ThE_WaY

The Hobbit Book Review: Chapter 9

2012-09-12T17:41:00.001-07:00

With help from Bilbo the dwarfs barely escaped the grasp of the giant spiders and from being their dinner. Hungry, poisoned, and beyond weary the group stumbled through Mirkwood searching in vain for a way out. All the sudden several torches surrounded them and an elvish voice shouted halt. The dwarfs gave up peacefully and Bilbo who slipped on his ring step aside to not be spotted. The dwarfs were taken to the Elven king questioned and then each were sent to a separate cell and given food. Bilbo just barely snuck in behind the last elf before the magical doors snapped closed.

They spent several weeks as prisoners in the Woodland Kings domain and Bilbo spent every day with his ring on trying not to be spotted, invisibility will only get you so far. Bilbo also found where they were keeping Thorin imprisoned. One day Bilbo devised a plan to help him and the dwarfs escape. It was a night of a great fall festival and all the elves were busy merry making and feasting. That is when Bilbo overheard one of the elves about sending empty storage barrels back up the river. So when the butler and chief were down in the cellar having a drink, Bilbo was there waiting. The drink must have been of a strong kind because shortly after the drink the Butler and Chief fell fast asleep dreaming sweet dreams.

Bilbo quickly gathered all the dwarfs starting with Balin and ending with Thorin. He then took them to the cellar and packed them neatly into thirteen different barrels, all before the second shift came to switch with the Butler. The elves pushed out the barrels and commented on how heavy they seemed for empty barrels, but didn’t check inside them. After the last barrel was tossed out Bilbo quickly jumped in the water below fearing he would never find the dwarfs if he didn’t. They floated down the stream and so did Bilbo as he tried his best to climb a top one of the barrels to get out of the cold water. They made it to a small port, were several elves gathered the barrels and tied each of the them together to make a raft. This is where they stayed the night and our chapter ends.

Now Bilbo has gotten the dwarfs out of not one, but two dangerous situations. Their comments earlier in the book now seem a little misplaced and Mr. Baggins has beyond showed his worth. I love how Mr. Tolkien has taken this underdog character and through trials has become the hero and leader of the book. It shows how greatness can come from anywhere and anybody. If your reading along let me know what you think of Mr. Baggins.

Insanity 2 Inshape: Week 7

2012-09-10T15:41:00.002-07:00

After the first week of Max interval training, I have two words. Insanity sucks!! It doesn't suck in an it will get better way, its in the it will always be hard and never gets easier way. If you think its easy your not pushing yourself. If your not challenged then your not trying. This is the hardest workout I have done since Muay Thai and BJJ. It will put you in the best shape of your life and at least bring you back to the best shape you have been in.

Week 6 consisted of one hour of intense cardio and muscle endurance. The main difference besides the extra 15 minutes of intense body crushing exercises, is that it hits more upper body muscles then the first workouts did. When doing jumping jacks or any other plyo-metric exercise, my pecs began to scream from the rhythmic bouncing.

6 weeks down 3 to go and yes you can do it too!

The Hobbit Book Review: Ch 8

2012-09-07T15:37:00.002-07:00

Bilbo and the Dwarfs looked upon Mirkwood and fear and dread crept into their heart. They took their first of many steps inside of the gloomy forest and all light seemed to fade away. The low dim of daylight soon turned to darkness the further they hiked into Mirkwood. Hours seemed like days, and days weeks as they traveled through the treacherous woods.

Soon Bilbo and the dwarfs came upon a dark rapidly flowing stream. They remembered what Beorn and Gandalf had warned them about the water inside of the forest. It held enchantment on who ever was to drink it or wade through it. They thought for a while on how they were to cross this wide creek and with Bilbo's keen eyes he spotted a boat pulled to shore on the other side. One of the dwarfs launched a rope with a hook toward the boat and on the second try snagged their only hope. The dwarfs pulled and pulled and the taunt rope soon gave way and the boat came speeding along to their side of the shore.

Four by four the dwarfs and Bilbo piled into the boat to make it safely onto the other side. On the last trip Bombur was stepping onto the shore and a great dear came out of the woods and caused him to lose his balance. Bombur fell into the stream and they threw him a rope and pulled him in. As soon as they reeled him to land they noticed he had fell into a deep sleep that no one could rise him from. All hope was soon fading from the group when they realized they must share the load of Bombur the rest of the journey.

On one faithful night when hope was almost lost old Bombur rose from his slumber and at about the same time one of the dwarfs spotted a faint glow of torches in the distance. They all got up and were off toward the light disregarding the advice from Gandalf about not straying from the path. They stepped into the circle were the torches were and before they could say anything all the lights went out, as if by magic. This happened two more times, on the last, Bilbo was left alone, with the dwarfs no where in sight or sound.

Later that night Bilbo found himself in a duel with a giant spider as he woke up with it trying to wrap him up and drag him off for dinner. Bilbo didn't go down without a fight though he thrust his sword right between the spiders eyes in a death dealing blow. Bilbo soon realized what had happen to the dwarfs, they must of been drug off by giant spiders.

Bilbo searched the forest and with a bit of luck and intuition found a dark scary place. This place a giant spiders all about and in the distance her saw 12 dwarfs hanging from a tree. He could tell they were dwarfs by their colorful hoods sticking out. Soon Bilbo plotted away to save the dwarfs. He had his ring on so not to be spotted and he launched stones at the spiders all while singing a rather nifty song. In this way he led the spiders away from the dwarfs and circled back to cut them down. After he released them they had to fight their way out of the spider den while poisoned and weak. Thanks to Bilbo and his elvish blade they made it out safely.

They quickly realized that Thorin was not with them. He was not captured by hungry spiders, but none other than woodland elves. But Bilbo and his comrades still didn't know this.

