 lbs to lose before next May. So I hope I can count on all of your support and prayers as I set out in pursuit of this lofty goal.

Next May It's MY turn.

progress reports posted weekly

Quote of the week:

2008-05-09T11:37:00.000-04:00

"We will praise God if we win, and we'll praise God if we lose."
-Line from the movie, " Facing the Giants."

(posted in honor of my champion)

Confessions from a squealer

2008-05-06T09:10:00.000-04:00

SQUEALER: n. (pron. Skwee - lur) A fan \ spectator at the Flying Pig Marathon.

What a day ! I could have never imagined a day in downtown Cincinnati could have ever been so life changing without getting shot. I must admit that with as enormous of a part of life as my interest in Nascar has been, (and in many ways still is) Syl pointed out to me that it has not been a subject of conversation once with me since the stock car race ended late Saturday night. pretty amazing, huh. Fact is that as big of a motor sports fan as I am, and as many races as I have attended, I have never been treated to the pure inspiration, heroism, and motivation that I was while standing in the rain at the "finish swine" Saturday. I watched my dearly beloved best friend and companion Sylvia, and our dear friend, Sylvia's teammate and my " newest sister, " Maura accomplish a very lofty goal. That will truly be a highlight of the year to me. But it was only the beginning. I saw people who would dream that excessive weight, diabetes, and a missing limb was all that was wrong with them cross the finish line, something that I couldn't do this year. This humbled me. I watched blind people with an escort cross the line. I watched people with all manner of challenges cross the line. There was an electric wheelchair bound man whose chair lost power on the course during Syl's event that was pushed across the line by a group of complete strangers but fellow competitors. Perhaps one of the most memorable moments was when a severely impaired, elderly man for whom it was a struggle to even walk, crossed the line to the wild cheers (er, squeals ) of the fans there. All of this has truly changed my life.

With this in mind, I would now like to make it public and official about my intended entry into next years 5k event. With the support of two beautiful women in my corner, and a year to train and condition, I see absolutely no reason why I couldn't cross the "finish swine" next year.

I also wanted to thank my team, Pink Princess Racing, for all the pride, motivation, and encouragement.

I love you guys

-MOSL

LOFTY GOAL ACCOMPLISHED!!

2008-05-03T16:48:00.001-04:00

THEY DID IT! Sylvia and Maura both completed their races today. In a true to life Olympian fashion deserving of American Gladiator status, my beautiful and very loved wife, and my sister from another mother participated in their respective legs of the 2008 Flying Pig while battling harsh elements and physical pain. ( it rained cats and dogs and Sylli got blisters on the arches of her feet. ) Maura was up first leaving the starting gate among a vast multitude of runners to compete in the 10k run at 8:00am. She completed it in a personally exciting fashion having slowed to a walk just 2 very brief times. We celebrated her moral victory, she cooled off, we rested, and then it was time for Sylli's turn. Maura decided to join Sylli on the 5k walk. I was very pleased about this decision because it meant Syl would have company as she walked. As I watched my wife standing with our dear friend at the starting gate, my heart soared with pride honor , and love. The starting gun fired at 11am and a life changing adventure was under way. I found refuge fron the rain, then made my way to the finish line after the rain began to let up. I couldn't have been prouder of my wife as she strolled across the finish line after completing 3.5 gruelling miles in the pouring rain. Once again, my heart soared. I am so happy, and proud of "The sweat sisters" for completing such a lofty goal. Todays experience I think is going to become a launching pad for me to correct some of the problems in my life, hopefully culminating in my crossing the finish line physically with her next year rather than just in my heart as I did today.
I wanted to close this post by giving praise and thanks to Our Heavenly Father for showing such a God given friend as Maura into our lives. Her inspiration and strength made today possible.

Prince family, We love you guys

It's almost here

2008-04-29T11:10:00.000-04:00

As self appointed crew chief for Rupert the Round Racing, I wanted take a moment to say how proud I am of my walker, and my runner.

