Since last time...
Wednesday: Dislocated finger. Right pinkie. I've broken it 10 times. [yes, 10] But this was the first time I've ever dislocated anything. It was equal parts disgusting and awesome. Looked like the letter V. Neat, huh?
Friday: Pretty Prairie football rolled to a 48-0 win over Kiowa County [newly consolidated school of Greensburg-Haviland]. Their head coach is the brother of our head coach. Neat stuff. Was supposed to be a test, but our guys just keep getting better--it was over at halftime. Craziness.
Sunday: Bears win. Ugly wins are wins, too. 4-1? Okay!
Man, my weeks are bleak. Is that really all I have to talk about? Nah. Let's come up with something. I know y'all don't care about my sports talk. The few of you who actually [may] still read this thing are females anyway...
How about personal change? That one's a nice little recurring theme.
I've realized lately that I am, in fact, finally ready to date. Well, mentally anyway. Getting a job and feeling secure in at least one area helped with that notion, I think. Actually finding a girl [plural, perhaps?] willing to take a shot, though? Let's just say that next step is a doozy.
The factors that played into this conclusion are not ones that most people, particularly males, would probably feel comfortable discussing. But screw it.
Things I'm attempting to teach myself: [Warning: After school special-like thoughts to come...]
Dear Self,
1. No one is going to like you until you like yourself.
2. When a girl isn't interested...let it go. Stop trying to figure out why. It doesn't matter.
3. Stop trying to impress people. If you wanna grow a beard, eat a cookie, talk about sports, etc...do it.
4. Your happy dance is awesome. And hilarious. It would make people laugh if you ever did it in public.
5. You're 25, not 52. Act like it.
Just gotta remind myself of these things occasionally and I should be fine.
Anywho.
Streak time:
- 705 days without work [unless you count umpiring baseball during the summers] -- comes to an end in 7 days. Hooray.
- 605 days with no girlfriend -- still going. Screw it. It'll happen when it happens. Maybe.
- 219 days with no pop -- still going strong. Hooray.
- 17 days with no ice cream -- still going also. Not quite as impressive, but I was on a milkshake kick for awhile, so that had to go.
Keep streaking, (ha)
Derrick
Showing posts with label Pretty Prairie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pretty Prairie. Show all posts
Monday, October 11, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
No Girls Allowed. Unless you're cute. Then it's fine.
It's been a month since I blogged, so this one will be pretty random (not that most aren't)...until I can hopefully get back into the flow of things here soon.
Stuff and things...
- Got a job. This isn't exactly news, but I haven't told a ton of people. So it might be news to you.
- Decided to go with the pink on the layout for a few weeks--in spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness and all that jazz. Don't judge.
- At my pre-employment physical, Doc told me despite working out upwards of 10 times per week, I am 37-49 pounds overweight. Beyond depressing. Bright side: I'd bet everything I own that I could still outrun the guy, despite being twice his size.
- Today marks 7 months with no pop. And yes, I miss it
Sports stuff...
- Cubs are done. Bad, bad year to say the least. As per the Cubs motto: There's always next year.
- Pretty Prairie football is now 5-0. At Greensburg this week. I've never been, should be cool.
- Bulls PF Carlos Boozer out 6-8 weeks with broken finger. Ugh.
- Been playing a lot of touch football lately. Decent workout, kind of fun.
- Bears are 3-1. But that loss was uglier than...well, something that's really ugly.
Girl stuff...
- Took a bit of a risk the other day. Stepped out on a limb. Branch broke. Failed miserably. Metaphor.
- Talked to neighbor girl yesterday. Longest talk in ages. NG = girl ma thinks I should marry. Eye roll.
- My good buddy Bacon & I plan to start a club, build a fort, etc. "No girls allowed" signs, the whole 9. Seriously, y'all are a crazy bunch of ninnies sometimes. But I still love ya. [though sometimes I forget why]
Derrick
- Got a job. This isn't exactly news, but I haven't told a ton of people. So it might be news to you.
- Decided to go with the pink on the layout for a few weeks--in spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness and all that jazz. Don't judge.
- At my pre-employment physical, Doc told me despite working out upwards of 10 times per week, I am 37-49 pounds overweight. Beyond depressing. Bright side: I'd bet everything I own that I could still outrun the guy, despite being twice his size.
- Today marks 7 months with no pop. And yes, I miss it
Sports stuff...
- Cubs are done. Bad, bad year to say the least. As per the Cubs motto: There's always next year.
- Pretty Prairie football is now 5-0. At Greensburg this week. I've never been, should be cool.
- Bulls PF Carlos Boozer out 6-8 weeks with broken finger. Ugh.
- Been playing a lot of touch football lately. Decent workout, kind of fun.
- Bears are 3-1. But that loss was uglier than...well, something that's really ugly.
Girl stuff...
- Took a bit of a risk the other day. Stepped out on a limb. Branch broke. Failed miserably. Metaphor.
- Talked to neighbor girl yesterday. Longest talk in ages. NG = girl ma thinks I should marry. Eye roll.
- My good buddy Bacon & I plan to start a club, build a fort, etc. "No girls allowed" signs, the whole 9. Seriously, y'all are a crazy bunch of ninnies sometimes. But I still love ya. [though sometimes I forget why]
Quote of the day:
"If you want to be loved, be lovable." - OvidDerrick
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
More blog changes, additions.
Though I said I'd try and refrain from blogging until I finished my current book, I've fallen off pace a bit--so I'm back.
This will be more of a transitional blog than anything, as I don't really have anything substantial to discuss this time.
As I'm sure you noticed, I finally got some music up and running on my page, along with a new poll question.
Results from previous poll:
How often do you read my blogs?
I read occasionally--7 votes (58%)
I read every single one--3 votes (25%)
I read frequently--2 votes (16%)
This is my first time--0 votes (0%)
Stop writing, it all sucks--0 votes (0%)
Would've liked a better outcome--especially in vote totals, but also in regards to a more favorable result. But oh well. Hoping to get more votes with the next question.
