hola, que tal? (that's hello, what's up in spanish)

I know, I know, long time no blog. Sorry, I've been busy wrapping up the end of my summer semester. I passed both classes with an "A". I'm a regular Albert Einstein, ain't I? At least that's over with, only 3 more semesters to go b4 I get my associates degree! it only took 10 years, but hey, who's counting?
Well, I just spent the weekend with my buddy Robert backpacking through Maramec State Park. It was actually a lot of fun. I had forgotten what its like to get down to basics again and really rough it. Now I say roughing it, but we did finish the trail early and decided to reward ourselves with a fifth of Southern Comfort and som Mickey D's b4 heading back to the trail to finish our adventure. The only bad part was on the last night it rained nonstop and my tent leaked like a sive. Aside from that it was a good time. I've got some pics posted in the slide show above.
So I've heard that everybody was thinking about a float trip here in august. Make sure you keep me informed. I'd love to go if I can get off work. I miss hanging out with everybody. Jen has been kind enough to invite me to her Nov dinner party, but I hope to see everybody b4 that!
What else? Oh yeah, we just bought a 07 Chevrolet Uplander yesterday. It's pretty nice for a mini-van. We were originally looking for best gas milage, but then decided in the bigger picture a fuel efficient mini van would be best for hauling 2 car seats, people, and other things for vackay and such. The van comes pretty much fully equiped and even has a dvd player! I never thought I'd own a vehicle with an entertainment system built in, but the price was right. I think we got a good deal on it, we only paid $13995.
And my now, for my regularly scheduled weight announcement...drum roll please....i weighed in after my backpacking trip and I am officially 208lbs! At the current rate, I should be under 200lbs within the next 2 weeks! I'll keep you posted as the drop continues. Thank you all so much for your well wishes and support! I'm extremely embarrased that I allowed myself to become as big as I was, but with all my friends and family behind me, I know I can accomplish this dramatic comeback! Thanks again!

Salutations!

I hope everybody had a wonderful 4th of July weekend! The Welcome home party for Sam last week was fantastic. I enjoyed seeing everybody and meeting a few of the faces I blog with from time to time, but had not had the chance to meet until then. Caryl wished she was able to come out, but was greatful for her time away.
We had a few friends and family out to our neck of the woods (that statement made quite literally) for the holiday. We bar-b-qued some hamburgers, hot dogs, and pork steaks. We drank some beer, played washers, and threw a baseball around before we unleashed the furious wonder that is FIREWORKS! I love them so much!!!! It was a good time had by all.
Okay, now for the big news. It is official...I have reached my 50 lbs mark!!!!! Thats right, you read it hear first. I am officially 215 lbs, down from my original 265 lbs for those of you not keeping track! Thank you all so much for all your complements when you saw my progress at the party. Those complements do not go unappreciated. They are my motivation to continue my new goal of another 50 lbs. My height weight ratio should be 5' 7"/ 157 lbs so I'm half way there. I know I can make it with the support and prayers from all of you. I will have a huge party when I reach that mark for anybody who wishes to celebrate with me! Can you tell I'm excited :~D (thats a big shit-eatin' grin I'm wearing right now).
I just found out that my in-laws have laid gravel for the road to our 18 acre family camp ground we are reclaiming from the wilderness, so it is now accessable without 4 wheel drive. So ladies, tell your gents that I will be planning a weekend escape here shortly and I expect all the guys to attend. (I understand that this is an impossible request, however I can be delussional if I want!)
Well that's it for now! I'll blog again soon