So the further we get into this story the more courage Bilbo has shown, now he has battle giant spiders and came out unscathed. It seems a Hero can come from the most unlikely of places and sizes.

Insanity 2 Inshape: Week 6

2012-09-04T16:46:00.001-07:00

Wait a minute!! It's like week one all over again. This is the month that separates the strong from the weak, the men from the boys, or ladies from the young ladies.

I've done interval training before but none to this level of intensity. It takes what you have done the first month and then cranks it to 11, the boys from Spinal Tap would be impressed.

Now my body is screaming, my muscles ache and guess what? I get to do it all over again in the morning, lucky me. I have a vow of confidence for you if your also going through this craziness. The pain your feeling right now, can't and won't last forever and the lifestyle changing effects can if you continue on. So keep going, you can do this.

Fit Test 3

1.Switch Kicks-92 +22

2.Power Jacks-50 +4

3.Power Knees-114 +19

4.Power Jumps-52 +22

5.Globe Jumps-11 +2

6.Suicide Jumps-20 -4

7.Push-up Jacks-33 -3

8.Low Plank Oblique-25 -1

The Hobbit Book Review: Ch 7

2012-08-29T16:14:00.001-07:00

After barely escaping being burnt alive by the hands of goblins. Then having great eagles swoop down saving them just in the nick of time. Bilbo and his friends, I think they should be called friends now since he has went through more with them in a month then you would in life time with your friends under our circumstances, have journey past the misty mountains and been placed carefully down by the great eagles on a large rock platform called the Carrock.

Gandalf realized they were far from the original path they would have been on if they had not been detoured because of the wolves and goblins. Also, they were out of food, supplies, and ponies and had no way of getting either one of these. But Gandalf was a seasoned traveler and knew exactly where they were and knew of someone who lived a day’s hike away from here. His name was Beorn and he was a huge man with long black hair and had a great bushy beard. He also was a skin changer, which meant he could turn from a man into a massive black bear.

Gandalf was cunning and knowing the short temper of Beorn devised a plan to have them invited as guests instead of turned away as beggars. They would go in pairs of two every five minutes, all the while Gandalf would be telling Beorn the story of their perilous journey. Every now and then during the story he would hint that they were more and more companions with him and with that up would come two more dwarfs, until at the end the whole company was around Beorn’s great table.

Beorn allowed Bilbo and company to rest and recover for a couple of days in his house as his guests. This filled their heart with renewed spirit and allowed their body to recover from the tireless adventure. Soon they were off, they made a new friend, restore supplies and food thanks to Beorn. He even let Bilbo and his friends ride on his ponies to the very edge of Mirkwood and if you knew Beorn you would be aware of how great an honor this was. He loved his animals as one would their own children. From here Gandalf said his goodbyes with Bilbo and the dwarfs as they made their dangerous path through Mirkwood forest.

During this chapter you get to see the wisdom and knowledge of Gandalf. How he can turn almost any situation into his favor. You also get introduced to Beorn, he will prove to be a great ally to have in the end.

Insanity 2 Inshape: Week 5

2012-08-27T16:08:00.001-07:00

Alright you guys, I just finished up week four and I’m ready to tackle week five. I looked ahead and week five is a recovery week to let your body rest before it gets killed by the Max Interval training. It seems like the first five weeks are a build up to the real test of insanity. I'm looking forward to see how crazy this workout can get.

Overall I feel great, my body has recovered after each workout, so I can push myself each and every day. The infomercial is right, the only way insanity doesn’t work is if you don’t do it. Now this workout isn’t for everybody, if you are prone to knee injuries or shoulder injuries you should stay away from it. They do a lot of jumping movements and hold the plank position for several minutes at a time. But if you can do it, it’s a awesome way to get in shape and you don’t need any exercise equipment at all. All you need is yourself, a TV and a DVD player.

We are already half way through it and if you're like me you can’t wait to see your results after the 9 weeks are through. So keep motivated and push through and soon you also will have a body to be proud of.

The Hobbit Book Review: Ch 6

2012-08-25T10:22:00.003-07:00

Bilbo barely squeaked out of the Goblin cave, with no dwarfs, no wizard, no buttons, but has gained a magic ring that has the power of invisibility. He only stopped running to occasionally look back to see it any goblins were following him. After a while Bilbo began to wonder if his companions had made it out okay. “I will search every crevasse of that cave to make sure they made it out”, Bilbo thought. But before he could march back to the Goblin entrance, he heard a familiar voice. It was Balin, he was on look out duty. Bilbo gave the Dwarfs and Gandalf an unexpected surprise when he step in the middle of them as he pulled off his ring.

Bilbo talked of his dangerous game of riddles with Gollum and his perilous escape of the guarded gate, but not one mention of the ring came out. All had a new found respect for the Hobbit and his abilities. Gandalf urged them to carry on because soon it would be dark and the goblins would come out in the hundreds to get revenge for the Great Goblins death. They tried to put as much distance between the mountain and themselves before the sunset. You see goblins travel very swiftly in the dark, much swifter then dwarfs with a hobbit slowing them down. They busted out of the tree line into a clearing, but had a eerie feeling about the place. That feeling was confirmed with a loud howl, then another howl, and another. They were coming from all directions, it seems the evil wolves had a meeting planned that night, in that very clearing.

The dwarfs and Gandalf went up the nearest trees as fast as they could, but they forgot poor Bilbo. He was scrambling beneath them, to small to reach any branches. Dori went down quickly and helped him in his tree. Soon they were surrounded by hundreds of hungry wolfs. Gandalf with very few options began to light pine cones on fire and launched them at the wolves. They squalled and ran about trying to put out the flames. The wolves meeting had been planned with the evil goblins of Misty Mountains. At that moment goblins dressed in armor carrying spears marched into the opening. They had a good way to bring down the unwanted guest in the trees. They circled in Bilbo and his companions with a great fire and began to dance and sing terrifying songs toward the dwarfs.

