Starting over...Again.

I mentioned in my last post that taking a few minutes to read a few my running blogs really motivated me to make time for me and running. So...I just did.

I ran today. Ran 1 and walked 1. I didn't have high expectations, I just wanted to get my sea legs out there. Luckily I was able to do a majority of the run under some shade on the 800 meter trail at work. While I was walking I took a moment to stroll down memory lane. This is where it all began last year, mainly because I was intimidated by the long track. I worked up to four miles before I thought myself worthy to run with the big dogs...then I smoked it and got up to 11 miles on the long track. Not to mention that training led to finishing a half marathon.

I took those first steps today again, onto something bigger. Over all it felt great. I'm planning on Yoga tomorrow so I can get a good stretch and if the boy stays in his bed through the night tonight I plan to get an early morning workout as well.

Here's to first steps...

Hello...anybody out there...?

(crickets chirping)

Yes, I'm still alive and well. There seems to be too much to do and not enough time to do it. So...what have I done...stopped bloggin and runnin. Two of the things that I really like and are all mine. Sad.

So, I have some free time today and I thought I would catch up on what I've been missing for the last few months. NO...I don't really have free time I'm just taking it! So there.

Nothing truly exciting to report. Launching a shuttle every two months is really testing our resources and my sanity and I think every woman I know is pregnant.

I'll try and make more time next week. I need to get back in the saddle with running...it's funny blogging today and reading others blogs has really got me motivated. Just what I need.

Have a great weekend...make your hotel reservations now as to escape the wrath of Dean. Duh Duh Duhn....EEEEEEE.

From the beginning...of May

The fam took a our first family vacation to Seaworld May 04-06th. The trip was great. We went to the Riverwalk, Seaworld and Splashtown. I will update the boy’s blog with with the details. It wasn’t too relaxing but the time spent bonding as a family was priceless.

No running…

Mothers’s Day was great. I now have yet another Gar.min product. The hubby bought me a GPS for the car. Where has this been all my life. I even brought it to Florida with me…don't leave home without it. We visited Granny and PaPa, they become ten years younger when they are around the boy. We had a great time.

Still no running…

Memorial Weekend was sort of eventful. We had a bachelor/bachelorette party on Friday for our neighbors that are getting married on the 2nd. Us crazy couples stayed out til the break of 10:30. Oh and there was just three couples out of 7. Rockin good time. Actually...the timing was just bad…graduations and family plans took precedence, but we managed to salvage dinner.

The rest of the weekend was a wash…literally. We were planning on going to Lake Livingston Monday but the weather kept us inside. It was unfortunate…I was really looking forward to getting my jet skiing on. Someother time.

Even more no running…

We had a date! The hubby and I went to see Spam.alot on Saturday. It was our anniversary present from January. The love of my life even thought to book the restaurant where we had our first official date where we both left feeling the other wasn't interested. I guess we were wrong.

We got all gussied up and we actually got to be grownups for a night. Oh and the boy told us before the babysitter got there that he was not going to cry. OH my gosh...he may not be crying but I sure am. Slow down boy...you are growing up too fast.

Dinner was ok, the conversation was better and the show was outstanding. The hubby and I watched some of Monty Python and The Holy Grail a couple of weekends before but we didn't finish it (he knows it verbatim), I was glad I did see what I did because I had an idea of what to expect. But oh my gosh I still was surprised at the quality. I know...I know...it's a Broad.way performance but it was superb. I laughed till a cried..."BEEELOOOW me" Yeah...it looses something in print but man was that freakin funny.

No running…but planning to…

Sunday I left for Florida and that is where I am today. Drum roll please….

I RAN!

Thank you…thank you. I ran about 1.5 miles on Sunday and then walked back up the beach to the hotel. It was outstanding. Everything still worked…legs…check…breathing…check. Why had I waited so long?? I didn’t time myself because it wasn’t about that. Just revelled in the fact I was actually doing it and remembered that I want to do it more...and often.

The week has kept us busy, are portion of "stuff" was handed over for packing yesterday and our schedule has opened up considerably. Today we didn’t come into until 2p so we took advantage of a team building exercise this morning in the form of jet skiing. Oh man…did I mention how much I love to jet ski? I’ve GOT to talk to the hubby about getting one.

We ended up renting one two seater for an hour. The other two people I was with had not ridden before. I have to give it to the one that road with me, she stayed on pretty good, I only lost her twice. I wish I could bottle that adrenaline rush.

We just attending a launch briefing and everything looks great for tomorrow. No vehicle issues and weather seems to be cooperating. Everyone send good weather vibes to Florida about 6:38p your time tomorrow.

Planning to run in the AM…

We have another light day tomorrow…our “official” day will start around 12:30 in order to prep for the weather briefing at 3 then it’s “go for main engines” at 6:38.

Speaking of the hubby, he has been quite the trooper this week taking care of the boy. I am so lucky to have the support from him so I can come to Florida once a year for a couple of weeks. I’m trying to coax them into coming with me next time.

That’s all I got for now…thanks for all those still checking my blog I really appreciate the encouragement!

Have a great weekend!

I'm still here for those of you wondering. I had to post this because I refuse to go an entire month without posting something. I'm in FL next week...I will be able to catch up then.

BTW...no running. I'm kicking myself however and dadgummit I'm bringing my stuff with me and I am dragging my but out to run...even if it is just one measley mile.

Making up for lost time...

I've been too busy to post lately...I had some catching up to do before it got out of control...enjoy.

Birthday - April 30th, 2007

Another year in the books…looking back…I must say it was a pretty good year. I’m happy, healthy and loving life.

I decided to take the day off. The hubby couldn’t swing it since we are taking Friday off to go to Sa.n An.tonio. I was fine with that…I slept until 11a, had some breakfast then went shopping. I can’t think of a better way to spend the day…shopping!

I wasn’t feeling 100% before shopping and hit a wall and felt 35%. I decided to take a nap because the 13 hours I slept the night before were evidently we not enough. The hubby came home and I had dropped to 25% feeling well. Great!!!

After the boy came home we opened presents. The hubby’s Dad and Debbie sent a very nice card and some money. The hubby’s Mom and sister sent me some stuff from Old Navy. The hubby…are you sitting down…got me the GAR.MIN Forer.unner 305!! Snoopy Dance. The boy gave me a CD with MP3 of a TON of running songs. I’m sure he had help from Dad but…you never know.

I took some painkillers (not the drink) and started feeling much better.

The boys sang happy birthday and the boy got his piece of birthday cake. My man and I had sushi for dinner and had cake while watch ‘The Bac.helor’. It was a great day. (I can’t wait to run with my new Gar.min.)

Flamingo – April 28th, 2007

Tonight is Flamingo night. I believe I have mentioned this awhile back but for those who don’t know I’ll bring you up to speed.

Back in December of 2005 we had just moved into our neighborhood and one of the neighbors had a get together. I had mentioned that I had read an article about a cul de sac that had flamingo parties and wherever the flamingo landed that person would host the next party. Evidently the story stuck because the following day a flamingo was in our yard. Now that you are up to speed…

After a long sabbatical, 5 months, the flamingo reemerged a few weeks ago and boy did we get our party on. Kevin, Pam and Jane hosted a crawfish boil. It was a beautiful night so we spent the evening eating crawfish by the spool (spa/pool). One of our new neighbors, from the north side of the street, joined us. Us south siders don’t really get along with the north side...because they don’t represent. We’re not haters so we let them join in. We did take notice that they left early. It was their first one so we will let it slide.

As the evening progressed the topic of conversation seemed to have centered around the hubby and I. How we met, Russia and Finland...whether or next kid will be a boy or girl. Then…it happened. Kevin sat behind me and put his feet on my shoulders. Oh no you just didn’t…

That was all they needed and it was like vultures on a carcass. Needless to say someone has some very interesting pictures of me upside down in a chair and two of our neighbors, each with a leg in hand, one sucking one of my toes and the other massaging my other foot. GROSS. I am so the anti-foot fetish.

