Big Balls in Cowtown

Big day tomorrow! Gettin' my hair did early tomorrow. I'm trying a new stylist - Jules recommended her. So she'll be amazing and I'll love her, natch. I haven't had my hair cut in forever. It's getting too long, Little House on the Prairie long. Duggar girls long. Time to inject some style into this long, flat mop. I'm excited to have a new do!
Lunch with Hubs who will be working from home. I just love the flexibility of his awesome job. He works for a large (the largest) on-line dating service. I'm not really sure WHAT he does, (something with computers, ha) but I know he is very good at it and they love him at work as much as he loves working there. Love it that he's able to be home when I'm home!
Next I'm headed to pick up Sarah and Michelle to head to Fort Worth. Girl's weekend! We're headed to the expo to pick up our bibs and who knows what other goodies?!?! Shopping, pedis, dinner and some good ole girl fun. Early to bed and early to rise for the half marathon. I've decided I'm not racing this one. We really just planned this as a race we could all run together. Some haven't trained properly (not me - I trained!) and some are disabled (read:pregnant) so we are all taking it easy. We're all sticking together and just in it for the fun. And the medal. I've got another half in two weeks. That one I'm giving my all.
I had a great day at work today. Started off with some optimism regarding the equity markets. Blah, blah, derivatives, blah. I'm a nerd; it's true. Headed to the mall at lunch with some of my girls; Jules, Epp, Chelsea and Mere. AND I'm looking at a 4 day weekend. Whoot! Took off for Texas Independence Day. Sorta. Mostly I took off just because the weather has been so freakin' fabulous it seems a shame to stay indoors! It was 85 today!!! The only downside is that it's 10 pm and 78 in the house. I'm loving Spring, but totally not ready for Summer. It will be here before we know it and be here to stay!

Start spreadin' da news

Last night was the first class for the 2nd Spring session of Speed Class. I'm sad that my preggers friend will not be in attendance. Dr says getting her heart rate up that high isn't best for baby. But she CAN keep our early morning easy runs and long runs. Whoot! I promised to run/walk our half this weekend with her.

So last night was the first night back (since last week - long break!) and we ran the Magic Mile. When I first ran with Speed last January, my MM was at 10:12. And each session it was lower. But I totally kicked my own booty last night finishing at 8:09:99. That's NOT 8:10 - I'll take that 1/100th of a second! I'm super excited to see all my hard work pay off. Sorry it's a bit blurry. Do you know how hard it is to take a photo of your own wrist?

Here is the truth about running. It will get easier. But you have to run to get better. Makes sense, right? That 8:09:99 represents to me: early mornings before work, running in the intense heat and humidity all summer. Late nights running in the cold rain. Extra hill repeats, even when I'm tired. Putting in an extra mile more than what the schedule calls for. Giving up sleeping in even on Saturdays to get in over 10 miles. Commitment. And loving every minute of it.

I am in love with running.

At the end of year I posted my goals. I left one as a surprise, just waiting for the right moment to reveal it. I was afraid to tell too early, nervous that it might not actually be true. Worried that I might find a way to back out. But after last night's milestone run for me I know now, it is time.

I signed up for my first full marathon. Well, sorta. I entered the NYC Marathon lottery. NYC is my favorite place in the whole world (besides the biscuit) and a fitting setting for my first 26.2 miles. I'll know in June if I'm in. That's a long time to wait, but just in time to start training. I have a good feeling about this!

I do have two back up plans just in case, so I know for sure my first full will be in November or late October. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed for NYC!

I'm excited to cross that 13.1 threshold. I hope come November 1st you'll be running with me in spirit as I cross the 5 burroughs that I love so much!

Saturday

I actually had a very good weekend, starting off Friday night with a fabulous birthday party for Jules. But I'm going to save the details and photos of my weekend for another post.

Saturday morning I awoke at a ridiculously early time (as usual) to knock out 12 miles and some hills. I met my girls at the church and we headed to White Rock Lake. One of my girlies actually IS pregnant (not just sporting maternity fashion) and we hadn't gone far before she had to pee, so we stopped off at one of the pavilions, searched the premises for People Who Do Not Belong There, and feeling confident it was clear, stood guard while she took care of business. (incidentally, this is the same girl with Gu Poo issues from a few weeks back, that explains why her tummy was so finicky!)