First of all my walker, my darling Sylvia. Sweetie I so admire your courage and determination to enter The flying pig. I am going to be excited to cheer you on as you take on this monumental task. Your dedication to achieving this goal has been fabulous, as well as inspiring to me. I promise you that there will not be a husband in that crowd that will be prouder than I will be of you.

And now my runner, our dear friend Maura. I am so thankful for the close, sisterly bond of friendship, camaraderie, and inspiration that you have forged with Sylvia, as well as the fun friendship we share. I am very happy for you as you finally reach the culmination of what is a very lofty goal that you and my wife have strived for for the last few months. I will be happily cheering you on as you compete in your race Saturday. I am very proud of you also.

I will be praying that you will both be free from harm or accident, and feel the full excitement of a job well done as the two of you participate in your respective races.

Way to go you two.

todays news

2008-04-21T10:26:00.001-04:00

Shortly after my hobby of Nascar memorabilia collecting began, I was also interested in collecting trading cards of my beloved sport. One night while shopping at the Tri County Wal-Mart I stopped to check out the sports card sale display there at the store. A gentleman soon joined me who was very interested in an assortment of different trading cards advertised at two packs for a dollar, I could see that this gentleman's quest was becoming more and more frustrating for him until he finally asked me "Do you see any of these two for a dollar cards? all I can find are these card packs marked fifty cents each," After experiencing a moment of stunned silence, I finally looked at him slightly smiling and said "aaand," to which he replied a fairly embarrassed "oh" and quietly left with his selection.

This brings me to todays news in the report about the 2008 opening of Kings Island. The story talked about how the park's visitors will find changes this year to get used to. namely the name changes to the movie based rides, Top Gun is now "Flight Deck," Tomb Raider is now "The Crypt," and so forth. I wonder what would happen if Souvenier stores became Bric-a-brac shacks, if the cafes and restaraunts became Leave and Heaves or the restrooms became Heave and Leaves. Talk about revenew losses. Knowing full well that intellectual giants such as my friend with the trading cards do exist, I tend to worry about all the folks who will pay for a fun, thrill packed day at K.I. only to leave in sorrow because they couldn't find their favorite rides. I don't worry too much though because these same people will probably have problems finding the entire park since "Paramount's Kings Island," is now just "Kings Island."

Maybe this is just me because I fail to see why an amusement park ride's name matters if you know how to get to it and enjoy it.

(This has been another warped thought from the management of M.O.S.L.)

Quote of the week:

2008-04-19T12:54:00.000-04:00

"I am just like Rocky Balboa."

-Sen. Hillary Clinton

( I'll buy that, after all she is getting the tar beaten out of her by an African-American opponant.)

Quote of the week: (special edition)

2008-04-06T16:44:00.000-04:00

The MOSL would like to bid a fond farewell to the beloved Hollywood icon who gave us many memorable quotes such as ;

"Ramses, Let my people go!"

"Get your hands off me you (*flippin) dirty ape!"
(*word edited for content)

"We keep you alive to serve this ship, so row well and live."
and the immortal,
"Soylant Green is made of people!"

We will miss you Charlton,
Thanks for the memories

Spring!

2008-04-04T13:47:00.000-04:00

At last winter's ended sring is now here. It is such a beautiful time of the year.
Trees and flowers are blooming, the grass starts to grow. Overcoming the death that comes with the snow. The sun comes out, temps no longer fall, and in parks everywhere, grown men in black pads yell "PLAY BALL!"
There's baseball and racing every where. To find my favorite's no difficult trick. While one involves powerful cars, the other's hitting a ball with a stick.
So put away your knit cap and parka, Time for flip-flops and shorts to come out. While we've all been too cold for months now
soon too hot's what we'll all pout about.

Have a happy spring everybody.

-MOSL

IT'S FRIDAY!