I had my fill around 1a…plus we’re paying premium baby sitting fees. I told the hubby to stick around and that I was going home. I think he stumbled into bed around 3a.

Needless to say he was hurting pretty bad on Sunday. We have the best neighbors ever! Except they need to stay away from my freakin feet!

Bayou Bash Relay

Hey…look at me…getting up before dawn to go to a race. As I am getting ready evidently the boy came and got in our bed, an unfortunate habit that started a week or so ago. As I come out of the bathroom I tiptoe out of the bedroom hoping to go unnoticed. Thank God for noise makers.

I make it…out of the house. According to hubby about three minutes after I left the boy figured out I was gone and he was not pleased.

I’m on my way out the door and I’m driving out to Be.ar Cre.ek Pa.rk. Funny thing…I have driven out to that park practically every weekend for 20 years. This is the first time I am returning in almost 10 years…with a different sport. A bit of nostalgia makes the ride a bit shorter. Ya know…10 years ago there was construction too. Good grief.

I get to the race…a bit later than I wanted. I make it just in time to be apart of my first official Strider picture. I then proceed to search the crowd for someone I don’t even know. I’m walking around…”Alma…Alma…does anyone know Alma…have you seen Alma?”. I’m starting to get a bit anxious because we are 10 minutes from start and I haven’t found my team.

Thankfully, I run into Steve with his clipboard and he directs me to where two of my teammates, Lisa and Janet are waiting for Alma. I run to the potty where of course there is a line and get back and Alma has arrived. Alma is running first, Lisa…second, me third and Janet fourth.

The Strider Die Chicks did ok 1:19:59…I of course have not trained and a Lisa and Janet were coming back from injuries. I’m not complaining I managed a 10:30 pace which is good for me who has not consistently trained since January. My teammates were lovely and I can't wait to see them again at another event.

The post race activities we ok…I didn’t stick around for much. The pizza had run out and I couldn’t make myself eat ice cream and cake that early. Seriously…pizza, ice cream and cake.

I did get a chance to meet follow bloggers June and Vic. I introduced myself as Sandy and blank faces were staring back at me…Reddaisy…the blog. OH…recognition at last. It was good to chat with them for a bit.

I had a great time. I really enjoyed getting out and running again.

Jim.my Buf.fet - April 21th 2007

I am no longer a “Buf.fet Vir.gin”. Oh my gosh what a good time! Here is a link to Hubby's blog detialing his personal experience. (He's a much better writer than I am...DON'T JUDGE ME!). With painkillers in hand we proceeded over to the tailgating lots. I’ve seen my share of tailgating for football games but for a concert! This was quite an experience, one that you can’t just read about…you so have to be there.

Almost immediately we ran into our neighbors Paul and Suzette. We didn’t even know they were going to be there.

We walked…and talked. I caught a guy checking me out so I went up to him and said hi. The hubby thought I knew him and wondered why I didn’t introduce him. I told him I didn’t know him…he was like…ok. LOL

A girl on crutches stopped us and asked what we were drinking “Are you drinking milk?”. Of course we are…on a warm day such as this…nothing like 64 ounces of milk to quench your thirst! Uh...mam…it’s a painkiller. What’s in a painkiller you ask…Orange juice, Pineapple juice, coconut milk and rum. YUM-O

We begin to make our way in to Min.ute Mai.d and the hubby and I stop off at the bathrooms. Well…the hubby does and I am stuck in a line halfway around Min.ute Ma.id Park. The hubby grabs my hand and says lets go...the guys bathroom is practically empty and the stalls are definitely empty. I think about it for a sec and I have had just enough to drink to agree. I put my hand over my eyes and go for it. The hubby guides me to the bathroom and I do my business tell him I’m opening the door…with my hands covering my eyes…he guides me back out and bam…it’s like nothing every happened. Apparently I got a few grins from guys coming in the bathroom. It was all good.

We get to our seats ON THE FIELD. It was awesome. We were located shallow centerfield. I had my nachos….gotta have me some nachos at the ballfield. Yeah…I paid for it later but it was worth it.

Rob.ert Ea.rl Ke.en came out and he was great. I haven’t seen him in about 6 years. I was a hootin and a hollerin…genuinely annoying the lady in front of me with the screaming. I apologized to the couple next to me and told them I’m a screamer and they welcomed to the family. Evidently the lady in front of me didn’t welcome…she kept giving me dirty looks every time I belted one out. So…I laid off a bit. REK ended up in true form with “The Road Goes on Forever” and it seems like the park erupted. FUN!

Jimmy was great…come to find out we were the opening concert of his summer tour. You wouldn’t have known it. It was awesome sharing the experience with the hubby.

We decided next year we were going to purchase tailgating tickets and make it a “flamingo” experience. Here’s to next year!

April 20th 2007

I am sitting in mis.sion con.trol manning my console and a neighboring colleague receives a phone call. There is a gunman in building 44 and 5 shots have been fired. I assumed security detained the gunman almost immediately so I didn’t think much more of it. Other than…are you freakin kidding me!

The same colleague receives another phone call and evidently there is a hostage situation, this is before the story breaks on the news. Shortly thereafter, on the loud speaker, a voice tells us to stay put and no one is aloud to leave the building. The building is not on official lockdown but we are not to leave until further notice. I immediately call the hubby to let him know what is going on and in the wake of the Vir.ginia Te.ch tragedy he is VERY concerned. I try to let him know I am fine and in no danger.

The news brakes nationally and the phone calls start coming in. I receive a phone call from a frantic mom that lives in Ohio, her daughter is to relieve me within an hour. I assure her that her daughter is ok and I make a phone call back to the office to make sure she calls her mom, they were all in the conference room watching the news.

At about 4 O’clock “the voice” comes back on the loud speaker and tells us we can now leave the building. So…I’m walking out to my car helicopters are in mass overhead and police are blocking off the parking lot that my car just happens to be in...adjacent to building 44. Because I had a clear view of the building from where I was standing, with many others, and there was something about being in proximity to a building that may or may not still have a gunman inside that didn’t sit well with me so I went the other direction and headed back to my office on the other side of campus. I made a couple more phone calls along the way to pass on info that I was fine.

I make it to my building and it was decided that I take my friend Jodie’s car home…since I live 45 minutes away it takes more of an effort to “borrow” a car. I’m about halfway home and the new reports the gunman has taken his life and the “real story” starts in unfold.

One of my neighbors came to check on me to see if I was ok.

Did I know the shooter…no.

Did I know the victim? Only in name and I attended a few meetings that he attended also.

How do I feel about what happened? It is hard to say. This world scares me. People scare me. The unknown scares me. But I have faith on my side. That faith is what allows me to get out of bed each morning, send my son to school, see the hubby off to work and finally have the courage to pull out of the driveway every morning. If I live my life in fear then “they”, “it” or whomever will have won and dadgummit…I choose to live.

Finally…I ran! Yay freakin me! Monday I ran 2.5 miles. I really didn’t time myself since I was attempting to take it easy since it’s been a couple of months since I ran. The weather was perfect and the legs felt good. I had to tell myself to slow down a couple of times because everything felt too good.

I had sushi for lunch and it seems I had a bit too much wasabi because my chest started burning about halfway through. Or was it the lack of cardio trainig in two months? I'll blame the wasabi. It really worked out to running 2 and working .5. I’m happy with that.

I also managed a quick run on Tuesday…hey look at me! Two days in a row. It was raining so I ran on the dreadmill. And it lived up to the name…every 2 miles of it. My legs were feeling a bit heavy the day before and I didn’t want to go crazy. Plus I saw my life pass before me when I was so engrossed in the handover ceremony aboard ISS that I tripped and nearly fell flat on my face. I’m such a spaz. The guy next to me even asked me if I was ok. I’m planning on keeping it to 2 – 2.5 this week and getting back on track with 3 to 4 next week. I should be good to go for the relay on the 28th.

Congrats to all the Striders that braved the weather in Boston. You are awesome.

