Day 43 Back in the Salad Again

Up at 8:30 a.m. - 10 hours of sleep. weight - 167 lbs. Wow, I didn't even realize how tired I was. It must have taken about a day for the adrenalin to wear off. I feel good today but I'm even more sore today than yesterday in the triceps and shoulders. 10:15 a.m. - Had 24 oz. coffee w/ 8 grams of protein and a package of liquid Power Bar. The coffee went well with the tahini-sunflower cookie. 12:45 p.m. - Went out for lunch. Had a small salad, cup of soup, small root beer and 8 french fries. 1:40 p.m. - Drank 16 oz. chain-branched amino acid drink. 2:30 p.m. - had upper body massage therapy. 4:30 - 7:40 p.m. taught classes. In the course of the evening did 150 leg lifts, 85 sit ups, 150 side leg lifts, 70 twisting sit ups and no push ups. 8:30 p.m. - had small bowl of popcorn, two apple slices, one string cheese. 9:00 p.m. - small salad. 9:30 p.m. - 4 oz. Activa yogurt. 10:00 p.m. - 2 teaspoons of peanut butter. Now comes the challenge of eating the right foods in the right quantity at the right time.

Day 42 Conspicous Consumption

Up at 6:15 a.m. 6 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 165 lbs. 6:20 a.m. drank 15 oz. Naked brand juice smoothie. Feeling good today even though I didn't sleep much. My left shoulder feels kind of weak and hard to raise up, but it will be fine. I'm not particularly hungry or even looking forward to eating today. However I'm expected to join the eating world again so I will. I will hate to see the fast end. Just like I hate to see eating end when I start the fast. Kind of strange. 10:00 - 12:05 p.m. - went to church. 1:00 p.m. Went to Gramma's Kitchen to eat my first meal in six weeks. They had a brunch buffet so I had a good choice of foods. If you're going to break a fast in a place like this, here's how you do it. I started with half a plate of fruit. It was watermelon, pineapple and cantaloupe cut in little pieces. Next, I had a salad with lettuce, broccoli, ranch dressing, sunflower seeds and croutons. After that, about two eggs, scrambled and a biscuit with sausage gravy. Finally, a small pastry. I had orange juice and coffee with the meal. I ate very slowly and enjoyed the food. I was satisfied but not full or uncomfortable. 6:00 p.m. - It seemed to me like we had just eaten, but my wife and daughter wanted to go out for dinner. I had a tostada, chips and salsa with a root beer. A small but enjoyable meal. I feel fine although it still a little strange to be eating again.

Day 41 The Big Day, Push Ups for Peace Part 2

It was exactly 3:00. As each of the charity representatives spoke, I listened and geared up mentally at the same time. I was there not only for myself, but for other people and organizations. Children's Therapy Center, Kids Against Hunger, Make A Wish Foundation and The Optimist Club were all there, expecting and depending on me to succeed. During Pastor Steve's invocation I allowed myself to relax yet still be geared up , ready to begin, as though I had my finger on an internal "go" button. After the pastor was done, Jennifer the emcee turned it over to me and it was finally time to start. I took the crowd of nearly fifty participants through some warm ups and headed toward my spot. The little black clock in front of me was five seconds from the twelve, the whistle blew and we were off. I didn't know what to expect. Would I have pain or even failure in my shoulder? The first set of 33 push ups went very well. With each set, I gained more confidence that I would break the world record . As the hour progressed I built my own little world consisting of a mat, a chair, a clock and a whistle blowing every minute. I was intent only on what I had to do. I was aware that there were two hundred or so people around me but I didn't see them and only vaguely heard them. Although it wasn't that warm, sweat was dripping profusely from my body after about twenty minutes. There was only 35 to 40 seconds between each set of 34 push ups to relax, get my breathing normal and get keep my mind right for the next set. As expected, it started getting a little rough about 40 minutes in to it...

Day 41 The Big Day, Push Ups for Peace Part 3

All I had to do was stick to the plan. Do 60 sets 0f push ups on the backs of my hands every minute for an hour. 40 of those sets would be 33 push ups and 20 of the sets would be 34 push ups for a total of exactly 2000. That would break the old record of 1,940 in an hour set in 2006 by Paddy Doyle of England. I knew it would get tough in the last third of the hour, but I didn't expect to fall from exhaustion on the last push up somewhere around the fiftieth minute. I really had to focus on resting and breathing to get my energy back in those last few minutes. Maybe it helped that I took an extra five seconds rest in each of the last five sets. Maybe it was that the music was blaring (I think it was the "Rocky" theme) and that the crowd was chanting my name: Mor-row! _ Mor-row!_ Mor-row! I just know there was a lot of excitement and it gave me the extra finishing energy I needed. I had done it. 2000 push ups on the back of the hands in an hour, with 5 seconds to spare. I felt great exhilaration, joy and relief as I signed autographs, thanked attendees and gave interviews. I was thankful that I had made it through the fasting, the training, the fund raising, promoting and film shooting and now the record attempt and the event. Strangely enough, my shoulder didn't even hurt during the push ups. It wasn't till about 10 minutes after I was done that it began to get sore again. With ice on my shoulder, I stood talking to people as the crowd slowly dispersed. Workers who stayed were encouraged to help themselves to some of the five complimentary pizzas from Happy Joe's. I wasn't ready to eat yet... 6:30 p.m. drank a 14 oz. Muscle Milk w/ 25 grams of protein. 7:15-8:30 p.m. Played Scrabble with my wife and daughter to unwind. I won with a score of 211 points. Up till almost midnight reading. Finally I unwound enough to go to bed after such a big day.

Day 41

Day 41 The Big Day - Push Ups for Peace, Part 1

Up at 7:15 - 8 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 165 lbs. Feeling good so far. Today is the big day, the last day of Fastivus (a 41 day personal holiday season of fasting), Push ups for Peace(a unique charity event) and the final episode of Fast in the Life Lane, the documentary. I know my mind is ready. I just hope my body is ready especially my shoulder. 7:30 a.m. - iced down shoulder for 20 minutes. 7:35 a.m. - drank 16 oz. branched-chain amino acid drink. 7:40 a.m. - took hot bath. 8:40 a.m. - light martial art work out with 72 year old black belt student. 10:00 a.m. - taught kid's class. 11:00 a.m. - taught another kid's class at arsenal. 12:15 p.m. - drank another 16 oz. branched-chain amino acid drink. 12:30 - 1:40 p.m. - sipped on 12 oz. coffee w/ 2 packs of Power Bar liquid gels. 1:00 p.m. - Went up to Lujacks and picked up a 2012 Camaro. We used it in a scene where I am driving up in a fast car for the event. Kind of a fun mocumentary angle thrown in to this mostly serious film. 2:00 p.m. - started final preparations for the attempt - my mat, towel, drinks, chart and marker. We had to get the cameras set in the front and side view for Guinness to review later. I did the pre-event interviews and checked with the emcee. It was 3:00 and time to begin. I opened up a can of Guru energy drink took my place and prepared my mind for the next hour.

