Honestly, where is Michael Westen when I need him?

True story: my husband and the sis in law somehow got roped into driving a moving van of death from California to Texas over the weekend. Mi padre is getting rid of some furniture and lo and behold, gifted it to us (pretty much our Christmas gifts). Hey, I'm not turning that down--this is some fancy pants stuff and I had a high school teacher who taught me very well that "if it's free, it's for me".

Nevermind that we didn't measure anything in our house before leaving. Nevermind that our house is already nearly bursting at the seems. Mere details my dear, mere details.

Clearly, we're all geniuses.

Now, over Christmas, there was a super nice little blizzard that worked its way across the country. Soooo, from Flagstaff, AZ to Denton, TX the moving van of death had to drive over layers of snow and ice. And, they may have gotten stuck in snow outside Wichita Falls in which I've been told it was 50/50 if they were just going to leave the truck. Awesome.

All this to say that last night, after re-scheduling due to the weather, we finally had everything ready to unload the beast.

Until the key broke off in the lock. It broke off. O-F-F. Off. I've broken a key off in a lock before (at work, ahem), but thanks to some pliers, we were good to go. Not in this case--the key was shoved into the lock.

Genius idea? Get a drill. Drill it out.

Fail.

Next idea? Hit it with a hammer. At 8:00PM. Our neighbors were not pleased.

My idea? What would Michael Westen do? Get spray air, turn it upside down and freeze the lock off (seriously, watch Burn Notice). There's CVS .50 miles from the house. My idea was not warranted.

Instead? Get a grinder and slice the thing off. We put on our own little fireworks show. And my husband is pretty sure he burned his finger. Ahhh, nothing like the smell of burning metal.

This whole fiasco took like an hour. No one was thrilled.

Good thing to know? The lock we put on the beast is pretty much indestructible, the manufacturer should be proud.

I need Michael Westen on speed dial. Obviously.

Happy New Year y'all!

Good things (even though it's NOT snowing)

Don't even get me started on the non existent snow. I went to sleep last night (let's re-phrase this, I laid in bed stressed out and all sorts of anxious over crap I can do literally nothing about) fully expecting to wake up to at least ice outside mi casa. No luck. Just rain. Boooo on rain!

Moving on (snow!).

Today we're moving around some furniture to make room for my grandma's piano (nope, I can't play a single note) thus moving my dinky desk into our bedroom and creating a little spot for me to write (no, the husband is not aware of this fact.. and I might have promised the desk to Rachel. Oops). Because after all, it's been a full year since I really took the time to even think about writing, and after all, this little ol' blog started because I was writing and want to be an author. Sure, no creative writing classes for me, and sure I haven't been as dedicated as I should be, but, that's OK. The story isn't going anywhere and goshdarnit, I will get a manuscript completed. And soon (much thanks to the sis in law who will serve as my in house editor on this project).

So, there's a good thing.

And, I ran 8 miles of speed intervals this morning. Did I mention I hate intervals? Well, I do. A lot. And now my damn IT band hurts, but, nothing some ice and stretching can't fix. Hopefully. Solo 16 miles this weekend (bo-ring).

Another good thing.

Oh, and Sam has inspired to me attempt (key word here) to become a Marathon Maniac next year (gulp). Who would have ever thought, I mean, really? It was a mere 14 months ago that running 5 miles had me laid up on the sofa for the rest of the day. Honestly, y'all, if I can run a marathon (albeit slowly) then anyone can achieve their fitness goals--ya just gotta do it (we won't discuss weight loss, but, moving on).

Good thing.

And, I'm wearing a fun new sweater today (that will get dirty whilst moving furniture, but, whatever).

Good thing.

Who knew?

What good things can you celebrate today? If I can find good things, we all can :)

Resolutions, Resolutions

Y'all know I did exactly 0.5% of my 2009 resolutions so, obviously, "resolutions" do not work for me. Mainly, because if you tell me to do something, there's a 95% chance I won't do it. Yeah, it's hard to motivate me (pretty shoes, cake and or shiny pink things? I'll do whatever you want). I'm stubborn, I'm aware of it.

But, ya know that commercial that's on TV right now for Special K about "you'll know when you're ready"? Well, after months of trying to lose weight and each week saying "I'll lose it before my birthday" (and then failing), I kind of had an "a ha" moment the other night. Yes, it took me a long time to lose the weight last year and it only took a few months to pack it back on. I'm not happy with me and that's what struck me the other night. I am ready. I'm ready.

Two days into my "new life" (this is what we are calling it since 'diet' makes me freak out) and I think things are looking up. I think just mentally being "ready" is a huge help. No idea why I wasn't "ready" between September-November, but, whatever. I'm "ready" now.

I fully intend to rock a cute swimsuit this summer. Mark my words kiddos, mark them.

Another "a ha" moment? I love to write. I've always known that, but, at this point in my life after lots of reflection and prayer, it's pretty much not only my childhood dream, but, what I am meant to do (besides run a ton of marathons next year and eventually be a mommy, obviously). So, SP=writing.

Can someone find me a job doing that everyday, please? K. Thanks.

Any 2010 resolutions? Any "a ha" moments?

I'm off to play in the snow! (I am so excited, I'm like a damn child)

loves!

I realized I'm the whitest person at my gym

For real. Like, hi, I'm a ghost. I was wearing black capris and caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and whoa--it's not attractive. Need sunless tanner stat.

This California girl has lost her glow (and, she's petrified of skin cancer).

Sad times.

But, at least (hopefully) I won't have chunks of my skin and moles carved out of me--unlike my anti-sunscreen father who's had like a gillion pre cancerous spots removed. He will never learn (he's also super dark and I got my mom's Scottish whitey-ness).

Despite that little fun fact, I have happy news (I know, did you expect anything happy from me today? Probably not):

1. A great blogging friend will be at Catalina to cheer me on. I got all teary and misty about it (yes, overly emotional girl). I'm just so excited. She's such a great friend and she and her husband recently found out they are expecting a little boy! I cannot wait to meet her!

2. My dear friend of mine who struggled with infertility for years had a sweet baby boy earlier this year (I need to have a daughter so she can marry her son) and she and her husband got a Christmas surprise--they're expecting again! I'm so happy for her because she wasn't sure she'd ever have ONE baby, let alone two. YAY!

(a lot of talk about babies, huh? But, babies are sweet, we love babies)

3. Operation Jack starts on Friday! As always, feel free to donate (and spread the word!). Sam is doing something amazing, challenging, slightly crazy and really inspiring. Become a fan of their Facebook page and keep up with what he's going. It's a great cause.

That's all for today! Fingers crossed for snow!

I have a case of the Monday's

So, please, hang with me.

I survived Christmas and the husband and Rach somehow made it safely back to Dallas with the moving van of death (more on that later)--snowstorm and closed gas stations notwithstanding. Anyone want to take a stab at how much it costs to fill up a 50 gallon diesel tank on I-40? Yeah, me either.

We had a nice holiday. Got to spend time with our nephew (who told me I'm his favorite aunt--I firmly believe that this is because I control the airplane--my dad took him to the airport= I control the airplanes... I don't know, he's 3).