My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the event that took place at Virg.inia Te.ch on Monday. 33 people didn’t come home on Monday; a statement that resonates rather frequently in my mind throughout the day. Figure out how we can use this tragedy to make the world a better place for the future. Pass it on…

New Do!

Ok…so I blew my challenge last week. When I had initiated that challenge I forgot I had a hair appointment the next day. And I went from this…




to this sassy thing!



Totally worth it!

The rest of the week gave way to a bevy of working late to make up hours from said hair appointment, a court date from an expected run for the boarder and I’m not talking Mexico or Canada. Finally, the day I actually had time I went to the trails, opened the back of my car only to find a lonely pair of running shoes. The hubby had taken my running bag out of the car the weekend before and I didn’t know it. I always have my running stuff…just in case I get that sudden burst of energy to pull over whenever and wherever to bust out a few miles. Yeah right…I haven’t busted out to do any kind of running since February. So I went shopping instead.

So…today I made a conscious effort to get the bag in my car…and I’m running dadgummit!

The weekend was the perfect weekend. We managed family time, couple time and some time apart…perfect.

On Saturday we went to a BBQ at my boss’s house. I have worked here for almost 8 years now and this was the first of its kind; It was ok. The weather could have been better. I made the hubby go so he could put names to the faces that I have complained about over the years. It was pretty uneventful, the ones that showed he knew plus he spent most of his time chasing around the boy.

Sunday, the boy actually let me sleep until 9 and he and I spent the morning together running errands. The hubby planted our Queen palms. YAY…they are so beautiful. No more picking them up when the wind gusts above 5 miles an hour. I worked on the curtains in the bedroom and the hubby had already hung up or new print while I was gone. It looks so good. A few finishing more touches and we’re done.

We had the babysitter come over for a couple of hours to watch the boy as a precursor for next Saturday when the hubby and I are going to see Jim.my Buf.fet. The hubby and I had a nice evening relaxing. We went to a sports bar for a couple of drinks. We arrived just at the end of the NAS.CAR race and a group of ‘necks were in the corner cheering and shouting at the TV. The hubby’s mouth dropped in awe. “I’ve never seen the likes.” Oh sweetie…I proceeded to give him a crash course in Neckcar. I can say these things as I am a 3 time Daytona 500 attendee and I have my pictures with several drivers. That was a past life…so I’ll leave it where it belongs. We finished up with our favorite…Sushi.

In conversation during our date...I totally suggested that the hubby go with the babysitter to see Bi.g D and the Ki.ds Tab.le playing at the Ware.house tonight. When I came back from bizarro world...oh my gosh...I just said you could go out with our babysitter. That is not my final answer. He just laughed. Alhtough I trust him immensly it would look really bad! He didn't even bite.

I’m looking forward to this week…being over. This coming weekend is gonna be supa dupa fun!

Good luck to those running in Boston this morning…that is some crazy weather.

Conversation held in the bathroom last night as the hubby and I are getting ready for bed:

Hubby: “So…am I taking the boy in the morning?”
Me: “Yes…I’m on console. Didn’t we…wait…we only negotiated Friday.”
Hubby: “You’re not taking him in the morning?”
Me: “I’m on console”
Hubby: “So…I’m taking him tomorrow and picking up and taking on Friday.”
Me: “Yes…does that work for you?”
Hubby: “I guess…”

Feeling guilty:
Me: “Ok…I’ll take him on Friday.”
Hubby: “No.”

Still feeling guilty:
Me: “Ok…I’ll take him on tomorrow and be a bit late.”
Hubby: “No.”

A couple of seconds later:
Hubby: “Get your boobs off me.”

Pause
Hubby “Get your vagina and your boobs off me…I’m tired.”

Then we spit the toothpaste out of our mouths.

I can’t believe I let last week get away from me without blogging. Well, actually I can. There just hasn’t been that much going on and I haven’t been that motivated to write. I didn’t get a chance to run last week because I had to work extra hours at work since I took Good Friday off. The boy’s school was closed so I took the opportunity to potty train him. I won’t go into detail here…but if you are interested you can read The Boy’s blog.

I had planned on running today however I am recovering from a heck of a stomach bug I got yesterday. I have absolutely no energy today. I can’t imagine why…I am almost sure the negative calories I had yesterday and the 300 calories I’ve made myself eat today may have something to do with it. I’m getting there. I have to since I have a race I need to be ready for in a few weeks. Thankfully it is only 2.5…definitely something I can still manage.

Challenge…tomorrow…I blog about actually running instead of why I didn’t!

Back in the Saddle...

I committed to the Bayou Bash relay April 28th. I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet the all of the Strider websites I’ve been stalking reading. Also it gives me some motivation to be more consistent with my running. Thinking about it…I’m really excited now.

Work is SOOOOO slow…I’m dying over here.

Anyway…the hubby’s birthday went great. He and I had a very nice relaxing day. We did a little shopping and bought some more wall art for the house. We have fallen in love with Di.dier Lour.enco. We picked up two more of his prints New Or.leans – Do it and Per.ro Y Bic.icleta which now brings us to 4. Hubby thinks we have too many but I told him we buy the art for us…and that seem to make him feel better. We purchased New Or.leans for our bedroom because that place holds a special meeting for us. I fell in love with the other because looking at brought a since of calm and relaxation and I thought it would be perfect for my office. It looks like I am going to have a challenge with keeping it in my office as the space on my walls are not friendly to anything bigger than an 8x10 frame. We will see.

We had lunch in the Wood.lands at Tom.my Bah.amas. The meal was very tasty and of course good conversation. We decided to head home and get in a movie before we picked up the boy from school. We began 007 Casino Royale…it was good, we didn’t get a chance to finish, perhaps this weekend.

After the boy came home we opened gifts and needless to say the hubby was very surprised…or he’s a really good actor…when he found Jim.my Bu.ffet tickets in his card…on the field no less. Nothin but the best for my man…and he thought his concert days were over. Whatever…

The boy and I sang happy birthday and the boys blew out the candles and we finished the night with sushi. YUM-O I so wanted to take the rest of the week off with hubby…it was really hard to get up and go to work on Thursday…especially since I began a fight with the Euro.peans and the Rus.sians. I wouldn’t be too concerned though…as I am not the Pres.ident of the Uni.ted Stat.es.

I am looking forward to the weekend…tomorrow we have the birthday party and the rest of the weekend I’ll be working on house stuff from my to do list. It’s been over a year since we’ve been in the house and we still have boxes that haven’t been unpacked and decorating to do…AND perhaps a trip to the plant store. I love buying new plants in the Spring...oh the possibilities

Have a great weekend!

I am finally back among the living. Good grief that was some serious stuff. I had the flu for about 5 days then I when I thought I was over it I got slapped with severe sinusitis that knocked me out for about 4 more days. I so wanted to rip my head off…flush some saline solution through it and move on. Like I posted before I hadn’t been this sick in probably over 20 years. So needless to say when it hit…it ran over me like a mac truck.

The hubby had a spell of the flu over the weekend…he seems to be doing much better and the boy looks like he got away with just a fever for a couple of days. Thank goodness.

Now that our sick house is recovering we’re moving on. The hubby’s birthday is tomorrow and we are planning on spending a much needed day together. For tomorrow’s festivities, I am thinking…breakfast at IHOP, sushi for lunch and perhaps a movie or shopping somewhere in between breakfast and dinner, just leave it loose…ooh a massage. Hmmm….

An update on running…there hasn’t been much of it, especially with the sickness and being too weak to move from the couch to the bed, I thought I would sit it out until I finish my antibiotic. Something about Achilles tendon rupturing as a side effect that I do not want any part of. I’m thinking I will start slowly next week.

The boy and I managed to go out to the Seabrook trails marathon and cheer on my friend and her family that was running as a relay team. They did great; I was really proud of them but sad because I wasn’t involved myself. Whatever…originally I was supposed to be in Florida for work but due to weather issues my trip was cancelled and I hadn’t been training. Oh well…there is always next year.