Day 40 Promise Myself To Be Strong

Up at 6:20 - 7 hours of sleep. weight - 167 lbs. Feeling kind of tired but I don't know why. I hope I don't wake up like this tomorrow. 7:00 a.m. - conducted class with a light workout. 8:30 a.m. - Went to Cup A' Jo's - Had 24 oz. cup of coffee, 34 grams of protein added. 10:30 a.m. - conducted class, did 50 leg lifts, 35 sit ups, no push ups, stretching , forms and stick work. 12:30 p.m. - drank 8 oz. of almond milk w/ 8 grams of protein. 2:00 p.m. - chiropractic adjustment. 3:40 p.m. - drank 16 oz. of branched-chain amino acid formula. 5:15 - drank 12 oz. almond milk w/ 20 grams of protein. 7:00 p.m. - drank 16 oz. branched-chain amino acid formula. 8:15 p.m. - drank 16 oz. almond milk w/ 25 grams of protein. 8:20 -8:40 p.m. - iced down shoulder. 9:30 - 9:50 p.m. - iced down shoulder again. 10:10 p.m. - Shoulder feeling good now, I don't know what else I can do. Right now I'm thinking about what I have to do tomorrow. I keep reading numbers 1 and 5 of the Optimist Creed: (1) Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. (2) to think only of the best, to work only for best and to expect only the best. If I can keep that promise, I'll be fine no matter what. See you tomorrow.

Day 39 Unsure But Certain

Up at 7:50 a.m. eight hours of sleep. weight 168 lbs. Feeling very good today. Shoulder feels pretty good. 9:15 a.m. - drank 15.2 fl. oz. of Naked brand berry blast. It contains the fruit of 4 raspberries, 5 blackberries, 4 strawberries, 3 1/2 apples and 1/2 banana. 10:30 - 12:30 a.m. - conducted class - work out included 10 knuckle push ups, 25 leg lifts, 20 sit ups, 10 finger tip push ups and 6 fist together push ups. 1:00 p.m. - one hour massage - extra therapy on shoulder. 2:30 p.m. - drank fresh 14 oz. carrot-apple-ginger juice. 2:45 - 4:00 p.m. taught two lessons. 4:30 p.m. - taught arsenal kids class called SKIES. It's an acronym for skills, knowledge, inspiration and experience. Shot footage for the documentary there. 5:45 p.m. - Drank 14 oz. almond milk with 18 grams of protein. 6:00 p.m. - conducted teen class. 7:20 - 7:50 taught lesson. 8:15 - Drank 14 oz. of almond milk with 18 grams of protein. It was a typical Thursday before a very unusual event on Saturday. I'm still very unsure about my shoulder but I'm certain I'll just do my best till I drop.

Day 38 No Chip On My Shoulder

Up at 8:oo a.m. - 71/2 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. Feeling a little tired this morning, stayed up too late night. I gained two pounds since yesterday, probably from so little exercise. 8:45 a.m. - Went to Tri-med Health and Wellness Center. Got a massage and electrical stimulation therapy on the shoulder, plus a good adjustment from Dr. Mally. I felt much better. 10:15a.m. - drank 14 0z. Muscle Milk - 25 grams of protein. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. - taught lessons. 11:35 a.m. - took 6 oz. of almond milk w/ 6 grams of protein. 12:30 p.m. - drank 2 oz. of aloe vera juice and 12oz. hot raspberry green tea. 1:00 p.m. - drank 20 oz. protein smoothie - 25 grams of protein. 4:30 - 7:45 p.m. - taught classes, cautiously did 10 push ups, then later 10 more and later 17 more. Also did 16 reverse rack rows (horizontal pull ups). I'm being very careful about the push ups. 9:00 p.m. - I watched the Paula Sands Live show that I did yesterday. The spot was good but my push ups looked terrible. I didn't go low or high enough and my body was not straight. How embarrassing and disappointing. I'm glad I saw it. Now I'm aware of how I looked and am more determined to have better form. 10:30 p.m. - At home I iced down my shoulder. Calling it a day.

Day 37 Shoulder Response Ability Part Two

2:45 to 3:15 p.m. - Went to Dr. John Stader's Chiropractic Office in Bettendorf. He treated my shoulder with ultra-sound, electric stimulation, ice pack and active isolated stretching. We were also filming the documentary at this location. It was at this point my producer realized how serious my condition was. He told me to tell how I felt and what I thought in front of the camera. It was sinking in as to just what kind of a dilemma I was in. My only hope was to work hard to heal up enough in time for Saturday's big event. More immediate though we had to leave for Paula Sands Live. 4:30 p.m. -Went on the Paula Sands Live show on Channel six and was the first guest. We talked about Push ups for Peace but I was apprehensive because I knew she would eventually ask me to demonstrate push ups. She did of course, so I calmly got in position to do them and it kind of surprised me that I got through 35 wrist push ups with relative ease. After the interview I was interviewed by the documentary film maker. I expressed relief and gratefulness. It seemed like a miracle. 5:50 p.m. - drank 12 oz. drink w/20 grams of protein. 6:00 p.m. - conducted teen class. 17 in attendance. 9:50 p.m. - Had 8 oz. of chicken soup broth. What a day! Talk to you tomorrow.

Day 37 Shoulder Response Ability Part One

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 168 lbs. Shoulder still hurts, it is still a big concern. 7:15 a.m. - Left for Optimist club meeting. The meeting was very interesting as there was a lot of energy and enthusiasm. One of our members arranged the speaker for the day. It just so happened as the speaker began, that member had a medical emergency and 911 was called. With great poise, the speaker continued as his friend was being treated and taken away. 8:50 a.m. - Came home to change clothes. Put more Biofreeze on my shoulder. My wife prayed over me and my shoulder. She could sense that I was feeling down about it. It's no fun when a lot of people are depending on you and something like this happens. I guess I'll have to go on and just do it. 9:45 a.m. - drank 15.2 oz. of Naked brand blue machine (blueberries, black berries, apple and banana). 10:30 a.m. - conducted class, did leg lifts and sit ups but no push ups. 12:30 p.m. - got a one hour massage at Backsavers Therapeutic Massage in Bettendorf. Lian worked extra on my shoulder. We shot footage for the documentary while I was there. 2:30 p.m. - drank 14 oz. freshly juiced carrot-apple-ginger juice.

Day 36 Push Ups to Pieces

Up at 7:00 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight - 168 lbs. Feeling really good today. A big contrast to six weeks ago at 197 lbs. when I was more tired in the morning, and had less energy and sore joints. 8:30 - 8:50 a.m. - drank 12 oz. hot raspberry green tea w/ honey. 9:50 - 10:15 a.m. - drank 20 oz. protein smoothie - 25 grams of protein. 10:30 a.m. - taught 30 min. lesson. Because I need to heal my shoulder, I arranged a 30 minute massage from 12:45 - 1:15 p.m. A small girl with strong hands worked on me and did a good job. I felt better. 1:30 p.m. - taught lesson. 2:00 p.m. - meeting. 3:15 p.m. - Drank 16 oz. protein drink w/ 32 grams of protein. 4:30 - 8:15 p.m. - Taught classes and a lesson. Did some leg lifts and sit ups but no push ups. I may not do any all week till the event. Maybe the shoulder will recover by then if I just give it a rest. 9:30 p.m. - Drank 16 oz. of choc. almond milk.