Here goes nothing. It's a simple question (top right) regarding what kind of interaction you may have with me. If you aren't pleased with whatever your answer is, feel free to fix it. :)
Randomness...
My sports week:
- Pretty Prairie Bulldog boys basketball team lost to an inferior Peabody team last week. It happens, only one game--the team will be fine, I'm sure. Still, I continue to hold my tongue on certain opinions--but, uh, yeah...
- Cubs signed outfielder Xavier Nady today. Eh.
- Bulls rumored to possibly be trading Kirk Hinrich to Lakers. I might just have to cry if this happens. I played against Hinrich back in 2003 in the KU Barnstormers game in Hutchinson, KS. 17 points, 5 threes. His hand hit my nose on one shot. Slapped me on the butt and said "good shot" on the way by. Highlight of my basketball career. Well, not the butt slap part--the game itself.
Anyways, let me know what you think of the tunes. I can make it so that it doesn't auto-start when you arrive. Something tells me more people would prefer that, but I'll leave it as is in the meantime...
I'll probably have a Valentine's blog coming out soon--or maybe a Black History Month blog? Or maybe someone else has an idea?
Either way, until next time...
Do the right thing,
Derrick
This will be more of a transitional blog than anything, as I don't really have anything substantial to discuss this time.
As I'm sure you noticed, I finally got some music up and running on my page, along with a new poll question.
Results from previous poll:
How often do you read my blogs?
I read occasionally--7 votes (58%)
I read every single one--3 votes (25%)
I read frequently--2 votes (16%)
This is my first time--0 votes (0%)
Stop writing, it all sucks--0 votes (0%)
Would've liked a better outcome--especially in vote totals, but also in regards to a more favorable result. But oh well. Hoping to get more votes with the next question.
Here goes nothing. It's a simple question (top right) regarding what kind of interaction you may have with me. If you aren't pleased with whatever your answer is, feel free to fix it. :)
Randomness...
My sports week:
- Pretty Prairie Bulldog boys basketball team lost to an inferior Peabody team last week. It happens, only one game--the team will be fine, I'm sure. Still, I continue to hold my tongue on certain opinions--but, uh, yeah...
- Cubs signed outfielder Xavier Nady today. Eh.
- Bulls rumored to possibly be trading Kirk Hinrich to Lakers. I might just have to cry if this happens. I played against Hinrich back in 2003 in the KU Barnstormers game in Hutchinson, KS. 17 points, 5 threes. His hand hit my nose on one shot. Slapped me on the butt and said "good shot" on the way by. Highlight of my basketball career. Well, not the butt slap part--the game itself.
Anyways, let me know what you think of the tunes. I can make it so that it doesn't auto-start when you arrive. Something tells me more people would prefer that, but I'll leave it as is in the meantime...
I'll probably have a Valentine's blog coming out soon--or maybe a Black History Month blog? Or maybe someone else has an idea?
Either way, until next time...
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Here's a quarter; can I get 3 more?
It hit me the other day. I'm almost 25 years old. A quarter of a century. Here are some thoughts I have about this:
I always wanted to be married by 25. As I have just 56 days to accomplish this, let's go ahead and chalk that up to being an unsuccessful dream. Clearly, it's time to change the goal. 27? 28? Yikes, I could be in trouble.
"Derrick, you have plenty of time..." Blah blah, hibbety jibbety.
A moment occurred last night at the High School basketball game in Pretty Prairie that made me want a daughter. I seem to have these moments more and more lately. Something about a little girl sharing a laugh with her dad--who is just two years older than I--causes me to be overcome with a mixture of hope and jealousy.
Here's a sad, yet powerful song that I've always loved. Enjoy.
I didn't set as many New Year's resolutions as I probably should have--I usually go through a stage every few months where I attempt to better myself by doing certain things. So I'll work on it for my birthday. While I was unprepared to do it at New Year's, one thing I plan to do is cut out all pop-drinking on my birthday. Ahem, March 6. I do love pop, so it is tough, but one thing I'm very proud of about myself is my willpower. So I have no doubts about my ability to do it. I will not drink pop for a year, at least.
My record: 1 year, 2 months, 3 weeks, 3 days. (Dec 10, 2007-Mar 6, 2009).
I think it would be awesome to live to 100. I hope I'm only a fourth of the way through. I am already thoroughly convinced that I will not die of an illness of any kind. I'm never sick even a little bit--most of you hate me because of this. So unless the Big Guy decides to throw some irony my way (entirely plausible), I'm relatively certain my demise will come from old age, or an accident of some sort. Just a theory I have.
Other monotony:
- I had an entire blog written last night about the recent epidemic in collegiate football, with coaches losing jobs due to alleged misconduct toward players. Erased because I know few if any of my normal readers would have even cared. Short version: Big whoop. If you can't handle it, don't play. Sissies.
- Still haven't figured out how to put background music on my blog (as opposed to inserting video clips, etc). I'm hoping to figure that out soon, so y'all will have some regular background tunes to accompany your reading. If anyone knows how, or has some song suggestions, send them my way. Or if you'd prefer not having any...?
- I may not blog again until I finish my current book. Unless of course I come up with something more meaningful to say than what I've written lately. I've lagged behind a bit lately and am still only on page 93. Hopefully in the next week or so, I can knock out a much more substantial chunk of the book.
- NFL playoffs start today. My team went 7-9 and didn't make the playoffs, but it's still exciting stuff. If nothing else, something to get me closer to baseball season.
Do the right thing,
Derrick
I always wanted to be married by 25. As I have just 56 days to accomplish this, let's go ahead and chalk that up to being an unsuccessful dream. Clearly, it's time to change the goal. 27? 28? Yikes, I could be in trouble.
"Derrick, you have plenty of time..." Blah blah, hibbety jibbety.