2008-03-28T04:38:00.000-04:00

Well friends, I've been up for a half hour now so that our dog will let my wife sleep, oh by the way, it's 4:45 am. But Hey, Baseball season is almost here! No wait, the thought of that is making me even more tired. Besides, I think Nascar is better than baseball anyway. These are a few reasons why. Nascar's on an oval, baseball's on a square. In a baseball park, you could get hit by a little ball, on a speedway you could get hit by A CAR. Baseball has E.R.A., Nascar has M.P.H. Baseball has pinch hitting, Nascar has slam-drafting. And in Nascar the object is to guide your powerful racing car through 42 other cars just like yours safely avoiding the danger that is present at every turn, for 500 miles hoping to be the first to cross the finish line and be crowned champion. The object in baseball is to run home. That's MOSL's take on it.

I also wanted to say again how happy it makes me to be a part of this blogging neighborhood. I especially wanted to say to my dear friends Mama, and Papa D, Although I am very excited to have you guys back on the mothership, I'm very sorry why your coming back. While on my mission, I served part of it attending a 35 to 40 person branch in South Boston VA. I know full well of the unique and powerful spirit Ray spoke of. It is a real treat to be part of.

However, Welcome back Degraws.

My A B C's

2008-03-19T11:09:00.000-04:00

A: attached or single, very happily attached to a fabulous and beautiful woman. Sylvia

B : Best friend, See "A"

C; Cake or Pie, whichever

D; Day of choice, FRIDAY!

E; Essential item, My right leg

F; Favorite color, Chroma-illusion

G Gummi bears or worms: Gummi's hands down

H; Hometown, "The Promised Land" Salt Lake City, Utah

I: Indulgance. Soda pop

J; January or July, July, who blows stuff up in January?

K; Kids, except for the beautiful kids we borrow for 2 hours on Sunday mornings, none

L: Life rule, " Life starts at 180 miles per hour

M; Marriage, February 20th 1987, Jordan River temple

N; Number of Siblings, Youngest of 4 boys but I have never been the "little" brother

O; Oranges or Apples, Either, I love them both

P; Phobias, Used diapers, and crying women

Q; Quote, " Kill is going to Deborah you." -Frank Barone

R; Reason to smile, Sylvia loves me

S; Season, Racing

T; Tag 6, (I don't understand this one so I'm thinking I'll skip it)

U; Unknown fact about me, I am the soul survivor of planet Krypton's cataclysmic explosion...... Oh and I met President and Sister Benson prior to our wedding

V; Vegetarian or carnivorous, I'll go either way, but I am a faithful supporter of P.E.T.A. ( People for the Eating of Tasty Animals,)

W; Worst habit, Passing out when exposed to Kryptonite

X; X-ray or ultrasound, I've never had an ultrasound, so I'll say x-ray

Y; Your favorite food, Buffalo wings

Z; zodiac, Libra

ENOUGH ALREADY! part deaux

2008-03-19T11:00:00.001-04:00

Almost 4 inches of rain have fallen over the last 24 hours;

This is not the snow-alternative I was ranting for.

ENOUGH ALREADY!

2008-03-17T12:59:00.000-04:00

While I admit that last weekends snowfall was pretty to watch, IT'S MARCH. enough with the white stuff already. I am so ready for some thunder and lightning, and spingtime weather. We've had our share of snow, I don't want anymore.

(P.S.) I Hope you all enjoy MOSL's newest feature

Quote of the week:

2008-03-06T13:19:00.000-05:00

"I lost Ohio because of my opponant."