I'm glad to be home. Although, it's entirely possible that I will have to move back to California and beat the boys off my niece. I haven't seen her in two years and holy hell, my sister and I are both pissed at her because we never looked that good as a teenager--or now for that matter. Brat. She's gorgeous and I want to throw things at her. But, mostly protect her from boys.

I ran up a mountain with my dad. And when I say "ran" I mean I ran for 1 minute and then keeled over on the trail for 5 minutes repeating this cycle for 45 minutes until I had given up and turned around. Also, running down a mountain? Not smart. Not smart at all.

I forgot how hilly my hometown is. My 10 miler turned into a 7.3 miler because my IT band was about to explode. And, also, running longer distances in a small town is really hard--you have to loop the damn town--it was weird. And I got really bored running the same loop.

My hometown has a lot of mid 20 aged drifters. Again, weird. I saw more "kids" and by "kids" I mean 18-30 years old bumming around than I've ever seen in my life. Beach town, yes.

I managed to clean out my mom's storage unit. And now I'm having a full on panic attack about it and having a major case of regrets. Seriously was up all night panicking (which explains why I didn't run this morning--I don't function well on 3 hours of sleep...and it was 21 degrees out). This is a problem.

I did find my grandpa's WWII harmonica that he may or may not have taken from a Japanese soldier. We don't really know if that's true or not, but, in any event, I got it after he died and hadn't seen it in years. So glad to have that back with me.

Let's not forget that the one damn thing I really want are those damn onesies. Did I find them? No. Did I cry my eyes out about it last night and pray upon prayer that I'll find them when I sort through the boxes this weekend? Yes. Am I freaking out that I might have accidentally chucked them? Yes.

My pups are exhausted from a week at doggie day care and it's kind of nice to have them mellow. I'm exhausted from a week of holiday festivities.

When I flew home yesterday, the servicemen and women got upgraded to first class for free. I thought that was really nice. My dad flies first class a lot and he always gives his seat to someone in uniform if they're on the flight (and coming to and from Dallas, that's pretty common). I thought it was really nice that they got to get upgraded. I don't know if this is standard, but, it really should be.

Yesterday, my grandma fell and broke her hip. She broke her hip in May of this year as well. This is not the best.

My aunt got a speeding ticket driving in from Arizona. This is funny for several reasons: she was in a rental car and so my cousins couldn't help with the driving and because she is stubborn and wanted to make a specific time, she didn't want to stop, etc. On the last trip out, she whacked her side mirrors (yes, plural) off. I love my aunt, so, this isn't me being mean, this is just funny because it would happen to her (0r me).

My nephew (and by "nephew" I mean my mother in law) gave me a box of See's Candy for Christmas. Best.Gift.Ever.

I apparently am spawned from a group of vegetarians because guess who didn't get to go to In-N-Out Burger (again)? The anger I tell you, the anger. And for cryin' out loud, you can get a grilled cheese.

It's OK. I'll survive. Only a few months until Catalina. And if we don't go to one on that trip, I swear it's not going to be pretty.

My brother in law needs to hurry up and propose to his girlfriend so we can all go to the wedding in Hawaii. Yes, she's Hawaiian. And pretty awesome to boot. Is it bad that I saw a swim suit the other day that I really want to buy for this 500 years in the future wedding in Hawaii? Because if I'm going to Hawaii, I need a cute swimsuit.

Sad question, why on earth were there swimsuits at the store? It's supposed to snow here tomorrow. And I can't even try it on because I'm about 500 lbs beyond the point of even thinking about trying one on. Ugh.

But it was really cute. And not skanky. I can't stand skanky swimsuits. Plus, I don't want to traumatize other beachgoers.

We have no plans for New Years. Because we're boring old married people. Last year, we went on a weekend getaway to Austin, but, this year, because diesel is like $500/gallon, we have no $$$ and will probably do exactly nothing. Not that I'm really upset about that or anything, but, even after a week "away" it would be really nice just to go somewhere with my husband. Considering this whole jobless thing has him in a grrrreat mood, I think a little mini vacation would be perfection.

I got a bunch of books on writing for Christmas. Which is good because 500 years ago I started a book. And then I got a real job and a mortgage and decided I didn't have time to finish it. Even though my biggest dream in life is to be a published author. Seriously, bigger than my dream of being BFF with Baby Spice and trust me, that was a big dream.

I have new dreams now. Like publishing a book, being a mommy (specifically having a little girl to torment my nephew), running lots of marathons (maybe even BQ-ing one day in the far distant future) and having a nice little vacation home in the mountains to spend the holidays at.

We found a little lot in SE Oklahoma for not that much $$, but, the problem is, we'd have to build a little house and um, that costs lots of $$$$. Why doesn't Sears still sell houses in a box?

Pretty ambitious for a one income household, huh?

Anyways, I have the Mondays. I want to be at home in my home with my puppies. But, I get to spend the afternoon taking photos with my BFF.

Not a bad way to end the Monday.

Hope y'all had a great holiday and have recovered from the egg nog!

xoxox

In which I accidentally join another sorority

Let me explain, in high school I didn't even know what a sorority was (I mean, I did, but, well, whatever). No one I knew was Greek, I had no idea. Had noooo desire to be Greek. I was more of a "can't we all be friends" type (read: closet hippie). Plus, I was really scared of the idea of hazing.

Enter college. A college in the South(ish). A fancy snotty people college. OMG, OMG, OMG, I must be in a sorority. OMG, OMG, OMG. Must look cute every single day. Must make "friends" (since you weren't allowed to actually be friends) with every single sorority girl I see. OMG! I would have jumped off the Brooklyn bridge into a sea of fire if that's what these people wanted me to do. No joke.

And my roommate's cousin was a member of (enter most popular sorority of your choice here) and we were sooooo going to be pledge sisters together and I was already friends with a girl on my rowing team who was also in said sorority and OMG the girl I was with at the meet and greet is from California too (shocking, I know). Soooo meant to be.

Fast forward three months later, my mom died, I missed rush, had to be in a sorority sooo badly that I did spring extended bidding and I think we can all agree that was a mistake. Hated sorority life like you would not believe (although, I did meet my best most amazing friend thanks to it, hi love!).

So, at the end of the day, I'm not a sorority girl. Just not meant to be a group setting like that (also, why I'm scared to death of joining Junior League and my co-workers are driving me batty to join). Just not for me. And honestly, I'm a teensy bit jealous of people that had awesome sorority experiences and are still close with their sisters--I wish I'd had that. But, anyways.

Fast forward several years and I'm a married lady living in a respectable neighborhood with an optional HOA and everything. And I want to get to know my neighbors and have playdates with their kids (you know, when we get around to procreating and all) and bake cookies and the whole nine. I'm such a grown up. And there's even a women's club! Score! I'll get to meet people.

And then because I'm a commitment phobe, I never go to the meetings (even though they have my $50) and I never go to anything because I'm scared of everything and everyone and I never go. And I know exactly .05% of my neighbors (and refer to them by names such as 'angry man' and 'cute old guy with the dogs').

So, when I get an e-mail asking for co-hostesses for the holiday party I think "this is perfect! I can cook! I can party! I'll meet a lot of people at once and wow them with my awesome baking skills, and I'll be all friendly and co-hostessing". So I sign up. Because obviousy this is perfect.