A moment occurred last night at the High School basketball game in Pretty Prairie that made me want a daughter. I seem to have these moments more and more lately. Something about a little girl sharing a laugh with her dad--who is just two years older than I--causes me to be overcome with a mixture of hope and jealousy.
Here's a sad, yet powerful song that I've always loved. Enjoy.
I didn't set as many New Year's resolutions as I probably should have--I usually go through a stage every few months where I attempt to better myself by doing certain things. So I'll work on it for my birthday. While I was unprepared to do it at New Year's, one thing I plan to do is cut out all pop-drinking on my birthday. Ahem, March 6. I do love pop, so it is tough, but one thing I'm very proud of about myself is my willpower. So I have no doubts about my ability to do it. I will not drink pop for a year, at least.
My record: 1 year, 2 months, 3 weeks, 3 days. (Dec 10, 2007-Mar 6, 2009).
I think it would be awesome to live to 100. I hope I'm only a fourth of the way through. I am already thoroughly convinced that I will not die of an illness of any kind. I'm never sick even a little bit--most of you hate me because of this. So unless the Big Guy decides to throw some irony my way (entirely plausible), I'm relatively certain my demise will come from old age, or an accident of some sort. Just a theory I have.
Other monotony:
- I had an entire blog written last night about the recent epidemic in collegiate football, with coaches losing jobs due to alleged misconduct toward players. Erased because I know few if any of my normal readers would have even cared. Short version: Big whoop. If you can't handle it, don't play. Sissies.
- Still haven't figured out how to put background music on my blog (as opposed to inserting video clips, etc). I'm hoping to figure that out soon, so y'all will have some regular background tunes to accompany your reading. If anyone knows how, or has some song suggestions, send them my way. Or if you'd prefer not having any...?
- I may not blog again until I finish my current book. Unless of course I come up with something more meaningful to say than what I've written lately. I've lagged behind a bit lately and am still only on page 93. Hopefully in the next week or so, I can knock out a much more substantial chunk of the book.
- NFL playoffs start today. My team went 7-9 and didn't make the playoffs, but it's still exciting stuff. If nothing else, something to get me closer to baseball season.
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
What a weak week. Word. Wait, what? Whoa, weird.
Due to the desire to write, yet lacking much of an idea--let's try a good ole recap of the week, hopefully in a comedic way, of sorts. Tried a few of those awhile back to relatively positive reviews.
Thurs; Dec 10...
7:00-8:45 PM--Play a little roundball with the fellas at home in Pretty Prairie. Only managed enough for 2-on-2, but it was fun, as small town basketball usually is. Then this one crazy cat apparently tripped over something (no one saw it) and watched his ankle swell to the size of a beach ball within minutes. He claims he blocked a shot on the play. Ironically, no one saw that either.
Fri; Dec 11...
I do not remember this day. It must not have happened.
Sat; Dec 12...
9 PM-4 AM (Sun)--Hang out in Hutchinson. Watch I Love You, Man for the first time. I pretty much am Paul Rudd. Except for the whole fiancee thing.
Sun; Dec 13...
4:57 AM--Finally arrive home. It should be a 30 minute drive, max. Worst fog I've ever seen in my life extended the drive a bit. Not pleasant.
6:00 PM--Game time.
6:53 PM--Another close loss, 0-4. 62-68, bad guys. For the first time, I wasn't horrendous. Barely. By my count: 16 points, 13 rebounds. Estimate of what I probably should have had: 28 points, 18 rebounds. Had a nice blocked shot on a former teammate I admire a lot (got called for a nonsense foul, but it was a make-up call for something I got away with previously).
Missed a few chippies--pause to check if "chippies" is a real word or just basketball slang. Chippies: Plural of chippy--a promiscuous young woman. Yikes. Definitely not what I meant. Rephrasing...I missed a few easy baskets.
Oh, promiscuous. Easy! Yeah, I get it now...
7:51-9:18 PM--Get back to gym in Pretty Prairie and join the hometown blokes for some 4-on-4.
7:59 PM--Receive a message that totally spikes my curiosity. Like a volleyball. You know, except not boring. Guffaw.
Mon; Dec 14...
11:45 AM-2:15 PM--Get some good games in on the courts at Wichita State. My team won in its first 7 games. Then a loss, then two wins, a loss, and a win. 10-2? In pickup ball? Pshaw, I'll take it.
7(ish) PM--Watch a pretty intense double-overtime Middle School game. Pretty Prairie wins on a tip-in at the buzzer. That kid will remember that moment forever. I know I have a few moments like that. One that was eerily similar, in fact.
Tue; Dec 15...
8 PM-12:30 AM (Wed)--Hang out in Hutchinson again. Pizza rolls and bread sticks from "The Hut" and a drink from Sonic? Eh, fuggedaboutit! <-- imagine an Italian accent.
Wed; Dec 16...
3 PM-6 PM--Jaunt to Wichita. Pick up a few Christmas gift on very limited budget. Result: I'm an awesome big brother, a decent son and pretty solid brother-in-law. As for being a little brother? Jury still out.
6:30--Taco Bell. Cheesy Gordita Cruch. And some soft shells on the side. No lettuce. Dr. Pepper. Yum.
This is a very anti-climactic ending, but that's pretty much all I've got this time.
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Thurs; Dec 10...
7:00-8:45 PM--Play a little roundball with the fellas at home in Pretty Prairie. Only managed enough for 2-on-2, but it was fun, as small town basketball usually is. Then this one crazy cat apparently tripped over something (no one saw it) and watched his ankle swell to the size of a beach ball within minutes. He claims he blocked a shot on the play. Ironically, no one saw that either.
Fri; Dec 11...
I do not remember this day. It must not have happened.
Sat; Dec 12...
9 PM-4 AM (Sun)--Hang out in Hutchinson. Watch I Love You, Man for the first time. I pretty much am Paul Rudd. Except for the whole fiancee thing.