-Senator Obama

" WELL, DUH"

Farewell Bro.Johnson, ward clerk.....Hello Bro.Johnson, nursery leader

2008-02-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

A chapter in my life has come to an end as I have bid farewell to my ward clerk calling and have returned to the primary to serve along side my beloved wife in the nursery. My clerk calling is going to go down as one I'm going to miss. (even the early meetings) I give thanks to our Heavenly Father for trusting me with that calling for as long as he did. I'm grateful for being able to work with the great men in the clerks office that I did along the way, for having the pleasure of following in my late father's footsteps, who was a ward clerk 22 years in the ward I grew up in, and having the God given honor of working so close to our bishopric. I can testify that they are all great, inspired men who direct our ward through the guidance of our Heavenly Father. I am however excited to have returned to the primary alongside the person I hope to remain alongside throughout eternity, my darling best friend Sylvia. We have a fabulous group of kids, and equally fabulous leadership. I think it is absolutely awsome how Shayleen is leading the primary, and I am excited to be part of it. "The Dream team" is back.

WE HAVE A WINNER!

2008-02-12T21:18:00.000-05:00

Congratulations Papa D. You have been named the grand prize winner in the great name the pig contest. After much deliberation on the part of Sylvia and Maura, the decision was made for "Rupert the Round." You have won an online, exciting, all new 2008 Dodge Charger RT. Remember Papa that the true beauty of winning an online car is that there are no insurance fees. and gas prices are barely noticable. Congratulations again Papa D and a big thank you to all who participated. You are all truly great friends and wonderful people.

Wish me luck, (again.)

2008-02-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

I'm afraid that the wheels fell off of my original goals for this year, so tomorrow I'm starting over again. I am going to start with 5 miles of walking a week. and going from there

NAME THE PIG wrap up

2008-02-10T12:09:00.000-05:00

A big thank you to all who participated in the great name the pig contest. The deadline for entries is 8:00 tonight, Sunday, February 10.

Sylvia and Maura will be judging all entries this week, and the winner and winning name will be posted on MOSL immediately thereafter. Best of luck to all.

To Leslie, Ray, and Sylli, I am truely sorry you had to await your online compliments. Thank you for your entries. You're all great friends, and wonderful people.

Quote of the week:

2008-02-10T12:03:00.000-05:00

"Boogity, Boogity, Boogity boys, lets go racing!"

- Darrell Waltrip

Note...

2008-01-30T05:22:00.002-05:00

To all "Name the Pig" contestants, Please return to the comments section of that posting to recieve your online compliment.

Thank you, -MOSL

We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet

2008-01-28T09:28:00.000-05:00

The MOSL would like to take a moment to bid a heavy hearted farewell to Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley. Although I know beyond a doubt that the church will continue to grow and flourish under President Monson, I feel that I grew, and strengthened so much as a husband, priesthood holder, and as a man under Pres Hinckley's faith, strength, and guidance.

He will be missed.

" Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

NAME THE PIG

2008-01-27T18:40:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, while Sylvia and Maura were attending a stamping party, I was thinking of them and their shared goal of participating in the 2008 Flying Pig Marathon, I decided that what they needed was a tangible image of that goal to see as they work out together. With that in mind I created their mascot, The Flying Pig. He needs a name however. For the next 2 weeks I will be accepting names for the flying pig. The winner will recieve A NEW ONLINE CAR, and all entrants will recieve an official MOSL online compliment. Get those entries in soon.

Retreat and regroup; diet week 2

2008-01-22T11:32:00.000-05:00

4 miles walked

3 pounds back on

I'm still 3 pounds beneath my starting weight, so I'm not going to sweat it yet

WHEW!