When all hope was lost Gandalf decided to make a last stand, but before he could cast himself toward them with the fury of lightning, the great eagle swooped up and bore him away to safety. One by one each dwarf was carried away. Bilbo almost left behind again, had to grab onto Dori’s leg before he was flown to safety. In the company of eagles Bilbo and his friends were flown to the highest summit as guest of the noble race of birds. This ends the journey past the Misty Mountains.

Alright folks, if you're reading along with me let me know what you think about this chapter. I like that Bilbo is finally starting to realize he can be brave and standup in the face of danger. He has shown great resiliency, but still misses the finer comforts of his small hobbit hole over the hill and who wouldn’t in his situation.

The Doorway to the Forgotten Land : Part 1

2012-08-23T18:37:00.001-07:00

The deeper she swam, the harder it was to see. Everywhere she looked water surrounded her. Over there!! She looked with a squint, pointing straight ahead at an opening in the rock face. She started paddling faster to reach the hole, but all her efforts were in vain. The harder she swam toward the opening the further it was from her reach. A loud ringing noise began to overwhelm the young swimmer. Was it the pressure of the water she thought? The ringing was almost debilitating, she couldn't move and she was almost out of breathe. She tried to hurry to the surface to get some air, but she couldn't, some unseen force stopped her from moving. She started shaking uncontrollably and then a soft voice began to call her name, Michelle, Michelle. Is this the end, she wondered am I being called to heaven.

"Michelle, Michelle, wake up its time to go home, the class bell is ringing", Amanda said as she gently shook her friends shoulders to wake her.

"I'm awake okay. You can stop shaking me now!” Michelle grumbled.

"Alright geez, I had to wake you, it's time to go home", Mandy replied.

"How long was I out?” Michelle asked as she wiped the drool off her check, still groggy from the nap.

"You slept through the entire last period, good thing Mr. Rodgers likes you. He just let you sleep since it was the last day of school." Mandy replied.

"Oh crap, I got to hurry. My brothers outside waiting to pick me up and I don't want to hear it if I'm late", Michelle snapped.

She jumped out of her seat, grabbed her backpack and headed for the door. She was in such a hurry she forgot to say bye. Halfway out of the school she heard a faint goodbye from Mandy, but didn't bother responding, knowing she would shoot her a text later. Her brother George was waiting in the parking lot leaned up against his car. "Hey dork, hurry it up", he yelled, half way across the school campus to embarrass his sister.

"Hey loser", she snapped back, walking over to punch him in the arm.

"Not so fast", he responded, as he quickly wrapped her in a headlock.

"Let go of me you idiot, don't you know how to treat a lady?” she snapped.

"You're not a lady, you're my sister", he replied while giving her nuggies.

She reacted quickly, throwing a hard elbow into her brother’s stomach, bringing him hard to the ground. "Enough playing around" she said. "Or I will tell mom you were bulling me again and we know what happened last time".

"My sister the black mailer, how could I forget, I've got to stop at the store anyway", he huffed.

They hopped into his black pickup truck and headed for the store. He whipped the car into a spot close to the front door and told his sister to stay in the car since it wouldn't take long. Her patience began to wear thin when she spotted her brother's crush getting out of her car. This is perfect, Michelle thought to herself as she got out of the car and walked toward her. "Samantha, Right?” Michelle asked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes and you are?” Samantha replied, puzzled that this little girl knew her name.

"You don't know me, but I believe you know my brother George", Michelle replied. "He has had a crush on you forever, I mean he talks about you all the time".

Samantha's face began to turn bright red as the two walked through the store door. "There he is, right there if you don't remember him", Michelle said as she pointed to her brother by the register.

George looked over to see his little sister pointing at him and who was there with her? None other than his crush Samantha. He had a gut feeling she was up to no good and was justified in thinking so.

Quickly he grabbed his bags and change from the cashier, hoping he could stop what he feared had already happened.

"Hey Sis, I thought I told you to stay in the car?” George asked trying hard to hold back his anger.

"Well I saw your good friend Samantha and thought I would say hello", Michelle replied while grinning from ear to ear.

"Is that right", he replied. "Samantha sorry that my little sister was bothering you, she can be pretty annoying sometimes".

"Don’t worry about it, she was just telling me how great of a brother you are to her", Samantha replied, giving Michelle a wink.

"Really", replied George all confused. He knows pretty much all the things his sister would call him and great was not one of these.

"It's true brother, you're so great", replied Michelle. She laid the sarcasim on so thick, it could have cut through steel.

"Well Samantha it was nice bumping into you, but we got to go, mom hates it when we're late for dinner", George replied. Mom hates it when we're late for dinner he thought, I really look lame now.

"It was nice to see you too and you should stop by again if you ever need any more...Soda!” Samantha replied, as she looked down at his bag noticing the 2 liter.

"Okay see yah later", George replied walking out the door scratching his head.

What did she mean by stop by again he wondered? Ah it’s probably nothing, I bet she gets commission or something like that. They jumped in his truck and headed home.

They lived in a small town with windy roads, only a couple of stop lights and not many fun filled activities for teenagers. There's trail riding if you were lucky enough to have an ATV or dirt bike. You can also go mudding with your truck if it has four wheel drive. George and Michelle Carter had neither of these. For them and everyone else there was the lake up on the Blue Ridge Mountains.

What a way to start off summer vacation than a day at the lake. No rules, no parents and no little sisters, George thought as he pulled into the driveway.