Sun; Dec 13...
4:57 AM--Finally arrive home. It should be a 30 minute drive, max. Worst fog I've ever seen in my life extended the drive a bit. Not pleasant.
6:00 PM--Game time.
6:53 PM--Another close loss, 0-4. 62-68, bad guys. For the first time, I wasn't horrendous. Barely. By my count: 16 points, 13 rebounds. Estimate of what I probably should have had: 28 points, 18 rebounds. Had a nice blocked shot on a former teammate I admire a lot (got called for a nonsense foul, but it was a make-up call for something I got away with previously).
Missed a few chippies--pause to check if "chippies" is a real word or just basketball slang. Chippies: Plural of chippy--a promiscuous young woman. Yikes. Definitely not what I meant. Rephrasing...I missed a few easy baskets.
Oh, promiscuous. Easy! Yeah, I get it now...
7:51-9:18 PM--Get back to gym in Pretty Prairie and join the hometown blokes for some 4-on-4.
7:59 PM--Receive a message that totally spikes my curiosity. Like a volleyball. You know, except not boring. Guffaw.
Mon; Dec 14...
11:45 AM-2:15 PM--Get some good games in on the courts at Wichita State. My team won in its first 7 games. Then a loss, then two wins, a loss, and a win. 10-2? In pickup ball? Pshaw, I'll take it.
7(ish) PM--Watch a pretty intense double-overtime Middle School game. Pretty Prairie wins on a tip-in at the buzzer. That kid will remember that moment forever. I know I have a few moments like that. One that was eerily similar, in fact.
Tue; Dec 15...
8 PM-12:30 AM (Wed)--Hang out in Hutchinson again. Pizza rolls and bread sticks from "The Hut" and a drink from Sonic? Eh, fuggedaboutit! <-- imagine an Italian accent.
Wed; Dec 16...
3 PM-6 PM--Jaunt to Wichita. Pick up a few Christmas gift on very limited budget. Result: I'm an awesome big brother, a decent son and pretty solid brother-in-law. As for being a little brother? Jury still out.
6:30--Taco Bell. Cheesy Gordita Cruch. And some soft shells on the side. No lettuce. Dr. Pepper. Yum.
This is a very anti-climactic ending, but that's pretty much all I've got this time.
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Saturday, November 14, 2009
2009 Pretty Prairie Bulldogs football
The 2009 Pretty Prairie High School football season came to a disappointing end Friday night, as the Bulldogs fell to the Falcons from Baileyville B & B.
Baileyville was a deserving, well-rounded team that plays good solid football, and is well-coached.
But this isn't about them.
This is about the Pretty Prairie team that took a previously-unbeaten record four-plus hours north to see what it was made of.
On the field, the Bulldogs lost the game--their season was over. Then the helmets came off.
Let's rewind.
Pretty Prairie opened its season by surrendering 22 unanswered points to South Barber. The rest of September? Pretty Prairie 172, Opponents 28. They never looked back.
On October 9, the Bulldogs provided their home fans with the game of the season in a clash with the visiting Claflin Wildcats--pitting two teams who'd gone down to the wire the previous season, with Pretty Prairie coming up on the wrong end.
The rematch did not disappoint, culminating in thrilling fashion, as the Bulldogs closed out Claflin, 46-44. In the waning seconds, ailing quarterback Hunter Pittman threaded a nifty pass in traffic to freshman Alex Mains just inside the left pylon. Mains made the catch of a lifetime in the endzone to give Pretty Prairie the lead. Claflin moved down the field with a couple quick--albeit long plays, but was brought down just short of the goal line by the Bulldog defense as time expired.
Hysteria in a community of barely 600.
Pretty Prairie coasted through its next two games before grinding out a win versus Goessel and smashing Udall in its Bi-District game. They then rolled past an unsuspecting Frankfort squad (40-8) to set up a Sub-State battle with the defending State Champion Baileyville Falcons.
Pretty Prairie won 11 games for various reasons.
Leadership: Ben Ketchem, Cole Kirkbride. If you watched even a single game, nothing else need be said. True, Pretty Prairie "only" loses two seniors, and could be even more formidable next season. However, those are two tough seniors to lose.
Touchdowns (and lots of them): Junior Daniel Krehbiel has to be considered one of the top running backs in Kansas for his play in 2009.
Play-making: Hunter Pittman and fellow junior Tanner Hines were integral play-makers on offense for the Bulldogs as well, while the defense was a harder-hitting group than anyone seemed ready for. Junior Seth Hastings was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks all season long. Junior Josh Kaufman laid a smashing hit on a Frankfort player that looked like it should have landed him in a coma. Brilliant football play. Freshman Stetson Broce seemed to always have a nose for the ball as he racked up tackles and interceptions throughout the season.
Teamwork: Perhaps the most cliche rally cry in sports, but you'd probably be hard pressed to find a closer-knit group of young men than the 2009 Bulldog football team.
Coaching: Over the course of eight-plus years, I've concluded that C.T. Young could catch a fish, teach it to grow legs, run a slant route, and catch a pass over the middle. OK, perhaps a bit far-fetched. But my guess? Probably not by much. He knows the game of football, and loves it. And it shows in the attitudes of his players.
Back to Baileyville, KS--Friday, November 13.
I know the guys on the team will most likely see the Sub-State loss as a failure, a disappointment, unfinished business, all that stuff. I've played sports all my life--I know how it works.
But...
As the young, dispirited Bulldogs walked off the field in sorrow, helmets in their hands and tears in their eyes--senior captains Ben Ketchem and Cole Kirkbride stood firm at midfield applauding the victors from Baileyville--the type of defining moment that turns boys into men in an instant.
Goosebumps.
In that very moment, as if never before--I was proud to know those two young men. Ben and Cole, I'm proud to call you my friends.
Kudos to you both for always playing--and acting the right way. Trust me, people notice.