It also looks like the family vacation destination has changed. We still want to plan something relaxing and family oriented now we need to come up with a new place. It is difficult with timing because of the Shuttle. We could be launching anywhere from May 11th – 21st and I need to protect the week before and at least a week after for work…good grief, I would like an easy button please.

I hope everyone saw the March 21st episode of CSI:NY…and saw the hubby’s chocolate truffle showcased. If you missed it you can watch the episode on the ABC website. It was really exciting to watch and I got chills and it is not even my company. I am really proud of the hubby and all the work they’ve put in to their business. Don’t worry…the truffles are poison free…believe me I’ve had my fair share of sampling. But they really are to die for…

This weekend my friend is having a birthday party for their son…he’s turning one; what better way to celebrate than to have a crawfish boil. It’s a yearly thing for my friends and since Landon won’t know the difference we’ll be indulging in some mud bugs and suckin heads…I won’t…but I’m sure there will be plenty of people that will.

Have a great week.

Sicker than a dog...sick...sick. I haven't been this sick in 20 years.

More later...

Soupy Run

Ran 3 yesterday 33:45...more like swam. It was soupy and I swear I ran through every single cob web on the trails. If someone that was driving by saw me they would have thought I was running like Phoebe on friends and I was at times trying to get out from the tangles of the cob webs. Overall it felt good, and no back pain!

I also worked out yesterday morning...got up at 5am. YAY me! But I am feeling it today. My hammy's and my glutes are screaming...that's a good thing right? I have Yoga today which should feel great and stretch out all that tightness.

Not much else to report. The boy and I are planning on going to the Seabrook Trails marathon on Sunday to cheer on some friends "3 Cowgirls and a STUD". I was originally supposed to be in Florida for the Shuttle launch but thanks to mother nature that didn't work out. So...I'll be in the cheering section for this one.

Also, I cooked everyday last week! I told hubby that I believe that is the first time that had happened since we have been together. It is not that I don't enjoy cooking it is the time that I don't have. So...I'm using this down time at work and rearranging my schedule so I can so EVERYTHING. Workout in the am, run, get home in time to start dinner before I pick up the boy before 6. Whew...I'm winded just thinking about it. In all that chaos I find comfort in knowing I'm doing something for myself, fulfilling my obligations at work and keeping my family healthy.

The week passed by and no post...sorry about that. Not that it was crazy or anything it seems time got away from me. The hubby and the boy are in our bedroom watching TV now so I thought I would use this time to my benefit.

I ran only once last week...2 miles. I injured my back about a mile and half...way up in my middle back, beneath my shoulder blade. I could barely breathe. I went to my trusty chiropractor and he fixed me up...I hadn't had to see him in about a year. He said we caught the injury early so with a couple of visits I should be just fine. I felt 100% relief when I left.

On Thursday a couple of friends and I did Yogalates. It was awesome! Friday muscles I didn't even know I had were sore. Even way down in my woman parts. LOL The best part is I talked with the instructor about my back injury and she gave me a couple of stretches to work it out. OH MY GOSH. By Friday I had no risidual pain. Just like that. LOVE YOGA.

I'm rearranging my running schedule yet again. I want to incorporate Yoga and the Yogalates and weight training and the only way to do that and not kill myself is to run on the weekend. Which means I have to get up early. You so don't know how much of a sacrifice that is for me. I love to sleep. I think the Houston heat will eventually remind me that I am making the right choice.

The family went to Chuck E Cheese this morning for a birthday party. The boy had a lot of fun. Nothing like pizza and cake at 10:30 in the AM. We stayed till about 12:30 and he was just exhausted.

It was a beautiful morning for the Bayou Classic...I hope all ran well.

I LOVE productive days. Email has been down at work, internet is SLOW and nothing worse than slow internet. So...I’ve knocked 6 things off my “work” to do list, made a list of what is going on in the next two months of weekends, wrote down what I want to get accomplished AND got the hubby a birthday present (nope…you can’t make me tell). Whew…it’s just after 1p and I’m already tired.

A few of us formed a weight watchers group at work with about six women in my group. I’m uber excited…I’ve got about 10 lbs of baby weight that I would like to get rid of plus a bit more to challenge myself to see how much more I could lose if I really worked at it. Oh yeah…and I’m going to Cali in a couple of months…the land of plastic and size 0. Portion size is my issue so I purchased me a food scale and we’re off and running. Literally…I plan on doing 3 miles today. I’m excited about running again…hopefully out of my funk. Thanks Steeeve and Pony for the words! I’m getting back to it!

This is the first time I’ve done something like this with a group…all of us girls are type A’s so it will be an interesting experience. We may have to hand out happy pills at the start of each meeting. I LOVE REWARDS. I’ll mention progress everyone once in awhile here…but I will have a separate blog for this one.

Update on the boy…he is doing much better. Only two times at the office last week instead of 5. The school even said they see a big effort and progress. That so makes us feel good. As parents we need just as much reinforcement as the kids. We’re going for no days…at least we are closer than a few weeks ago.

The family is planning on a trip to Cali to see the family in May…so I’m working on getting ready for that…physically and mentally. Although I am going to continue with my running training I am not planning any races until after May. It will be hella hot but like I said I just planned my weekends for the next two months and it’s not looking pretty; coupled with a Space Shuttle launch that may or may not happen in the next couple of months. I need a nap.

Hammer Pants

Nothing really exciting to blog about.

I'm not motivated to do anything but shop. I can't justify it right now...except that it is spring and as I scour my closet every morning looking for something to wear I see NOTHING. I've got nothing to wear. And I'm not excited about the prospects that are filling the stores. What is it with the shapeless mu mu's they are trying to pawn off on us this season? Don't even get me started on the tights. I was a child of the 80's and I do not wish to revisit that fashion debacle. Next thing you know a model in M.C. Hammer pants will be on the front cover of Vogue. I shutter at the thought.

Running...nope. Just nope. I don't know what my problem is. Well...I know what it is...I'm not making time to do it. I just don't know how to get out of the funk. I'll start by just doing it.

Like I said...not much to blog about.

I'm coming home...

Well...much to my disappointment I did not run at all this week. As much as I planned and prepared to run I did not. My schedule wasn't very friendly and I didn't have my own car to go do my own thing so I was at the mercy of others. Enough excuses yet? I will start again on Monday when I am back to my routine.

I will be back in Florida in a few weeks for work again along with a lot of others including Spring Breakers and families. I know this because every freakin hotel room is sold out. Thankfully I managed to secure a hotel on the beach and I will have my own rent car. SWEET! Now I just need to figure out my schedule. Shuttle launches at 6:30a make it very challenging to function on a "normal" schedule. I originally thought the fam could come down and we could do a sidetrip to disney but the ugly schedule did not really make that possible. Oh well...perhaps next time.

Nothing really news worthy to report during my stay this week in Florida. The weather was outstanding although I didn't make it to the beach. As I said before...we do actually work over here. Dinners were good...and I had Wahoo for the first time. That is a fish that I always see on the Babin's list of fish but they never carry it. It has a Ahi texture and flavor which causes me to pause and think that perhaps they used Ahi in stead of Wahoo. Who knows...whatever, it was still a great meal.

I am heading home today. Reports from home say that the boy has had an outstanding week. No trips to the office and he hasn't been giving his dad a hard time. Looks like we'll be making a trip to the Houston Museum on Saturday as promised. YAY! Jodie and her son may be joining us.

Defensive Driving is complete! That was the most expensive trip to taco bell I've ever had. Thank God it is over.

Be safe this weekend. Good luck to those running.

Coming to you from Sunny FL!

I can't believe it is already Friday. Time as gotten away from me as is apparent in my postings. So...going back to Saturday and the Mardi Gras Beach Run.

Galveston was beautiful. The race started at 8:30 which was perfect for those of us who had a bit of a haul to make the race and it also allowed for warmer temps at the start of the race.

Galveston to me is a place that holds a lot of memories. Trips to the beach growing up, Spring Break in high school and the several historical home tours that I shared with my Mom. I've been to other beaches that blow Galveston away but every time I go to that island a bit of nostalgia comes over me. 61st and Seawall...I can't explain the feeling I get at the stop light with the Gulf before me, it's a beautiful sight with the sun coming up and the water seems to be less muddied.