And then there's a set menu. And because I don't check my e-mail 500 times a day or have a Crackberry, all the items I've ever even heard of on the menu are taken and I have to cook pickled shrimp.

It's like being initiated, I'm guessing. I passed, because everyone ate the shrimp (and my kitchen still smells like vinegar) and the main hostess is holding my Santa platter hostage which I can only assume is some sort of weird hazing ritual in which I must drive by everyone's house wearing only jeans and a bra and then the platter will be returned. Or something like that.

When I show up to the party, I'm wearing a black dress, black boots and fancy Anthro necklace--I think I look pretty darn fancy. I am wrong. I am a shlep. It's totally like rush. I'm getting the up and down from the other hostesses and I'm pretty sure I failed that test--considering my wedding ring is not 5.8 carats, I'm not blonde and I don't frequent a tanning salon.

Yet, I still think I'm "in" because everyone hugged me and told me they were glad to meet me at the end of the night (which was 11:35PM, by the way)--but maybe that was just the booze talking?

I'm still not sure what I've gotten myself into, but, hey, at least I know a few of the women who live in the neighborhood.

I guess I'll have to wait and see if I ever get that platter back....

I got nothin'

Nothing exciting to share--other than the fact that I can eat my body weight in chocolate these days. Which is saying a lot considering I'm just packing on the lbs like a damn bear going into hibernation (OK, smart asses, obviously, the chocolate eating explains the weight gain, I've figured that much out).

If you want to see the chocolate hoovering, it's best to pick a spot near the trail (but not on the trail, as I won't be running and eating...or running at all, but, that's neither here nor there) near my house and wait. The best shows are at 5:15PM or 2:30AM. Your pick. Either one is hilarious.

Other than that, my life has been filled with not running (I ran Tuesday)--I'm taking a break this week. Ish. I'll be chomping at the bit tomorrow, I know it. I've got a jam packed winter/spring race schedule, and I want to be in tip top runnin' shape--which includes not getting burned out (oh, and running 40 miles a week... yikes!). So, this week, I'm vegging. Ish.

I have a full running schedule next week that includes runs along the beach and in the mountains (did that just totally blow your mind? Beach and mountains? Yes, yes, California is that cool) and am really looking forward to it.

Plus the fact that my dad has warned me that he intends on dropping me off on fire roads down the mountain and meeting me at the top. In his truck. Sure. He took "trail run" really, really literally.

So, it's OK to take a few days and relax. I'll be grateful for this descision later on.

Besides, it gives me time to ponder other things in life--like the fact that I've never played a video game--like one hooked up to a TV--like PlayStation and all that. Never. Is this weird? Am I missing something?

Hmmm... Another thing to ponder... Check out my tips for a happy and healthy holiday (yes, I have advice...occasionally).

Happy holidays y'all!

I ran the Rock

Well, not technically because the "rock" is technically the lake and the half course didn't take us to the lake--but, I run the damn lake pretty much every weekend, so, it still counts in my book.

Anyways, this last weekend was the White Rock Marathon. A race that holds a special place in my heart because my work is heavily involved in it, it's one of the premier Texas races (whoot!) and of course--Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. Those children just melt my heart. Yes, it's an expensive race, but, my heaven's, I'd pay more money for those little kiddos. There was a little boy who was running the last leg of the relay in his "running legs" that he received thanks to treatment at TSRH. Did I mention he was like 8 and running 6.2 miles? They call them Patient Champions and they really are.

OK, so, that's my sappy love post about kiddos and kiddo hospitals (if I could handle blood, and you know, didn't suck at math and chemistry, I would love to go back to school and be a pediatric nurse. Too bad I suck at all the courses needed for nursing school!).

White Rock is a big race--20,000 runners this year--every event reached capacity (yay!). Lil ol me does not fare well in crowds. Remember how I freaked out during the Too Hot? Yeah, this was 3x bigger than Tulsa.

We left the house in plenty of time but because every damn runner in Texas was there, we sat at the exit for 30 minutes. After having a mild panic attack, I (like most of the other runners) bailed out of the car and crossed the 6 lanes of traffic (no one was moving, it's not like we were playing chicken) and walked to the start. Somehow, my husband made it to the start with about 10 minutes to spare. Apparently, once the runners were out of the cars, traffic started moving. Obviously.

When I signed up for the race in August, I was working on increasing my speed and I input a faster time than what I really finished at--not like a freaky fast time, but, a time that in August, pre injury and mystery illness I thought I could achieve by December. It was corral starts and I'm thinking there was some sort of error in the auto-sort that they did on my time because I ended up in the first corral. Ummm, yeah, it was me and a bunch of Kenyans. There's no way that the time I provided should have put me in the first corral. No way.

Knowing that this was going to end badly for everyone involved, I begged the nice race officials to let me move back--even though there were strict rules against changing corrals. I think the race official understood that there was some sort of mistake and let me move back. Because obviously, I was not going to run a sub 5 minute mile. My legs are never going to move that quickly--ever. Even if a lion is chasing me.

I lined up with my goal pace and we headed out. Lots of elbows in the face and whatnot and lots of zig zagging through water stations because they were jam packed and of course starting out too fast. Have I not learned? Although, I will say that the pacer in Tulsa was dead on. These ladies weren't too fast--wasn't like that last half, but, it was fast enough that I was pushing a bit harder than I wanted to that early on. Bleh.

I lost them around mile 7 and had a little breakdown because I couldn't keep up with them and I tried to make peace with the fact that I wasn't going to PR, but, it was going to be OK because I'd been slacking since Tulsa and whatever. I was just going to run my race and not worry about it. As sucky as it was. After all, I hadn't just run my own race in quite some time and it is nice to just be there and do what you can regardless of friends or pacers.

I should also mention that I was total butterfingers and dropped my shot block at mile 9 which pissed me off because I was hungry, dropped the Gatorade there as well and around mile 11 dropped an orange that a volunteer handed me. Not to be totally obsessive, but, I'm sure that my stutter steps for the second orange took a few seconds. Sure. But I was really, really hungry!

Also, at mile 9, you're not "almost there". Don't tell me that. I'm not even at mile 10 yet. So not "almost there". But, the encouragement was still nice. :)

I decided that once I hit mile 10 I was just going to haul ass and go as fast as I could and not walk unless I was on death's doorstep. I had run a pretty speedy 3 miler last week, so, I figured I'd just channel that energy (or something like that!). So I ran. And ran. And saw numbers on my Garmin that I hadn't seen in months. And I zigged and zagged and ran and ran. I checked my time and figured that I could somehow manage to hit my previous half time, which would be fine all things considered.

Then, out of nowhere, I saw my pace group--I had caught up with them--what?! I ran with them for about 20 seconds and then decided to screw that and keep going as fast as I could--if I crashed and burned, I still knew I'd PR because I'd finish with this pace group and that was an automatic PR for me.