To the rest of the Bulldogs,
Congrats on a great season. You will be back.
Derrick Mead
PS--Tried to tinker with a pic. Looked good when I finished, but came out blurry for some reason. Enjoy.
Baileyville was a deserving, well-rounded team that plays good solid football, and is well-coached.
But this isn't about them.
This is about the Pretty Prairie team that took a previously-unbeaten record four-plus hours north to see what it was made of.
On the field, the Bulldogs lost the game--their season was over. Then the helmets came off.
Let's rewind.
Pretty Prairie opened its season by surrendering 22 unanswered points to South Barber. The rest of September? Pretty Prairie 172, Opponents 28. They never looked back.
On October 9, the Bulldogs provided their home fans with the game of the season in a clash with the visiting Claflin Wildcats--pitting two teams who'd gone down to the wire the previous season, with Pretty Prairie coming up on the wrong end.
The rematch did not disappoint, culminating in thrilling fashion, as the Bulldogs closed out Claflin, 46-44. In the waning seconds, ailing quarterback Hunter Pittman threaded a nifty pass in traffic to freshman Alex Mains just inside the left pylon. Mains made the catch of a lifetime in the endzone to give Pretty Prairie the lead. Claflin moved down the field with a couple quick--albeit long plays, but was brought down just short of the goal line by the Bulldog defense as time expired.
Hysteria in a community of barely 600.
Pretty Prairie coasted through its next two games before grinding out a win versus Goessel and smashing Udall in its Bi-District game. They then rolled past an unsuspecting Frankfort squad (40-8) to set up a Sub-State battle with the defending State Champion Baileyville Falcons.
Pretty Prairie won 11 games for various reasons.
Leadership: Ben Ketchem, Cole Kirkbride. If you watched even a single game, nothing else need be said. True, Pretty Prairie "only" loses two seniors, and could be even more formidable next season. However, those are two tough seniors to lose.
Touchdowns (and lots of them): Junior Daniel Krehbiel has to be considered one of the top running backs in Kansas for his play in 2009.
Play-making: Hunter Pittman and fellow junior Tanner Hines were integral play-makers on offense for the Bulldogs as well, while the defense was a harder-hitting group than anyone seemed ready for. Junior Seth Hastings was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks all season long. Junior Josh Kaufman laid a smashing hit on a Frankfort player that looked like it should have landed him in a coma. Brilliant football play. Freshman Stetson Broce seemed to always have a nose for the ball as he racked up tackles and interceptions throughout the season.
Teamwork: Perhaps the most cliche rally cry in sports, but you'd probably be hard pressed to find a closer-knit group of young men than the 2009 Bulldog football team.
Coaching: Over the course of eight-plus years, I've concluded that C.T. Young could catch a fish, teach it to grow legs, run a slant route, and catch a pass over the middle. OK, perhaps a bit far-fetched. But my guess? Probably not by much. He knows the game of football, and loves it. And it shows in the attitudes of his players.
Back to Baileyville, KS--Friday, November 13.
I know the guys on the team will most likely see the Sub-State loss as a failure, a disappointment, unfinished business, all that stuff. I've played sports all my life--I know how it works.
But...
As the young, dispirited Bulldogs walked off the field in sorrow, helmets in their hands and tears in their eyes--senior captains Ben Ketchem and Cole Kirkbride stood firm at midfield applauding the victors from Baileyville--the type of defining moment that turns boys into men in an instant.
Goosebumps.
In that very moment, as if never before--I was proud to know those two young men. Ben and Cole, I'm proud to call you my friends.
Kudos to you both for always playing--and acting the right way. Trust me, people notice.
To the rest of the Bulldogs,
Congrats on a great season. You will be back.
Derrick Mead
PS--Tried to tinker with a pic. Looked good when I finished, but came out blurry for some reason. Enjoy.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Warning: If you read this, you'll learn something new...
I'm a pretty open cat, if you know me. Finding a secret on me is like finding a needle made from hay in...well, you know--a haystack.
But I decided to dig deep and come up with some things that some folks may not know about me. I do this every-so-often, and figured I was due. Some of these things are quite embarrassing--but alas...
- In 2nd grade, I wanted to be a preacher when I grew up.
- I'd had a long day at school and basketball practice the day before my grandfather died--so I told my mom I'd pass on visiting him in the hospital. Doctors assured us his condition wasn't serious, and he'd be fine. No worries, I figured--I'd see him in a few days. He passed away in the middle of the night. My decision that day still bothers me sometimes.
- My first kiss was approximately 6 weeks before my 18th birthday.
- I would marry (______) today, if she let me.
- I had this High School classmate--real cool chica. I've said occasionally for years (almost always to myself) that I definitely wouldn't mind marrying a girl exactly like her someday. I can't think of anyone who knows (guessing aside) who I'm referring to.
- If I don't have a kid before December 19, 2014--I will consider myself a major disappointment.
- The first episode of SportsCenter I ever recall watching was on November 7, 1991. It remains the most memorable thing I've ever seen on ESPN. I couldn't actually find an ESPN clip--they appear to be stingy with their rights--but here's one from CNN. It's 9:56 long, but you'll get the idea very shortly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSfy4AhDDnw
- I did not go to my High School graduation. People insisted I'd regret it, but truth be told, I often even forget that I didn't go. My college graduation was much more important to me. I went to that one--almost entirely for my mom.
- I absolutely love Pretty Prairie, KS. There, I said it.
- I love to sing. Almost exclusively in my car. Primarily along with various country songs, but not that part's not exclusive. I'm convinced I'm pretty okay at it, too.
- I was 100% comfortable with my weight until 2005. My college basketball coach (Jones, not Trimmell--Trimmell was too busy being a good person, and winning games to ever demean his players) made several comments about it. Even resorted to cheap name-calling. To this day, I am self-conscious about my weight because of that man. I think about it at least a dozen times a day.