The weather was perfect. The wind was manageable. Jodie and I were "so cute" in our skirts. She in her black and me in my root beer with matching pink shirt with a white long sleeve and gloves. I had to take my gloves off around 2.5.

My goal was for sub 30 time. I don't know what I was thinking because I haven't been diligent with my training. The first mile clocked in at 9:18. FAST (for me). Too fast because at 1.5 I was hurting and I had to walk for a minute. Jodie went on ahead. Mile 2 clocked in at 20:20. Which wasn't too bad, I was on track for a new PR. To finish the race they brought us off the seawall via a small hill and I believe that was the fastest "kick" I've ever had. The small hill DOWN to the finish was awesome. I would like that for every race please. I finished with a 32:39 and a new PR!! No sub 30 but I didn't deserve it, I hadn't worked for it but a new PR was worth it.

The after race festivities were ok. The standard grub, nothing fancy. They did have hot chocolate to warm everyone up a bit. A live band played cajun music and we stuck around for a bit. Then it was off to IHOP for breakfast. A girl in the bathroom said she saw me at the race. I am sure it was the skirt. Jodie and I were the only ones in skirts and we were "so cute"! Overall I would recommend the race. The mardi gras parade starts a couple of hours after the race so it's great for some family fun.

I was back home by noon, put the boy down for a nap and took one myself. I'm looking forward to March...I gots me some work to do.

Busy...busy...busy. Running first then an update for the week. I ran 3 on Tuesday. I was going to do 4 but didn't "lube" up and I had to stop at 3. I thought about going on but I didn't want to be miserable for the 5K on Saturday. I was able to test the skirt performance with wind gusts and the skirt performed swimmingly. The wind was crazy! If I could have just kept running with the wind I would have had a rockin good time but been somewhere in Galveston by the time I finished. So...I stopped at three.

Wednesday of course was Valentine's day. I took off work early to attend the boy's crack Valentine party at his school. When I arrived the kid's were all sitting in their chairs trying to see each other over the plates piled high with crack sugar cookies with icing, small cupcakes, big cupcakes, cookies with more icing, and cheese. Yes...cheese.

The boy and I managed to escape with a small cupcake and some cheese...yes cheese. He didn't go to the office so we were very celebratory! He was so excited.

The hubby made a great dinner for us. Chicken stuffed with portabello and wild rice, asparagus and cous cous. It was fabulous. The roses were gorgeous and I love my "Daughtry" CD and of course chocolate. We had a very nice evening.

Not much else is going on...well alot is going on but it is more tedious mentioning EVERYTHING. I'm running in Galveston tomorrow...I will be seen in my sassy root beer colored skirt. The temps seem manageable. Last time I ran in this race it was in the sand, against the wind. Thankfully they decided to keep in on the sea wall. I even more excited about breakfast afterward. I love running but I love eating even more. I think I heard before...I run to eat. That would be me.

I'm off to Florida for most of the week next week starting on Tuesday. It's not a vacation it is work. Yes...we do work contrary to popular belief. I'm excited to have a new location for my training runs. Early mornings running on the beach seem really relaxing and motivating. That reminds me...I need to get that massage I was planning a few weeks ago.

Oh...they unrestricted access to blogging at my work...THANK GOD!

Happy racing this weekend.

Happy Valentine's Day

Ok...real quick...here is a Valentine's Day present if you are married, single or with a significant other.

Skirts Sports.com is have a 50% off sale on most of their skirts ONE DAY ONLY. I think I just bought everything they sale. I'm on a mac and I'm not sure why I can't link anything...and I don't have time to figure it out. So...

This one is short. Work disabled blogging so I am going to have to carve out another time to blog. Frustrating...it's like they want you to spend your day at work working! Whatever. At least I can still read blogs if they would have disabled that...I would have to quit.

Have a great day!

Fabulouso Family Weekend

Saturday the hubby and I took the boy to the Woodlands Childrens Museum at the Woodlands mall. The boy LOVED it. It is a great place for toddler's and young school children. They can play make believe to their hearts content and they had something for everyone. A grocery store, operating room (complete with guts), school room, dinosaur pit. The boy didn't want to leave and now he asks us when is he going to get to go to the museum.

Sunday we took the boy to ride go-karts. Oh My gosh! It was totally amazing. The boy had a smile on his face from ear to ear the entire time. He rode with dad first then with me. The boy would look behind me and tell me to go faster. It was really awesome. We had a great family weekend.

Monday was busy but I did manage to run my 3. I wasn't looking forward to it because it was pouring rain which meant I had to run at the Gilruth gym. Normally, I'm not a sweater even in 95+ weather...I glisten. However, because they keep the gym at 80 and the fans are pointing above my head I am now a bonafide sweater; and not the kind that keeps you warm when it is cold. As I tried to keep the pouring sweat out of my eyes I did a bit of speed work. Man...I'm feeling it in my quads today. I like it.

I got my skirts in yesterday!!! YAY!!! I can't wait to run in them. I am so happy I now have added Root beer and Sangria to my collection.

I'm running 4 today. It is especially windy...but it will be nice to run outside and avoid potentially dieing from a heat stroke in February.

Oh...My hubby, the chocolatier, got a call from the folks at CSI: New York and his company's truffles are going to be in an March 21st episode...and it sounds like they are going to be part of the main plot AND poison is involved. How cool is that!!!

Good luck to all those running at Surfside this weekend.

Nothing big planned this weekend. I'm hoping for some quality family time and perhaps a spontaneous day trip since the weather will be nice. Hmmm...

I've slacked on the running. No excusable reason. I just didn't make the time. Monday is a new week.

Have an outstanding weekend.

Your 2007 Vocabulary Words

These were too funny not to share and unfortuately I think most of us can identify with all of them. How refreshing, there are actually words to describe crap we all experience via the daily grind. Enjoy!

Essential vocabulary additions for the workplace (and elsewhere)!!!

1. BLAMESTORMING: Sitting around in a group, discussing why a deadline was missed or a project failed, and who was responsible.

2. SEAGULL MANAGER: A manager, who flies in, makes a lot of noise, craps on everything, and then leaves.

3. ASSMOSIS: The process by which some people seem to absorb success and advancement by kissing up to the boss rather than working hard .

4. SALMON DAY: The experience of spending an entire day swimming upstream only to get screwed and die in the end.

5. CUBE FARM : An office filled with cubicles.

6. PRAIRIE DOGGING : When someone yells or drops something loudly in a cube farm, and people's heads pop up over the walls to see what's going on.

7. MOUSE POTATO : The on-line, wired generation's answer to the couch potato.

8. SITCOMs: Single Income, Two Children, Oppressive Mortgage. What Yuppies get into when they have children and one of them stops working to stay home with the kids.

9. STRESS PUPPY: A person who seems to thrive on being stressed out and whiny.

10. SWIPEOUT: An ATM or credit card that has been rendered useless because magnetic strip is worn away from extensive use.

11. XEROX SUBSIDY: Euphemism for swiping free photocopies from one's workplace.

12. IRRITAINMENT: Entertainment and media spectacles that are Annoying but you find yourself unable to stop watching them.

13. PERCUSSIVE MAINTENANCE: The fine art of whacking the crap out of an electronic device to get it to work again.

14. ADMINISPHERE : The rarefied organizational layers beginning just above the rank and file. Decisions that fall from the adminisphere are often profoundly inappropriate or irrelevant to the problems they were designed to solve.

15. 404: Someone who's clueless. From the World Wide Web error Message "404 Not Found," meaning that the requested site could not be located.

16. GENERICA : Features of the American landscape that are exactly the same no matter where one is, such as fast food joints, strip malls, and subdivisions.

17. OHNOSECOND: That minuscule fraction of time in which you realize that you've just made a BIG mistake. (Like after hitting send on an email by mistake).