I passed mile 12, checked my time and realized that I was going to come in a few minutes under my goal. There wasn't a mile marker 13 and of course my Garmin was a little off from the course, so, when I hit 13 I was desperately looking for the 13 marker, but, there wasn't one. I just kept going because I knew I had to be close--the finish line totally snuck up on you from around a bend, so, just about the time I wanted to kill someone because where in the hell is mile 13 there was the finish line. I looked at my time again and the tears started coming. I managed to come back from a poor start to an awesome finish!

I crossed the finish line 5 minutes faster than my previous half marathon time. Sure, it's not like 10 minutes or anything, but, for me, those 5 minutes were amazing. It was really my best race (besides my first ever). I pushed myself the whole time and pushed myself harder at the end than I have in a long time. My legs hurt, my stomach hurt, my arms hurt, my brain hurt, but, I kicked this races ass and was so freaking proud of myself. I definitely cried when I crossed that finish line and putting that finishers medal around my neck I couldn't help but feel elated. I honestly felt very similar to how I felt at Tulsa. So proud. I was not expecting a half marathon time to hit me like that, but, it did and it was really a great moment for me. (end gloating....now)

Also, this made me rather loopy because once I found the husband and asked him to take my picture, I somehow asked him that 3 times throughout the next hour or so, not remembering that he'd already taken a picture. My brain was toast.

It was a great way to end the my first ever running season. I'm nervous about 2010 because I know I won't PR in Catalina, I mean, come on, but, hopefully I'll shave off some time in OKC and PR at The Cowtown Half. But, either way, I know I started my first year of racing off incredibly well and 2010 will only be better. Even if not loaded with PRs, 2010 will be a great year because I'll be running several big races for Jack. And that's really exciting to me.

I feel good and was ready to run this morning, but, it was 24 degrees and super windy. So, that idea went out the door. Treadmill after work. Vom. Which also means no Christmas shopping after work. Ooops.

White Rock was a great race. I'm so glad I decided to run it--and can't wait until next year.

View from the parking garage as we were leaving--parked on the 5th level. That was fun. Look, every runner in Texas is down there in that crowd. Pinky swear. (and this was after a majority of the half finishers had already gone home--the full finished on the other side of the AAC, so, I don't even know what their area looked like!)


The hubs and me. We didn't find each other until 20 minutes or so after I finished--there was a police line blocking admittance into the finishers area and he couldn't get to the finish line, so, we have no finishing photos of me, but, oh well. You can see here that we are in the finishers area. VIP passes and a runner help matters. We snuck back in to cheer on my boss who ran her first half.

Like the hair? It looked cute when I started, but, 13.1 miles of running plus you know, sweat and foggy mist make for two messy pigtails. (what's going on with my upper lip in these photos? It disappeared!)


Over and out!

Table for Pity, Party of One

So, today, I was having a bit of a pity party for myself (shocking, I know)--which is a little weird because I was on such a high yesterday after my freaking awesome finish (in which I cried) of the White Rock half yesterday (more on that later).

But, today, I just wasn't feelin' it. I am sick. Got sick Saturday night. Still sick right now. Was depressed about work (can I be a stay at home mom already, please?!?!?!). Was depressed about $$ (we are um, running low, and I'm pretty sure I just spent what we did have on XMas gifts for our family...One of which I did not receive a confirmation e-mail for which has spawned a crazy person the likes of which you've never seen).

So, I threw myself a little pity party and cried myself all the way to the mall.

Where I somehow ended up at my happy place (Anthropologie).

And somehow walked out of there with a new top and scarf (I'm the scarf lady, according to my boss). And, because it was only fair that I have a little luck, the entire purchase cost me nothing. Thanks to my Anthro bday coupon and a giftcard from the in laws.

Now, I can't wait for it to be next week so I can where this fun ensemble (don't think I can pull the look off in the office--boo!). Workday clothes are getting so monotonous.

Retail therapy. Works every time....Maybe this is why we're running low on funds....?

(for the record, I'm not trying to be a whiney, I actually found it odd that I was in such a fowl mood because usually a good run or race puts my grumpiness in check for a few days. And, as y'all know, sometimes I'm just Grinchy around the holidays...Y'all know I just tell it like it is. Pity parties and all.)

Operation Jack Holiday Treats Bake Sale--YUM!

This week is the White Rock Marathon. I'm running the half. Which means, I'm taking Saturday off (yay!) and baking. All.Day.Long. (hopefully). This is where you come in--I want to bake holiday goodies, because I loooove them, but, my waistline does not. Solution? Bake sale!

I will bake goodies and send them to you--with all proceeds of this bake sale to benefit OperationJack and Train4Autism and y'all know how important this cause is to me.

Here's how it works:

Below I will list items for you to chose from and the prices of each item--I will only make a certain number of each (which will be listed by the item), so, if it says 3 dozen of a certain cookie and three people have already commented that they want a dozen, that cookie is sold out.

Leave a comment stating what you want and the quantity so that others can see what's goin' on.

Then, send me an e-mail (on my sidebar-- shabby.sadie@gmail.com) with what you want and how many including your shipping info--then, make a donation for OperationJack on my donation page (click here) in the amount specified below (or based on your quantities)--I'll be alerted via e-mail of your donation and viola, I'll whip up the goodies and they'll be on your way.

I will close the bake sale at 4:30 PM CENTRAL time today (Thursday).

I'll try to keep it updated with side notes next to the items if they get sold out, but, it might not be perfect, so, please bear with me.

Make sense?

I'm hoping to knock these all out over the weekend, so, please, donate away! (I mean come on, homemade holiday treats--does it get better? No, it does not. And, you'll be donating to a good cause! Eating cookies really will make the world a better place.)

Cookies:
3 dozen oatmeal and festive M&M: $10/dozen
2 dozen chunky monkey (peanut butter, banana, chocolate chips & oatmeal): $10/dozen
4 dozen chocolate chip cookies: $10/dozen
2 dozen chocolate chocolate chip cookies with candy cane icing: $10/dozen
1 dozen sugar cookies with Hershey kisses (caramel, regular, mint, etc--you pick!): $10/dozen
3 dozen holiday confetti cookies: $10/dozen

Treats & Such:
(2) peppermint bark: $12/per "sheet" (full cookie sheet sized before being crumbled)
(3) festive chocolate dipped pretzels: $5/per 12 pretzel rods
(3) festive monkey munch/puppy chow/muddy buddies: $5/per one 6 cup serving
1 batch of chocolate chip "sugar plum" (gumdrop) bars: $12 batch (about 12 bars)
1 batch of peppermint brownies (with Andes mints) (about 18 brownies): $12/batch
1 batch Rice Krispie treats with M&Ms: $12/batch (about 12 krispies)

Whew, I better get to baking!

Here's to a yummy weekend.

Pre race carb loading at it's finest I tell you.

Things I learned in Arizona

That my dad has no ability to maintain a constant speed when behind the wheel of a motor vehicle (sorry dad, I do love you).

That In-N-Out (or any other fast food restaurant for that matter) can't be bothered to be open on Thanksgiving. Which is a real pain in the bum when "dinner" isn't until 7:30. Are you kidding me? This led to a very hungry SP devouring a cheese roll and artichoke dip in about 5 minutes. And possibly why she has been sick since then. Awesome.

The city of Sedona does not believe in traffic lights. No, no, instead they believe in semi retarded roundabouts. Which are stupid. Because they're two lanes--and no one seems to be in control of their lane. Nary a stop sign or light--just lil roundabouts.