- I have never been in a relationship with anyone on Facebook. I've also never had a girlfriend in the summertime. Or the fall, now that I think about it. More specifically, never between June-October. Whoa...
One last one that I'm borrowing from a flick (gee, guess which one), but I always liked it, and it holds true for me, too...
- "I could be fun, if you want. I could be pensive, uhh...smart, superstitious, brave? And I, uhh--I can be light on my feet. I could be whatever you want. You just tell me what you want, and I'm gonna be that for you."
"You're dumb."
- "I could be that."
Do the right thing,
Derrick
But I decided to dig deep and come up with some things that some folks may not know about me. I do this every-so-often, and figured I was due. Some of these things are quite embarrassing--but alas...
- In 2nd grade, I wanted to be a preacher when I grew up.
- I'd had a long day at school and basketball practice the day before my grandfather died--so I told my mom I'd pass on visiting him in the hospital. Doctors assured us his condition wasn't serious, and he'd be fine. No worries, I figured--I'd see him in a few days. He passed away in the middle of the night. My decision that day still bothers me sometimes.
- My first kiss was approximately 6 weeks before my 18th birthday.
- I would marry (______) today, if she let me.
- I had this High School classmate--real cool chica. I've said occasionally for years (almost always to myself) that I definitely wouldn't mind marrying a girl exactly like her someday. I can't think of anyone who knows (guessing aside) who I'm referring to.
- If I don't have a kid before December 19, 2014--I will consider myself a major disappointment.
- The first episode of SportsCenter I ever recall watching was on November 7, 1991. It remains the most memorable thing I've ever seen on ESPN. I couldn't actually find an ESPN clip--they appear to be stingy with their rights--but here's one from CNN. It's 9:56 long, but you'll get the idea very shortly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSfy4AhDDnw
- I did not go to my High School graduation. People insisted I'd regret it, but truth be told, I often even forget that I didn't go. My college graduation was much more important to me. I went to that one--almost entirely for my mom.
- I absolutely love Pretty Prairie, KS. There, I said it.
- I love to sing. Almost exclusively in my car. Primarily along with various country songs, but not that part's not exclusive. I'm convinced I'm pretty okay at it, too.
- I was 100% comfortable with my weight until 2005. My college basketball coach (Jones, not Trimmell--Trimmell was too busy being a good person, and winning games to ever demean his players) made several comments about it. Even resorted to cheap name-calling. To this day, I am self-conscious about my weight because of that man. I think about it at least a dozen times a day.
- I have never been in a relationship with anyone on Facebook. I've also never had a girlfriend in the summertime. Or the fall, now that I think about it. More specifically, never between June-October. Whoa...
One last one that I'm borrowing from a flick (gee, guess which one), but I always liked it, and it holds true for me, too...
- "I could be fun, if you want. I could be pensive, uhh...smart, superstitious, brave? And I, uhh--I can be light on my feet. I could be whatever you want. You just tell me what you want, and I'm gonna be that for you."
"You're dumb."
- "I could be that."
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Who are you? Really...
Who are you?
What do you stand for?
"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything." - attributed to many, including US Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall, Alexander Hamilton, and the more recognizable Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. Take your pick.
I stand for honorable and decent behavior towards all.
I stand up for the young and old, the big and small.
I stand when people ask if I believe in God.
I stand up for my friends, even when they're odd.
Who are you?
What are your standards?
"Aim above morality. Be not simply good, be good for something." - Henry David Thoreau
This question is pretty broad--and a matter of perception.
When it comes to actions (specifically in a prospective girl): Don't smoke...don't talk like a sailor...don't talk to me about the Yankees--seriously, I find them reprehensible, and a strong representative of all that is soulless and wrong with not only sports, but society in general...don't use the word "busy" or say things like "FML"--ever...don't talk too much in general...don't be cocky or self-absorbed...don't be...well...a hoard of other things that you can ask me about later, but should already know if you know me at all...
When it comes to ethics: Treat people right, period. Should be all I need to say, but many people don't seem get it, so here's more: Open doors for girls, whether they're 2 or 92. Talk to strangers. I've never understood why people say not to--that's terrible advice! Be a courteous driver. Give things away--even when you can't afford to...Money. Clothes. Love. Organs. You laugh; I'm serious.
Who are you?
Who do you play for?
"Mike Eruzione--Winthrop, Massachusetts...I play for...the United States of America." - Mike Eruzione, played by actor Patrick O'Brien Demsey--"Miracle"
Okay, that was corny. But sports are a big part of my life, and it's effective.
I was a Kansas Wesleyan Coyote for the only "official" time I spent as a college basketball player.
But I will always be a Bulldog at heart...
I was a McPherson College Bulldog in my collegiate days that mattered most to me. I still miss it there every day.
I grew up a Pretty Prairie Bulldog. It's in my heart--it's embedded in me.
Who are you?
What do you represent?
"I'm a better person than I was yesterday, but not as good as I will be tomorrow." - Derrick Mead
Yes, I just quoted myself.
I'm a country boy--but not a hick.
I'm a basketball player--coach, too.
I'm a writer and a prankster.
I'm confident and shy at the same time.
I'm a serious listener and a funny talker.
I'm just dumb enough to be smart--or maybe the other way around.
I want people to know me, but not really.
It's the reason I changed my major in college.
I once wanted nothing more than to be a sports commentator--preferably baseball. From ages 8-20 I dreamed about one day calling moments like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBJ89V7A_3c
The names Kirk Gibson and Joe Carter will always give me goosebumps just at the mere sound of them.
But ultimately, I didn't want to be that widely seen--or heard. I want to be much more discreet, but inspirational at the same time. Like maybe becoming the most successful basketball coach at a school no one has ever heard of--something like that.
It's the reason I'm a friend to all, but a stranger to many.
I'll help anyone in need. Example: I spent almost 2 hours helping a lady who should've been killed after rolling her car several times a few months back at 3 AM.