2008-01-13T18:37:00.000-05:00

My darling wife is coming to the completion of a very bittersweet weekend in light of her calling change at church. I just wanted to take a moment to let her know how very proud I am of her tonight. Her faithfulness and devotion to her callings brings great honor to both her and me. I feel like I had been given a blessing that I didn't earn when she married me, but I thank God that she bestowed the honor of being her husband upon me. Sylli, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do for me, for the sacrifices that you constantly make on my behalf, for looking past all of my ineptitudes and quirks, (yes there are quite a few of those) and most of all, for having the love and patience to let me be your husband. I think 2008 is going to be fabulous for the Johnsons

Ride of the week

2008-01-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

"The Sarge, " Tony Schumacher's

U.S.Army top fuel dragster

stompin' out my stomach

2008-01-13T18:18:00.000-05:00

"Dieters log, stardate: 01/13/08 WEEK 1

SIX MILES WALKED

SEVEN POUNDS LOST

"WOO HOO"

Ride of the week

2008-01-08T20:24:00.000-05:00

'68 Chevy Chevelle Pro Street

Quote of the week:

2008-01-05T11:58:00.000-05:00

"Mom, You are not given sons to do everything for you. You are given sons so that can grow up to be adults and get bodies. Daughters too. You were a daughter once, So you should know."

- Ben Merrell

Wish me luck

2008-01-05T10:56:00.002-05:00

Yes, I am embarking on the road to better health also. Through the inspiration of my dearly beloved wife and best friend SmilenSylli, and our dear friend The Pampered Princess, I have begun the walking program with them. My immediate goals are small, four miles a week, Mon. Thu Fri. until Feb 1, when it becomes six miles a week, Mon. Thu Sat. We have our family reunion to think about, Plus with the eagerly awaited for 2008 racing season just around the corner I want to get back into "race trim." Kentucky Speedway is a 2 mile tri-oval, so as you can imagine the parking area and the grounds around the speedway are enormous making a day at the races very grueling, This is something I have needed to do for a long time because I know that I am an awesome individual , But my soul really doesn't delight in fatness

Progress reports will come

HAPPY MEW YEAR!!!!!!

2007-12-26T12:01:00.000-05:00

As we all prepare to usher in 2008, I hope all of our memories of 2007 are great ones. I've loved being able to spend another year with my friends, my family, my loved ones, and most of all, the fabulous woman that I have been given the God-given honor of calling my wife for so many years. I am grateful for the privilage of having served so close to our bishopric as assistant ward clerk. They are truly three inspired, good men and we are all blessed to have them watching out for our ward. I do also want to say that I will never forget my intro to blogging, and the friendships I've made through that. I know all of you will be reflecting on personal memories of 2007 in the coming week. I hope all of you will find love , excitement, health and much happiness throughout 2008

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY, from M.O.S.L.

(oh yes, Im happy that the 2008 Nascar season is only 6 weeks away also. )

Its the hap, happiest season of all.

Ride(s) of the week

2007-12-26T11:41:00.000-05:00

'69 Chevy Impala & '68 Oldsmobile "Super Stocks"

These cars are special to me because this is the kind of racing my father would take me to on Saturday nights at the old quarter-mile oval track at the Utah State Fairgrounds during my childhood.

Quote of the week:

2007-12-26T11:27:00.001-05:00

( I really think this deserves "The Quote of the year.")

"Jesus has been watching out for me for 83 years, he isn't going to stop now."

- Mabel Reed

yay team

2007-12-17T14:30:00.000-05:00

Who else dey , who else dey, who else dey think gonna beat them Bengals?

GO away TEAM

Merry Christmas

2007-12-17T11:18:00.000-05:00

Smilen Sylli and I would like to wish all of our dear friends in the blogging neighborhood a very merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous, and very happy new year

Idea?

2007-12-17T11:07:00.000-05:00

I've found my new snow blower

Ride of the week

2007-12-17T10:58:00.001-05:00

U.S.A.F. "Thunderbirds" F4 Phantom

(I never once said that the "The ride of the week" would be land-locked)

Quote of the week:

2007-12-17T10:53:00.001-05:00

"You can be wise and happy, or stupid and miserable. The choice is yours." -President Gordon B. Hinckley

Ride of the week

2007-12-08T17:04:00.001-05:00

Dale Earnhardt's "the pass in the grass"

