Sleepless in Seattle

Or Dallas as the case may be.

Recently I watched Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks in Sleepless in Seattle.  This of course, following the previous week’s viewing of An Affair to Remember.  The former is a nod to the latter.  Which is a nod to the even earlier, Love Affair.  I love them all.  NYC has always held a special place in my heart – and the top of the Empire State Building…while windy and dirty; there is a sort of romance about being so high above that beautiful city, overlooking endless possibility. 

I saw Sleepless in Seattle on a first date, many years ago.  There were but a few dates to follow, but I do remember that he smelled lovely.  And to this day, when I smell that particular cologne, I think of that movie.  Funny how a scent can become so ingrained in our memory.  (the boy however, entirely forgettable and I’m confident he felt the same about me)

Sleepless.  For months I didn’t sleep. Not in an “I have a difficult time falling asleep” kind of way. But I’d actually go days and days without sleeping even a few minutes.  It was torture.  It’s hard to keep a straight mind when you are sleep deprived.  Hard to function.  Fortunately that eventually passed.

Once upon a time I was a skilled sleeper.  It wasn’t unusual for me to get a solid 8 or 9 hours each night.  I’d lie down and be asleep within minutes.  And sleep soundly until morning, never stirring. (which turned out to be my downfall…) Alas, I have yet to return to my glory days of slumber.  I fall asleep just fine these days but after few hours I’m up again.  Wide awake.  I pad about the house in darkness, often sitting in silence, looking out the windows watching enviously as the world lies dormant.  Even the trees seem to be mocking me with heavy limbs of drowsiness. 

Sleepless.

It is times like this that I wish I had television to watch.  A girl can only watch her limited selection of DVDs so many times.  So, I’ve started reading.  A lot.  I started with some of my favorites (I ravenously devoured every Capote short story within days) and then moved on to those I forgot I ever read.  Recently I saw Midnight in Paris and while the film was mediocre at best, the cast of great authors prompted me to visit Half Price Books and stock up on tomes of yesteryear.  I’m eager to get reacquainted with Fitzgerald, Hemingway and Eliot. 

Like catching up with old friends. 

I get lost in the language.  Oliver Wendell Holmes put it best, “a word is…the skin of living thought.”  In our right now society, we seem to be creating a pandemic of functional illiteracy.  And I’m guilty!  I’ve neglected my literary chums in favor of magazine, blogs, websites…quel nightmare!  This year I cancelled all magazine subscriptions.  I won’t be giving up blogs anytime soon.  (no worries!)  But the more time I spend on FB, Twitter, texting, e-mailing short bursts of information, the more I realize how very much I appreciate a well penned sentiment.  And thus, I find myself reading rapaciously several books a week.  Like water for my soul a well written word. 

So maybe, just maybe, that’s why I’m not sleeping.  Perhaps it’s the anticipation of a few hours with favorites old and new.  Or maybe the wee small hours of the morning are the only time I really allow myself to slow down.

But I’m enjoying this solitude.  Hopefully learning and growing.  And per ush, writing down words that are unfamiliar or all to succulent to NOT incorporate into my daily vocabulary, and thus the notebook grows larger…

Don’t forget to leave a comment regarding your favorite childhood book!  It’s a sweet deal!

On Bears and Other Sweet Things

I've always loved to read.

Always.

When I was very small, my favorite book was The Fourteen Bears Summer and Winter.

A story of a family of bears, it's actually two books in one, telling the tales of both Summer and then, predictably, Winter.  I would pour over the pages detailing the little bear houses - they each had their own!  I loved it so, we even had a rule, I could only read it once before bedtime.  Once.  It was a rather long book and I'd beg to have it read over and over.  I could read as early as 3, but I loved being read to.  Aren't those some of the most sacred moments between a parent and child, reading together?

Another favorite was a different type of story, an album (yes, actual vinyl!) with a booklet accompanying it.  It was a Winnie the Pooh story.  Oh, probably not an A.A. Milne, but a Disney mini.  I certainly didn't mind.  I loved this album.  In fact, I still have it!  And yes, I have a turntable on which to play it.

I'd put on the headphones and read along with the story.  The part about woozles always scared me and I'd skip to the next page unless someone was reading along with me! 

What do these have in common? Well, bears of course!  Who doesn't love a bear?  And what do bears love?  Honey! 

Last year I purposed to like peanut butter.  This was a huge success for I now consume copious amounts of peanut butter. Turns out I quite like the natural peanut butter, you know, containing only peanuts?  Blech to that skippy/jiffy oily stuff.  Well, this year, I purposed to learn to like honey.  A natural sweetener, I never really cared for it.  Until now.  I love a good peanut butter, banana and flax seed sandwich.  Oh yes, don't forget the honey!  Mmm.  Of course, I buy local honey.  Go Texan!

So here is your chance to wind up with some sweet Texas honey. (in an oh so adorable bear) Honey, y'all!  And maybe even a few other things...