Day 35 Easter Sunday

Up at 7:30 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. Still maintaining the same weight, thanks to the extra protein drinks and salty soup broth. Drank 8oz. cranberry-pomegranate with a 2.5 oz. liquid supplement called "I Am Healthy", yes really. 9:00 a.m. - drank 8 oz. cup of coffee at church gathering downstairs. 9:30 a.m. - 8 oz. coffee refill while I wait. 10:00 a.m. - went upstairs to church service. 1:30 p.m. - got home took a nap till 2:30 p.m. I'm not sure why I was so tired. 3:00 p.m. - drank 8:oz. cranberry-pomegranate juice with 2.5 oz. liquid supplement called "I Am Happy", no kidding. 3:30 p.m. - saw movie "Water For Elephants". It was slow in places but overall I enjoyed it. 6:15 p.m. - Went for a two mile walk. 7:15 p.m. - Did yard work. 8:15 p.m. - Sat down to read. I've learned that I need to keep busy on Sundays since they are water days. Even though I did have some juice and coffee today, Sunday afternoons can be long. So it's best to do something constructive. ... All day in the back of my mind I've been thinking about my shoulder. It's still sore. I hope this whole event isn't ruined. I will have to focus on healing.

Day 34 One Week Left of Fastivus Holiday Season

Up at 7:00 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. I feel very good although I think I could have slept longer. 7:30 a.m. - Slowly drank 16 oz.cranberry-pomegranate juice. 8:10 a.m. - Did 45 reps of 100 lbs.(the last 5 were tough) at Bill Reagan's home gym. 8:30 a.m. - taught "old guy's class" Did 10 full knuckle push ups, 30 leg lifts, 20 sit ups and10 full fingertip push ups. 9:50 a.m. - drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk w/ added protein, 40 grams total. 10:00 a.m. - taught kid's class. 11:00 a.m. - taught kid's class at arsenal. 1:00 p.m. - taught lesson. 1:30 p.m. - drank 16 oz protein drink w/ added protein - 40 grams total. 1:40 -2:10 p.m. - taught lesson. 2:40 - 3:40 p.m. - Sipped on 12 oz. peach-mango green tea while I did the hour of power - 36 push ups per minute, 25 min. on the knuckles, 35 min. on the wrist. total 2,160 push ups in an hour. Unfortunately, about 48 minutes into the hour I got a bad feeling in my left shoulder in the front, like a strain or something. I was still able to finish. I hope it's nothing. 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. - Watched the news and had 24 oz. egg drop soup broth. 7:00 p.m. - Played a game of scrabble, scored 320 to win. 8:45 p.m. - Enjoyed 14 oz. frozen Muscle Milk, a nice treat. I think I may have really strained a muscle in my shoulder today. I'm a bit concerned as it's still a little sore.

Day 33 Good Friday Part Two

4:30 p.m. - Drank 10 oz. of protein drink w/ 17 grams of protein. 6:30 p.m. - drank 12 oz. cranberry-pomegranate juice. 6:30 p.m. - Left for 7 p.m. Good Friday church service. Shot some video there for a few minutes. 8:15 p.m. - ate a 3/4 inch by 3/4 inch cracker and a slightly larger than a thimble full of grape juice for communion. 9:30 p.m. - At home drank a 14 oz. Muscle Milk w/ 25 grams of protein. It was a good Friday today and I'm looking forward to tomorrow 's hour of power. I'll see how 36 push ups a per minute for an hour feel. That's about 200 over the current record. If I get through that okay I should be good for the event April 30.

Day 33 Good Friday Part One

Up at 6:3o a.m. 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. Almost over-slept but feeling good. This is the longest I can remember that I have maintained the same weight for so long. This may be a natural weight for me but it's certainly not the normal one. I was going to say that my driver's license says I weigh 185, but I just checked and they don't put your weight on it anymore. 7:00 a.m. - conducted class , shot more of the documentary "Fast in the Life Lane". Workout included 3 sets 50 knuckle push ups, 50 leg lifts, 35 sit ups, 30 side leg lifts, 30 twisting sit ups. 8:30 a.m. - Went to Cup a' Jo's Drank 20 oz. Almond French coffee w/ 17 grams of chocolate whey protein added. Shot some more good footage there. 10:30 a.m. - conducted class but took it easy. Workout included 10 knuckle push ups, 35 leg lifts, 25 sit ups, 10 finger tip push ups. 30 side leg lifts, 30 twisting sit ups. 11:30 a.m. - drank 8 oz. almond milk w/ 17 grams of protein. 12 noon - workout - 20 min. fast walk, progressive 2 sec. perfect push ups (partners alternate and start with one, then two and so on). total - 55. Progressive reverse rack rows - total 55, progressive wrist rolls - 30.

Day 32 Take It Easy, Like the Eagles

Up at 7:30 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. Feeling good so far today, the sun is out more or less. 9:00 - starting sipping 20 oz. coffee w/ 17 grams of protein added. I know this is a juice day but I want to hold on 170 lbs. for a while. 2:00 - 2:30 p.m. sipped on 24 oz. of egg drop soup broth. 2:45 3:45 taught lesson to my 77 year old student Bob. It is his second time back since his knee replacement in December. He is doing better and better. He even remembered his Kali stick fighting patterns. 4:00 p.m. - drank 12 oz. cranberry-pomegranate juice. 4:30 p.m.- taught kid's class. 5:30 p.m. - drank 11.5 oz. cran-apple juice. 6:00 p.m. - conducted teen class. 7:oo p.m. drank 14 oz. almond milk w/ 17 grams of protein. 7:30 p.m. - Taught lesson. 9:30 - At home - drank 16 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. Took it easy today but I plan a moderate workout tomorrow (day 33, Good Friday), then hit it hard with an hour of power on day 34, Saturday. Have a great weekend.

Day 31 Gonna Fly Now (It's a Rocky Road)

Up at 7:50 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 170 lbs. Feeling good and ready to work hard today. 9:15 a.m. - drank 18 oz. smoothie, 25 grams of protein. 9:45 a.m. - drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk, 25 grams of protein. 10:30 a.m. - sipped on 16 oz. raspberry green tea w/ 26 grams of protein through noon. 12:05 p.m. - started work out with trainer Ian. Did alternate progressive perfect push-ups - 1+2+3+4+5+6 = 21 total 2 sec. push-ups. Next - progressive reverse rack rows ( horizontal pull-ups) by 5's, 5+10+15=30 total. Then - 75 leg lifts holding 1 brick w/ feet and 50 sit-ups holding 2 bricks. Now, we're warmed up. Did 40 push-ups per minute for 40 minutes. 1600 hundred total. The first 25 min. were done on the wrists and the next 15 min. on the knuckles. Felt good. 3:00 p.m. - drank 8 oz drink w/ 18 grams of protein. 3:30 p.m. - taught lesson to 5 year old and his grandfather. 4:00 drank another 8 oz. drink w/ 18 grams of protein. 4:30 - 7:45 p.m. - taught three classes. Workouts included 75 push-ups, 135 leg lifts, 90 sit-ups. 8:30 p.m. - drank 12 oz. almond milk w/ 17 grams of protein. I felt good about the 40 minute push-up workout today. I plan on doing a full hour at 36 per minute on day 34. I should be ready for Push-ups for Peace April 30th. Looking forward to it every day. Talk to you tomorrow.