(can you see a stoplight down there, because I certainly don't)

Red clay is a bitch to get off clothes. See that dirt under Bambi there, yeah, it stains. Also, Hi Bambi! This was outside our hotel room in Sedona.

I'm still scared of heights--it's a miracle anyone got me to hike.

Birthday hike. See, proof--I hiked.


I'm a sea level wuss. Altitude kicked my butt.

In Bruges is a freaking hilarious movie--hilarious and sad and disturbing. Yes, it can be all those things. And the husband and I have been quoting it since Saturday. I do not see this stopping anytime soon.

Hot stone massages are pretty much the greatest thing ever. Best.Birthday/Post Marathon gift.Ever. (well, the lovely new bag I'm carrying from the husband is pretty damn good too!)
Post massage--don't we look relaxed?



Per my marketing course, there is a lot of overpriced art out there. About 90% of it resides in Sedona. In that vain, the little sis and I tried some art of our own: shadow photography. We're going to sell these at local galleries(kidding of course). Sedona really does have some gorgeous art as well.
That "it's illegal" is not the same as "you can't do it". Just ask my dad. In an effort to avoid 1/4 mile of cars backed up along a Phoenix freeway, my super intelligent padre, spying the exit we needed just up ahead, decided the quickest thing to do, would be to hop onto the shoulder of the road, and just mosey on down to the exit. As I'm frantically reminding him that this is in fact, illegal. Until of course a cop pulled out of the line of traffic to block us. Unsuccessfully I might add. And thus we took of onto the exit onto the next freeway only to see the cop two lanes over--presumably looking for us. How do we solve this situation? We hide behind a semi truck--Smoky and the Bandit style. I kid you not. For about 25 minutes.

Trust me when I say that I am not nearly creative enough to make this up. This actually happened. Eventually, we lost the cop and all was well. However, my dad was still unable to maintain a normal speed.


Basically, we're just a gang of criminals--my stepmom is now also a jewel thief (kidding!)--she accidentally left a gallery wearing a piece of jewelry she hadn't paid for. Of course, being the honest citizen she is, she dashed back during lunch and paid. She was horrified.


Birthday cake pretty much makes everything better. (ok, so, it's not a picture of my birthday cake, but, it is a picture of my birthday hot chocolate--which is basically the same thing)


And that eating too much will lead to getting sick. Obviously.
Our last day in Sedona. I'm rocking the Maverick sunglasses and looking rather pregnant. I'm not!!! I'm not--I just look like it. And that sweater wasn't helping matters.

Just heard from my aunt that they're all snowed in up in Arizona--crazy! We had a great time and can't wait to go back.

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving as well.

Don't forget, I'm hosting a bake sale on my blog tomorrow (Thursday) and all proceeds will benefit OperationJack and Train4Autism. You know you want some homemade holiday goodies that will benefit a good cause. You know you do.

Holiday Cheer

Houston, we have a problem.

A really, really big one.

Candy Cane Hersey's Kisses.

(gulp)

For someone who doesn't generally like Hersey's Kisses (what? I just don't--they don't taste like real chocolate and they're gone before you can really enjoy them and, and... I just, bleh. They don't do it for me) this is huge.

I accidentally picked some up (yeah, just like I accidentally ended up with chocolate Chex Mix) on Saturday in effort to put something festive in my Christmas candy bowl that had until Saturday, been sorely neglected. I wanted something minty (because in my mind, Christmas=candy canes) but, wasn't sure what I would find.

Low and behold, Candy Cane Hersey's Kisses. We're talking white chocolate, with little teeny bits of candy cane. Does it get better? No my friends, no it does not.

I only bought one bag (also, anyone else notice that candy companies are getting stingy on the amount of goodies in a bag?), and it's dwindling. Fast.

This is not good for my "diet" (and who are we kidding, I just keep getting fatter--I've got more chins now than I've ever had in my life--icccck!). Or my self esteem. Or that fact that I'm only supposed to eat "limited" amounts of sugar. Obviously, I'm blinded by the minty goodness.

But.Oh.So.Good.

Sigh....

Oh, and just because--so, SlimFast got recalled. Guess who has an entire trunk full of SlimFast? Yep, that's right. Of course.

If you buy something in my holiday bake sale that will be held on Thursday I might even send a Candy Cane Kiss along with your purchase.

Remember, I'm making homemade holiday treats for you and all proceeds will go to OperationJack. So, start hitting the gym now because I don't bake low fat. Your tastebuds will thank me.

Now, spread the word: Bake sale. Thursday. Be here.

So dear friends, what are your favorite holiday goodies?

The Road Less Traveled

Sometimes (ok, um, quite often if we're being honest here--which we always are) I wonder about the choices I've made in life. Obviously, I've made some stupid ones (rebellious teenager + checking account + bff getting a tattoo=mistake), I've made some good ones (marrying my honey) and then there are the few that I'm not really sure about.

As I've said before, this year has been hard. And I mean hard. I mean kick you when you're down, cry your eyes out hard. It would be divine if there was light at the end of the tunnel, but, I'm just not sure where it is. It'll appear at some point--it always does. This I know.

I know I'm blessed. And I don't say that to be bratty, I say that to be humble. Because even though it's been hard, it could have been harder--I'm grateful it hasn't been (::knocks on wood::).

I often wonder about my job--about my future, about choices.

And then in moments of self doubt, I have little gems that remind me that sometimes it's not always the 'best' but it often leads to the 'best' moments in life.

If I wasn't at this job, I highly doubt I would have run a marathon. After all, it was my failed relay team attempt last year that got me back into running. I would never have signed up had I not been at this job. And that's honest to goodness fact.

I wouldn't be taking a marketing class and made a dear friend (Hi, Jeana!).

If I hadn't been struggling with failing friendships, I would have never started a blog and 'met' so many wonderful friends (including several blog friends turned real life friends).

If we hadn't taken the leap and purchased our house, we wouldn't have enough room for my sis in law to live with us--and I'm so glad she does (if she leaves I will have a full on meltdown--you've been warned).

While I don't know what lessons and opportunities will come out of this trial, I know that I will look back with a grateful heart. Grateful for the lessons. And the blessings still to come.

(wow, a little deep for a Monday, eh? This is what happens when my People magazine reading time is cut short by nurse practitioners who are just sooo excited to get you into yet another waiting room--sans magazine)

PS. This week, I will host a blog bake sale for OperationJack. All items will be made over the weekend and shipped on Monday. Spread the word and check back on Thursday for a rundown of the goodies.

Holiday Treat Bake Sale

I might have mentioned it before, but, at my office, Friday is sweet treat day--we all take turns bringing in goodies. In honor of that, I decided that I would make today a sweet treat blog bake sale day--all proceeds to benefit OperationJack and Train4Autism.

Here's how it works:

Below I will list items for you to chose from and the prices of each item--I will only make a certain number of each (which will be listed by the item), so, if it says 3 dozen of a certain cookie and three people have already commented that they want a dozen, that cookie is sold out--that said, if this is successful, I will do this again next week, so, you can always come back and buy something then. However, if you do make a purchase and want more of something, please let me know and I'll try to make arrangements (and the donation price should be adjusted as such).