Leave a comment telling me your favorite childhood book or the book you most enjoyed reading to your kiddos.  You don't have to become a follower, or tweet about it, or like me on facebook or any of that.  Just tell me about your favorite childhood book.  It's that simple!

I'll pick two random winners on Monday, September 5th. 

"'We'll be friends forever, won't we Pooh?' asked Piglet

'Even longer,' Pooh answered."  A. A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh

Psalm 55:18

I was out of town again this weekend.  Standing in a long, crowded line for supper, my phone rang and my phone almost never rings.  So even though it was noisy and there were people all around to listen, I answered.  (and I almost never answer my phone)
 

The voice of a friend, timid as if afraid to get the words out.  It was bad news, the worst.  After a very long battle with cancer, a good friend of ours passed away in the night. 

 

While it shouldn’t have been a surprise, she wasn’t doing well, of course it always is.  I felt the world closing in around me and the din grew silent. 

I had just heard from her on Monday.  She e-mailed us, updating us on her life, her health.  And she closed with these words. 

“As I was reading a Psalm the other day, I had one of those 'the-verse-jumped-out-at-me' moments: Psalm 55:18 KJV

"He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me."   THANK YOU FOR BEING WITH ME!”

 

Slipped into heaven.  I rather like that thought.  She is whole again; she no longer knows pain and suffering.  Her soul has been delivered in peace.

This afternoon, I’ll stand in the rain saying goodbye.  It hasn’t rained since June, seems only appropriate that the heavens would cry today.  The world is poorer without her.  But I'll try not to selfishly mourn her passing, instead I’ll rejoice the miracle that was her life.  So thankful to know her; she was a blessing to so many with her humor and her heart. 

Rita, you were so very, very brave.  Only you could make US laugh, in spite of your fight, with your talk of “nemo” and your incredibly bright outlook on life.  I’m grateful to have known you.  And I’m grateful you are finally in peace. 

Take a moment today; lift up someone who is walking through a difficult time.  Then reach out to them.  For everyone wants to know that there are many with them. 

Among the Rubble

I've always been drawn to older homes.

So much history and quite often, so much character.
I won't call my house old, because to me it isn't.  But it is far from new.  When looking for this first house, all those years ago, I had a short list of desires. 

• Built before Kennedy was assassinated (age)
• Original hardwood floors
• Front porch, big enough for a swing
• Dining room
• Bay window
• Phone niche

Random list, huh?  Well, dating from 1958, I achieved the first one.  And, because of its age, the second as well.  My floors.  I love to sweep and mop them and see them positively glow with warmth.  The front porch is indeed big enough for a swing, although there is a period correct 1950's black and white glider installed at one end instead.  Gliding is good too.  Just about as relaxing as swinging.  I glide a lot these days.  If you drive by at just the right time, you may catch me out there in my jammies, listening to the cicadas and watching the neighborhood go to sleep. Dining room, check.  No bay window but plenty of natural light just the same.  Sadly, the phone niche, admittedly my most ridiculous request, was not to be.  It's just a niche after all. 


I woke up this morning filled with dread.  Today was going to be one of those days I'd just rather forget.  Press fast forward and get it over with.  But of course, that's not how life works, is it? 

I took the day off work and steeled myself for the emotions the day would surely bring.  Eventually, deciding that I might as well be productive, I set out on a few errands.  Just a few houses down I spied a pile of rubble. Someone is remodeling.  Out on the curb, waiting for Trash Day, was a towering stack of lumber.  Detritus of a kitchen or bathroom from yesteryear.  Discarded, no longer wanted, left for landfill.  I imagine that many years ago, someone was in love with that bathroom or kitchen, excited to have everything perfect and new.  But times and tastes change.  What was once thought lovely has been replaced with something else entirely. 


But as I glanced at the remodel carnage, a flicker of white caught my eye.

A phone niche.  And it was completely intact!  Turning the car around and without hesitation, I jumped out and stashed my find in the trunk.  I've searched antique stores and eBay...these often run upwards of $100...and here I found one just waiting for me to take it home! 

You know, life doesn't always turn out the way we expect.  Sometimes, things have to fall apart to make way for better things.  We find ourselves amidst the rubble, set aside, discarded.  But that doesn't mean we can't still see the beauty among the ruins.  It can all fall down around you, but you can choose to see the treasure. 

I choose to see it.

Do you?

The Weekend of Stink

Many people choose to relax over a weekend.


I am not one of those people. 


Cooped up inside all day, admittedly at a job that I love but inside none the less, I seek every opportunity to get out in the sunshine and MOVE! 


And boy have we got sunshine. 


Saturday I woke up dark and early, per ush, and got in my long run.  All. By. Myself.  Oh, it was dreadfully lonesome.  Sad even.  Poor little ole Pink Girl, running 14 miles all by her self.  (Dear Cru, are you crying for me yet? Someone register for something quickly!) Apparently normal people don't like to train in this heat.  Eh, so I'm not normal, that's not news.  I hurried to get my miles in because I had plans to meet someone in McKinney later in the morning. 