Day 30 A Long Fast Day

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 6 hours of sleep. Feeling very good considering only six hours of rest. 7:15 - 8:15 a.m. - Attended Morning Optimist Club meeting. We were scheduled to shoot for the documentary "Fast in the Life Lane". It was a great meeting, there were 54 members in attendance and everyone was in a great mood. I did 35 wrist push-ups for the crowd to promote Push-ups for Peace. The mayor called me the night before to tell me he would be out of town but the Alderman-at-Large would speak for him. He did a great job filling in. We got some great footage and interviews. 9:00 - 9:30 a.m. -drank 20 oz. smoothie w/ 25 grams of protein. 9:45 - drank 12 oz. hot raspberry green tea. 10:45 - conducted class, interviewed tenants for the film. 2:oo p.m. - drank 14 oz. carrot-apple-ginger juice. 3:00 p.m. - drank 6 oz. almond milk. 4:30 p.m. - taught arsenal class. 6:oo p.m.. - conducted teen class. 17 teenagers in attendance. 7:00 p.m. - taught lesson. 9:30 p.m. got home, had 8 oz. chicken soup broth. 10:00 - drank 16 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice.

Day 29 Back On Track

Up at 7:40 - 9 hours of sleep. weight - 171 lbs. Feeling much better today, I've got my head together and ready for the day. 8:30 a.m. - drank 22 oz. of EAS Advent Edge carb control drink. It had 34 grams of protein. 9:30 a.m. - drank 12 oz. peach-mango green tea. 10:00 a.m. - meeting at gallery in Davenport. 11:00 a.m. - taught lesson. 1:30 p.m. - advertising meeting. 2:00 p.m. - taught lesson. 3:3o p.m. - drank 12 oz. almond milk w/ 7 grams of protein. 3:45 - 4:15 - cleaned training area. 4:15 - 7:50 p.m. - taught classes. As always, did exercises with the class. Workout included: 40 knuckle push-ups, 27 finger push-ups, 16 fist together push-ups, 80 leg lifts, 40 sit-ups, 80 side leg lifts, 50 twisting sit-ups. 8:15 p.m. - did 30 2 sec. perfect push-ups. 8:30 p.m. - drank 12 oz. almond milk w/ 7 grams protein. As you can see it was a typical day in the life lane of fasting. It seems however that keeping busy through out the day works well for me. Tomorrow we're shooting footage for the documentary at the Optimist Club meeting. It should be interesting and fun. Talk to you then.

Day 28 Restless, Tempted, Sore and Distracted

Up at 9:00 a.m. - 11 hours of sleep. weight - 172 lbs. I did it. I was able to gain a pound today. All that protein yesterday helped. 12:45 p.m. Went to channel 8 for Children's Therapy Center telethon. Another optimist and I presented a giant check on the air. Also did an interview about Push-ups for Peace. They interviewed me with an eleven year old girl named Mikayla, from the therapy center, who said to me before we went on the air "Don't mess up , I don't need the bad publicity." She was really funny. 3:00 p.m. - Went home. Today is a water day and for some reason especially difficult. It's been four weeks and 25 pounds ago since I've eaten and I'm finding myself wanting to chew on something. I ended up chewing on some cauliflower, broccoli and carrot and spitting it out over the sink disposal. It was not that satisfying but it did give me some kind of relief. I found myself wondering why I'm even doing this(the fast). The rest of the evening I spent reading and drinking water. Funny how I felt so physically strong yesterday and not so mentally strong today. I'm sure I'll get my head together tomorrow as I'll be busy again. Looking forward to tomorrow and hope the soreness will be gone from my shoulders.

Day 27 A Saturday But Not a "Weakend" Part Two

6:10 p.m. - drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk 25 grams of protein. 7:00 p.m. - went to the mall and got a pedicure. 7:30 p.m. - got a 15 minute massage on the shoulders. 8:30 - 9:00 p.m. -I went home and drank 22oz. protein drink w/ 34 grams of protein. I drank about a 100 grams of protein today because of all the push ups I did yesterday and today. It was about 1400 Friday and 2,025 today, plus all the bench press work this morning. I figure I need to repair and replace a lot of muscle tissue tonight. Also I checked a year ago on day 27 and I'm running 3 lbs. lighter this year. I'm trying to hold on to some body weight. We'll find out tomorrow if it worked. Well, it was a long, hard day but I enjoyed it. Talk to you on day 28.

Day 27 A Saturday But Not a "Weakend" Part One

Up at 6:10 a.m. - 6 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 171 lbs. Feeling pretty good for the amount of sleep I got. 6:45 a.m. - drank 12 oz. V8 strawberry-banana fusion light. 7:00 Did a bench press workout at World Record holder Bill Reagan's gym. My work out included: 115 lbs. 20 reps, 195 lbs. 9 reps, 215 lbs. 6 reps, 245 lbs. 1 rep, 215 lbs. 6 reps, and 100 lbs. 40 reps. While we were there we shot footage for the documentary "Fast in the Life Lane". 8:30 a.m. - Taught a class for my older group ( mostly brown and black belts that range in age from 45 to 72 years old). We worked on empty hand, stick and staff defenses. We also shot some footage of this class for the film. 10:45 a.m. - drank a 20 oz. freshly juiced carrot-apple-ginger juice. 11:00 a.m. - taught class at R. I. Arsenal. 12:15 p.m. - drank 15.2 oz. 19 gram protein drink. 1:45 p.m. - put on martial arts demonstration at arsenal for about sixty parents with kids class. 2:40 - 3:40 p.m. - "Did hour of power" 30 - 35 push ups per minute. did a total of 2,025 push ups in the hour. drank a 20 oz. Gatorade during this time. 4:30 p.m. - drank 8 oz. rice milk w/ whey protein, 26 grams.

Day 26 T.G.I.F.

Up at 6:05 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 172 lbs. 7:00 a.m. - drank 14 oz. of Muscle Milk 25g of protein. Woke up feeling a little tired today. I'm sure that will change. 7:05 - 8:15 a.m. - conducted early morning Friday class. Workout included 4 sets of 50 push ups, 50 leg lifts, 35 sit ups, 25 left and right side leg lifts and 20 twisting sit ups. 9:00 - 11:45 a.m. sipped on 24 oz. coffee from Cup A' Jo's. I mixed in 18 grams of protein. 10:30 - 11:55 a.m. taught 10:30 class. The session included a good martial arts workout plus 25 push ups, 40 leg lifts and 25 sit ups. 3:30 p.m. - drank 15 oz. drink with 17 grams of protein. 3:50 - 4:45 p.m. - worked out alone. Did 35 push ups per minute on the bars for 40 minutes. total - 1,400. Plus 30 reverse punch lifts left & right w/ 45# dumbbell, 31 bicep curls & 31 triceps curls left & right w/ 30 # dumbbell. Sipped on 12 oz. peach-mango green tea during workout. 7:00 p.m. - drank 16 oz. V8 strawberry-banana fusion light. 8:00 p.m. - drank 8 oz. rice milk w/ 14g whey protein. 1o:45 p.m. - drank another 16 oz. V8 strawberry-banana fusion light. I love Fridays because I can get up early and work out hard all day and really fell good. I hope your Friday was as good as mine.