Leave a comment stating what you want and the quantity.


Then, send me an e-mail (on my sidebar-- shabby.sadie@gmail.com) with what you want and how many including your shipping info--then, make a donation for OperationJack on my donation page (click here) in the amount specified below (or based on your quantities)--I'll be alerted via e-mail of your donation and viola, I'll whip up the goodies and they'll be on your way.

I will close the bake sale at 4:30 PM CENTRAL time today. However, as stated before, if this is successful, be on the lookout for another bake sale next week!

I'll try to keep it updated with side notes next to the items if they get sold out, but, it might not be perfect, so, please bear with me.

Make sense?

I'm hoping to knock these all out over the weekend, so, please, donate away!

Cookies:
3 dozen oatmeal and festive M&M: $10/dozen
2 dozen chunky monkey (peanut butter, banana, chocolate chips & oatmeal): $10/dozen
4 dozen chocolate chip cookies: $10/dozen
2 dozen pumpkin spice chocolate chip cookies: $10/dozen
2 dozen chocolate chocolate chip cookies with candy cane icing: $10/dozen
1 dozen sugar cookies with Hershey kisses (caramel, regular, mint, etc--you pick!): $10/dozen
3 dozen holiday confetti cookies: $10/dozen

Treats & Such:
(2) peppermint bark: $12/per "sheet" (full cookie sheet sized before being crumbled)
(3) festive chocolate dipped pretzels: $5/per 12 pretzel rods
(3) festive monkey munch/puppy chow/muddy buddies: $5/per one 6 cup serving
1 batch of chocolate chip "sugar plum" (gumdrop) bars: $12 batch (about 12 bars)
1 batch of peppermint brownies (with Andes mints) (about 18 brownies): $12/batch
1 batch Rice Krispie treats with M&Ms: $12/batch (about 12 krispies)

Whew, I better get to baking!

Here's to a yummy weekend!

All I want for Christmas

(I'll refrain from busting out the remaining parts of the song, but, just know, I'm singing it internally)

You know, this year, money is tight for us, as it is for many people. My husband bought me a fabulous new bag for my birthday / marathon completion present and for us, it was a pretty penny. I'm so grateful for his thoughtfulness. That said, I'm not really sure what to ask for this holiday season as it seems that we have everything we really "need" and most of my "wants" are running related (new clothes--it's snowing here kids, I don't have running in snow clothes), house related (anything to make it pretty) or something just as silly.

But, upon further reflection, there is something that I really, really want (like want even more than a pony and y'all know how much I want a pony). I want to help make OperationJack successful.

This is where you come in.

As many of you know, I recently completed a full marathon (that’s 26.2 miles of running) and did it for me—to cross it off my list by my birthday. I can happily say that I completed that goal and am so grateful for all the support I had from you all as I embarked on this journey.


Even after logging months of 100+ miles, I’m not ready to retire my running shoes. Just the opposite in fact. I’m running another marathon. Yes, you read that correctly. In less than 16 weeks, I will be embarking on another 26.2 mile journey—but this time, I’m not running for me. I’m running for someone else. In fact, for a lot of someone’s.

I will be running The Catalina Marathon on March 13, 2010 for OperationJack—an effort by a father to run 60 marathons in 2010 to raise money and awareness for Train4Autism (you can read more about Sam and his inspiring journey here).

As someone who has been blessed to spend considerable time with Autistic children, this effort spoke to my heart and although I hadn’t even finished one marathon, I knew I had to sign up to run one for Jack—and all the other people impacted by Autism around the world.

I feel very blessed to be able to participate in this cause, and even more grateful for those who I know that are living with Autism now—they have taught me so much about life, about love and about what it takes to really give. And I want to give back to them.

But, I can’t do this alone—we need help to raise money and awareness. To that end, I have set a goal to raise $850.00 by the time I lace up my shoes for Catalina—that’s exactly 14 weeks and 3 days away. ;)

I know that things are tight right now, especially as we are gearing up for holiday shopping, but, please, consider making a donation. Think of it as a gift-- a gift to me (cause you know you want t0) and a gift to all those families who are affected by Autism every single day. I know we can do this!

Great things can be done with research and therapy, but, none of that can happen without help. Please visit my fundraising pages for more information: http://operationjack.kintera.org/texasrunner

If a monetary donation seems too much, please consider participating in one of the 60 races that are affiliated with OperationJack. You don’t have to run a marathon to help—many of the races have varying distances, including 5ks associated with them. Here’s the schedule. I'll be running in at least 3 and would love to see you there (Catalina Marathon, Big D Texas Marathon, Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon).

Or, if you aren't ready to lace up your running shoes, please log onto Facebook and become a fan of Chase Giving and vote for OperationJack. More information found here. It's really simple and doesn't take more than a minute--your vote could mean huge things for OperationJack.

So, tell your friends, tell your families, tell your dogs--just please, spread the word--and please, donate if you can.

That's all I want for Christmas.

(well, a treadmill would be nice too since it's snowing here and all, but, I'd rather have the donations for Jack)

Thank you :)

Merry Christmas!

(gosh, think I used enough links? You have no excuses--I made it so simple)

Musings & Monday

I survived Arizona. Enough said. Don't worry, I'll have a big ol' recap coming your way very shortly--until then, here is my abbreviated rundown of the last week or so.

Hope y'all had a great Thanksgiving! I'm pretty sure I don't ever need to eat again.

1. Getting out of Phoenix in holiday traffic is kind of like what I imagine getting around NYC during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade must be like. Death.
2. It gets cold in the mountains of AZ. And, weather.com lied--I was not prepared for 20 degree mornings. I was told 40s. I can do 40s.
3. Note to Arizona: Ten points on the whole traffic cameras mounted on police cars in the middle of nowhere to catch speeding drivers. That's good use of traffic control with 0% of police force time--this is intelligent. What is not intelligent however is the little signs that are up about 100 feet in front of such camera warning drivers of their existence. This leads to drivers slamming on the breaks and slowing down, thus, making it impossible to catch speeding drivers (cough::my dad:: cough) and causing the passengers bodily harm as I am fairly certain all of us are suffering from a mild case of whiplash.
4. I really don't understand GrapeNuts. I just don't get their purpose in the cereal world. I mean, what are they? And why?
5. My Butchie boy lost 5 lbs after a week at doggie daycare--Ella? She gained at least 7. Sheesh.
6. I've only run once since Tulsa. This is the problem with 20 degree mornings. I didn't pack my running jacket. Idiot.
7. Running from the cops is never a good idea. More on this later. Although, it makes for a pretty hilarious (and sadly, oh so true) story.
8. I did not get to have In-N-Out. I don't want to talk about it.
9. I actually found art that I liked! I get accused of having no taste in art--which, I'm not really going to argue about because I know exactly nothing about art, so, I could stand to reason that I don't appreciate it. But! But! In Sedona, I actually found stuff that I and the husband liked. Too bad we're broke and couldn't buy any of it. There was one painting I really want and I'm seriously debating calling the gallery and asking about layaway. Do not judge me.
10. I did however manage to purchase myself two little bud vases. That's my art contribution to the house.
11. When you aren't used to getting good solid REM sleep and thus dreaming, you will have some pretty strange dreams once you do. Example: I had a dream that we had to move to Mexico for my husband's job ( you know, the one he doesn't have)--and that we had to move in two weeks and I was going to just be stay at home Mexican housewife. Seriously. No worries, last night however as I was back to kicking beagles off the bed, I did not have weird dreams.
12. Avocado smoothies are good. They sound weird, but, are mighty tasty.
13. Arizona is dry. My hands are literally cracking. Ick.
14. I almost moved there 6 years ago. I was really regretting not moving there--until I got home last night. I love where I live.
15. Seriouslysotired. Diet Coke in hand. I need a vacation from my vacation!
16. I really gotta get on the Christmas shopping--gulp!
17. Less than 2 weeks to White Rock! Yay!!