Now, you must understand how excited I was about this.  I usually try not to go any further North than I already am.  McKinney is about 30 minutes from here according to Gretchen and Google.  It took me 15 I was so eager to get there!  I know Gretchen from Twitter and blogging and friends of friends.  So when she offered to ride with me I jumped at the chance! 

Gretchen and Newman.  Because he has a US Postal Service logo on him.

Gretchen was so patient with me, kept at my snail's pace and answered all of my many, many questions.  We had planned for 40 miles but missed a turn somewhere along the way and ended up with only 30.  That didn't bother either of us much as it was reading 107 while we were out there. Summer. Sigh. 

We stopped at this church for some shade and I couldn't resist this sign! 

On the way back we descended on a gas station where we consumed, what we decided, was quite possibly the best coke we've ever had.  It might have been all the ice and sugar, but whatever it was, it was welcome.  Dang it gets hot here!  I don't mean to complain but I think we are all ready for a little relief.  Maybe an overcast day?  One?  Maybe?

No falls so I call that a success.  Even though I almost ran over a giant, stinky, dead armadillo.  I couldn't call it out fast enough so I just yelled, "Dead!"  Blech. 

I rounded out the afternoon with some hot yoga to stretch out the day's activity.  And then I went to bed early.  Like early early.  As in, the time started with an 8. 

So that I could get up early, like early early, to drive out to Lake Grapveine to meet the B&B group for a trail run before daylight.  I've not done a whole lot of trail running but I know that it is excellent cross training for me.  So I made the 45 minute drive West.  It was totally worth it!  I got to see some friends and meet some new peeps.  Peeps that are dangerous to know.  Remember how your momma always told you not to hang out with the "wrong crowd?"  Well, this isn't exactly the wrong crowd as they are all great people.  But they start talking about their upcoming 50 milers and 100 milers and I start thinking, hmm.  Back to back marathons?  Hmm.

Trail running is so much slower, you really gotta watch your step.  I tripped once on a root going uphill, but thankfully didn't eat dirt.  No falls again!  I feel like a toddler measuring my daily progress in terms how how many times I did or didn't fall! 

Towards the end we got pretty spread out and Tini and I were out front keeping a 10:30 pace which was a welcome change.  It felt wonderful to go so "fast!"  We covered 9 miles in just under 2 hours. Yes, 2 hours for only 9 miles.  This was a moderately technical trail so I was pleased.  It's good trail practice if nothing else. 

And dirty.  It's dirty.

Very dirty.  No, my feet aren't that white, my legs are just that filthy.  And yes, I did go to breakfast like this.  In public.  It wasn't the first or last time this weekend that I headed out entirely gross.

We sat out on the harbor and enjoyed breakfast overlooking the lake.  What a great start to the day!

More yoga and a good nap later, I headed back to White Rock to circle the lake a few times.  I was rewarded with this view.  I'm tellin' ya, the lake is the place to be for sunrise and sunset.  Simply gorgeous that whole nature thing.

On the way home my tummy realized that I hadn't eaten since breakfast and staged a revolt; pizza was the demand.  So I stopped my stinky self, complete with salt stains on my @ss at the grocery store to get pizza to feed this monster. 

And I ate the whole thing.  What?  You don't eat pizza with green chiles and chocolate milk?  Oh, don't knock it till you've tried it. 

How was your weekend?

Friday Faves

Laura is one of my favorite people. 
No, really.  I can still recall the day we met...she yelled at us for calling a knit cap a toboggan and not a toque!  I love her spirit and I must say, her marriage to Daniel was the most joyful wedding I've ever attended.  I was blessed to witness the joining of two hearts so clearly meant for each other!  Introducing sweet Laura!

Blog Name: Awkward Nomad



Where are you from? Great question...i moved around a lot as a child and even now as an adult. I claim 'nomadic' status or Texas!


When/why/how did you start blogging? I started blogging in January 2010 to stay better connected with friends and family. I had just moved to Oklahoma with my husband and found blogging to be an easy and fun way to share everyday life with those who lived far away. I also started my new life as a runner about the same time, so it quickly served as a way to keep track of my running progress and goals.


What is one of your all time favorite songs? One that each time it comes on, you stop and turn it up. Stevie Wonder's "I just called to say i love you." There really isn't any great story behind why i like it so much, it's just such a fun catchy tune!


Now, confession, look in iTunes, which song has the most plays? JJ Heller's "Only Love Remains." It's a great song that reminds me that it's okay to be broken and continues to give me the desire to let Father have His way in my life, even if it's painful or it hurts.


Do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Love to read, just not enough time. My all time fave author would be Francine Rivers. I'm not huge into fiction, but i love hers. I generally gravitate toward personality/self help books, i love learning about different temperaments, personalities, love languages etc.....