Wrangler Jeans Monte Carlo

(during the running of the yearly all star race while running in 2nd place Dale was hit in the right, rear fender causing him to slide into the infield grass. He however maintained speed and control of the car, passing the leader while still in the grass. He shot back onto the track and won the race.

sNO!w

2007-12-08T16:17:00.000-05:00

A lot of people seem to be sharing thoughts on the recent snowstorm, so I thought I would do likewise. Has anyone ever; wrecked a car do to dry, warm street conditions? or had to pay for expensive prescriptions because they caught a warm? Have they ever had to shovel sunshine from their driveways? or slipped, fell, and injured themselves on the sun? Lastly, has anyone ever noticed what is at the very center of the word snow.......NO. Yes as you can guess snow gets a big no vote from the MOSL also. I do have a fond memory of snow however. During my mission in North Carolina on one p-day my companion and I awoke to snow. Not much, only an inch or two, big deal. Well my companion being from Idaho and I from Utah didnt hesitate to hop on our bicycles and ride them to the laundrymat. Once there we started our laundry and then noticed the storm coverage on the tv. The local news was showing these horrific pictures of cars that lost control in the snow and slid off of the road while the newsman related stories of accumulations ranging from 1/2 to 1,5 inches and pleading for motorists to please stay home if they dont have to go out. I laughed.

So yes, I don't like the white stuff either, but I guess that just like Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, It's a sad, cold part of life we all have to live with.

Quote of the week:

2007-12-08T16:09:00.000-05:00

"I can't believe people would take advantage of a kids mistake like that."

-local gas station owner after an employee's error started selling their gas at 32.5 cents per gallon

Prayer

2007-12-01T17:43:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share how I got my testimony of prayer. I was born and raised in Salt Lake, the youngest of four boys. Now I refer to myself as an "adrenalin junkie" now but the original adrenalin junkie in my family was my next to oldest brother Kurt. He skydived, hang glided, and even had a short stint with a racing go-cart. ( imagine 140 mph with your backside 1/2 inch off of the ground.) During his skydiving days, my brother and a buddy of his decided to attempt a world high altitude record jump. Their intention was to jump from 300,000 ft. This meant a freefall of close to five minutes prior to chute opening. The high altitude also made it necessary to carry oxygen tanks. The day of the jump came. Now I had seen my brother climb into the jump plane many times before, but this time he looked more like an astronaut than a skydiver. We all said goodbye and wished him and his friend luck, then they climbed into the plane and took off. We waited as the plane made its climb to jump altitude. The airplane was a barely visible speck when word came to the crowd at the airport they were on jump run. It was then that we all noticed a horrifying sight. A badly damaged parachute falling from the plane. As my brother was climbing out of the plane, his emergency chute ripcord handle caught the door handle of the plane, causing the chute to pre maturely open. The chute tangled around the wing of the airplane heavily damaging the chute causing it to only very partially open. This damaged chute was also causing my brother to fall at a much slower rate than intended so his oxygen was going to run out much sooner than planned. My brothers wife and two young boys, as well as myself and my family poured our hearts out to God just hoping he would protect him from a very deadly situation. As well as my brother prayed for the Lord's protection as he fell. This lasted until his oxygen ran out and he blacked out. He went down in Big Cottonwood Canyon, which is very big, rugged, tree covered, and just full of ways that this story could have ended in tragedy. He went down in a clearing, in a big, soft, snowbank, with a cross country skier passing by at that moment. The skier helped my brother out of his gear and helped him spread his chute canopy out on the ground. He was spotted by a search plane and rescued within an hour by the sheriff's department jeep posse. I will always remember his first word on his return to the airport upon seeing the military helicopter ready to go after him, " Gee if I had known that thing was coming for me I would have stayed up there." My attitude toward prayer was never the same after this. and oh yes the most dangerous thing my brother has done since then is raise daughters.

Ride of the week

2007-12-01T17:35:00.001-05:00

USS Enterprise NCC-1701-E

as seen in Star Trek movies; "First Contact," "Insurrection," and "Nemesls."