Have a happy Monday! And eat lots of leftovers--if you still have any!
xoxox

'Tell me something bad about Tulsa'

I love George Strait. I love that song. I love that it was playing on the course around mile 4. I love Tulsa. It will always be a special city to me. You couldn't tell me anything bad about Tulsa. I ran my first marathon there!

Look what I got! I knew my bib would have my name on it, but, didn't know it would say 'my first full marathon'--this was very exciting to me! And it was really fun because most of the other first timers had the blue bibs as well, so, we could kind of cheer each other on.

Shall we discuss the race? We shall.

I cried when the fireworks and gun went off (yes, a real gun--we were in Oklahoma after all). I mean, I was standing in the start line of a marathon--amazing!

Miles 1-4: Stayed with my pace group, we ran through downtown Tulsa, through Utica Square and through some really pretty neighborhoods. It was so much fun. I also tackled some hills. Whoot!

Miles 4-6: Race day adrenaline? Yes. I took the heck off. Charged up hills, hugged corners and hauled booty. Super fun, but super stupid. But, still, fun nonetheless. I don't regret it. It was a learning experience.

Miles 6-7: The Oreo handoff. The husband's directions were to hand me an Oreo at mile 6--and he did. I was getting confused by mile markers at this point because this was a relay handoff location and the 5k finish so I was frantically looking for my family and didn't see them and started freaking out--also, I stepped in a big hole right before mile 6. I saw it, and made a mental note to not step in the hole. What do you think I did? Luckily, I just rolled a bit--several people totally ate it. We ran across a long bridge and ran by a Sonic and McDonalds. Not cool! I really wanted fries at this point. Yes, at 8:30 in the morning.

Miles 7-10: Again with the hauling booty. I just kept goin' and goin'. Rocking out to the music on the course, enjoying the memories and going speedy speederson. Again, stupid move. This part of the course was along old Route 66, so that was fun.

Miles 10-13: The pace leader caught up with me or I slowed down--either way, it was nice to be back with someone pacing me. Because I'm an idiot and cannot pace myself. This part of the course was kind of blah, so, it was nice to be with some other people again. My family also surprised me around mile 11. I had no idea how they got to that point. I heard them yelling my name, but, wasn't expecting to see them until the end, so, it didn't register that it was my name they were yelling until I was about 5 feet from them. It was a nice surprise and good mental boost.

Miles 13-17: From mile 13-26 was also along Route 66--a fun thing to be able to say! However, this is where things started to fall apart. Basically, from mile 12.5-20 it was all into the wind running down the river. Mile 20 was the turn around point. This was sheer torture. Torture. There were very few spectators, little support and by this point, you can see all those speedy people finishing up which is just emotionally sucky. It wasn't really windy, but, it was windy enough to be a pain in the butt. The pace leader said he would walk through all the water stations and he did for the most part, but, at mile 14 there were two water stops really close to each other, so, I walked through the first and then jogged the second--which was just enough time for the leader to get ahead of me and I tried my damndest to catch him, but, was unsuccessful. I kept trying and trying and he was just too far ahead. I could see him, but, I couldn't catch him. By mile 17 I still hadn't caught him and I had been running into the wind for a good bit now, and knew I still had a fair amount of time before the turnaround and I just wanted to die. I didn't expect to hit the wall at mile 17, so that was really surprising. I called my husband in tears telling him I couldn't do it--he reminded me that I could, and my sister in law threatened to kick my ass and take away my present--that was motivation! I really did not except to have such a major breakdown--let alone at mile 17. I figured if I had a breakdown, it would be around mile 21 or something. Sheesh. I blame the wind. The wind really sucked. And those were really long miles.

Miles 17-20: I don't really remember these miles. Honestly. I have no recolection of passing mile marker 18 or 19. I have no idea what was going on. I just knew that if I got to 20 I could turn around. Pretty sure these were slow miles.

Miles 20-23: I felt better once I turned the corner at mile 20. I was pretty spent at this point, but, I felt much better than mile 17. I figured that after I hit 20.3 (the furthest I've ever run before) that some kind of angelic choir would start and I'd be so happy for taking a step further than I ever had before....Yeah, notsomuch. It was just about ticking off the miles at this point. And, I was so close to being finished that the whole 20.3 mile thing just didn't matter--26.2 did! My feet were killing me and I'm not ashamed that I walked a large chunk of mile 21. These miles were challenging. My feet were on fire. I even got asked by a race marshall if I was OK--umm, yeah, how do you think I'm doing?! But, I smiled and kept going. My legs didn't so much hurt, my feet just killed. I actually stopped at one point--never did this before-- to stretch out my feet. I walked through the water stops and if there wasn't a water stop I walked at the mile marker. Not far, just a few seconds or so to get myself calmed down and refocused.

Miles 23-26: I don't know what happened, but, I found something inside me to keep going. My pace picked up, I felt better and was just so happy to be so close to being done. At mile 23ish there was the cutest little kid at one of the water stops. He was probably no older than 7 and had 4 cups of Gatorade and water--I wanted water and it was so cute to see how excited he was to get me some water. Put a huge smile on my face. My dad jumped in with me around mile 25 for about .25 mile. I don't know where he came from, but, it was fun. I wish I had a picture of that. My husband was around mile 25.5 or so, and then I was almost done! These were good miles--I felt like I was back on my game. Plus, it helped that I was passing people at this point.

Miles 26-26.2: Once I rounded the corner to mile 26.2 I was so excited. I was blasting Queen on my iPod (heck yes!) and haulin' booty to the finish. My sister in law and mother in law where there cheering me on and the second I saw the finish line, the tears started. I was so happy. It was an awesome moment.

I crossed the finish line, got my medal, my thermal blankie and my finishers shirt--which was hilarious because I had no motor skills at this point and could not give the volunteer my voucher. Luckily, someone assisted me in getting it off.

I lined up to get my finishers photo and before I knew it, my father in law was in the finishers area giving me a big hug, followed by the rest of my family. It was just a great moment.

Yes, it had it's ups and downs, yes I didn't finish as well as I wanted, yes I walked more than I wanted, but, I had a great experience--I can't wait to do it again--really, I can't. And that's all I think I could have asked for my first marathon.

Great way to start Birthday Week if I do say so myself....Even if we are heading to AZ today--bleh. But! There is totally In-N-Out in my future for bday lunch tomorrow :) Yesssss!