What was your favorite book as a child? Dr. Seuss' Wacky Wednesday. It just never gets old!


If you had a signature scent, what scent would that be? Body by VS. I've been wearing it for years and can't get enough of it. It always makes me just feel more feminine and pretty when i wear it.


Confession, in your office, how do your coworkers refer to you? Well, I don't really work an 8-5 anymore and have ALWAYS wanted a nickname. But depending on who you ask, maybe "the quiet one," or "the accountant." I know, lame.


When you meet someone new, what is the first thing you notice about them? Their shoes. I don't know why, but i'm always interested to see what kind of shoes people choose to wear.


Do you have any tattoos? Is there a story behind it? No, not yet :) I've always wanted one but can't commit to what i want permanently on me yet.


Do you have a mantra, verse or quote that inspires you? When I run i repeat "Slow and steady wins the race." In life, it's Acts 26:18, it reminds me of what He has called me to.


For you athletes - what is your ultimate goal race/achievement? Ultimate goal would be to run a full marathon. It may not happen for a long time, but i believe this will happen someday. I've run one half and would love to run several more. It doesn't matter how slow or how hard the run was, you can't beat that feeling of accomplishment when you cross the finish line and receive your medal.


What is your dream vacation? It has always been to travel to Greece, but lately I've been dreaming of New Zealand.


What advice would you give to bloggers just starting out? I'm SO not qualified to give advice, ha! But i guess i would say....be honest, be real, try to be positive, and share your heart.






Some of my fave posts are:


Finding out I'm a Runner
Sanctification
My first half
Total Running Recap
BIG News
Thank You Dave

Thank you for participating Laura!  I miss and pink sparkle heart you!

Little Victories

I'm not normally a fan of double posts.
Tonight, I make an exception.

I really hate it that there are some things I just can't do.  I'm not talking about things like: I can't fly, I can't perform heart surgery, I can't run a 5 min mile. 

Guy things.  Let's face it, there are just some things that men know how to do and somehow, no one bothered to teach us girls.  Or maybe you learned and I was too busy making paper fortune tellers or playing MASH to notice. Maybe that.  

For instance, I hate it that I can't pick up really heavy things.  I have to call Cody.  I'm grateful that Cody willingly comes over to pick up heavy things for me, but I wish that I could do it.  Guys don't have to call anyone to pick stuff up for them. (even when they probably should) 

Cars.  Guys always seems to know exactly what to do with cars.  Changing a tire I can handle, changing my oil, not so much.  Knowing what that strange noise is?  Not a chance.  I really have no idea how a car works other than I put gas in it and it goes.  I guess there are some girls who know these things, but not me.  (remember, too much MASH)

Pulling in to the garage this morning, I noticed that one of my headlights was out. I thought to myself, "TPG, don't forget about this like you did your 800's."  So this afternoon I stopped by AutoZone to pick up a new light bulb.  Now, I can change a regular light bulb like nobody's bidnaz.  I'm not completely useless.  But I've watched someone change the car headlight before and if I remember correctly, there seemed to be an awful lot of swearing involved.  Apparently, there's not a lot of wiggle room up under the hood of my little vehicle.

Sweetly, the AutoZone man, who looked to be about my dad's age, offered to change it out for me.  Yea for gentlemen!  So I popped the hood, he peered in and declared, "Nope, you're gonna have to take that battery out to get to this."  Then sauntered off.

Well crap.

Home again, I sat on the sofa wondering what to do next.  And tweeted about it. Eric kindly offered to fix it for me tomorrow at work because, as he put it, they can be a PITA to fix.  (hee hee, I really liked that term, PITA) But I am a grown woman, it's my car and I am determined to learn to take care of some of these things on my own.

So I hit up the internet.  Wanna know how to change out your headlight?  Here's how.

Look it up.  Just Google it.  You'll eventually find a site that is helpful.  Take your iPad out to the garage and hope your internet reaches that far.  Thankfully, it does.  (my garage isn't attached t my house so this was a valid concern)

Find and plug in your old fan from  your dorm days because it's 104 outside and who knows how hot in the garage.  Be surprised that it still works as you only paid around $8 for it at W@lmart all those years ago.

Like the dork you are, put on your Petzle so you can see what you are doing hands free.

Take a "Before" photo so you are sure to be able to get it back the way it started.  Or at least you'll have a reference.

Get out the manual for further instruction.  Find an old hockey sweater that someone left lying around and use that as a shop rag on which to wipe your greasy hands.  (then throw away the stinky old jersey)

After wrestling with the dang clip for a good 10 minutes, finally get the old bulb out and replace it.  Success!  Marvel at your handiwork. Dance around the garage to imaginary music for a good minute or two. 

Then, just because you are already all sweaty from cooking in the garage, go ahead and set up the tent so it can air out before your next camping trip.  All in all, a very successful day!

