Nosparetime

Technology makes one lazy?

2010-04-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Whatever happened to family night? I wanted to sit and watch a movie. My daughter sat with me BUT played on the iTouch the whole time. My sons played on the computer and my husband watched hockey in the other room. I guess I wasn't watching an interesting movie for them all. I also didn't have popcorn - what was I thinking. I still enjoyed it so I don't care.

So I got up this morning and went and worked out, did shopping at Wallyworld and home. Guess what the kids were still on the computer. I think they slept. I guess restricting the computer and TV during the week may not be a good thing. How do I pry them away to do other things now on the weekend.

Who said technology is a good thing? So I complain about technology and where am I, but sitting here typing on the very thing I am complaining about.

Snowbelt Tournament

2010-03-01T14:46:00.000-08:00

What a tournament. We won our first game 3-2, tied the second 1-1, then tied the third game 2-2. There was a three way tie for points (1 for each period, 2 for the win). So we got 4 1/2 + 2 1/2 + 2 1/2 = 9, with 6 goals for us, 5 goals against us. One team beat us on goal count but we were still tied with the other team so then it came down to penalties. We WON with ONLY 7, other team had 9. So playoff game ended up 3-3, so 5 minute overtime - still tied - then they did a shootout 5 shots for each team. MY son was in goal. We lost by one shot. So my question - we really didn't lose a single game but won nothing.

We will be in Niagara Falls this weekend - if we make it into the playoffs there we have to play at 6:30 or 7:00am on Sunday.

THEN hockey games will be done for the season. I like hockey but wow I really enjoyed the close games but it will be nice to be done.

Temptations

2010-02-17T18:13:00.001-08:00

As I eat another sugar cookie my lovie daughter was so nice enough to make today while I was at work I ponder: Will my workout be enough to make up the difference of eating all those cookies? Will shovelling the walk and drive burn off more of those wonderful calories? How can I avoid these wonderful temptations. I should of told her NO when she called and asked if she could make cookies. As much as I love her learning things in the kitchen couldn't she make a dish that would not temp me so much? It sure is tough. Maybe it will be easier when the weather starts getting nicer and I can kick them outside and get them out of my kitchen.

Confused

2010-02-16T18:26:00.001-08:00

Can I be meaner? Should I be meaner? Is meaner even a word? Are my kids brats? Are they spoiled? Who really thought it would be this tough being a parent of 3 kids? What the heck, I'm going to exercise and clear my head.

Is swimming exercise?

2010-02-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

I took the three kids to the gym to use our pool which is open on Sundays. Unfortunately the pool is 4ft everywhere and my youngest just isn't quite tall enough to be ok on his own. He is old enough to be dangerous. I did find time to do a couple laps and wow I felt it on my knee. Maybe I will try at least once a week to add it to my schedule. I guess I can handle once a week, wet swimming suit/hair in the middle of winter isn't on the top of my list of to-do's. Well got to go play Blokus with my youngest. Dinner is in the oven, what better thing to do.

1st Run of the Season??

2010-02-08T13:01:00.000-08:00

Not exactly running. After much therapy, surgery, recovery, and therapy I am up and about but NOT running. I did my first 5k of the season and was pleased with the 48 minute time walking time. I did a 5k last fall in 40 minutes (walking as well) but I did not want to hurt my knee yesterday and it did hurt going down one of the hills. It felt great getting out there again (only if you are runner would you agree with that!). I have to admit I am way out of shape. I was glad my friend L who kept me at a good pace or I would of pushed myself more and did some damage. Today I am sore all over but my knee seems to of come out stronger.

It has been a while since my last race and forgot to bring gloves and since the temp was a bommy 8 degrees I saw a drug store and it had a rack of gloves. After 2 second search I found two pairs for a whopping $2.08 with tax. I knew it was going to be a good day when you get such a deal. I wore both pairs together!

It was great going to and from a race with my two running buddies. It almost made me think spring (if I closed my eyes and forgot about the four layers I was wearing). I haven't been out running with my friend D, and I can't bike while she runs right now unless I could put studs on my wheels (humm...). So I am sort of glad running season is already starting. I however am sort of not glad running is season is coming upon us since I still CAN'T run. A little at a time. I try to remind myself I had major knee surgery but I am impatient (spelled right?).

Oh, I forgot the best part of the day. We wore the best hats L made for all three of us. Everyone complemented us on our festive attire. With our snowmobile Underarmer neck guards and the very nice hats we were all cozy and warm (as one can get in 8 degree weather). It was a great day and we did get a little chili at the end.

Hooked on Running.