We then went on about our run. The weather was perfect. Not hot, not cold, a little windy but all in all very decent. We were about 7 miles into our run when a police car came speeding past us with his lights on. A pretty rare occurrence at the lake, since it's in a neighborhood and there are very few roads near the lake itself. It's pretty much set up for runners, cyclists and families. We remarked that "He sure was in a hurry" and kept going. A bit later we saw more police cars and more lights. My first thought was that a biker had been hit by a car. That happens to cyclist more than I care to think about. I wondered if I could possibly be of any assistance. Then we saw and heard the ambulance. "Whew," I thought, "The professionals are here." But I still felt anxious. Someone was in trouble. I said a little prayer and kept running.

But as we got closer I noticed that there was no hurry of activity like there should be at an accident site. And then they began to roll out the crime scene tape. My heart stopped. That really can only mean one thing. Kat and I stopped to let the others catch up with us before we passed. I had a feeling I was going to see something that I didn't want to see. And I was right.

Floating in the water, face down, was a person. Presumably, a dead person. My blood ran cold. I've seen dead people before, but where they belong, in hospitals and funeral homes. I hadn't counted on seeing one this morning.

And this person was wearing a pink shirt.

We talked a little, all of us shaken, but suppositions did us no good. We really had no idea what happened. I kept thinking, I wonder if that pink shirt belonged to another runner? I looked down at my own pink shirt.

We are all out there long before daylight. They shouldn't, but many run alone. It's not like it is an especially dangerous part of town, but we DO live in a large city and it IS a pretty secluded area, especially early morning. Every life is precious, but I really didn't want that to be a runner or a cyclist. I didn't want it to be someone in "our" little community. I wanted to be mistaken, that I just thought I saw a body.

I prayed a lot yesterday. Some family was going to get a phone call that would change their lives forever. They were going to wake up, eager for the weekend, and then get news that would shatter everything.
That pink shirt belonged to someone's spouse, child, sibling, parent, friend. I just kept seeing that pink shirt. And I couldn't help but think, "Could that have been me?"

This morning I finally found an article. The pink shirt belonged to 78 year old June Bradley. At this time, they do not suspect foul play, but I have to wonder how a 78 year old woman ends up in the lake. What a lonely and terrifying way to die; alone and in the cold, dark water. So many questions. I'm praying for her family and friends.

June. I've always loved the name June. June who liked pink.

Be careful out there, and watch out for others too. We're all in this together. Be safe.

She said WHAT?!?!

I was in the employee kitchen at lunch today, minding my own business, waiting for my food to heat in the microwave.

I happen to look VERY cute today, wearing a new Banana crepe top with a double strand of long "pearls" from Forever 21. (only $6!) I was feeling good. You need to know this part.

So random lady, that I know of, but do not know well, (We aren't BFFs or anything, in fact I've spoken with her maybe twice ever. Just an acquaintance of the over 450 employees we have here) this random lady turns to me and says, "What a cute top!"

I started to smile and say thank you. It IS a cute top after all.
And I WAS feeling very good today. But before I get out the "thank..." she continues. "Are you?" And she gestures a big bump at her midsection.

Now, either she thinks I'm bloated... or pregnant.

And I look her right in the eye, raise my eyebrows and silently will her to, "Say it. Say IT!" Totally giving her a beat, a moment to comprehend my dagger stare and change her tune. My thoughts are nearly audible, "I dare you to SAY IT!"

And so she does. "Are you pregnant?!?!" she asks, very excited. The entire busy kitchen went silent and all eyes were on me. Crickets chirped, a plate hit the floor. (okay, so not really, but that makes it so much more dramatic) I could hear the collective thought, "Oh no she di-in't!" And they strained to hear my answer.
You just don't ask these questions, especially not of random co-workers.
While my first response was to coil back in horror and ask her, WHERE SHE WAS RAISED, I simply declared, "Well, I'll never wear THIS top again!"

She apologized, I grabbed my food and moved on. Or so I thought. Not 30 minutes later I was in the elevator with another lady. I smiled, we exchanged pleasantries and then she blurts out (in a FULL elevator) "TPG, are you going to be a mommy or is that just a comfortable top?"

For reals ya'll. For reals! TWICE in the same hour. So, I'll probably wear a spandex cat suit to work tomorrow.

Just so everyone is clear.

Goody Goodies!