Ride of the week

2007-11-26T09:26:00.001-05:00

Jimmy Johnson's 2006 Lowes Monte Carlo SS

(Posted in honor of Jimmy's 2nd consecutive Nascar championship.)

Quote of the week:

2007-11-24T08:53:00.000-05:00

"More power, argh, argh, argh." -Tim Taylor

ODE TO BLACK FRIDAY

2007-11-23T23:01:00.000-05:00

Black Friday, Black Friday, a wonderful day. It means Christmas is just a short time away. We sleep off the triptofan from dinner last night . Then head to the mall, to engage in the fight. Our money is screaming, our charge cards are hot, as we eagerly seek the sales they got. We arrive at 5:30, by 6:30 we park. Then after a short prayer, into the mall we embark. The X-Boxes are gone, and so are the Wii's. There's one more I-phone, but no more plasma TV's. But wait, is that thunder? no nothing so tame. One woman spots the I-phone, another saw the same. They both take off running, both seeking the prize. They hit the floor fighting , but on the table the phone still lies. A young boy saw the box, and whisked it away. the last thing he said was "Have a great Christmas day."

Of course this isn't Christmas, it's greed run amok. Big businesses out there wanting a buck. The real Christmas, as we should all know, came with a young couple in a stable, under a stars vibrant glow. The greatest gift of all was given that night. There was no charge cards, no cash in sight. The gift came from a loving and generous Lord. A precious gift we all can afford. We should all be grateful, in so many ways. And from The Man of Steel Leg, Happy Holidays.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

2007-11-20T19:28:00.000-05:00

TRUE STORY: Yesterday afternoon I recieved a phone call from a social security representative. Her first question to me was "Mr. Johnson, do you still have your amputation?"

ATTA-BOY

2007-11-18T21:57:00.000-05:00

Way to go Jimmie !
2oo7 Nascar Nextel Cup Champion

Quote of the week:

2007-11-17T21:40:00.000-05:00

"I'm happier than a tornado in a trailer park"

-Mater

Ride of the week

2007-11-17T21:36:00.000-05:00

'69 Firebird drag racing car, "Thumper"

HAPPY HOLIDAYS: thanksgiving, chapter 3

2007-11-16T10:35:00.000-05:00

Ah, tis the holiday season, the day's almost here. When we enjoy a feast with loved ones gathered near. We thank God for his blessings, the big and the small, and pray for his protection the next day at the mall.

The mall in this season, see the Christmas lights glow. While a big man dressed in red yells out "Ho,Ho,Ho." The mall visit is worth it, for where else could you see, two old women fighting o'er a Playstation 3.

May your season be wonderous, in so many ways. And to all my friends out there, HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Happy Thanksgiving from The Man of Steel Leg

RANTING (well, sort of)

2007-11-13T12:47:00.000-05:00

Well yesterday our Kia got sick. It started sputtering and backfiring. That afternoon following a consult with Syls dad we decided we had corrupted gasoline. We put additives in the tank and hoped and prayed for the best. IT DIDN'T HAPPEN. Last night while on route to Dad and Bobbye's for dinner the situation came back with a vengeance. So much for bad gas. After pulling over to make sure we weren't on fire we decided to press on since we were only a couple of blocks from where we were going. The car is in the shop today, and this whole experiance has caused me to think, why are my die-cast cars better than my real one? here are my top ten reasons why:

1. There are rarely any breakdowns.

2. Very economical

3. Very cheap to liscence and insure.

4. Maintenance is a breeze.

5. Bank Financing or trade in to purchase is not required

6. Simple to park

7. Can legally drive one in minutes

8. Doesn't promote global warming

9. Better mileage, far-less emmisions, and far better looking than a Prius

10. Tell me an individual who owns over 200 REAL cars

Farewell till we meet again

2007-11-10T17:10:00.000-05:00

It is with much sadness and a heavy heart that in 8 short days we here at The Man of Steel Leg bid a fond farewell to a dear friend, The 2007 Nascar racing season. While the sorrow will be softened by the crowning of a new champion, we will deeply miss the sound of 43 high power racing engines, the sweet smell of burnt rubber and racing fuel, and the utterance of the immortal phrase, "Gentlemen, Start your engines." I know our sorrow will be short for we will meet again in a much nicer place than here, Southern Florida, but until February, farewell, you will be missed.