Whew.  I did it.  I know it's really not that big of a deal, it's just a light bulb.  But it's my light bulb on my car. It's the little victories in life that make us stronger. 

What have you done lately to surprise yourself?

My Mind is Mush

Marathon season is upon us.

It's time to buckle down and get serious about my training once again, no more of this long slow run business.  Quality over quantity.  Run Less Run Faster, that's the plan.  It worked well for me earlier this year and I have high hopes it will keep me injury free and maybe, just maybe, shave some time off my marathon.   What is it I always say?  You have to run faster, to run faster!
So the other night I drug my tail to the track.  It's been a loooong time since I've done any track work, months.  And while it isn't any cooler, the calendar says to bust my booty and bust it I shall. 

I do love being at the track this time of year.  Searing heat aside, various football practises are going on and it reminds me that, while it might not feel like it, Fall is on the way!  Because, duh, Football = Fall. 

My workout tonight was 4 x 400 at 2:06, with 200 m recovery intervals (RI).  Grateful this was a short workout to start the season off, I warmed up for a couple of laps then set about the business of circling the track.

Why yes, I do write my workout on my arm.  I like to keep it classy.  Notice the return of my trusty pink Timex.  Yes, I could use the Garmin, but this pink time piece always accompanies me to the track.  If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

After finishing my 3rd 400  I started thinking, "Wait a minute, this doesn't seem right."  I knew it felt like a short workout!  Let's look at that photo again, shall we?

Just what I thought. That doesn't say 4 x 400, it says 4 x 800.  That makes so much more sense.  Good golly Pete girl, the heat has fried my brain.  You'd think having it written on my person in permanent marker would remove all doubt as to what the workout should be...

I decided to make it 8 x 400 to make up for the lost mileage.  For 400's I should be running just over 2 min, I managed: 1:57, 1:53, 1:54, 1:56, 1:58, 1:57, 1:56 and 1:52.  Doesn't bother me much that I was a bit faster than I should be, I'm really looking for consistency, trying to feel my pace.  Except for the brain fart, I was pleased with my return to the track. 

Now, this whole spaciness has been plauging me for days.  I take the stairs everywhere I go at work.  Always have.  And for the most part, this is not a difficult task.  Or it certainly shouldn't be.  Well, Friday I headed down to the kitchen to fill my water bottle and somehow ended up in the parking garage.  I missed my exit by 2 flights of stairs!  I stood in the garage confused and laughing.  Mercy.

Monday morning I was grabbing things for lunch.  Snagged a bag of spinach, a tomato and knowing that I have Swiss cheese in the fridge at work, a box of crackers.  Welp, when I got to work, I looked down and realized that I did not have a box of crackers, but instead, a box of Bisquick.  I'm here to tell you, there is nothing you can do at your desk with Bisquick! 

Crazy girl.

Blogger Meetup - Kimpossible!

I'm pooped y'all.

Friday night friend and blogger Kim came in from Houston and we stayed up late visiting.  She came up to Dallas to run the Hottest Half out at White Rock.  I was excited to have her stay with me - she's so much fun to be around!  I will say that Saturday morning as I was standing in the kitchen in my pajamas the thought did cross my mind, "Hmm, I've never spent over a couple of hours with her (twice actually) and yet here she is, some woman I met through blogging, staying in my house."  Wasn't weird because I love Kim and trust her NOT to be a crazy person, but I can see how it would sound on the news now...ha!

Saturday morning I hosted my friends for brunch.  Who doesn't love brunch?  It was great to have the house full of people I love and laughter. We had a great time!

We enjoyed delicious little quiches (thanks to Lance for the recipe!) and all sorts of girly foods.  Morgan brought her jewelry for us to play dress up with!  That woman has such great style - she was able to pick out just the right piece for everyone's outfit.  

We spent the rest of Saturday just enjoying catching up and being very, very silly.  Kim is the most fun and it totes felt like a sleepover from junior high!

Even though we got to bed very late (again) this time we had to be up early.  Kim was running the Hottest Half so I decided kinda last minute to sign up too.  Coach Swimmifer (and ruler of all things training related) told me under no uncertain terms was I to race this (or any other races I may or may not have signed up for this month.)  She was clear that I'm to use these as training only.  Ever the obedient student, I obliged.  It was very freeing to not worry about time!  I tried to keep it under 10:30, nice and slow and just got my miles in.  It lived up  to it's name but I had a really good run. 

Although, still not able to eat Shot Bloks anymore.  I sucked on 4 and spat out 4.  Side note, I am surprisingly a very accurate Shot Blok shooter.  Waste of nutrition.  Being that it was only a half I didn't worry much about not being able to eat.  Trust me, I made up for it post race.

Found Derek at the start line. Usually my goal if I'm racing with him is to keep an eye on him and hang back just a bit.  He's got some great ink on his calves so it's pretty easy for me to spot him ahead of me!  He hasn't run a half since 1997 and boy howdy did he take off today!  (don't let that fool you though, he's an ultra runner through and through, halfs are warm ups for him!)  I let him go at his 8 min pace but caught up with him after the finish line.   