Machida Karate-Do: Technique 7

2012-08-22T17:17:00.003-07:00

Cross to Hook to Round Kick

Generally when fighting an experienced striker you won’t land with the first, second or sometimes even the third strike. With this combo you show your opponent several different angles of attack. Also if you aren’t flexible enough to deliver a good high kick without compromising your footing. This combo also sets you up with a powerful body kick.

This combo is best utilized when both fighters are in standard (orthodox) stance. From your stance lunge off your back foot, transferring your weight to your front leg. Then rotate your hips as you throw your right cross toward your opponents face. Re-chamber your right hand as you pivot your back leg to open up your hips for a powerful round kick. While pivoting your back leg throw you left hook using the momentum you generated from the pivot. This will help generate power for your hook, also try to make sure you connect with the left hook to off balance your opponent for the kick.

With your hips opened up from the pivot, deliver a powerful round kick to the head, or body if you’re not flexible enough. Keep your weight on your left leg as you lean back. While leaning back lift your right leg up and swing it toward your opponents head. Rotate your hips over to maximize force of your round kick. Follow through with your kick so you get max power. After making contact you can either pull your leg back to your original stance. Or if you want to close the distance, place your foot to the outside of your opponents lead leg.

Left Hook view 1

Left Hook view 2

This combo does a great job setting up your high kick or body kick by varying the angles of attack. They say the shot they don’t see is the strike that puts them away and this combo offers several different angles for your opponent to look at. For myself I’m not a fan of the high kick, I see too many fighters lose their balance when trying to throw them. But if you have leg flexibility like Cro-Cop then you might be able to pull it off. Just remember practice each combo until you don’t have to think about doing them.

The Hobbit Book Review: Ch 5

2012-08-21T17:51:00.002-07:00

Bilbo woke up, still dazed from his hard fall. Dwarfs and goblins were both gone, he was all alone in the dark and quiet tunnel. He crawled on all fours until he could regain his senses. He felt something cold and smooth, but it was no rock, it was a small ring. Without thinking he picked it up and placed it in his front pocket. He did not know it at the time, but this ring would forever change his luck. Down he went, further into the tunnel, to the very heart of the mountain.

Several passages he scurried past, fearing what may lay waiting for him in the darkness. He continued on down the tunnel until his road was stop by a small lake at the bottom of the mountain. Bilbo was was starting to wonder if he might ever get out of this labyrinth of tunnels. Then from across the water he heard a very peculiar voice. This creature was called Gollum, he was a small slimy creature that loved to eat fish. Gollum proposition Bilbo with a game of riddles. If Gollum won he would have Bilbo for dinner and if Bilbo won he would show him the way out.

After several Riddles, Bilbo stumped Gollum and won the contest. Gollum not being one for losing and being very hungry after the long game, decided he would kill Bilbo with the help of his precious. You see his precious was a magical ring that made you invisible, so poor Bilbo had no hope. Gollum searched in vain for his precious, but it wasn't there. If you remember earlier this was the very ring that Bilbo had found, Gollum had lost it in the tunnel. Gollum's rage was so great he took off toward the hobbit with evil intentions. This frighten Bilbo so much he took off up the tunnel, but Gollum wasn't far behind.

At some point on the way up the tunnel the small ring slipped on Bilbo's finger when he reached his hand in his pocket. He then stumble on a crack and fell on the ground, and before he could brace himself from the enraged Gollum, he saw the creature run right past him. At that point Bilbo realized that this ring was special. Then he took off up the passage to follow Gollum, hoping he would lead him out of the mountain. That's just what he did, he lead Bilbo right up to the back door.

With a great leap he jumped over the crouched Gollum. Then he ran down the passage, until he saw a faint glow of the outside light. This led him right into a room full of goblins. They were looking every which way to try and spot the little hobbit. He maneuvered around them crawling under one of their legs, side stepping another. He then got to the back door, it was cracked enough for him to barely squeeze out, but his brass buttons were not so lucky, they popped off from the effort.

Bilbo had made it out of the Misty Mountains, outwitted the crafty Gollum and sneaked past a room full of Goblins. All this without the help of the Dwarfs or Gandalf. This little hobbit has started to become pretty resourceful. Now Bilbo has found the ring, but he still needs to find his friends.

Insanity to Inshape: Week 4

2012-08-20T16:32:00.001-07:00

Week three has come to a close and I just finished my first day of week four. This morning was one of those hard to get moving days. You know the one were you just want to crawl back in bed and sleep until your forced to get up. Well I forced myself up, popped the DVD in and cranked out some insanity.

Last week was pretty tough and I had my first practice PT test since starting insanity. I wasn’t to pleased with my results during the evaluation, but I think I was expecting too much. But afterwards my heart rate returned to normal faster and my breathing was quickly under control. Also I felt no soreness the next day with the test.

So overall it seems like I find something new that I like about this program every week. To my fellow Insaninites, keep it up and let me know the positive or negatives you have seen from your experience.

Jason Miller's Mayhem Madness

2012-08-17T14:31:00.002-07:00

It seems like former TUF coach and MMA superstar Jason Mayhem Miller took his fight name a little too serious the other night. Mayhem was found passed out naked on a couch by the pastor of the Mission Hill Church located in southern California. The church showed signs of forced entry and vandalism. From broken pictures, to ransacked book shelves, to spray painted walls, and finally a trail of fire extinguisher residue led the pastor, to a napping Miller on the second floor.

I’ve always like Jason Miller, what he lacked in fighting ability he made up for with his eccentric personality. Even if he had been outmatched by his opponent he always did his best to win the fight. Just two years ago Jason Miller was in the MMA spot light. From his two season run as host on the MTV show Bully Beatdown, to being coach on Spike TV’s The Ultimate Fighter.