Thanks for the memories 2007

CAR OF THE WEEK

2007-11-10T17:03:00.001-05:00

Kasey Kahne's 2004 rookie year Dodge Intrepid

Quote(s) of the week:

2007-11-10T16:52:00.000-05:00

"You can't shake my head. Only I can shake my head, since I made that law" -Laura DeGraw

"Give." - The Little Stream

THANKSGIVING: Chapter 2

2007-11-07T14:49:00.000-05:00

As many of you know my mother is recovering from hip surgery. Last night, while we were working in our basement, and enjoying our weekly visit from our dear friend Maura I recieved a phone call from her. She told me of many things she's able to do now. Small, meaningless, everyday things that people do, but for her six weeks ago were impossible.

I thought about this miracle today, and find myself thinking for my mother today as I did 9 years ago for myself. I'm thankful for the technology that has allowed my mother, as well as myself the ability to walk again. In this season of thanksgiving I also want to say thanks to all my friends who have taken a couple of minutes to spend with The Man of Steel Leg. All of your comments have become a source of great happiness and enjoyment to me. It's is really fun being one of an elite corp of independant male bloggers in our loop. "Jus' big old me and Papa D" I want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving

CLASSIFIED AD

2007-11-04T20:24:00.000-05:00

HELP WANTED: Cincinnati based NFL football team is currently looking for a defense. No experience necessary, will train. Applicants will be expected to stop men running towards them and if possible, make the runner fall on the ground. Applicants if qualified will learn advanced skills such as quarterback "sacking," and "intercepting" passes. Interested, apply in person at the employment office at P.B. Stadium, or call 1-800-WES-TINK

CAR OF THE WEEK

2007-11-04T11:18:00.000-05:00

While I would never be so bold as to claim being as creatively talented as the stampers and card makers in our blogging neighborhood, I do claim a little creative talent of my own. While having been a model builder most of my life, I have amassed a large collection of completed cars. I have recently "retired" as a builder and have decided to display some of my creations to my friends. With this in mind, I now present:
CAR OF THE WEEK.

Quote of the week:

2007-11-03T15:58:00.001-04:00

"Even the flags don't respect me."

-Ben Merrell

REBELLION!!

2007-11-01T09:38:00.000-04:00

(Bloggers note: I hope that this confession doesn't harm my friends impression of me, but I was a rebellious kid. (GASP)
The following was copied by me when I was just 14 years old.
My friends, I give you now:
"The Battle Hymn of The Teenager.")

I'm Just a kid named Eric who has parents who are square.
I like my music loud, and its getting in their hair.
They're giving me a hard time 'cause my music's not like theirs.
They'll never understand.
Glory, glory to our teen-age
They'd like to keep me in the child-stage
Glory, glory to our teen-age.
When will they understand?
(Bloggers post-note, The Man of Steel leg will accept no responsibility for any teen uprisings as a result of this posting.)

THANKSGIVING

2007-10-31T10:54:00.000-04:00

(bloggers note, See I told you I'd get serious once in a while.)
During the Nascar season there are two tracks competed on that the competitors have little to no hope of winning without the help of a friend. I think the same holds true for us in this race we all call our lives. So as we put Halloween away for another year and begin this season of thanksgiving I hope that we will all remember to thank all of our friends in our lives, and our families for the blessing, help and support they are in the rigors of our daily lives.