"The Way"

The family and I watched a movie last night called The Way starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez. Actually, three of us saw the whole thing. Kaylin was sawing logs on the couch before it even started. Kamryn lasted through half of the film, while Kodie, Estalita, and me watched the whole movie.

The central character is Sheen, (Martin and not Charlie) and it focuses on his journey to overcome the sudden death of his son. The middle aged son is played by Emilio. His character is full of wanderlust, and he aims to see the world. He shrugs off the conventions of American living and the idea of finishing his doctoral degree, instead deciding to follow his heart and travel. His dad is living the conventional life, working as a doctor, and busy as many Americans are. Along the way in life, he sort of loses himself and forgets to smell the roses. Sheen sets off to find himself on the Camino de Santiago, a long 800+ kilometer trail that winds through France and northern Spain. Many walk this trail as a sort of pilgrimmage, or a way to pay tribute to someone or something. Some walk for religious or spiritual purposes, while others walk to get in shape, overcome a particular struggle, or simply to experience a sense of adventure. The plot development is a bit weak in my opinion, but the scenery is spectacular and the actual story line is very interesting. The movie hits pretty hard on "American stereotypes" by classifying most of us as self-absorbed, overly opinionated workaholics who live life in the fast lane, conveniently ignoring the need for self-examination and personal reflection. I only agree with about 90% of this!!!

George Contreras, a coaching friend of mine currently coaching in Switzerland, walked the entire length of the Camino in the fall of 2010. George is in his early sixties, and he is full of energy. He also has a wonderful zest for life, and a contagious spirit of adventure. I have been thinking for the past few years about someday tackling the Camino. It is officially on my "Bucket List." Anybody out there want to go along?

Here are some images I found online that beautifully capture the essence of the Camino de Santiago.

Lights out.

The Peyton Manning Sweepstakes

The competition for Peyton Manning's services are in full swing now that he has been released by the Indianapolis Colts. Manning's career with the Colts was truly remarkable, including his multiple records, several trips to the playoffs, and two Super Bowl appearances. Number 18 helped transform an anemic Colts team when he took over, and he might be the one player in the NFL whose presence has the biggest impact on his team's ability to be successful. In 2009, the Colts finished 14-2 and made it to the Super Bowl. In 2010, they were 10-6 and made it to the playoffs. Playing without Manning in 2011, the Colts stumbled to a 2-14 mark, looking like a team that had desperately lost it's way and identity. Due to Manning's neck problems, his age, and the multi-millions the team would have to pay him, the organization has decided to cut ties and draft Andrew Luck as their QB of the future.

I have always enjoyed watching Peyton play, and marveled at his ability to dissect a defense and consistently move his team down the field. He always made everyone around him better, and he always seemed to be so well prepared for each and every game. His intelligence, outstanding leadership qualities, competitive spirit, and pin point accuracy as a passer are rivaled by very few QB's in the history of the NFL. He is one of the top three QB's I have watched during my lifetime, the other two being Joe Montana and Tom Brady. I think Aaron Rodgers may be in this category too before its all said and done. Personally, I am predicting that Peyton will end up in a warm weather city like Miami or Arizona, where there is a moderate level of talent. If this happens, and he can lead a mediocre team deep into the playoffs, or the Super Bowl, then his legacy will surely grow. I only hope that Peyton stays healthy and does nothing to jeopardize his long term health by taking the risk of playing again.

Manning can read defenses and throw the ball with the best of them.

He literally seemed to be making fun of defenses at times, just daring them to try and stop him.

A sign depicted in the Mile High city. Maybe the NFL should stand for Not For Loyalty. Tim Tebow can lead his team to a division crown, get them into the second round of the playoffs, and then wonder if he will be replaced by Peyton Manning.

Indy bids farewell to # 18.



Lights out.

Sad Day to Be a Steelers Fan

I was both sad and disappointed to learn this past week that the Pittsburgh Steelers had decided to release Wide Receiver Hines Ward after 14 season with the team. Anybody who knows me, knows that I am a lifelong Steelers Fan, a proud member of the Steelers Nation, and a big fan of # 86 Hines Ward. Hines did so much for this team both on and off the field. He made a few mistakes off the field during his career, but for the most part, he has been a true professional and a consistent role model for young people. Hines played the game hard, whether it was running over the middle for a pass, or the physical nature he used as a blocker.

My son Kodie and I took a visit to my hometown in Latrobe, PA in August and had the chance to watch Hines during his last training camp with the team. He was injured during this time, but he still did some pass catching drills, and spent most of his time tutoring the younger receivers. My family and I also had the chance to travel to Cleveland this past January and watch Hines play in his last regular season game vs. the Browns. Hines didn't make any big plays on that day, but we did witness him record the 1,000 catch of his career. It will be hard for me to imagine Ward wearing a uniform other than the Black 'N' Gold, but I also understand that this is a reality of the big corporate business we know as the NFL. Now, I can only hope that # 43 Troy Polamalu will retire as a Steeler when it comes time for him to finish his career.

Here are Ward's final numbers with the Steelers: 1,000 Receptions for 12,083 yards and 85 TDs

Not bad for a 3rd round draft pick who played QB at Georgia!