A year and a half later Jason Miller went from TV talent and MMA fighter to retired and out of work. To top it off you have his Ex UFC Boss Dana White taking pot shots at him on Twitter. This could take its toll on any person. Do I condone what Mayhem Miller did? Of course not, I’m just saying everybody has a breaking point. It’s sad to hear about and see what the once beloved MMA star is going through.

In the end I hope he takes away what he needs from this episode. Because MMA needs a personality like Mayhem, for better or worse he is downright entertaining and would make a great fight announcer.

Lyoto Machida Karate Do: Technique 6

2012-08-16T16:55:00.003-07:00

This combo is very simple and highly effective. It is utilized from kicking range to close the distance and land a powerful overhand left to your opponent’s face.

You start the combo in orthodox stance. Shifting your weight forward to your lead leg turn your hips as you throw a convincing straight right toward your opponents face. Keep in mind this is thrown as a distraction and not meant to hit your opponent, so don’t reach and compromise your balance. Also, make sure you throw toward the eyes to disrupt their vision. After fully extending your right cross use your extended hand to compromise your opponents guard by grabbing his lead hand.

While pulling your opponents lead hand, drive forward off of your left leg as you lunge your right leg to the outside of your opponents lead leg. As you switch your stance and with your momentum still driving forward, throw your over hand left toward your opponents chin while bringing your right hand up to guard from any counters.

This strike will leave you in a good position to finish with a strong double leg take down. Drill this combo over and over making sure you master all the subtleties. This will help you not telegraph your intentions to your opponent. This is a good addition to any ones fight game and remember creativity is a martial artists best friend. Make this combo your own and you will should find success with it.

The Hobbit Book Review: Chapter 4

2012-08-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

After leaving Rivendell, Gandalf lead Bilbo and the dwarfs up the mountain pass. They climbed the Misty Mountains for days on end without reaching its summit. Then one particular day while climbing up, they ran into a terrible thunderstorm. All around them were violent crashes of lighting, horrible roars of thunder, a down pour of rain, and to beat it all there were stone giants throwing massive boulders not too far from Gandalf and company.

Not liking the thunderstorms to much and fearing being used as a play thing by stone giants, the group scouted for a place to wait out the storm in safety. Around the corner they found a nice cozy cave just big enough for the company and their ponies. Gandalf wasn’t satisfied with the dwarfs quick check of the cave, so he combed over every nook and crevice until he was satisfied that no other creature took refuge there.

All except Bilbo feel asleep soundly that night in the dry cave. He kept having uncomfortable dreams that a crack in the cave wall keep getting bigger and bigger letting nasty things in. He woke up all the sudden to see his dream wasn’t all just fantasy. He saw the last pony being taken away through a large opening in the cave wall. With a loud yell the hobbit alerted his company. At the same moment large smelly goblins burst through the hole and snatch up Bilbo and all the dwarfs. Gandalf woke up, alerted by Bilbo’s squeak, gave the Goblins more than they bargained for. With a bright flash and a loud bang three of them fell dead.

Now Bilbo and company were rushed down the mountain by rod and lash to the Goblin lair. There in the middle was a huge fire with loads of goblins all around. In the back of the lair in a grand chair, sat the Great Goblin. He questioned and threaten the dwarfs with death and captivity. Then with a poof the center fire went out, thick smoke filled the room and a glowing sword stabbed the dumb founded goblin in the chest. Lead off by Gandalf, the dwarfs and Bilbo made their escape from the goblin lair. They ran as fast as they could down the tunnel, hearing the screams and growls from the goblins who weren’t far behind. They caught up and grabbed poor Dori from behind and with a stumble Bilbo fell off Dori's back and hit his head.

Now the fourth chapter leaves you with a cliffhanger ending. What’s going to happen to Bilbo? Did the dwarfs make it out? We will find out next time. So if you're reading along let me know your favorite part of the chapter.

The Hobbit Book Review: Ch. 3

2012-08-14T16:05:00.002-07:00

Since the last time we checked in on poor Bilbo and his friends, they had just barely escape from being turned into supper by those gruesome trolls. Now they continued on with their journey, with very little to eat, very little cheer and with fear that something terrible was around every corner they turned.

Gandalf saw the toll that the trolls had taken on the poor dwarfs spirit. He then set his sights toward Rivendell the last homely house, the home of Elrond and the elves. The elves were merry

folk and love singing, dancing and food, above everything. They welcomed Gandalf, Bilbo, and all the dwarfs with a feast. There Bilbo and company stayed for fourteen days, but would have stayed longer if Gandalf hadn’t pushed them to press on.

Before they left, Elrond looked over their map and discovered moon runes on it. These runes spoke of a secret entrance that Thorin himself knew nothing of. This would bring new hope to their potential treasure hunting and with this they departed the last homely house.

Insanity to Inshape: Week 3

2012-08-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

FIT TEST 2

Week 2 down 6 more to go. The soreness I had felt from week 1 wasn’t an issue during week 2. This either speaks to my bodies fast adaption to the work out regimen or that I’m not pushing myself hard enough. I hope it’s the first one, but it’s probably the second. There has been a couple of days that I didn’t feel up for the task, but I realize you only get out what you put in. Also, I found that tracking my results on a public forum has increased my will to finish the program and to not give half hearted efforts.

Fit test number two was tough but not nearly as tough as the first one. I saw a slight increase on every exercise component and didn’t feel nearly as exhausted as the first go round. My cardio has increased, my leg strength, and my core stability have also increased. The only thing this program really lacks is the upper body strength training, other than that I find it great for overall fitness.

So if your also doing insanity with me, keep it up. Your body will thank you and your health insurance company will thank you too. But, in all seriousness keep pressing forward and don’t give up. Also if you can, post your results on your fit test below and tell me what you think about insanity so far.