Day 25 A. M. Radio

Up at 7:45 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight 172 lbs. I'm down 2 lbs. from yesterday, a little surprising. 9:00 a.m. - Stopped to get gas for the truck, got a 16 oz. cup of coffee. I was not going to drink coffee on this fast. Sorry for backsliding a little. 9:45 a.m. - Drank 11 oz. 17 gram protein drink. 10:30 - 11:50 a.m. - taught class, light workout (50 push ups, 100 leg lifts 50 sit ups, and a lot of Kali stick fighting). 1:00 p.m. - drank 15 oz. Naked brand blueberry-blackberry juice. 2:45 -3:20 - taught lesson to Bob, a 77 year old student, first time back from knee replacement in December. He did very well. It's great to have someone that age with such a good attitude. 5:00 p.m. - Did a radio show with local talk show host Jim fisher 0n 1420 A.M. radio. Jim was very kind and helpful. I don't know how many people were listening but he let me plug Optimists club, Push ups for Peace plus the blog and documentary "Fast in the Life Lane". He was kind enough to mention my academy and the benefits of martial arts. 6:00 p.m. - Back to work teaching till 7:30 p.m. Drank a 16 oz. pomegranate green tea. That's it. Early day tomorrow.

Day 24 A Fast Day in the Life Lane

Up at 6:45 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep. weight - 174 lbs. Feeling good this morning, ready to workout hard and promote Push ups for Peace. 7:45 a.m. - drank a 20 oz. 25 gram protein smoothie from Q.C. Fusion. 8:55 a.m. - drank 20 oz. 25 gram protein smoothie from Cafe Express. I'm working on getting some protein in my system for today's workout. 10:15 - drank 12 0z. hot raspberry green tea with 20 gram protein energy shot. 11:00 a.m. - taught lesson to 4 1/2 year old student, Kirin, who does very well. 12:30 p.m. - drank 12 oz. cold raspberry green tea as I worked out. My workout consisted of : 45 reverse rack rows (horizontal pull ups), 16 wrist rolls (a stick, a rope, a ten lb. weight), 30 bicep curls left & right, 30 triceps curls left & right, 60 leg lifts w/ 1 brick between feet, 35 sit ups holding 2 bricks, 45 knuckle push ups per minute for 10 minutes, 40 knuckle push ups for 15 minutes, 35 push ups for 5 minutes. A total of 1,225 for the half-hour. 4:00 p.m. drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk , 25 grams of protein. 4:30 - 8-45 p.m. taught classes. did exercises with the class: 75 push ups, 100 leg lifts and 65 sit ups. 9:30 p.m. - Got home and had 7 0z. of chicken soup broth. Kind of a busy day but a good one.

Day 23 Another Pleasant Valley Funday

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 174 lbs. 7:00 a.m. - drank 12 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. 7:15 a.m. - Attended Optimist club meeting but had to leave early. 8:10 - 11:25 a.m - Spoke again at Pleasant valley High School. Did four classes in the morning. Only had maybe two kids falling asleep and only two trying to use their phones, but it was no problem getting their attention. 12:20 - 2:45 p.m. - Spoke to three more classes about my journey to world records, Push ups for Peace and serving the community. I was very impressed with the High School and really enjoyed speaking to the students. Sipped on a 12 oz. raspberry-acai green tea as I spoke. 4:30 p.m. - Taught class at the Rock Island Arsenal. 6:00 p.m. - Taught teen class. 7:45 p.m. drank 11 oz. protein drink with 17 grams of protein. I thought I should have some protein just to keep my weight up. I have lost 23 lbs. in 23 days. I'm sure the process will be slowing down more soon. It was another great day, I'm feeling good and looking forward to tomorrow's workout.

Day 22 A Pleasant Valley High

Up at 7:30 - 7 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 175 lbs. 7:30 a.m. - drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk light, 2o grams of protein. 8:10 - 11:20 - Spoke to four classes of 9th graders on community service and Push ups for Peace at Pleasant Valley High School. In each class, I spoke of how I achieved a world record and how Push ups for Peace started. I also punched through a board for them to illustrate body-mind-spirit or strength-knowledge- intentions. I explained that to achieve a goal, one must have those elements working together. 12:00 - drank 11oz. protein drink, 17 grams of protein. 1:00 -2:40 p.m. - spoke to two more classes at P. V. High. 3:45 - 8:15 p.m. taught classes and lessons. 7:15 p.m. - drank 14 oz. 25 g protein drink. In the classes tonight did a total of 125 push ups, 75 leg lifts, 50 sit ups, 5o side leg lifts and 50 twisting sit ups. 9:30 p.m. - drank 16 oz. blueberry white tea. 9:45 p.m. - did 100 push ups on the bars. 10:30 p.m. - drank 11 0z. 17 g protein drink. Didn't workout as much as I would have liked, but got something done anyway. I'll try an hour of power Wednesday. Still feeling good, but very busy all the time.

Day 21 Good bye Columbus

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep. weight - 176 1/2 lbs. Feeling good considering I've been sleeping on a hide-a-bed for two nights. 7:30 a.m. - On the road back to Iowa. 8:00 a.m. Sipping on 24 oz. coffee as I drive from Columbus. 9:45 - sipping on 8 oz. mocha coffee and 16 oz. orange juice. 11:30 a.m. - drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk - 25 grams of protein. 2:30 p.m. - completed 1000 left and 1000 right rapid fist to finger spreads plus 1000 right and 1ooo left ball squeeze exercises. 4:30 p.m. - arrived in the Quad Cities. 5:30 p.m. - Had 20 oz. of chicken soup broth. Took it easy the rest of the evening. Got a big day tomorrow. I'll be speaking to high school students all day, then teaching classes all evening. I hope I can squeeze in a workout sometime. I'm only half way, but I would say this fast is going as good, or better than expected. See you tomorrow.

Day 20 A Fast Day Off

Up at 7:30 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight - 177 lbs. Spent 8 hours in the car yesterday, so not much physical activity. 11:00 drank 12 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. 11:30 - Took 2 1/2 year old grandson to Little Gym. It's a gym just for that age group. 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Went to a restaurant called Hoggy's Barn and Grill. There was an actual farm tractor hanging from the ceiling over our table. I ordered a 16 oz. cranberry juice. My son, who is turning 30, ordered wings for starters. Then he had a large order of ribs with onion rings. The onion rings were the size of donuts. I'm not kidding. He said it was all very good. 6:00p.m. - Taught my 6 year old granddaughter how to play Skipbo. She beat everybody. 7:45 p.m. - Went to see the movie - The Adjustment Bureau, starring Matt Damon. It was good. 9:40 p.m. drank 12 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. It's good to take a day off. You can have fun, even if your fasting. 1o:45 - couldn't resist doing 50 knuckle push ups before bed.