As I sit here waiting for the tornadic conditions to hit...oh yes, we are in a tornado watch until midnight...I'm rubbing my full belly. Spring weather came early, not just in the form of higher temps, but the rain, hail and tornadoes too!

Dinner tonight was pancakes. Yum, I just love breakfast for dinner. But these weren't just any pancakes. Nope. Stonewall Kitchen Farmhouse pancakes! They are beyond delish! So light and fluffy!

I also really love the Pumpkin mix. I make waffles and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for some protein and healthy fat. Yummers! These are a bit 'spensive, but totally worth it. Wondering what those little brown logs are since I don't eat no meat? Trust me, if I ever go back to eating meat (and that is doubtful) I won't start with sausage! These are Boca "sausage" links! Made with soy protein - they are easy to heat in a skillet and really add a breakfasty flavor. The strawberries and bananas just put it over the edge. I'm so full, but I could totally eat this all over again!

I've been wanting to host a giveaway, but didn't know what to give. Jules brought me one of these cute bags a few months ago. I just love this bag! I carry it to work nearly every day and I take it shopping with me too. Who needs a bunch of plastic shopping bag when you can sport this fun number? Fashionable AND environmentally friendly. It's the perfect size to cram plenty in and it is super strong.

It's from Good News Goods, an organization that partners with Trade As One. They train women to make a craft, teach them the business side and make sure they are earning a fair wage for their work in a safe work environment. Something we often take for granted here in the States. (and Canada -y'all do right too!) You can buy their awesome crafts - and help break the cycle of slavery and poverty! So I'm giving away one of these super cute and super useful rice bag bags. I love that it is made from a rice bag. 1. Because it helps Cambodian women 2. Rice is a staple in most Asian countries, so that creates yet another link to Cambodia and 3. It's really really sturdy while being super fun!

The label has started a few conversations. I love talking about how important buying Fair Trade is to me, and how I feel that educating and empowering women is a start to bringing good news to the world!

So post a comment on the bag (okay, not actually ON the bag, about the bag, ON the blog) to enter. Mention the giveaway in your blog with a link to this post and I'll enter you once again!

Winner to be announced on Valentine's Day!

UPDATE: Please leave your blog url or your e-mail addy if your profile is private. I need to know how to get in touch with you if you win!!!

Whew!

We celebrated Hub's birthday yesterday. Just a quiet evening at home, oh, and trips to six (yes 6!) different Target stores. He found a Transformers tee shirt on clearance that he just HAD to have. He finally found one at Target #4, but it was too small. He bought it, but upon returning home, realized his error. Circulation is a must, even if it IS the Transformers. Target #6 had it in his size. Thank goodness! Here is he trying to guess what his mom sent him. Ala The Great Carnac.

This morning, like every Saturday, I headed out for my long run. The plan was 10 miles. And the time had come where I absolutely HAD to change out my shoes. This last pair saw me through 3 half marathons. They picked up sand on the beaches of the Pacific. The carried me to a PR in December. Good kicks. But as you can see, the tread was completely gone.

I think this pair is going straight to donation - not even making it as a "dead" pair. But I'm super excited about new shoes. Gotta love new shoe day! As you can see, they are the exact same pair. I bought them on-line after Mizuno changed the color. And what a steal! Who cares that they are Summer '08 color? Not This Pink Girl!

There were 5 of us running this morning. It was a balmy 60 degrees this morning and the humidity felt to be 100%. One of us was really struggling around mile 7. So I lagged back with her while the others ran on. We walked for a bit and then came to a dead stop. You see, some people have an adverse reaction to Gu. It's called the Gu Poo syndrome. And what do you do when the Gu Poo hits you at zero dark thirty in a neighborhood? Not your neighborhood? Panic. I helped her hobble to a gas station that was thankfully open at 6 am. Crisis averted. But I bet she sticks to Shot Bloks from now on. Whew! We still got our 10 miles in, even if it took us a bit longer than expected.

This afternoon I was privileged to witness the marriage of a dear friend, Melissa. While the guest list was large (over 400!) the ceremony was intimate and very personal. No flower arrangements, no tulle draped between the pews. Only one attendant for the bride and groom each, not platoons of groomsmen and bridesmaids. It was lovely and I'm blessed to have attended. What a wonderful couple! They found each other a little later in life than the usual, but their hearts met while on mission in Africa and it was there 2 years later that he proposed. Aw. We'll miss her now that's she is in Lubbock with her new man. I wish them all the best!