1.Switch Kicks-70 +20

2.Power Jacks-46 +4

3.Power Knees-95 +14

4.Power Jumps-52 +22

5.Globe Jumps-9 +1

6.Suicide Jumps-24 +3

7.Push-up Jacks-36 +11

8.Low Plank Oblique-26 +1

Five Round Frankie

2012-08-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

Frankie Edgar vs Benson Henderson Fight Recap

It seems like Frankie Edgar has been in his fair share of 5 round judging scandals and has been on both sides of the wrong decision. To start this story off we have to take a trip back to when he first fought BJ Penn for the light weight title. This was a back and forth affair, that saw BJ Penn landing good counters, against the quick footed Frankie. BJ came on strong as usually and it looked like he took the first 3 rounds and then started fading. The quicker fighter Frankie seemed to do enough to take the 4^th and 5^th rounds. Three rounds to two seems like a pretty solid win for BJ right. Wrong, the judges ended up giving Edgar the nod.

Then the re-match comes, Frankie out worked BJ Penn the majority of the fight. This time the judges got it right. They gave the rightful winner Frankie Edgar the decision victory. By this time Frankie Edgar had won me over as a fan. His constant working, constant movement and his well time counters always make for an exciting fight.

Now his second title defense, which should have been his first if the judges would of got it right, is against Gray Maynard. Gray Maynard gave Edgar his first taste of defeat earlier in his career. First round starts, Gray catches Frankie with a big right hand. He nearly puts away Edgar several times during the first round so let’s call it a 10-8 round. Then here comes Frankie in the second round, he out works Maynard with his trademark quick feet and multidimensional attack. The third is closer contested than the 2^nd and could have gone either way. Then the fourth comes, Gray lands some big shots and easily secures the round. The fifth is much like the second, with Frankie showing why he is one of the greatest light weights on the planet. He lands good stiff counters and even scores a takedown. I could see how some judges could score this a draw, but one judge gave it to Edgar and I can’t see it. It should have gone to Gray Maynard.

Now comes the most recent, five round Frankie Fiasco and by the way this isn’t trademarked yet. The first fight with Benson Henderson was much like Frankie's first fight vs BJ. They scored the decision right this time, but in most fans eyes this was controversial.

I just watched the rematch and it is still fresh in my mind. Round one Benson shows total control over Frankie. By landing good solid leg kicks he sweeps Frankie's front leg out from under him several times. Round two is a much different story, Frankie scores with a big right hand sending Bendo to the canvas, giving him the second round. The third round could have went either way, so we have 1 round a piece and 1 round a toss up. The fourth round was Frankie's, from the take down to the stiff counters he kept landing on the slowing Benson. Here comes the fifth and final round, Frankie is scoring with big shots the majority of the duration. He is controlling the pace and landing more strikes. Then in desperation Benson starts to turn it on, but I think its too little too late.

The round ends, both fighters are raising their hands. The decision comes 49/46 Edgar, 48/47 Henderson, and finally 48/47 and…still UFC Light Weight Champion of the World. Wait a minute, Benson Henderson won.

So the curse of Five Round Frankie lives on and who will be its next victim.

UFC 150: Co-Main Event Breakdown

2012-08-08T16:57:00.001-07:00

Donald Cerrone VS Melvin Gullard

The two Jackson trained fighters will square off in the octagon this Saturday night. Both went their separate ways after the fight was announced so not to hinder their friendship. See Evans, it can be done. Each are looking forward to not holding back and enjoy the spirit of competition in its truest form.

This is a battle of polar opposites, but who wins? With Melvin Gullard you have a compact power house, he has dynamite in both his hands and feet (even though he doesn't use many kicks). He can generally blast through anybody for the take-down if he has to. But since his much improved boxing, great footwork, and fast hands he hasn't had to force many take-downs.

Then on the other hand you have Donald Cerrone, he is the taller more technical fighter. What he lacks in speed and power, he makes up for with great utilization of his reach and great cardio. Also, you generally don't see Cerrone going for take-downs. But, if it goes to the ground he uses his long limbs well to quickly snatch up submissions from odd angles. One weapon that could be a game changer is the leg kick, Cowboy Cerrone uses them so well it could spell disaster for the faster fighter Melvin.

To say this fight is a toss up is an understatement. This could easily be the fight of the night, have the knockout of the night, or submission of the night. Both Cerrone and Gullard are always game, so watch this fight steal the show. I see this fight going one of two ways. First could be with Melvin Gullard by overwhelming flurry and one of his trademark hooks finding their mark, quickly ending the fight in the first round. The other way it could go would have Donald Cerrone brusing and battering Melvin with a relentless leg kick attack. Then in desperation Melvin shoots for his power double and ends up getting caught in one of Cowboy's crafty submissions.

Get ready for some fire works people, with this fight there will be a loser and it won't be the fans.

Machida Karate-Do Technique 5

2012-08-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

Sweeping Kick to Cross to Flying Knee

If you've seen a Machida fight chances are you have witnessed him unleash his trademark knee to the body. This is the same knee that folded Tito Ortiz when he fought him. In this combo you will learn how to setup this strike. I have found that you generate more power with this than the standard Muay Thai knee.

You start the combo in orthodox stance with your opponent in the same stance. This combo is best setup in punching range so make sure you get your distance down. Now that your in punching range lean your weight to your rear leg as you sweep kick your opponents calf. You do this by using the ball of your foot to make contact with the calf with a forceful swing not a strike. After you have compromised their balance you want to land your left foot on the outside of your opponents rear leg to gain a superior angle. Then you push off of your rear leg, as you rotate your hips. Allow the gathered momentum from your body weight to flow from you legs to you right cross, aimed at your opponent's face.