Day 19 A Fast Trip East

Up at 6:a.m. - 6 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 176 lbs. Feeling good getting up, considering I got less sleep than usual. I'm surprised that I dropped 2 lbs. - I don't really know why. 6:45 a.m.- drank 14 oz, Muscle Milk Light - 20 grams of protein. 7:00 a.m. Friday morning workout - did 5 sets of 50 knuckle push ups on bricks, 50 leg lifts holding one brick, 50 sit ups holding two bricks, 30 side leg lifts and 30 twisting sit ups. 9:05 a.m. - Left town for Columbus, Ohio. 9:15 - drank another Muscle Milk Light. 10:30 a.m. - still driving east on I 74, drank 12 0z, pomegranate-cranberry juice. 1:20 - 2:30 p.m. Continue to drive into Indiana as I sip on 18 oz. coffee. (I gave up coffee on this fast, unless I'm driving). 2:30 p.m. - from the passenger side, completed 1000 rapid fist to finger spreads on each hand and 1000 ball ball squeezes on each hand. A total of 4000 reps. It's good to do something while you sit there in the car. 2:45 p.m. drank regular Muscle Milk 14 oz. 25 grams of protein near Mt. Comfort, Indiana. 6:30 p.m. - Arrived in Columbus, Ohio. Spent the rest of the evening visiting with our son, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren.

Day 18 Teens Not Idle

Up at 7:a.m. - 8 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 178 lbs. Feeling better and better as this fast goes on. 9:15 a.m. - started drinking ( I drink slowly) 20 oz. raspberry-pomegranate tea. 9:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. - taught lesson and class - light workout 25 push ups, 25 leg lifts, 15 sit ups and 30 side leg lifts. 12:30 p.m. - drank 20 oz. strawberry-kiwi juice (1/4 diluted). 2:00 p.m. - drank 12 oz. raspberry-acai green tea drink. 2:45 - 3:45 p.m. - got a one hour ashi-shiatsu massage (one where the practitioner uses her feet). I felt a little guilty taking the time for this, but it is good for the body, especially if you workout a lot. 4:30 p.m. - taught a kid's class at the arsenal. 6:00 p.m. - Conducted the teen class while we shot it for the documentary. The class went very well. I have the most experienced teens lead the exercise. They did so well I rewarded them with a pizza party. Three large Happy Joe's pizzas covered the fourteen or so that attended. 7:30 p.m. - taught some Father-son lessons. 8:30 - drank 20 oz. Gatorade. Well this was kind of a typical day. I will say I really proud of my teenagers. What a great group they are.

Day 17 Well and Ready

Up at 4:15 a.m. with minor sore throat - sprayed it with some sore throat spray and went back to bed. Up at 7:45 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep. weight - 179 lbs. Had 16 oz. cup of coffee for the 2 nd time in this fast. Had 4 Halls lemon-honey throat drops and 4 Halls citrus vitamin C drops with the coffee. A good combination, I feel better already. 10:00 a.m. - drank 14 oz. Myoplex protein drink. (25 grams of protein). 11:00 Drank 20 oz. green tea. 12:15 p.m. - did 40 reverse rack rows (horizontal pull ups), 12 wrist rolls, 25 left and right bicep curls, same for the triceps, 50 leg lifts holding 1 brick with the feet and 25 sit ups holding 2 bricks. 12:25 p.m. - 1:25 p.m. Did the push up hour of power: 34 push ups every minute for an hour for a total of 2040 push ups in an hour. Did half on the knuckles and half on the wrists. I put skin shield on my wrists, it worked pretty well to protect the skin. It was kind of tough about 40 minutes into the hour, but then it gets easier. I think I'll be ready for April 30. 3:00 p.m. - Drank another 14 oz. protein drink. 3:45 - 5:30 p.m. - taught kids class. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. - taught adult classes. Did 25 knuckle push- ups, 50 leg lifts, 45 sit ups, 30 side leg lifts, 10 finger tip push ups and 10 fist together push ups. Feeling great at the end of the day. Good night.

Day 16 Starve a cold and feed it soup

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep. Weight - 179 lbs. 6:35 a.m. drank 16 oz. 1/4 diluted pomegranate-cranberry juice. 7:15 - 9:15 a.m. attended Optimist Club meeting. 9:45 a.m. - drank 12 oz. raspberry-acai green tea. 10:30 a.m. - taught class, did the usual light workout. (25 push ups, 45 leg lifts, 25 sit ups). 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. - Did some fund raising for Push ups for Peace. 3:00 p.m. - drank 10 oz. of hot and sour soup broth from Little Rangoon, the Burmese restaurant. I started sneezing earlier today and my nose started running. Whenever that happens I get the hot and sour soup. It's served very hot and very spicy. You can see the little hot peppers floating in the soup, each one it's own tiny explosion. It hit the spot. 3:30 -8:40 p.m. - taught classes and lessons. By 8:00 p.m. my nose was running again and was feeling a little tired. 9:25 p.m. - drank 8 oz. of chicken soup broth from Ross's restaurant. They have very good soup also. I felt like my body was catching a cold, but I can't let that happen. 10:05 p.m. - took some calcium, vitamin D and 1/2 aspirin and called it a day. With a good night's rest, I'll feel better and be able to handle tomorrow's tough 90 minute workout.

Day 15 Can and Did Camera

Up at 6:40 a.m. - 8 1/2 hours of sleep. weight 180 lbs. 7:30 - drank 2 oz. aloe vera juice. Also started drinking 16 oz. protein drink and a12 oz. raspberry green tea with 2oz. protein energy shot. I sipped on those items all morning. I woke up not feeling as strong as usual, probably from the water only day yesterday. I'm a little surprised to see my weight stay at 180 lbs. for so long but that's the metabolic slowdown that naturally occurs. 12:30 p.m. - The film maker shot my workout for Fast in the Life Lane, the documentary. I did 8 exercises pretty rapidly: 25 reverse rack rows, 65 dips on the bars, 75 push ups, plus 5 others, then some heavy bag work, and finally some Knife throwing. It was tiring but fun. 3:30 p.m. - drank 14 oz. protein drink. (25 grams of protein). 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. - Taught classes. Did about 100 push ups, 100 leg lifts, and 100 sit ups during that time leading classes. 10:15 p.m. - did 120 push ups on the bars before I left the academy. 10:15 p.m. - did 80 push ups on the knuckles at home. Had a good day today. Not really hungry, and feeling good. I'm so busy the days go by quickly. Tomorrow I'll take it easy.

Day 14 The Fourteenth of Fastivus

Up at 9:15 a.m. - 9 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 180 lbs. Why did I sleep so long? because I could. Today is a water only day, so I will take it easy and relax. Today is also the Fourteenth of Fastivus, a significant marker in the holiday season of Fastivus. It is 1/3 of the 41 days of fasting and training for the final day of the feat of strength by the Grand Elder. This year it is Saturday, April 30, at the Push ups for Peace Festival. I'm looking forward to that day. I hope you will be there. - 1:30 p.m. - Went for a mile walk. 3:30 p.m. - Went to see the movie - King's Speech at the theater. Excellent movie. The title seemed boring so I didn't want to see it, but I'm glad I did. - The water only day gets easier as time goes on. Last week I was really tired but I'm getting used to it. Tomorrow I plan on some good workouts and shooting more of Fast in the Life Lane, the documentary. See you then.