18. CROP DUSTING: Surreptitiously passing gas while passing through a Cube Farm

Substance

It is not that I haven't had much to say the last few days...I haven't. So much "craziness" has been going on I can't even keep up. All I will say about that, I can't wrap my mind around it...everything you work for in your entire life done...negated...destroyed. Is it worth it? I hope so but I think not.

Weekend recap. Friday night was delightful and YAY the sun peeked out. Good food, good company and a decent movie. Us girls ended up seeing Catch and Release, yes, it was the typical chick flick. Nothing really too deep or thought provoking. It was fun to just laugh and be with friends. My favorite line from the movie from Jennifer Garner's character..."I obsess over natural disasters...I think people should die". Now writing this out of context makes me look like a masochist but I'm not. She's at a dinner party and she is telling the guest things they didn't know about her. I guess you had to be there.

The rest of the weekend was uneventful, nice. We did enjoy the sun, YES! and some quality family time. The hubby and I watched the Superbowl and we were as disappointed as everyone else with the commercials.

I ran on Monday, 3 miles (30:40). It was perfect weather. I so very much enjoyed myself. I also sent in my old running shorts for running skirts on Monday, taking advantage of the "convert to skirts" campaign. I can't wait to get them in. I even managed to convince Jodie to try a pair.

The hubby is in Dallas for a convention until Thursday. The boy seems to be doing okay with it. Last time Daddy went to visit the pirates when he went to Vegas now we tell the boy Daddy is visiting the cowboys. It will be interesting because Mommy is going to Florida in a couple of weeks. I don't think he will be as accepting that mommy is going to go visit the space shuttle without him. We will see.

I guess that's it...not much substance here. Have a good one.

Weatherman Smeatherman

I was promised sun today. Who can I talk to about this? I was promised temperatures in the 60's...I, we, everyone was promised warmth and sun. Someone must pay. If I was so inconsistent with the data I presented at work I would be fired from my job. Who is held accountable? Seriously...I dressed for 60 degree weather. I had my sunglasses on my head in preparation for the glaring orange ball of gas to be blinding my eyes. I wanted to be blinded with sunshine. What do you know...Disappointed yet again. I would have more respect for the weatherdude and dudette if they just admitted the best and worse case scenerios...it may be high in the low 50's if the front speeds up. It may be 65 and sunny if the front stalls. I may get it wrong folks so prepare for the worst and hope for the best. That...I can live with.

Okay...rant over. Cause...it's Friday night...and the girls are going out! (Snoopy dance)

Have a great weekend! My advice to you...layer up. Cause it doesn't matter what they "forecast" walk outside and you will always be 100% correct.

Good day.

Just call me Twitchy

The weather and work won yesterday and I opted out of running. Today is supposed to be a warmer, drier day and since I'm going easy on my mileage for this first week back my plan is to do 4 tomorrow with speed intervals. How exciting...it's forecasted to be 65 and sunny. Is it possible?

For those that inquired about Surfside...No, I'm not planning on running there next week. This year I am planning one race a month, that's about 10 more races than I did last year. I will be running in the Mardi Gras 5K the following week. I will wait and read everyone's stories and decide if Surfside is on the agenda for next year.

I found out I have a condition called benign eyelid myokymia. In laymen's terms...a twitchy eyelid. They can make the simplest things sound incredibly important. According to Doctor world wide web, it's a condition often associated with emotional stress, fatigue or excessive caffeine intake. Isn't that the defintion of motherhood? There is no medicinal cure...evidently it just goes away on it's own. I guess I can expect relief in about 25 years.

The hubby and I met with the boy's teacher this afternoon. All is well in behavior land. She said he has been doing much better this week and she will keep up updated on his progress.

Back to it...

After a two week break I finally got back to running again and I am so happy about it. I had to take a week off so my blisters would heal and last week...well...honestly with the weather I just wasn't motivated. I did an easy breezy three, a bit faster than I planned but the cold and the wind may have had something to do with that.

Everything felt great and I was reminded how much energy I have at night for the family and how much better I sleep. I'm up for 3 again today...I'm taking it easy this week. I'm planning speed training for tomorrow. I really want a new PR in Galveston.

The weekend stayed busy, the hubby was sick and we worked on the boy's behavior. There are some really good books out there regarding "strong willed" children and much like a marriage you are reminded during times like these you cannot become a complacent parent. Unfortunately strong will doesn't bode well for a child that is trying to be taught structure but I have every confidence he will use that structure and strong will to his advantage as an adult.

The boy went to the office again yesterday morning so he did not get his "cars" or get to watch his shows last night. We spent alot of time with him last night and it was totally amazing to see him morph into a well mannered, pleasant child. We have a meeting with his teacher tomorrow. Here is hoping they will reinforce what we are doing at home to make their life much easier. I can't imagine trying to corral 12 three year olds ten hours a day, five days a week.

The girls and I are planning a "girls night" on Friday. YAY!!! Mexican food, margaritas and a chick flick are on the agenda. It's funny how "girls night" has taken on a different meaning nowadays. We are all in much different places now. Three years ago girls night meant napping before the club, the club until 2a and IHOP until 4am. Oh good grief. The thought of staying up past 11p just makes me tired.

I better get back to it...work that is.

Oh...I saw my first robin this weekend...Spring is near...

The Curse

Thank you to all that provided advice and confirmation for speed training. I am grateful for the overwhelming response. Thanks Junebug for sending everyone my way.

I decided to take off one more week and I can honestly say that I am truly ready to get back to it. I am feeling like I am forgetting to do something as I have come to enjoy my running adventures and work is starting to get crazy again and I need to run of some steam.

I am very excited about the speed training. Thanks for dumbing it down for me. For all those that invited me out to Memorial, that is a little out of the way for me as I work South and live North East. I have a 50 minute commute already each way. No worries as I have an 800 meter track that is available for speed training days at work or one at the school down the street from my community.

I am currently planning on doing the Mardi Gras 5K beach run in Galveston on the 17th and the Bayou City 10K March 10th. So I better get to it.

So...on to family matters...

I get a call from the hubby this morning and evidently the boy's school called to talk about our 2.5 yr old's class disruptions and behavior issues. Not to make light of the situation we are totally addressing the situation at home and looking for ways to help the boy and his teacher cope with these new developments but I can't help but chuckle to myself.

The curse does exist! My parents received many of the same phone calls regarding class disruptions and behavioral issues when I was growing up and no... they didn't put me on Ritalin...although they probably would have liked to. So instead...they cursed my children. I always had the "needs to pay attention" and "needs to follow direction" boxes checked on my report card until the 4th grade causing many many weeks of being grounded and various other punishment that was enforced on my parents.

As luck would have it my son is carrying on the family tradition. The hubby is off developing a reward chart and I am stopping by the book store for a couple of books in order to better understand the issues at hand. And I was going to get a massage this afternoon...now I have to go be a parent.

I am extremely thankful to have that opportunity.

Everyone have a fun, safe weekend.

I'm Melting...

Since my run last weekend I have been enjoying some time off. Honestly, I've been looking for a training program that works on speed. Now that I know I can do the mileage I want to speed up. I thought I found a program last week and I was all motivated to start today but there were so many different numbers and speeds I couldn't bring myself to pack my clothes and I didn't prepare my crib sheet. Any tried and true suggestions would be helpful.

It's not that I don't understand the reason for all the different numbers. I am just wondering if there is something more...less scientific...out there. BTW...I'm exaggerating, I think it is the heat in my office. Through the blurred vision I see palm trees swaying in the nice cool breeze, a lava lamp from Pinche's waiting for me by the lake. Aaaah...then I wake up.

They cannot get the a/c and heating to work properly in my building. Last week it was cold in every one's office (comfortable in mine) now it's 80 degrees in my office and comfortable in the others. My makeup is literally melting off. Tomorrow I'm wearing a tank top and a skirt with cute little strappy sandals to work. Enough!

The weekend was good. Sunday our featured film was "Antbully". I would give it 3 out of 5 goobers. The boy was riveted, he sat in his chair with his popcorn and goobers, eyes glued to the screen for an hour of the 1.5 movie. We had our first family dogpile afterwards. That was awesome.