Hines always seems to be smiling, no matter if he is playing football, doing interviews, or winning dance competitions.

The sure handed receiver is now the all time Steelers team leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. A future trip to Canton as a Hall of Famer surely awaits him.

Hines scores a TD en route to a SuperBowl victory and MVP award vs. the Seahawks



Lights out.

Quick sidetrip to Dubai

Here are some images from the brief time I spent in Dubai just a few weeks ago. I visited the United Arab Emirates and this dynamic city while making my way home from India. It just took a few adjustments with my flight itinerary and cashing in some United mileage points to score my first visit to the Middle East. I also had the opportunity to visit the Manja family, friends and former colleagues from my time spent teaching and coaching in North Dakota. Joe, Nickie, and their son Matthew have been in Dubai for close to 5 years. They are wonderful people, and were so kind to open up their home to me during my visit to Dubai. We had a great visit and time of fellowship together, and they also prepared one of the best lasagnas I've ever tasted. I also want to thank them for their recommendations, suggestions, and list of attractions they provided for me to take in during my limited time there.

Residential area near Mirdif where I stayed--- This area is a popular choice for expats.

Sleek Desert Living

Marina near the Old quarter

The Bastakiya-- The old quarter consisting of original settlements

Remnants of a 19th century city wall

Narrow streets, touristy shops and boutiques, and some fascinating architecture

Construction fever alive and well in this city

Skyscrapers dominate the landscape in Dubai

Buildings here come in many shapes and sizes

Shopping malls are also popular here--- A safe haven when the barometer hits 115-120 during the summer months

The Dubai Mall--- Here are some interesting facts about the place

Is world's largest mall based on total area
Has over 1200 shops and over 12 million sq. ft. of floor space
Has over 120 restaurants and cafes and 54 million visited the mall in 2011
Has over 14,000 parking spaces & world's largest candy store- over 10,000 sq. ft.
Has an enormous aquarium, 22 screen cinema, ice skating rink, and much, much, more

Unique Diver fountains inside the Dubai Mall

Prepare for Impact

Kind of reminded me of Greg Louganis

Lunch Time

Believe it or Not, This aquarium actually sprung a leak last year, and the mall had to be evacuated!!

Ice skating at the mall

And connected to the Mall--- The Burj Khalifa
This is the largest building in the world standing at 2,723 feet
It opened in 2010, cost 1.5 billion to construct, and has 160 floors
The elevators inside are the world's fastest, moving at over 40 mph
Rental space costs over 4,000 U.S. dollars per square ft.
The building contains the world's 2nd highest swimming pool, a nightclub on the 144th floor
There is an observation deck on the 124th floor, but all tickets were sold out-- Maybe next time!!

Buildings adjacent to the Burj Khalifa fronted by the lagoon & outdoor fountains

Time for a visit to one of the fabulous beaches on the Persian Gulf-- Marina Beach

Clear seas and refreshing waters are the norm in the winter months-- I am told that water temps. more closely resemble bath tub water temps. during the summer months



Warning-- The Next Image May Be Disturbing to Some Viewers-- Viewer Discretion is Advised

I never realized that I bare a close resemblance to the Michelin Man--- Or maybe it's the Pillsbury Dough Boy!

The Atlantis Resort in the distant center-- Our family vacationed at the Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas just a few months ago & I would highly recommend it

These high rises overlooked the Marina Beach Area

Concrete and Steel Meets the Sand

After taking a dip in the sea, I realized it was time to regroup--- Starbucks seemed like a solid choice. What to do after lingering in the sun, sand, and waters of the Persian Gulf? Something much cooler of course

After a 10 minute adrenaline filled taxi cab drive where I demanded that the driver keep it under 100 mph-- it was off to the Emirates Mall for some skiing-- Yes, I said skiing in the desert!

From the beach to the slopes in less than 30 minutes!--- A winter wonderland inside the Mall

Skiing, Tubing, and an assortment of other delights await the winter sports lover

First, I must ditch the swim trunks and don the proper gear

The cold air actually felt great

The slopes weren't crowded, so it was an enjoyable experience for all winter sports enthusiasts

The lifts were slow, but they still do the trick of getting you to the top of the slopes

Always keep your skis somewhat parallel--- Especially on the chairlifts

For a small fee, you can have a BALL & reach the bottom of this slope by means of a large sphere

Ski Dubai was worth the price of admission-- about 170 dirhams (46 U.S. dollars and it covers 2 hours) for all clothing rental, skis, boots, and poles, lift ticket, and even an insurance policy--- A GOOD IDEA !!!

Fortunately, I didn't need the insurance policy on this day. I did cram a lot into my 30 hours in Dubai (29.25 to be exact) and I would certainly like to return with my family someday. It has now entered into my top 10 of world cities that I've visited. I'll not sure who gets bumped out in this ranking, but Dubai deserves a spot in my top 10. It is a dynamic city full of many contrasts and so full of people from all walks of life. I had 6 different cab drivers during my stay, 3 from Pakistan, 2 from India, and 1 from Bangladesh. The scene at the airport when I flew out was like being at the United Nations. Dubai truly has many different flavors and although a bit pricey, it was certainly worth the effort it took to get there.


Lights out.