andrew dodson

I guess I’ve been on a money-saving kick over the last month.  As mentioned in my previous post, I’m considering canceling cable and internet.  I’ve already changed my cell phone plan to save $40 per month.  I’ve also canceled my gym membership to save $30 per month.

While saving $30 per month is nice, the ultimate reason for canceling my gym membership was because I never went.  Over the last two years, my gym attendance has been extremely sporadic.  I couldn’t muster up enough motivation to get my stuff together and drive to the gym.  I’ve always thought it would be nice to find a way to workout at home.

A few months ago, I found out about P90X.  It’s an intense 90-day workout routine, but it doesn’t require a lot of equipment and can be done at home.  I was able to borrow the DVD’s from a friend, but I can tell you I’m already thinking about buying my own.  I’m really enjoying it so far.

I’ve elected to do the “lean” version of the workout first.  It involves doing more cardio and less weight training.  Since I’m trying to get back in shape, I figured this would be the best way for me to jump into P90X and not kill myself.  After 90 days, I’ll move on to the “classic” version, which is the normal P90X routine.  The next stage is “doubles” which is more intense than classic and involves more cardio (recommended for athletes trying to get back in shape for the season, or people that want to die from working out, I guess).  Even though it’s a 90-day workout, it can be repeated over and over again.  If it gets boring or easy, there are ways to challenge yourself to do more.

I mentioned P90x requires only a few pieces of equipment – a pull up bar, and dumbbells or resistance bands.  Optional equipment includes a yoga or exercise mat.

So far, I’ve purchased a Perfect Pullup bar (found a great deal on one for $20), a set of Perfect Pushup handles, and a set of resistance bands.  I already owned a set of 30lb. adjustable dumbbells.  Along the way, a friend of mine was getting rid of a great exercise bike, so I picked that up as well.  Even though I’ve spent a decent amount of money on this equipment, owning it will save money in the long run.

Happily, I’ve turned my small apartment into my own home gym.  I don’t have to bother with going anywhere.  I can exercise whenever it’s convenient.  I don’t have to worry about getting outside when it’s blazing hot, raining, or in the dead of winter.  It seems I’m finally motivated to work out on a regular basis for the first time in a few years.

I’m thinking about doing something crazy.

Canceling my cable and internet service at home.

Yes, I told you it was crazy.  Maybe it’s not so crazy to cancel cable.  But, how could a web designer cancel his internet service at home?  How could someone, like me, that loves the internet get rid of it at home?

Two reasons:  idolatry and money.

Over the last couple of months, I’ve started toying with this idea.  Far too often, the television and internet get in the way of doing so many other things in my life.  Most often, they get in the way of my time with God.  Too many days and evenings have been wasted away by watching show after show, or a ball game, or spending far too much time on Facebook, Twitter, or reading all of my favorite blogs.  All the while, I’ve “not had time” to read the Bible that day.  Cable and internet have become idols in my life.

In a lesser sense, too much cable and internet has not allowed me to do other important things:  exercise, read books, practice drums, get things done around my apartment, get outside on a nice day, or spend time with family and friends.

On top of all of this, canceling cable and internet would save money.  Specifically, around $75 per month.  Who doesn’t want an extra $75 per month?

It’s not like I’d never get to use the internet again.  There are two or three free wi-fi hot spots within walking distance of my apartment.  There’s Panera and other places that offer free wi-fi.  If I really needed to use the internet, I’d have plenty of options.  I can also do simple things from my phone.  The bottom line is, I think I’ll be alright.

What will I do in place of cable?  I’ll watch local stations if I need to, or pop in a DVD.  I don’t watch any shows regularly, so I don’t anticipate missing cable.  Until UK basketball season begins, at least.

This week, I’ll begin the experiment.  I won’t use cable or internet at my apartment unless I absolutely need them.  If I can go two or three weeks without them, I plan on canceling both services.  I’m looking forward to the challenge!

Okay, so this is a day late, but I just came across this video tonight.  The Boston Red Sox hosted a Disability Awareness Day  and asked this young man to sing the National Anthem.  A little bit into it, he starts laughing.  Then, the crowd steps up and helps him get through the rest of the song.  It just goes to show – no matter how bad you have it, you can always laugh at yourself, and, there’s still a little bit of good in the world.  Enjoy!

Happy Birthday, America! Somehow, I’m missing out on the party. Both my girlfriend and brother are in Washington, D.C. today. Jason is with his girlfriend, and Julie is with people from her church. Had I thought about it sooner, I should’ve made plans to be there too. Instead, I’ll do some random blogging.

• I absolutely love my new Flip UltraHD.  For the price, I don’t think you can find anything better in the world of video cameras.  It’s small (fits in your pocket), takes 720p HD video, records digitally (no tapes), does great in low light and is super easy to use.  My only complaints are:  the zoom isn’t the greatest, and you can only use battery power (no AC adapter).  Julie took it with her to Ireland and got some great videos.  Here’s one of my favorites, of a great street band in Dublin (note: video embedded in HD.  If it is loading slow, press pause after pressing play and let the rest of the video load before playing.):

• It’s almost the All-Star break and currently, the Reds are only three games back in the central division.  They haven’t been playing very well over the last few weeks, but fortunately, neither has the rest of the division.  It hasn’t been too out-of-the-norm for the Reds to stay in contention until around August and then fade as the season comes to a close.  Here’s to hoping they can get hot after the All-Star break and actually contend this year.
• eMusic just rolled out a huge addition to their catalog.  If you’re not a subscriber, it might be time to look into it.  They just added a bunch of big name artists, and they’re still cheaper than iTunes.