Day 13 Just Dessert

Up at 6:15 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep - feeling rested and ready for the day. Weight - 180 lbs. 6:30 a.m. - Consumed 16 oz. of cranberry-pomegranate juice, 1/4 diluted. 8:30 - Taught "Old guy's class" -light workout, warmed up with 15 knuckle and 10 finger tip push ups - 65 leg lifts and 50 sit ups. 10:00 a.m. Taught kid"s class. - 11:00a.m. - Taught class on Rock Island Arsenal. - 11:00 - 12: 10 -p.m. drank 20 oz. Gatorade. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. taught lessons. 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. - worked out - did progressive perfect push ups (2 sec. long) 1 then 2 then 3 all the way to 20. total 210 - also 100 leg lifts with 1 brick between the feet - 50 sit ups with a brick in each hand - 25 reverse rack rows. (horizontal pull ups) Drank 20 oz. Gatorade during workout. 5:30 p.m. - Drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk - 25 grams of protein. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - Went to a birthday party - they had three large tables of desserts - cake, pies, brownies, mini eclairs and every kind of sweet treat can think of, maybe even some you can't. In my eating life, I would have enjoyed these things, but on a fast, I have no interest nor am I tempted. Another time those things can be enjoyed. I did have an 8 oz. sweetened tea. 9:45 p.m. - consumed 16 oz. diluted pomegranate-cranberry. I should sleep well tonight. Tomorrow's challenge - water only.

Day 12 Doctor's approval

Up at 6:30 a.m. - 8 hours sleep. weight - 180 lbs. I'm noticing that it is now easier to get up in the morning. I feel better upon first awakening instead of dragging my feet. I have more energy and much sooner. A big contrast to just 12 days and 17 lbs. ago. 6:50 - Drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk brand drink. 25 grams of protein. 7:00a.m. - Taught early morning class. Did 5 sets of 50 knuckle push ups, 50 leg lifts, 35 sit ups, 50 side leg lifts and 40 twisting sit ups. 8:35 had 16 oz. pomegranate-cranberry tea. 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Drank 16 oz. protein drink with supplements. total of 14 grams of protein. 11:15 - 11:50 - taught class. 12:30 -1:30 p.m. - Did the hour of power. Today it was 33 knuckle push ups every minute for an hour for a total of 1,980. I drank a 20 oz Gatorade during that time. 2:00 p.m. - Had a Doctor's appointment for a physical examination to be shot for the documentary. My Blood pressure was a little high at 140/ 80 since I had just worked out. 20 minutes later it was down to 133 / 80. I' sure it's back to 120/ 80 now. According to the Doctor I'm in great shape. 5:00 p.m. - taught lesson. 5:30 p.m. - Day is over, time to go home. 6:45 p.m. - Drank 16 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice (1/4 water). Another great day done.

Day 11 High School Spirit

Up at 7:30 a.m. - 8 hours of sleep. weight - 181 lbs. 8:30 a.m. - drank 16 oz. of pomegranate-cranberry juice, diluted 1/3 water 9:45 a.m. - taught lesson and class. 12:30 p.m. - drank 12 oz. of fresh apple-carrot-ginger juice. 3:00 p.m. - I gave a talk to a full classroom of about 40 students at Moline High School. I spoke of how I got involved in Guinness records, about the origin of Push ups for Peace and a little about Fast in the Life Lane, the documentary. (We were filming the documentary right there). They also heard about the importance or fitness, sacrificing to serve others and the importance of body-mind-spirit working together to achieve a goal (I illustrated this by punching through a board). I also told them story of Suzanne Mitchell, an 11 year old girl who believed in the idea of Push ups for Peace and did 300 push ups at last year's event just a few weeks before her untimely death. At the end of the speech the 15 students and the teacher committed to participating on April 30 at Push ups for Peace. I was very impressed with the turn out considering these students came on their own time after school. 4:30 - Taught classes till 7:00 p.m. Drank a 20 oz. Gatorade during that time. 7:30 p.m. 0ut the door and home early. (Early for me anyway).

Day 10 House Arrest

Up at 7:25 a.m. - 9 hours 0f sleep. weight - 182 lbs. 8:00 a.m. - Drank 18 oz. of kiwi-strawberry juice, diluted 1/3 water. 9:00 a.m. - Drank 14 oz. Muscle Milk , 25 grams of protein. 9:30 - drank 8 oz. pineapple-mango juice 1/3 water. 11:00 a.m. taught lesson to 4 1/2 year old star pupil. 2:15 p.m. - worked out in gym as I drank 8 oz. GURU brand energy drink. The work out was an eight exercise total arm workout. 3:00 p.m. -8:30 taught two lessons and two classes. 8:45 - Did 350 push ups (5 sets of 70) 9:00 - drank 8 oz. rice milk with 7 grams of protein. 10:15 p.m. - did 350 more push ups. 10:30 p.m. - drank 8 oz. more of rice milk with protein. I guess I was here at the school 13 hours today with out even going outside. It was like a self imposed house arrest. All of a sudden it's late into the night. I got a lot done but there's much more to do (another day). I'm out of here. Good night.

Day 9 A day in the Fast Life

Up at 6 a.m. - 7 hours of sleep. weight - 183 lbs. 6:15 - drank 16 oz. strawberry-kiwi juice 1/3 diluted. 7:00 a.m. - Attended Optimist Club meeting . Speakers for Children"s Therapy Center, Make A wish Foundation and Jim Mitchell for Push ups for Peace were there. All three speakers were excellent but Jim's was very emotional and moving. 9:15 - drank 16 oz. Strawberry-kiwi juice. 9:30 - 2:00 p.m. - spent time promoting Push ups for Peace. 1:15 - Drank 15 oz. Naked brand mixed fruit smoothie. 3:00 - 4:15 p.m. taught lessons. 4:15 p.m. - drank 5oz. glass of pineapple-mango juice. 4:30 p.m. taught kid's class on the arsenal. 6:oo p.m. - taught teen class. 7:30p.m. - taught adult class. 9:45 - drank 18 oz. strawberry-juice 1/2 water. Well there you have it. A typical day in the fast life. The highlight of the day was Jim's speech about the time he spent with his 11 year old daughter at Push ups for Peace before she passed away. I was tearing up, almost crying but I wasn't the only one. Tomorrow is a workout day. Got to push my self. Or perhaps, let myself be drawn towards the goal. Peace everyone - Good Night.

Day 8 Monday, Monday, So Good to Me

Up at 6:45 a.m. 8 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 184 lbs. 7:00 a.m. - drank 18 oz. kiwi-strawberry juice (diluted 1/2 water). 8:00 a.m. - Shot video segment at Children's Therapy Center. 9:05 a.m. - Drank 14 oz. protein drink (25 grams of protein). 1:15 p.m. - Drank 8 oz. pineapple-mango juice 1/2 diluted. 4:30- taught kids class. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. taught adult class, workout included 100 knuckle push ups, 100 leg lifts, 100 sit ups, 20 fingertip push ups, 20 narrow and wide push ups. 8:00 p.m. - started doing bar push ups - 10 sets of 45 + 90 more in a row. 10:10 - Did 100 more knuckle push ups at home. A total of 780 push ups for the night. 10:15 - Drank 18 oz. 1/3 diluted strawberry-kiwi juice. Another great busy day. It was a good workout tonight, but I know I'll have to work harder to get to where I should be. My weight loss has slowed down and I'm now in the fasting mind set.