I joined Striders last Friday. YAY!!! I have been reading several blogs since August and I really saw the support and camaraderie from the club, especially with the half/marathon last weekend. I didn't have to give it a second thought when I was invited to join. I'm looking forward to getting involved.

In the future I will not be inundating you with "6 things only your first boyfriend in college knows about you". Initially, I thought it was interesting and provided a bit more insight for readers like me that haven't met you all face to face...Yet.

6 Weird Things About Me

Thanks Jodie! Since you used half of the things I would have posted I'm going to have to get creative.

The Rules: Each player of this game starts with the six (6) weird things about you. People who get tagged need to write a blog post of their own six (6) weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose six (6) people to be tagged and list their names.


1. I absolutely must take a shower at night before I go to bed. It doesn't not matter if I have had three showers earlier in the day or that I have not left the house all day. I do not sleep well unless I have had my shower.

2. Although food touching is at the top of my weirdness list I also eat one food at a time. None of this mixing and matching. Eat all of the taco, move on to the enchilada and finish with a little bit of beans and rice and I may elect to eat chips along with my beans and rice.

3. I hate feet. Yours...mine and ours. Feet disgust me. That's all I'm going to say about that.

4. I cannot sleep if I do not have the fan on. I don't care if it is 20 degrees outside the fan must be on. I may concede and turn it down to medium during cold weather. If I am in a hotel I turn the A/C down as low as possible...I have to have air circulating.

5. All doors visible in the bedroom must remain close. Hello...panick room and the guy standing in the door way when she was sleeping. Hell no! Bedroom door, bathroom door, closet door...all closed at night for safe sleeping.

6. Man I thought I was the only one that was freaked out if the toilet paper was upside down. I am a big proponent of making sure the toilet paper dispenses from the top. I hate spinning and spinning and spinning looking for the start of the roll and it remains upside down. I will also fix toilet paper, even in a strangers house if it is upside down.

I tag June and Pony. I am still developing a blog circle.

13.1

It is official! I am a runner. Although I was reminded this morning by Jodie that I was a runner long before I crossed the start line of yesterday's race.

Up until the actual morning of the race the weather was a constant unknown I was prepared, I had my skirt and my tights packed. I decided to go with the tights and I second guessed my decision up until I turned my bag in to baggage claim. I finally made my peace with my decision and didn't think twice about it. It wasn't a horrible decision, I wasn't too hot and I was thankful for them at mile 11 on in...it got a bit chilly over Allen Parkway. Now I'm getting a bit ahead of myself.

Friday afternoon I went to pick up my race bib and goodies by myself. Jodie and Bryan planned on picking up their packets on Saturday and I wanted to spend time and actually walk through the expo instead of chasing my 2 and 1/2 year old so I went on Friday. It was great. I walked right in...the huge signs made everything crystal clear. I got my packet, my shirt and proceeded to browse.

My first stop was the skirts booth. I bought a "run houston" t-shirt. I should have gotten another skirt but I wasn't in the mood. I walked around and bought a couple of other shirt and some socks that I would find out later would be my undoing.

Saturday was relaxed. I drank my water...thanks babe. The family and I went to Sam's and the boy kept asking where Sam was. Too cute. We all took naps and watched football then went to dinner at Hasta La Pasta. It wasn't too bad but the boy was done with the place. After two spilled waters later the hubby and I were done. "We're not doing this again" I love it.

Saturday night I got about four hours of good sleep. 12:30, 3:00 and 3:55 and finally 4:15. It wasn't too bad. I didn't rush...I eat a bowl of granola and I checked the weather one more time and was off around 5:15. It was funny, as I passed drivers on the road I wondered if they were going to the race. Turns out a few were. YAY us!

Parking was relatively easy. I decided to be a lemming and follow all of the other cars since I am not downtown savvy. I think it worked out fine. I was inside the GRB by 5:45.

I though I would be more anxious about doing this all by myself but to my surprise I was calm. I guess because I have trained by myself and it was only me out there during the long mile days it seemed only fitting that I would be doing this by myself. Running isn't a team sport and I guess I was secretly fine with that.

After a potty break, some beans and water, I checked my bag and I proceeded to the black corral. I had torn out the directions they gave in the race packet just in case and instead of being a lemming I actually referred to them once. I was petrified I would end up in the wrong place and have to run 26.2 miles instead of 13.1.

I made it to black and just took it all in. I don't remember what I was thinking...I was just ready to go and see my friends and hubby along the way cheering me on. All I heard was a thunderous boom and several cheers. It took me 5 minutes to cross the start line. We were off...man there was a crowd.

The first mile was frustrating having to navigate through the "walkers" and slower runners. At mile two it was pretty awe inspiring to be at the top of the hill and see all the runners in front and to know I was apart of it. I ran with super girl and superman for a bit but lost them somewhere in the crowd.

I knew I had some friends meeting me around mile 5 but I started looking for them after mile 4. There they were...Kim and Nicole. I ran and gave them a hug and trudged on.

At mile 6 I started feeling my toes and the rubbing that ensued with each step. I ignored it and continued on...focused on the crowds. The house"men" in the heights. The chickens on the overpass the go "team wayne", "keep it up sandy" they were priceless and sustained me until just before mile 9. I had to stop at a medic stand and try to do something about my feet.

I took my socks off and oh my gosh...it was disgusting. Quarter size blisters on each toe thanks to the seam of the socks I purchased the day before. I even deliberated that morning on which sock to use. Then I heard a voice "don't you know you aren't supposed to wear new socks the day of the race..." Shut it...I proceeded to apply bandaids. If I could have cut my toes off I would have been in less pain.

I trudged on and found Kim and Nicole shortly before the 9 mile mark unexpectedly. I got choked up a bit. The emotion of all it hit me. I thought I was going to hyperventilate. Then I focused on the pain to settle myself down.

My 6/1 became 4/1 then 3/1 and finally 2/1. Not only was I fighting the mental aspect of the run but I was fighting with the pain every step was causing. I kept on...still running...I wouldn't let myself walk more than a minute.

Finally...we turned the corner on Rusk and I could see the finish line in the distance. I was never so thankful and relieved to see those balloons. I almost got choked up again but again...but I had to focus. I had enough gas for a strong finish and look who I run into just past the finish line. Kim and Nicole and finally just before I go into the GRB I see the hubby and the boy. I broke down for just a bit. I did it. The boy wanted to show me what he did to his hand and the hubby looked like he could have just ran a half marathon. Keeping up a with 2.5 year old seems like a marathon some days.

I stumbled in to the GRB, had a finisher medal placed around my neck, fought back tears then headed for bananas and picked up my finisher shirt. Then off to see my fans. I was so happy to have finished. I didn't finish in my goal time but I chalk that up to two things. I took a month off from training during the holidays and my feet didn't take care of me. But...I'm not going to focus on that. I finished at 2:43:42 at a 12:29 pace.

On my way back to the car I had one woman tell me congratulations. It really made me smile. The amount of support of strangers was overwhelming. Oranges, cookies, mini bars the cheerleaders along the way. I hope those people, every single one of them know how important of a role they played in my success and many of the other runners who didn't think they could take one more step.

I appreciate everyone who supported me through this endeavour you know who you are! A special thank you to my hubby who supports me continually, loaded me up with running equipment for Christmas and made sure I was drinking plenty of water on Saturday. This will not be my last half and dang...5K and 10K will be a flash compared to this. Here is to my new PDR and PR! Congratulations to all of the runners!!

Much needed 6

Friday update, I only ran 6 after much consideration and reading a few articles and convincing myself I can't make up a months worth of training in one day. The weather was on the warm side but not uncomfortable. I ran in my skirt and LOVED it. I felt so "free". I may be behind the curve on the noteriety but I loved it and will purchase more.

I was a buckethead and got sick later that evening. I didn't eat enough. I am really struggling with that. I went in knowing that I didn't eat but I brought an extra bar and gatorade and ate as soon as I got home only to lose it all. I feel like I need a number of calories to have consumed before running so I am sure that I won't get sick from the lack of eating.