Of course, today my ITband is swollen the size of Mt. Kilimanjaro, but, I guess that's to be expected. Ice, foam rolling--good times.

I did it! March 13, 2010--Catalina, here I come!

Thank you so much to everyone for your support and encouragement through this journey! To all my running blog friends for their advice and their kind words--I couldn't have done it without all of you.

Ya ready for some pictures?

Of course you are!

Good morning! I did not want to take that jacket off. I did and my teeth stated chattering! But, it ended up being perfect weather.

Us, first thing in the morning. We got to the race site and the sun wasn't even up yet. The pros to getting there really freaking early? No waiting for the potty!
My dad and me--who was fighting a terrible cold--getting ready for me to line up with my pace group.


The Oreo handoff at mile 6. My dad gave the husband specific instructions to give me 4 Oreos. I only wanted 1--so the husband gave me 3. I wasn't really sure what to do with 3 Oreos, but, dang it, I was not tossing Oreos on the side of the road. Who tosses Oreos? I'm pretty sure I have a race photo of me holding Oreos coming my way soon.

Prior to the Oreo handoff. Can you find me?


Why hello there! Mile 25ish. This was about .3 seconds before I told the husband "I hate this sh*t!"--and apparently yelled this really loudly and got a lot of dirty looks. I mean, come on, really people, none of us are really having a blast at this point. Y'all are thinking it, I'm the only one who was sayin' it. Don't judge.

Rounding the corner into the finishing chute. I might have teared up here.


Why are all my finisher photos in front of a portapotty? Why don't we plan better? (cause it's not like I'm aware enough to know what's going on) Also, why were these nowhere to be found after mile 19? These are the big questions people.

Me and my daddy--pretty sure I gave him a serious scare when I called the husband at mile 17 having a breakdown.

My fabulous in laws who drove all the freaking way from California to cheer me on. Although, Rach (sis in law) was being camera shy :)

The husband and I. Who said he was more proud of me than the day I graduated college. Which was really sweet--because, um, honestly, me too!

All good lil runners should get a present..... It's pretty. I promise.
Annnnd, this is how a marathon finisher goes home--4 long hours in a car. Yes, I look like a hobo. No, I don't care. And if I had any idea what was going on with the double chin, I'd tell ya, but, I really don't. I was slightly out of it at this point. (can't believe I'm posting this picture!)
Finis!

I've got a half in a few weeks which is really exciting for me because I've never run a half that is part of a full marathon as well--every half I've done has had a 5k or a 10k with it and I'm always cursing those lucky people who get to be done early--and I did this during the marathon--I'm kind of wildly excited to finally be one of those people who gets to finish early. Hee hee.

Get your kicks....

On Route 66!

I know I got mine.

Best.Day.Ever.

I never thought I could do it, but, I did. I finished 26.2 miles of....something... I don't know exactly what it was, but, it was pretty awesome.

I definitely cried when I crossed the finish line.

I hurt like hell, can barely walk, but, I can't wait for the next one.

Who knew!

Race recap & photos to come soon :)

Couldn't have done it without y'all (seriously)

Running reflections

I'm all packed and ready to go--ready to leave town for my first marathon. Can you believe it? I can't. Really, I can't.

Let's take a walk down SP's running memory lane, shall we?

My first race! A Memorial Day 10k. (look how skinny I was! I would pay to look like that again--no double chin or anything!)

Crusin' down to the finish line of my first race ever (I heart downhill finishes). This race was so fun. No Garmin (didn't have one yet) just me and a steady pace. I finished strong and even got 3rd in my age group--whoot! I felt freaking awesome.

4th of July 10k (where I got heat exhaustion--awesome). I think the heat exhaustion sums this one up. But, it was my first race with the Dallas Running Club and aside from the fact that it was freaking hotter than hell, it was a fun day. I ran with my friend Matt who joined the club with me and it was his first race. The DRC has such great volunteers and I was really impressed with them. (again, skinny!)

After my first 15k (7/18)--loved this race! I was fast, it was fun, the weather was great and it was perfect. The 15k will always hold a special place in my heart because of this race.

Finishers medal and all--after my first half (8/23). I still have mixed feelings about this race. I was fighting a cold and the course was emotional torture, so, it's not my favorite memory, but, it was my first half and I am so happy that I did it. (look, you can see the chub start to increase)

Second 15k. I was really sick that day, so, naturally, I hate the pictures and the race wasn't great, but, whatever--I finished! (10/3) (sausage arms!)

After my second 15k with my dear, dear friend and her sweet puppy. I mean seriously, she showed up to cheer me on early on a Saturday morning--that's friendship!

I hate foot pictures, but, I'm weirdly proud of this one. This was from my first 20 miler and it left me with a blister the size of New Hampshire. It actaully wraps around my toe. It took me all day to figure out why I was walking funny! It hurt like hell. Battle scars, I tell ya.

Look! There's me! Run, SP, run! (longest finishing chute ever!)

After the DRC Half (11/1). (we rock, obviously).

I've come a long way--that's for sure. It's surreal to think that in 48 hours I'll be full on into my first marathon.

Hard work, early mornings, retarded toes, injuries galore, illnesses--you name it, I've dealt with it while training for a marathon. It's been a really hard road. And, I'm not afraid to admit that I've wanted to jump ship a time or two, but, am so glad that I never did.

I couldn't imagine a Saturday without an early morning run. I never thought I'd be a "runner", but, just like that, I am. I'm not fast, but, I lay it all out there on the road. I give it my heart and soul and that's all that matters. Finishing this marathon will be one of the best days of my life.

I'm excited to have it under my belt, and so excited for things to come: tackling one of the hardest trail runs in Texas (yeah, I didn't know it was one of the hardest when I signed up--for someone who does a lot of research at work, I don't so much apply it in my own life); running a gorgeous course on Catalina island for OperationJack; running several Texas staple races--Cowtown and Big D, and running the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and meeting d-a-r in the spring.

This may seem lofty considering I have yet to complete a marathon, but, I've loved the training, I've loved the 20 milers (I know, who am I?) and I've loved the experience--good times and bad. And, I know I'm going to love training for Catalina (lots of hills!) and will be excited to run some new courses in my beloved Texas. So, why not? Exactly.

I'm getting kind of emotional about all this--my dad is flying in today and we're all driving to Tulsa together. I chose this race because it's the Route 66 Marathon and when my dad would drive me to college, we drove parts of old Route 66--and when he was a kid, every summer, they drove to Iowa via Route 66. It's special to share this with him, but, it does hurt so much that my mom isn't here. It's hard grappling with the reality that I'll be 25 next week and will finish a marathon this week, and she's not here to experience all this with me. But, I know she'd be proud. And that's all I ever want.

So, here's to a great run! Thank you all so much for your support, friendship, advice, jokes, comments--the whole nine. I never knew that writing a silly little blog would introduce me to such amazingly wonderful people. I'm grateful for each and every single one of you. Know that I'll be thinking of you as I chug along 26.2 miles. My phone is ghetto, so, I won't be able to Tweet or blog while I'm running, but, I'll try to get some updates in as soon as I get back to the hotel.

26.2, I'm comin' for ya.