Day 7 Fast Within a Fast

Up at 8:30 a.m. - 61/2 hours of sleep. Weight - 185 lbs. I was up till 2:00 a.m. last night because of the coffee last evening but I feel pretty good now. 11:00 a.m. - went to Unitarian Church to help lead a discussion on non-violence with teen group. 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. - Went to the museum to see the Titanic film and exibit. I became very sleepy and tired around 3:30 p.m. The only reason I made it through the afternoon is because it was so interesting. I was home by 5:30 p.m. and relaxed the rest of the rest of the evening. A water fast is not a high energy day but I think it a good cleanse for the body and mind. In bed by 10:15. Looking forward to a good workout tomorrow and maybe my energy back.

Day 6 Seminar Day in Chicago

Up at 6:40 a.m. 8 1/3 hours of sleep. weight - 185 lbs. 8:30 a.m. - taught class - light workout. 9;30 a.m. Left for Chicago to teach a seminar at Tsai's Kung Fu Academy. Drank a 20 oz. Gatorade and 20 oz. pineapple-mango. on the way up to the seminar. 1:30 - 4:30 - taught about a dozen students our style of Shaolin Chuan Kung Fu. I ended the session by sparring six of the advanced students two minutes each. It was fun. I'm sure they had fun too. The very last thing was sparring four 11 year old kung fu girls at once. It was a draw. The crowd applauded. 6:00 p.m. - I didn't want to do it , but I stopped and got a 16 oz. coffee just to stay awake on the drive back home. 8:30 - drank 14 oz. diluted pineapple-mango juice. 9:45 - 10:15 drank 15 oz. Naked brand fruit juice smoothie. Felt very good today except for the afternoon sleepyness driving back. I would say I feel more "back to normal" whatever that is. Tomorrow is the first water only day. It's a fast within a fast. Hope I make it.

Day 5 The Toxic nine

Up at 6:00 a.m. - 7 1/2 hours of sleep weight - 188 lbs. 7:00 a.m. taught early class - included 250 push ups (5 sets of 50) 100 leg lifts, 50 sit ups, 100 side leg lifts, and 50 side sit ups. 8:40 a.m. drank 18 oz. mangosteen tea with honey. 9:45 a.m. - taught lessons. 11:00 a.m. taught class, drank 14 oz. protein drink (25 grams of protein). 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. - Did the hour of power work out - 10 slow (2 second) perfect push ups every minute for an hour- total - 600. 1:30 - Did bank work and fund raising. 3:30 - 5:15 taught lessons. 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. - Attended church carnival committee meeting. 6:30 - drank 14 oz. 25 gram protein drink. 7:30 drank 12 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. ... Today I have more energy on 7 1/2 hours of sleep than days 3 and 4 when I slept nine or more hours. I now think I was going through some kind of detoxification on those days. That might explain the weakness and fatigue I experienced. I think I'll call that period the toxic nine phase, since that is the amount of weight lost in that time. ... However, I felt much better today. I think the worst is over.

Day 4 Feeling Better

Up at 8:00 a.m. 9 1/2 hours of sleep. weight - 188 lbs. Feeling better and more rested today. 8:10 - drank 15 oz. pomegrante - cranberry juice. 10:30 - taught class, but assistant led exercises. 12:00 attended Optimist board meeting. 11:45 - 12:15 p.m. drank 20 oz. green tea. 1:00 p.m. to 1:50 taught lesson. 3:45 p.m. - Drank 15 oz. fresh apple-carrot-ginger juice. It was delicious. taught 4:30 class about 14 kids aged 5 to 12 years old. Demonsrtated animal forms of Shaolin Chuan Kung Fu, sparred in a no pads black belt match and sparred some of the kids. 6:00 p.m.- Taught the teen age class - worked on falling and throwing. Did a light work out in the weight room and called it a day. 8:45 p.m. drank 18 oz. pomegranate-cranberry juice. Had a fairly busy day, but a good one.

Day 3 Why Am I Doing This?

Up at 8:30 a.m. 9 hours of sleep. weight - 189 lbs. Could have slept more, feeling tired today. I seem to have a mild headache. 9:00 - 9:30 Made a couple of fundraising visits. 10:00 - 11:30 taught lessons. 11:45 drank 15 oz. protein drink + supplements. 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. office work. 1:00 - 2:45 - More fundraising visits. 3:00 - 7:45 taught lessons and classes. 3:30 - 5:00 drank 20 oz. gatorade. 5:15 did 2 sets of 70 push ups plus 50 leg lifts and 50 sit ups. During 6:30 class did 100 push ups (35 +35+ 30), 100 leg lifts 50 sit ups. Still feeling tired during class but pressed on. I'm starting to wonder why I'm doing this. But I remember that this is just temporary and things will be better soon. 8:05 p.m. - After class I did 3 sets of 70 push ups, 100 leg lifts and 50 sit ups. After that I pretty much had it for the day. 8:45 - Drank 14 oz. protein drink with 25 grams of protein. Sleepy and tired, looking foward to a good night's rest and tomorrow's challenge whatever it may be.

Day 2

Up at 6:15 a.m. 71/2 hours of sleep. Weight - 192 lbs. 6:30 - drank 20 oz. pomegranate - cranberry juice ( one third diluted ). 7:15 - Optimist club meeting 8:30 - drank 2 oz. aloe vera juice and 12 oz. hot green tea. 10:30 - taught class - light workout 30 push ups, 60 leg lifts, and 40 sit ups. 2:00 drank 12 oz. fresh apple - carrot - ginger drink. 3:30 - 5:30 - drank 20 oz. gatorade. Taught classes 4:30 - 8:30. Another light workout - 90 push ups, 100 leg lifts, and50 sit ups. I am very tired tonight . A good night's rest should help. It's a big workout day tomorrow.

Day One - Fastivus Begins

Up at 7:a.m. 71/2 hours of sleep. weight - 197 lbs. Shot the film project all day. Taught 3 classes this evening. Did exercises with the class. Did about 270 push ups, 200 leg lifts and 150 sit ups. Drank a 20 oz. green tea from about 11:00 - 1:00 p.m. Drank a 15 0z. protein drink from about 4:00 - 5:30. Then a 20 oz. Gatorade from about 6:00 - 8:00. I feel great today and look forward to the next 40 days of training and fasting.

Day Before the Eve of Fastivus

This is my first blog of 2011. The name has been changed, but the mission is still the same. It is: 1) Fast for 40 days to discipline and strengthen the body and mind. 2) Train for a world 's record to test my limits. 3) Create a fundraiser that will help children in need and get people involved. This years event, called "Push Ups for Peace" will be Saturday, April 30, at 2:30 p. m. at St. Ambrose University. Starting Monday, March 21, I will be fasting for about 41 days. I wll be drinking water throughout the fast. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays I will have only protein drinks. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, only diluted juices. On Sundays only water. This period of time is my annual spring holiday I call Fastivus. Fastivus is a time of renewal of the mind, restoration of body and resolve of the spirit. I look forward to this great spring " holiday season" and hope you join me in this year's Fast in the Life Lane.