I received my confirmation card for the half marathon. Scary...it's actually here. Nicole asked me what I was going to be doing on Saturday and I told her I would be cowering under the covers from the fear and anxiety of Sunday's race. You chuckle but it is not that far from the truth. I'm ready for it to be over. I hate checking the weather every hour...no knowing what to expect...will I eat enough? Will I sleep in? How early should I get there? Ok...I'm done...I'm really starting to freak out.

I've got to go buy a new battery for my watch. I haven't used it all through my training but I'm suspecting my Nano is jacking up and I want to be crystal clear on my time and pace now matter what my Nano says.

Saturday night the hubby and I celebrated our anniversary dinner at Ruggle's. I love adult time...it's so much fun getting all dolled up and eating a restaurant that doesn't begin with Mc!

We ordered rib-eyes, had wine and a big ole dessert...EACH. YUM-Y. Then we proceeded to get pulled over shortly after leaving the restaurant. Thankfully the cop took pity on us and didn't write us a ticket for ignoring an imaginary sign that said no right turn after 6pm on the second Saturday of the month. WHAT? Okay...we don't go to midtown much and there may have been a street sign that says not to turn but really...they inadvertantly close roads after certain hours? Why not just block off the freakin street. I'm over it...but I do believe the carseat in the backseat really helped say "look...we're out being adults, we have a small child, give us a break"...and he did.

The rest of the weekend was relaxing. The boy was sick Saturday and Sunday but we managed to pull him through. He is a great boy.

The hubby purchased us a smoothie machine. I mentioned getting one and he said we have one...it's called a blender. I proceeded to counter with the cons of the mixer and I guess I argued my case successfully, he went out a few hours later and bought one. LOVE HIM!

I didn't charge my Nano so I'm going to run my 3 tomorrow.

Off to check the weather for Sunday and go by some Tylenol PM so I can sleep the rest of the week.

Going for 10

I didn't run yesterday but I thinking I made the right decision. I am planning on doing 10 today and my knees have been bothering me lately. I think it is because I've been running on concrete the last few times at home and I'm used to running on asphalt at the trails. I'm sure I will be hurting severly after the race on Sunday so I absolutely must remember to pop a few Aleve before the race.

My manager scheduled a meeting at 2 today and I was planning on leaving at 2:30 so I can be done with my run by 5. Hopefully it will only last the 30 minutes she scheduled. It is forcasted to be rather warm today, mid 70's, it is 59 now and I highly suspect it won't get above 70 but I'm not a weatherman...but I could be.

I'm excited because I got a triks running skirt for Christmas that I plan on running in during the race next weekend so I will be trying it out to see if I like it. FUN!

I mentioned I would have goals for 2007 by the end of the week. I have my "list", it is taking me a bit longer because I am actually planning out how to acheive these goals and the only way I can do that is by formulating a plan of attack. I have noticed that many people who actually make goals or resolutions simply have a "list" and a list without any meat is just a list of words. So...I'm working on the meat.

The hubby and I are officially celebrating our anniversary with dinner at Ruggles on Saturday...the place where it all started. Whenever anyone asks one of us how we met I can't help but smile and then laugh because the sun, the moon and the stars lined up on November 21st, 2002. So...here's a brief summation.

In the fall of 2002 I was done with dating and focusing on myself and in anticipation of living and working in Russia for three months the following Summer it was all about having fun and new experiences. So...on the news one night I saw a segment about speed dating (8minutedating to be exact). So...I signed up on the internet and persuaded a few other friends to come with and BAM...as soon as I walked in the door I saw my future husband and he turned out to be date number 3 out of 8. Of course I was just going for the experience and never in a million did I expect 7 months later he would be proposing to me in Moscow. He did...

So that's our story...and the hubby...a test to the truly amazing and thoughtful guy he is made reservations for us to have dinner at Ruggles. The place where it all began. (Ahhh)

Cleaning House...so to speak

Yesterday was my first day of work after the long break and I did a bit of cleaning house. In honor of my anniversary I finally deleted my maiden name from my automatic signature. Yes sweety...you have proven that you are sticking around - my gift to you...happy anniversary. I still need to figure out how to change my voice mail. I still receive messages..."uhm your message still says 'Allen'". Uh...I know...It is part of my ploy to make you think you have the wrong number and perhaps you won't leave a message. I guess I've been found out. Since the gig is up I guess I have to find out how to change my phone mail message.

I ran yesterday...yes...just as I said I would I did...whoo hoo. Except...I had to run indoors because it was raining. I was mentally prepared to do 5 miles on the treadmill and I even left work early so I wouldn't catch the "peak times" for the treadmills. I was only able to due 3 and even went over the allotted thirty minutes (I know...I'm a rebel). But there were people waiting and the treadmill practically broadcast with a minute by minute commentary how long one has been exercising.

Dang everyone's New Year's resolution. I wanted a sign over my head that says I get to stay here because I'm training for the 1/2 marathon and I didn't decide yesterday to start working out. Then...a good angel in my likeness, complete with Nike apparel, popped up and reminded me the courage and strength it took for these people to come and workout and they should be rewarded so they will come back and lead healthier lives. :D Therefore, I relented and decided to due 20 minutes on the bike. Yeah...not the same but nevertheless I did exercise for about 55 minutes in all; but for my sacrifce I saved a muscle from turning into fat.

It's raining pretty crazy this morning but it is expected to clear of by this afternoon. I'm looking forward to getting back on the trails for my 3 miles, I've missed them.

Have a productive day!

Hel...lo 2007!

The Christmas tree is put away, the lights all snuggled in their storage boxes while visions of sugar-plums faded with the season. 2006 was a good year for the Wayne family. I'll post a link to the annual Christmas letter that sums up the ongoings of the year. The closet and most of the rooms have been organized. (It's been a year in the house and we still haven't unpacked all of the boxes)...that's a goal for this year.

Today is mine and the hubby's three year anniversary. The hubby asked me this morning if it felt like three or thirty. I told him thirty... but in a good way. We each had "previous lives" and the reason it seems like thirty is because I do not remember a life prior to ours together, not the oh my gosh you are sucking the life out of me.

I am very happy with "us". We both understand the work and effort it takes to actually have a happy marriage, not the facade of one. We often look back at our rocky beginning, prior to being married, and laugh at how far we've come and who would have thought we would be at this point in our lives both happy and fulfilled. I love him for the constant love and support he provides for me and the loving father and ambitious man that he continues to be. Thanks for picking me. Go Chargers!

11 days till the half marathon. I'm both excited and worried. I inadvertently took off a month of training between Thanksgiving and Christmas and I have been consistent the last couple of weeks. I only have myself to blame and you know what...I'm not doing that either. It is what it is...I am going to try to accomplish a PR record of 2:30 and a PD record of 13.1 miles and if the PR is 2:45 then so be it...I'm out there doing it.

I love the new year. For me, as with most people the new year is a demarcation of starting fresh. New goals, a time to plan for self improvement and the possibility for new achievements. How exciting. I've organized my side of the closet, donated old clothes that have been in storage for over a year or been in bags for more than three years. (I plan on tackling my office this weekend for the finale). I am working on my goals for the year and with one of those goals consisting of being more articulate I won't expand on any more until I am sure of the the list and what steps that I am going to take to successfully achieve those goals. I love the new year.

I am running 5 today. I ran 3 on Monday and I tried to stay at an 11:00 pace, I'm really going to need to keep that pace if I want to get close to my intended PR. I bounced all around 10:00-11:45 and wasn't as consistent as I wanted to be. I plan on working on it again today. It is supposed to rain, hopefully it will hold off until after my run. I am scheduled to due 8 on Friday but I'm going to go for 10. I have only ran 9 miles once so I'm going to do 10 and focus on my pacing (11:00/mile)and I'll report back on my success. I'm putting a lot of pressure on that run to gauge my readiness for the 14th. It is what it is...right?

Be sure to tune in for the 2007 Goals to be posted by weeks end.