Never told her my name, though.
That's just who I am.
So tell me...
Who are you?
Do the right thing,
Derrick
What do you stand for?
"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything." - attributed to many, including US Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall, Alexander Hamilton, and the more recognizable Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. Take your pick.
I stand for honorable and decent behavior towards all.
I stand up for the young and old, the big and small.
I stand when people ask if I believe in God.
I stand up for my friends, even when they're odd.
Who are you?
What are your standards?
"Aim above morality. Be not simply good, be good for something." - Henry David Thoreau
This question is pretty broad--and a matter of perception.
When it comes to actions (specifically in a prospective girl): Don't smoke...don't talk like a sailor...don't talk to me about the Yankees--seriously, I find them reprehensible, and a strong representative of all that is soulless and wrong with not only sports, but society in general...don't use the word "busy" or say things like "FML"--ever...don't talk too much in general...don't be cocky or self-absorbed...don't be...well...a hoard of other things that you can ask me about later, but should already know if you know me at all...
When it comes to ethics: Treat people right, period. Should be all I need to say, but many people don't seem get it, so here's more: Open doors for girls, whether they're 2 or 92. Talk to strangers. I've never understood why people say not to--that's terrible advice! Be a courteous driver. Give things away--even when you can't afford to...Money. Clothes. Love. Organs. You laugh; I'm serious.
Who are you?
Who do you play for?
"Mike Eruzione--Winthrop, Massachusetts...I play for...the United States of America." - Mike Eruzione, played by actor Patrick O'Brien Demsey--"Miracle"
Okay, that was corny. But sports are a big part of my life, and it's effective.
I was a Kansas Wesleyan Coyote for the only "official" time I spent as a college basketball player.
But I will always be a Bulldog at heart...
I was a McPherson College Bulldog in my collegiate days that mattered most to me. I still miss it there every day.
I grew up a Pretty Prairie Bulldog. It's in my heart--it's embedded in me.
Who are you?
What do you represent?
"I'm a better person than I was yesterday, but not as good as I will be tomorrow." - Derrick Mead
Yes, I just quoted myself.
I'm a country boy--but not a hick.
I'm a basketball player--coach, too.
I'm a writer and a prankster.
I'm confident and shy at the same time.
I'm a serious listener and a funny talker.
I'm just dumb enough to be smart--or maybe the other way around.
I want people to know me, but not really.
It's the reason I changed my major in college.
I once wanted nothing more than to be a sports commentator--preferably baseball. From ages 8-20 I dreamed about one day calling moments like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBJ89V7A_3c
The names Kirk Gibson and Joe Carter will always give me goosebumps just at the mere sound of them.
But ultimately, I didn't want to be that widely seen--or heard. I want to be much more discreet, but inspirational at the same time. Like maybe becoming the most successful basketball coach at a school no one has ever heard of--something like that.
It's the reason I'm a friend to all, but a stranger to many.
I'll help anyone in need. Example: I spent almost 2 hours helping a lady who should've been killed after rolling her car several times a few months back at 3 AM.
Never told her my name, though.
That's just who I am.
Who are you?
Do the right thing,
Derrick
Monday, July 27, 2009
You used to be Mel Clark?
Day 27: INcomplete
Morning session: N/A
Evening session: 6.29 miles
Total distance: 6.29 miles
No morning run yet again. Trying not to be too hard on myself, since I've already reached the 300 mark, but...this was the third morning in 4 days that I didn't run. Need to get after it tomorrow. We'll see if that pans out.
Managed to dig up a few more sports flicks around the house, and I'll check the town library to see if they have any others that I haven't watched yet this month...
Now: Rookie of the Year. It features the Cubs; what's not to like?
Speaking of which--the boys in blue are tied 1-1 heading to the 13th inning. Here we go again. They need the win to hold onto 1st place. C'mon, fellas!
But there's only a few minutes left in the movie, so next we'll have: Angels in the Outfield. Funny flick with some baseball, some silliness, and a few nice, sentimental moments, too.
**Cubs win, Cubs win! Grand slam, Alfonso Soriano! 5-1, Cubs in 13 innings. Huge, huge win!!**
Tonight's Top 10 list:
Top 10 Favorite teachers (excluding my mom) I've ever had (and what classes I had with them):
10. Chuck Killingsworth, Pittsburg State University: Fresman Experience
9. Allan Van Asselt, McPherson College: Chemistry
8. Cheryl Matthews, Pretty Prairie Middle School: 7th/8th grade English
7. Jon Johnson, Pretty Prairie High School: American History, American Government
6. C.T. Young, Pretty Prairie High School: Physical Science, Biology
5. Patti French, Pretty Prairie Middle School: 5th grade
4. B.J. Stegall, Pretty Prairie High School: Algebra II, Geometry
3. Lindsey Harvell, Wichita State University: Public Speaking
2. Chuck Ray, Pretty Prairie High School: English, Creative Writing
1. W. Stephen Hathaway, Wichita State University: American Literature, Modern American Writers, Nature of Fiction
Not sure what spurned this, but felt like it was a good use of some thought.
Side note; #3: Lindsey Harvell (aka, Linds) taught my Public Speaking class my first semester at WSU. I was a Junior, had just transferred in, and she was just starting her teaching career.
- She is now a professor at the University of Oklahoma *puke*. We became friends after that semester. Weird stuff. Cool chica, though.
Hathaway and Ray have both been very influential in my, uh, weirdness.
D, out.
Morning session: N/A
Evening session: 6.29 miles
Total distance: 6.29 miles
No morning run yet again. Trying not to be too hard on myself, since I've already reached the 300 mark, but...this was the third morning in 4 days that I didn't run. Need to get after it tomorrow. We'll see if that pans out.
Managed to dig up a few more sports flicks around the house, and I'll check the town library to see if they have any others that I haven't watched yet this month...