After Impact with your right cross bring your hand back to grab your opponents left wrist. Pull you opponents wrist as you bring you left arm toward you opponents head. While doing this jump in the air with you right knee, then shuffle your legs bringing your left knee up. Follow by grabbing the back of your opponents head. When landing, place your right foot to the outside of your opponents lead leg keeping your angle of advantage.

This combo has a well versed array of attacks, from a foot sweep, to a right cross, to a powerful knee. Your level of attack changes throughout the entire combo so you are more likely to land at least one of the strikes to your opponent. If you deliver each strike with intention you should find luck with this combo. The main thing to remember is to practice until you can perform the technique like walking, be open minded and learn to flow with what your opponent gives you.

The Hobbit Book Review Ch. 2

2012-08-06T09:51:00.003-07:00

We left off with poor Bilbo Baggins waking up to a mess in the kitchen. He saw the signs of a very large and very hurried breakfast from those adventure seeking dwarfs. After all the dishes were cleaned up Bilbo thought it best to sit down and take a break. Then before Bilbo could take a moment to relax, Gandalf rounded the corner and asked why he wasn't ready. Bilbo had thought he dodged a bullet. He was being rushed out before he could gather anything for the trip, he even forgot his pocket handkerchief.

Bilbo arrived just in time to leave, but he wouldn't have cared if he had been late and missed the adventure all together. So they saddled up their ponies and began their journey toward the lonely mountain. A couple of meals later, its always like a Hobbit to track the time of day by meals not minutes, they stopped to make camp for the night. The wind was blowing and the rain was coming down. Usually that wouldn't stop a dwarf from being able to light a fire, that wasn't the case on this night.

They were cold, without a fire and without their wizard. Off in the distance they spotted the faint light of a camp fire. They were trying to decide who would go check it out, they decided on Bilbo. They wanted to see if he was as good of a burglar as Gandalf said he was. So off Bilbo went, he crept as quietly as a hobbit could and that was almost noiseless. Bilbo got right up to the fire, but stayed in the shadows to not be spotted. From there he viewed 3 huge figures sitting round the fire, these were not men, they were trolls! Bilbo thought it would be best to head back to the dwarfs, but not before he pick pocketed the trolls. He wanted to show the dwarfs how good of a burglar he was. This was not a good move for the hobbit, as the troll snatched him up as quickly as his hand enter his pocket.

Bilbo found himself in a situation here with the trolls. If you want to figure out if and how Bilbo got out of his mess, you should pick up a copy of the Hobbit. This for me was the chapter that got me invested in the book. It turned from an everyday fantasy adventure to a timeless classic. Feel free to comment below with your favorite part of this chapter.

Insanity 2 Inshape Wk 2

2012-08-06T09:35:00.002-07:00

Alright folks, I just completed week one and it was tough, but I pushed through it. If you're going through the challenge with me you know what I mean. On day two my entire legs were sore, right down to my calves. It took about two days for the soreness to be tolerable, with my body aching for a break the Insanity program answered my call. It was just what I need, when I needed it. Cardio recovery was a welcome break from the intense plyo-metrics.

So far the program has been kicking butt and taking names. The hardest one for me has been the plyo-metrics circuit. It's a good mixture of jumping movements and speed drills that will destroy your legs and kill your lungs. Near the end you welcome the push-ups and the plank style ab exercises so you can catch your breathe. Overall, I feel like the first week has gotten me ready for the next. You think only one day off wouldn't be enough to recover, but it is with this program.

So get ready for week 2 and lets try to think it can't get any worse, but we know it will. Keep pushing, don't give in and just keep moving forward. If your mind tells you to give up or that today you can take off because your sore, tell your mind you don't listen to wussies.

Micheal Phelps: Most Decorated Olympian

2012-08-05T12:59:00.003-07:00

Phelps's journey to become the most decorated Olympian started 20 years ago when his sisters got him into swimming. No one knew this at the time, but Phelps first dip in the pool, would eventually lead him to four Olympic games, 22 medals and 18 of which are gold. Micheal Phelps would find success early in his swimming career and that early success would eventually lead him to cross paths with Bob Bowman. Who has been Micheal Phelps's trainer since he was eleven.

Micheal Phelps first trip to the Olympics wasn't filled with awards and gold medals. But, this didn't stop him from breaking records. Being only 15, Micheal Phelps was the youngest athlete ever to qualify for the Olympics. This trend continued through the young athletes career. At just 15 years 9 months Micheal Phelps was the holder of the 200M butterfly world record, breaking current holder Ian Thorpe's record. Micheal Phelps would continue to find success in International competition, leading up to the 2004 summer games.

Micheal Phelps first race of the games got the ball rolling for the 19 year old with a 3rd place finish. A race in which he finished just behind two of the greatest free style swimmers of all time. This was the first of many medals the young swimmer would bring home. In Athens Micheal Phelps eventually would break 3 Olympic records, 2 World Records and bring home 8 medals, 6 of which were gold. With the great showing at Athens, Micheal Phelps realized that with more training and even more dedication breaking Mark Spitz's record of 7 gold medals in one Olympics, was well within his reach.

Leading up to Beijing, Micheal Phelps was the owner of six world records and to many first place finishes to count. In 2008 history was in the making. I remember watching Micheal Phelps touching the wall 100ths of a seconded sooner than 2nd place finisher Cavic. At the time I couldn't tell he won, it was too close to call. This event tied Phelps with current record holder Mark Spitz with 7 gold medals. Then during the 100x4 medley relay Phelps and his teammates won gold and set a new world record at 3 minutes and 29.24 seconds.

London and the historic finish for Micheal Phelps. When we first watched Micheal Phelps in Sydney. No one could have guessed that the young Phelps would be crowned history's greatest Olympian just 12 years later. Now 22 medals later, countless world and Olympic records to his name. Micheal Phelps will go down in history as the Olympics greatest athlete.