Y'all I promise I wear clothes sometimes. Really, I do. It's just Africa hot here and once your dry wick shirt is soaked, it doesn't do much good. So why bother?  Blue Eyed Runner recently posted about an underwear run. I think I was the only person that commented that I actually would do that. I have no shame when it's this hot.

Kim was walking the race so I had time to wander around, say hey to all my friends and enjoy the post race festivities.  Free food!  I had chips and salsa at Freebirds, Muscle Milk and a Popsicle.  Oh yes, and about 8 bottles of water.  No lie.  There was a really good cover band, The Supinators, so I laid in the grass for about an hour drinking my chocolate Muscle Milk and enjoying the music.  Any group that can bust out Tom Petty followed by some Texas Country (which, is very different from a lot the commercialized stuff coming out of Nashville) is dope in my book.  Like the dork I am, I was the only one whooping and clapping after each song.  C'mon people!

Okay, can I just say how PROUD I am of Kim?  This girl walked almost the entire thing.  Now I'm here to tell you, that walking a half marathon and being out there for so long, is much harder than running it in half the time.  She was out there when the sun was beating down and she never stopped. Tenacity!  I waited for her for a while and then starting running the course backwards to find her and run her in.  Let's just say that she didn't really want to run it in, but as I told her, "There's no walking in running." And run it in she did.  Those runners at the end have to most heart. The band had finished playing the vendors were packing up their swag but the volunteers (and enthusiastic spectators still in the beer tent) all put their hands together and brought Kim in with style.  My heart was warmed to hear all the whooping!  She's a rockstar in my book!
 

Earlier Sunday morning as I watched the last of the sunrise at White Rock Lake, I decided that I wanted to watch the sun set there too.  So, sending Kim on her way back home, I hit my favorite hour and half yoga class then packed Helen in the car and headed back to White Rock.  I tried to time it just right that I could get in about 30 miles and watch the sun set as I finished. 

Let me also mention, that this would be my longest ride clipped in. I've taken her around the hood and up to the high school to ride in a field as Michael suggested.  I thought the lake might be a good place because there are so many cyclists out there, hopefully they wouldn't make too much fun if I fell. Surely they've all been there before?  Of course, they'd prolly just leave me there too.  It would be Monday morning and I'm lying hurt and tangled, still clipped in and the early morning riders would see me and think, "Oh, that sucks."  And then keep pedaling.

Worried that getting clipped in in the first place would be a sight, I carefully weighed which side of the car to make my first attempt.  One side was a group of guys doing who knows what, the other was a couple getting friendly on a park bench.  I figured they were too interested in each other to notice me flailing around. 

I managed to get going without too much effort and guess what?  I didn't fall once!  Woo to the hoo!  (which means it is still coming...) But even better than not falling, a cyclist actually spoke to me.  On purpose.  And not to cuss me out.  (that actually happened this morning during the race...) I was riding along, minding my own business and behind me I hear, "You think you got enough pink on today?"  We chatted for a bit and then he took off.  Gobsmacked.  Not one f-bomb in the entire convo.  Not once did he glare at me and flip me off.  He was actually nice!  They exist!  I saw him again later as he was packing up his ride and he waved and called out, "Bye Ms Pink!"  Imagine that, a nice cyclist. Well, I never.

Timing my mileage so I would finish up in time to enjoy the sunset I managed to get it just right.  It was breathtakingly beautiful.  Sitting on the hood of my car, I watched the sun sink behind the city skyline, changing from orange to pink to finally, a purply blue.  In the stillness of new night, I reflected on the past week and the joys it brought and I looked forward to the week and weeks ahead.  My life is full with blessings; I used this hour or so to voice my gratitude for each and every one of them.  It was the perfect way to end a great weekend.  I may just have to make these sunset rides a weekly event!

 
What was the best part of your weekend?

Friday Faves

So I've been reading this spunky redhead's blog just about since the beginning. We were both training for our first marathons, within weeks of one another so our training plans were side by side.  She for Chicago, me for NYC.  Unfortunately, that isn't all that bonded us together. We were struggling with very similar injuries.  Many e-mails of encouragement, tips and advice were traded.  She is one of the most positive people I know - she has a big heart!  And everything I know about spectating, I learned from this girl.

Meet Morgan!

Blog name: Caution: Red Head Running

Where are you from? I grew up in small town, middle of nowhere Michigan. I moved as soon as I possibly could to Florida and vowed never to return... 11 years later, things change. ;)



When/why/how did you start blogging? I started blogging in the midst of training for my first half marathon in early 2009. I was in serious need of an outlet to be a giant runnerd with people who actually appreciated hearing about it. (My non-running friend were certainly growing weary of hearing about it) What started as mostly a journal chronicling my training is now just a part of who I am.