Sorry this one is so dark. Photoshop and I aren't getting along today. Here is the beautiful bride and her new husband, Mike. Love you Melissa!

Me and Janai. She always has the best necklaces. That girl can really accessorize! I'm wearing my $18 dress from Banana. And no accessories, save for the giant "sapphire" ring I got at XXI for $6. Why is my hair so unruly? Well, I took a nap after returning from my run, eating breakfast and showering. Fell asleep around 10. I thought I slept until 11. But apparently I slept until noon. Oops! So my kind Hubs asks me, as I'm lazing on the sofa, "What time are you leaving for the wedding?" Thinking that it is currently only 11, I reply, "1:15." What Hubs doesn't tell me is that it is currently 1:05. I realize this as I get up to get drink and catch the oven clock. Um, 1:05? My hair was still damp and I was in my jammies! So I rushed like I've never rushed before to get ready. No time to straighten my hair; I was lucky to get makeup on! When I pressed him as to why he didn't TELL me that I better get on the stick if I was to leave in 10 minutes, the love of my life replied, "I figured you knew how much time it took to get ready." Boys!

I'm Just Playin'

I was a bad runner this morning. I didn't sleep well (something to do with having been sick and Hubs, ahem, snoring) and when my alarm went off at 4:30, I just couldn't do it. So I did something I very rarely do, I text* my girls to let them know I wouldn't be at the trail. Shame. But then I rolled over and slept another hour and half. Sometimes a girls just gotta get her beauty sleep. Sorry ladies - I'm back tomorrow, I promise!
So I’m sitting here rifflin’ through myPod, wishing I had more playlists created. Better playlists. I’m tired of my current rotation. What are YOU listening to these days? Post one of your favorite playlists – I’m always looking for new artists!
Here is the playlist I’m currently listening to, titled, “San Francisco.” Some are newish, some are oldies. But check it out – and if you haven't heard of an artist, hop on over to iTunes to check them out. You just might find someone new to love!

• Blue Skies,Jaymay
• The Way I Am, Ingrid Michaelson
• I Found a Reason, Cat Power
• Pass in Time, Beth Orton
• Farewell, Rosie Thomas
• Pink Moon, Nick Drake
• Lost?, Coldplay (the acoustic version)
• Naked As We Come, Iron & Wine
• The Golden Age, Beck
• Paperweight, Joshua Radin & Schuyler Fisk
• Your Long Journey, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
• Heartbeats, Jose Gonzales
• Autumn Fallin’, Jaymay
• All of the Words, Kutlass
• You Picked Me, A Fine Frenzy
• I’m Yours, Jason Mraz
• Winter, Joshua Radin
• I Saw, Matt Nathanson
• Fix You, Coldplay
• Mexico, Jump Little Children
• Hide and Seek, Imogen Heap
• Better, Regina Spektor
• Boston, Augustana
• In the Bleak Mid-Winter, Sarah McLachlan
• Hold You In My Arms, Ray LaMontagne
• Arms of a Woman, Amos Lee

*so Julie, T-Dale and I have this ongoing discussion about texting in past tense. Is it texted? text'd? We decided it is text. Past tense is text. (kind of like read and read, except text sounds just like text - and this anaolgy really only works when you are speaking it, oh well) Because texted sounds dumb, er, okay, yes, dumb. So I'm trying to make text work. It's not like fetch at all.

Double Duty

Sorry for the double post. But I really really really want a new layout. A REAL layout. One that is cute and oh, so me. (So you agree? You think you're pretty? - quick what movie is that from?)
I know almost exactly what I want, but I don't have the mad skillz to do it. I've forgotten all the Styles (what those of you in the know call HTML) that I ever knew. And that was very little.
I really want pink polka dots - and stripes - and a fun font - and girliness - and you know fabulousity!
Can you recommend anyone that does this kind of amazing work? I want to pay - I don't want to download some cute scrapbooky template that just anyone can have. I want want that screams, "That Pink Girl!"

Oh, and I'm just so in love with Jason Mraz right now. Special shout out to the man I'm married to. Thanks Hubs for ffw SNL just to the right spot so that even though I go to bed early I could watch him. You are the best husband EVER to indulge my celebrity crushes!