Now: Rookie of the Year. It features the Cubs; what's not to like?
Speaking of which--the boys in blue are tied 1-1 heading to the 13th inning. Here we go again. They need the win to hold onto 1st place. C'mon, fellas!
But there's only a few minutes left in the movie, so next we'll have: Angels in the Outfield. Funny flick with some baseball, some silliness, and a few nice, sentimental moments, too.
**Cubs win, Cubs win! Grand slam, Alfonso Soriano! 5-1, Cubs in 13 innings. Huge, huge win!!**
Tonight's Top 10 list:
Top 10 Favorite teachers (excluding my mom) I've ever had (and what classes I had with them):
10. Chuck Killingsworth, Pittsburg State University: Fresman Experience
9. Allan Van Asselt, McPherson College: Chemistry
8. Cheryl Matthews, Pretty Prairie Middle School: 7th/8th grade English
7. Jon Johnson, Pretty Prairie High School: American History, American Government
6. C.T. Young, Pretty Prairie High School: Physical Science, Biology
5. Patti French, Pretty Prairie Middle School: 5th grade
4. B.J. Stegall, Pretty Prairie High School: Algebra II, Geometry
3. Lindsey Harvell, Wichita State University: Public Speaking
2. Chuck Ray, Pretty Prairie High School: English, Creative Writing
1. W. Stephen Hathaway, Wichita State University: American Literature, Modern American Writers, Nature of Fiction
Not sure what spurned this, but felt like it was a good use of some thought.
Side note; #3: Lindsey Harvell (aka, Linds) taught my Public Speaking class my first semester at WSU. I was a Junior, had just transferred in, and she was just starting her teaching career.
- She is now a professor at the University of Oklahoma *puke*. We became friends after that semester. Weird stuff. Cool chica, though.
Hathaway and Ray have both been very influential in my, uh, weirdness.
D, out.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Well wake her a** up; we gotta win tomorrow!
Day 26: INcomplete
Morning session: N/A
Evening session: 6.03 miles
Total distance: 6.03 miles
No early run since I went to church, and not much running in the evening, either, since I drove to the gym. Lucky thing, too, since no one showed to play ball. Kids around here have no dedication these days. Lazy schmucks.
From 1998-2003, Sunday ball in Pretty Prairie was legit. Nowadays, it's still us old school cats spearheading it, while the High School blokes come up with a new excuse every single time. And the guys on the basketball team are the worst ones, at that. Frustrating, to say the least. No matter, got a little run in out in the country, instead. All-in-all, a bit of a letdown today in the running department.
Movie now: The Waterboy.
Adam Sandler is one funny hombre. In case you didn't know.
And since tonight's blog is short, and I may have finished my last VHS sports movie by blog-time tomorrow...
The next, and final sports flick of the month: Jerry Maguire.
The only time Tom Cruise has been, and ever will be tolerable, in my opinion. Pretty solid flick, though.
Don't feel like thinkin' too hard tonight, so this will be a short, easy one...
Tonight's Top 10 list:
Top 10 favorite sports (to watch):
10. LaCrosse
9. Futbol (soccer)
8. Hockey (NHL)
7. Tennis (ATP)
6. Boxing
5. Football (NCAA)
4. Basketball (NCAA)
3. Football (NFL)
2. Basketball (NBA)
1. Baseball (MLB)
The fact that baseball is #1 on my list would surprise those who don't know me too well. The reason is simple. I get too antsy when I watch basketball, and I want to play. Other than the Cubs, basketball is my true love. But I simply can't stand watching it being played poorly--on any level.
Also, boxing would be much higher if it wasn't dying out. We need more big-name, primetime boxers in the game today. It's a beautiful sport.
Finally...
My beloved Cubbies won today, and the hated Cardinals got thrashed by Philly. Which means what, you ask? It means my Cubs are now in first place for the first time since April 21. They were in 4th place (4.5 games back) in the division when July began...
Don't look back, fellas!
D, out.
Morning session: N/A
Evening session: 6.03 miles
Total distance: 6.03 miles
No early run since I went to church, and not much running in the evening, either, since I drove to the gym. Lucky thing, too, since no one showed to play ball. Kids around here have no dedication these days. Lazy schmucks.
From 1998-2003, Sunday ball in Pretty Prairie was legit. Nowadays, it's still us old school cats spearheading it, while the High School blokes come up with a new excuse every single time. And the guys on the basketball team are the worst ones, at that. Frustrating, to say the least. No matter, got a little run in out in the country, instead. All-in-all, a bit of a letdown today in the running department.
Movie now: The Waterboy.
Adam Sandler is one funny hombre. In case you didn't know.
And since tonight's blog is short, and I may have finished my last VHS sports movie by blog-time tomorrow...
The next, and final sports flick of the month: Jerry Maguire.
The only time Tom Cruise has been, and ever will be tolerable, in my opinion. Pretty solid flick, though.
Don't feel like thinkin' too hard tonight, so this will be a short, easy one...
Tonight's Top 10 list:
Top 10 favorite sports (to watch):
10. LaCrosse
9. Futbol (soccer)
8. Hockey (NHL)
7. Tennis (ATP)
6. Boxing
5. Football (NCAA)
4. Basketball (NCAA)
3. Football (NFL)
2. Basketball (NBA)
1. Baseball (MLB)
The fact that baseball is #1 on my list would surprise those who don't know me too well. The reason is simple. I get too antsy when I watch basketball, and I want to play. Other than the Cubs, basketball is my true love. But I simply can't stand watching it being played poorly--on any level.
Also, boxing would be much higher if it wasn't dying out. We need more big-name, primetime boxers in the game today. It's a beautiful sport.
Finally...
My beloved Cubbies won today, and the hated Cardinals got thrashed by Philly. Which means what, you ask? It means my Cubs are now in first place for the first time since April 21. They were in 4th place (4.5 games back) in the division when July began...
Don't look back, fellas!
D, out.
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