What is one of your all time favorite songs? One that each time it comes on, you stop and turn it up. Hands down "Just a Girl" by No Doubt. First off I have a GIANT girl crush on Gwen and this song is just the epitome of girl power. I STILL rock out to this just as hard as I did back in the day.


Now, confession, look in iTunes, which song has the most plays? "Pump It" by Black Eyed Peas - Yup, that sounds about right and just for kicks, the second most played? "Warrior's Code" by Dropkick Murphy's


Do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? I used to say I was a bookworm with a running habit, now I'd say I was equal parts nerd for both. Reading is just as important to me as running is and I am always devouring a book. My favorite authors are Charles DeLint, J.R.R. Tokien, Philipa Gregory, Ken Follet... I could really go on all day here.


What was your favorite book as a child? I remember I used to read "If you give a Mouse a cookie" over and over and over again. That and "Norma Jean Jumping Bean." Both ironically, about hyper-active characters much like myself. LOL!


If you had a signature scent, what scent would that be? I def have a signature sent, Ralph by Ralph Lauren (Not to be confused with Ralph Blue). I've been wearing it for like 10 years. It's light, airy, and fun... like me. :)


Confession, in your office, how do co-workers refer to you? Um they don't specifically call me any nicknames other than JMo but I know they all think I'm crazy and regularly tell me so. Especially over the winter when I headed out for a run every afternoon whether it was 2* or snowing like crazy. I totally own it too.


When you meet someone new, what is the first thing you notice about them? Probably how tall they are. I'm short (5'1") so I typically assess how much taller than me someone is. Next would be smile, I honestly gauge how I'll get along with someone based on how genuine of a smile they have. I hate a faker.


Do you have any tattoos? Is there a story behind it? I have two tattoos, neither of which I care for. The first I got in high school and shouldn't have, it's not terrible, just not me anymore. It's a tribal design with a few butterflies. The other is a... thing that was supposed to have been a butterfly but the tattoo artist screwed up. I hate it. I will get it removed one day when I can afford to. Until then I just call it my South African Horn-winged Moth. Awesome huh? Redhead's Advice on Tattoos: Think on it for like a year before you do it and go somewhere reputable.


Do you have a mantra, verse or quote that inspires you? Katie introduced me to "Faith, Not Fear" earlier this year and it has become my motto when things are hard.


For you athletes - what is your ultimate goal race/achievement? For the last year my goal has been to qualify for Boston after spectating Spike running it, but after suffering a stress fracture that will not go away, I've realized that my priorities have changed. Now my goal is to run until I can't anymore and enjoy every step because it really is a privilege to be able to be out there running.

 What is your dream vacation? Going to Paris/Europe. Spike and I have already decided this will be our honeymoon destination someday. I've never left the country and I am in love with art museums so you better believe we'll be spending at least two days at the Louvre.

 What advice would you give to bloggers just starting out? It will take time to grow your audience, be patient, and be active. You must give to receive, make sure you comment on other blogs. Be warned though, blogging can turn in to a full time job! I love my blog but sometimes it consumes more hours of my day than I care to admit to maintain.
 
She didn't list it, but one of my favorite posts was when she revealed her mystery man, Spike!  Aww...we were all wondering who you were smooching in that photo!  Thanks for participating Morgan, I pink sparkle heart you and your energy!

Wishes

There is a shop called simply, Wish.

And in this shop, full of the most lovely things, there is a bulletin board.  Beneath it are colorful scraps of paper and a vast selection of Sharpie markers.  Instructions ask you to leave your wish, and many have. 

I thought this idea quite inspiring.

Some were universal.

Some poignant.

Others hopeful.

This wish, like many others, was for healing.

Some just plain broke my heart.

I wrote down my wish.  It's on there, I promise!  I never pass up an opportunity to make a wish.

  For what would you wish?   

A dream is a wish your heart makes.  ~ Cinderella

It's Important to Accessorize

Advice I gave Helen early on.

Of course, I don't take my own advice.  I've never been one for jewelry or other accessories.  Do my glasses count?  No one has ever accused me of being fashion forward.  But I wanted better for my beautiful blue bike.

The other day I met my neighbor for a ride, came home, ran, went to yoga and then...the mail arrived with a package.  Recognizing the address, I knew instantly what it was.  Pedals for Helen! 

I tried to play bike mechanic, but sadly, did not have the tools.  I'm not insanely mechanically inclined, but I know my way around a tool box.  Sitting in the driveway, frustrated, I put out a plea for help on Twitter and I learned that I was missing the all important "pedal wrench."  So, buckling Helen into the backseat, away we went to RBM.  

What I have learned, is that when I arrive at the bike shop on foot, they really aren't all that interested in me.  (except the creepy guy who recently and randomly told me I had great definition on my calves...uh, thanks?) Show up with wheels and they can't be more helpful!  Within minutes, bike mechanic dude had her new pedals installed and I was out the door.  But not before he declared, "Dude, you got you some sweet pedals."  I aim to please the teenagers, I do.  