No one can deny his legacy, film doesn't lie and neither does his 18 gold medals. If you have watched his illustrious career then you have seen what hard work, focus, and determination can accomplish. This young man has had one goal his whole life and that was to be the most decorated swimmer of all time. He can hang up his trunks, goggles and know that in his heart he gave his all. Micheal Phelps, thank you for showing us what can be done if we put our heart and soul into our passion.

The Hobbit Book Review Ch. 1

2012-08-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

With the Hobbit movie coming out this fall it got me wanting to read the book again. I started reading it and its just as good as I remembered. From the well written characters, to the detailed surroundings, it sparks your imagination with every page you read. With the level of detail in the story you feel as if you are on the journey with the Hobbit and his comrades. So if you plan on seeing the first part of this Theatrical trilogy, I suggest you read the book you won't be disappointed.

CH. 1
In the first chapter you meet our friend Bilbo Baggins. He is a very unsuspecting person to be in an adventure story, but he is, none the less. Bilbo is very fond of eating, the drinking of ale and every once in a while enjoys a good pipe of tobacco. Everyday for Bilbo was pretty much the same, until one day a very old friend of Bilbo's stopped by, but he didn't know this at the time. His name was Gandalf and was a very respectable wizard. He inquired Bilbo about an adventure, but Bilbo was not the adventure sort. He didn't like anything that would make you late for dinner and tea. He declined, but invited Gandalf over the next day for tea.

The next day Bilbo forgot all about the wizard and his invitation to tea. Then came a knock at the door, this is were the story gets interesting. One by one a different dwarf begins to come in, one about every 10 minutes. The next thing you know Bilbo is having a party of 14 and he is playing host. All his cakes, all his cheeses and all his ales were ate up and drank down. Exhausted by the end of the night, he slept soundly in his bed that night. He woke up wondering did all this really happen, where were all the dwarfs he thought. Not noticing the note they left him, he went on with his daily routine not thinking of any adventure what so ever.

This closes out chapter one, you get a good feel for all the characters and a broad sense of what lies ahead on their quest. Tune in later this week for a review of chapter 2.

UFC on FOX 4 Shogun VS Vera

2012-08-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

Main Card Event Breakdown

DaMarques Johnson vs Mike Swick
First off Mike Swick has been out of the game for 2 1/2 years, this would be hard to overcome for any fighter. In strength and cardio I would give Damarques Johnson a slight edge. The speed and striking advantage would go to Mike Swick. On the ground its close, I think it depends who ends up on top. But, I don't see this ending up on the ground unless Damarques takes it there. In the end I see Damarques Johnson taking this near the end of the 2nd via gnp.

Joe Lauzon vs Jamie Varner
Jamie Varner is coming off a huge knockout victory and Joe Lauzon a submission win over Melvin Gullard. So both the fighters are coming off good wins. Joe Lauzon is a crafty submission expert and rarely if ever gases in fights. So I would give him the advantage on the ground and the cardio department. Jamie Varner is a compact powerhouse with knock out power. He gets the edge in striking , strength and speed. But this won't stop Lauzon who has fought similar opponents and ended up beating them. Jamie Varner will gas out by round 3 and Joe Lauzon will finish him via submission.

Lyoto Machida vs Ryan Bader
This is the fight I'm looking forward to most on the card. Lyoto is coming off a loss from Jon Jones and Bader a good win over an aging Rampage Jackson. Lyoto's foot work and speed will keep Ryan Bader from closing the distance. Ryan Bader's distinct wrestling advantage will be of no use for him in this fight. Power advantage will also go to Ryan, but struggling to close the distance he will be unable to utilize it. I see this one going the distance and Lyoto getting the nod via more shots landed and octagon control.

Shogun Rua vs Brandon Vera
This could be an exciting fight if Brandon Vera lets go of his punches and kicks. Shogun is never gun shy so you don't have to worry about his ability to make it a good fight. The thing with Shogun is you never know which Shogun will show up. Will it be the no cardio, just get out of the round, Shogun or will it be no one can stop me, world beater. If we get the best from each of these fighters, this will be fight of the night. Speed and striking the advantage would go to Shogun. Ground, I just don't see this fight going there. Strength advantage would go to Brandon Vera, he will be the bigger fighter on fight night. Clinch, both fighters have shown a good clinch so I can't see an advantage for either fighter. In the end Shogun is a beast and Brandon will just be another bump on the road to another title shot. Shogun via round 2 knock out.

Overall this beats the last couple of PPVs and its Free. So get ready for an exciting night of fights.

Machida Karate-Do Technique 4

2012-07-31T16:47:00.002-07:00

Inside Leg Kick to Spinning Back Kick
This technique starts from the orthodox stance with your opponent in the same stance. Also, the lead leg inside kick is thrown directly from the stance. Not as a switch kick like the Muay Thai version of the kick. You do this by leaning your weight back on your rear leg as you lift your leg off the ground. Then swing your leg around to kick your opponents inside leg.

After the kick lands let your momentum carry your leg around and step on the outside of your opponents leg around you turn your back toward them. Directly after you plant your left leg on the ground continue turning your body to position yourself to unleash a powerful right spinning back kick. To do this you lean back to keep your balance pull your right leg in and push your coiled leg toward your opponents midsection.

The main focus for this technique is to make your turn as seamless as possible so you don't give your opponent time to react. Also don't forget to keep your eyes on your opponent throughout the technique.

Stance

Lean


Inside Leg Kick

Turn

Spinning Back Kick

Is this technique good? Yes, I believe the inside low kick sets you up perfectly for the spinning back kick. If your opponent backs up after every kick you throw, you can use this technique to close the distance. Also, if they check the kick this will leave them stationary and you will be able to land a solid body kick. So drill this technique often and you will find it handy for your next fight or sparring session.