Later that afternoon, I headed to yet another bike shop, the one from whence Helen came, to get refitted for my bike. 

When I was fitted initially, he told me to come back when I got my "real" pedals (his words) and shoes.  I even took a shower for this momentous occasion (see the cycling, running and yoga from earlier.)  Last time I was fitted there was a lot more touching involved that I anticipated.  Not sure if that's how it's supposed to go down, but hey, if you could see the mechanic there, you'd let him too.  Not wanting him to A. pass out or B. actually stick to me as he fitted me, I cleaned up for a change. 

Ended up with a different mechanic and this guy was a HOOT!  Hand on my hip as I pedaled,  he actually said, "Awesome, I dig chicks with zero body fat." Um what is it with these bike shop boys and their awkward compliments?  Maybe he's been reading Racing Weight too.  

Anyway, he was NOT diggin' my pedals.  (it's okay Greg and Derek, I'm happy with them!) But he let me practice clipping in and out for a good bit, chatting the entire time.  I learned that he is from NYC, loves the Stones and actually races, in a velodrome.  So coolness.  After he was satisfied that I was sitting just right, he advised me to take Helen out to a field because, he assured me as has everyone else, I will indeed take a slow motion tumble. And what better place than public to do so? Awesomesauce.

So now, Helen has her new, pink, pedals, I've got click clackity shoes and a death wish, apparently. 

Lord help me, I see falling in my very near future. 


Oh, and in case you are wondering, yes I do in fact still run.  Just not much to say about it right now other than, it's hot. And I sweat a lot. And I'm sloooow after training for El Scorcho.  Trying to get my butt in gear for my next race... 

Friday Faves

This week I'd like you to meet my good friend Morgan.  I met Morgan years ago during a speed training class.  We went round and round that track together and it sealed our friendship.  I love that she lives in my hood and we can sometimes spot each other while out and about.  Neighbors rock!  Her blog has evolved since the birth of her most adorable daughter.  You should see the hair on this child - gorgeous! She (Morgan) is quite the fashionista - and has embarked on a thrift challenge this year.  Say hey to Morgan y'all!

Blog Name: Vaughn of a New Day



Where are you from? New Orleans, LA and proud of it!


When/why/how did you start blogging? I started blogging when I found out I was pregnant. Since we have no family in Dallas, I thought it would be the easiest way to keep everyone up to speed. It was a great outlet for me to discuss the things about pregnancy that NO ONE writes about in books.


Since having Miss Thing it has been an avenue for whatever I decide upon that day…but lately it has been used to explore one of my secret passions, fashion, and I have also been using it to highlight my Stella & Dot business.


Which if you haven’t heard of Stella & Dot, check it out!


What is one of your all time favorite songs? One that each time it comes on, you stop and turn it up. I can’t do just one. Sorry


One More Cup of Coffee- Bob Dylan
Tangled Up in Blue- Bob Dylan
Cold Irons Bound- Bob Dylan
Satisfaction- Rolling Stones
Funky Cold Medina- Tone Loc

Now, confession, look in iTunes, which song has the most plays?  Full disclosure: this is the iTunes on my work computer…
The Killers, Losing Touch


Do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? I love to read! Though now with a one year old and little opportunity to sit and read, I listen to books on tape (yes I still call them that) on my runs. This has taught me two things, the first is that it is physically impossible to cry and run and to laugh hard and run.


Listened to the entire Hunger Games series, and LOVE IT!
I like mystery writers…Phillip Kerr, Harlan Coben (The Myron Bolitar series, except for the last one)
I am also a huge poetry fan. H.D. is one of my all time favorites.



What was your favorite book as a child? The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses


If you had a signature scent, what scent would that be? Fresh cut grass and laundered sheets


Confession, in your office, how do co-workers refer to you? To be totally honest, I have no idea…I do my best to fly under the radar. Though I guess some could refer to me as the crazy runner.

When you meet someone new, what is the first thing you notice about them? Their hands and feet.


Do you have any tattoos? Is there a story behind it? I have three. I refer to them as my follies of youth…one was done sober and the other two there may have been a little alcohol involved. But only a little.


Do you have a mantra, verse or quote that inspires you? I have two:


When you are going through Hell, keep going.


It’s not how many times you get knocked down, it’s about how many times you get back up.


For you athletes - what is your ultimate goal race/achievement? Currently I have no goals except to teach myself Italian and French by listening to my books on tape while running.


What is your dream vacation?  A running tour through France or Italy or Spain


What advice would you give to bloggers just starting out? Have fun with it. Use your voice and speak your mind. This is YOUR self indulgent blog (to quote my Dad). Also, if and when you get in trouble at work for your blog, it isn’t a bad thing; it means people are actually reading it!!!!!!

Thanks for participating Morgan, you know I pink sparkle heart you girl!