2009-10-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

I know I'm crazy. A five mile race last weekend with a messed up knee - my husband shares this opinion. I guess I'm hooked and blame M and D for that. I was going to "take it easy" per my physical therapist AND because I haven't run in so long I could really get hurt. If I had run the whole thing I guess I would get maybe a 11/12 minute mile, walking maybe a 14 or so. So I did the full 5 mile in 1 hr and 2 minutes - I guess I forgot to take it easy - thought I was until I saw the clock. My knee was hurting and all I could think was my therapist is going to be mad at me.

I went to a knee specialist on Tuesday limping in and he was so nice to give me a cortisone shot. The MRI and xrays look good. I am still doing therapy and ran a little on the treadmill on Friday. After just about 4 minutes however I stopped and walked - not sure if I was just afraid to run full out.

SO crazy me ran a 5k race today. I ran/walked it, through the woods and puddles, and swamps, and ravines, and creeks, and I mean it. I walked a lot because of the course and my knee. My daughter V and the neighbor girl M ran/walked it with me. We had to come home rinse off our sneakers in the sink THEN put them through the washer. After a LONG shower to get the mud off my legs - and all the way up also, I felt so much better. So tonight as I write this, my knee is a LITTLE sore but not as bad as it would of been. I don't have any more runs on my calendar so maybe I can do just a little treadmill work for the next couple weeks before thinking of THE NEXT RACE.

I am however thinking of poor D who is planning to run a race tomorrow similar to the one I ran today. I called and left her a message but I don't know if it would matter. I hope she wears old sneakers and not new ones like I foolishly did. I also hope it doesn't rain for the whole time, like it did today. I saw someone with a t-shirt of the race D is runing tomorrow and I asked him if he was running that tomorrow and he said he was and asked if I was and, I said probably to much mud for one weekend. Wish them the best.

Another Race and Non-running Race

2009-10-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

So have you travelled two hours to walk in the rain? I did have a nice time walking the 5k with my sister and my daughter. The rain did stop around the half way mark. My sister has never done a race before. I hope I can talk her into it again, maybe even run one in the spring. I think I have my daughter hooked - she loves winning. She did tell us at least twice that we were going slow - she is hooked then.

I volunteered at a marathon today. My friend D ran the 1/2 marathon so I left my water stop unattended for a few minutes and ran to the finish to pick her up. Upon returning we had two teenagers that had taken over helping. I think we embarrassed them with all our cheering and clapping on the marathoners. We had a great time even with the wind. I finally got to go to the finish and enjoyed some homemade cookies. I did manage a little nap when I got home. I guess getting up at 5:00am and standing in the cold wind wiped me out. I would do it again. It is fun volunteering - even if I didn't get a t-shirt.

Quet Weekend?

2009-09-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

No running - what do I do? Do I go biking - not. Do I use the Wii - No. Do I do aerobics - No. So if I had so much free time NOT exercising how did my weekend go so fast?

My ten year old son stated Friday night that he SAW my husband and I doing the nasty. We were fully clothed in the closet hugging and kissing (innocently). My daughter walked in our room just then and we laughted at my son. He still believed we were doing the nasty. I tried to tell him that it not SEX. So what do I tell him. I SHOULD HAVE explained something, however. The next night at a sleepover with two other 10 year olds. He told them he saw his parents having SEX. NOW the boys MOM over hears this and calls me. I am laughing on the phone. So maybe my husband needs to have the TALK. One of the other boys has to brag and says "When I get married I am going to do it every day". My son has to top that and says "I'm going to do it every minute". It is just SO FUNNY.

Mexico Cider Run

2009-09-13T08:44:00.001-07:00

It is called a RUN but there is an option to WALK it. I was very happy to see this since I hurt my knee and can't run right now. Of course I've never walked a race before (does that make sense?). V and I decided to walk it while D and L ran it. I really enjoyed the route and although we walked very very fast I found I had lots of time to enjoy the sites. We felt sorry for the dead squirl with the nut right next him in the middle of the road.

It is great little town and although not many spectators it was a nice course. It was great seeing D at the end TRYING to cheer us on but not quite sure to say to walkers vs runners. It was great seeing L join us. I hope I will be able do more walks/runs with my daughter it was great.

I would highly recommend this if you are not looking for chip time - none there. There even may be a FEW mistakes at the awards but everyone is so nice it just doesn't matter. Seems like everyone won something - they had tons of placks. The cider and apples at the end are the freshest you could ever expect to get. It was so fun - and my knee doesn't hurt. I don't know for sure what my time is because it isn't posted. But I guess we PR'd since we've never walked a 5k before. I am thinking it was around 40 minutes but not sure. I know we were at 27 minutes something at the 2 mile mark and I think we were doing about 13 - 14 minute miles. We did however ONLY come in 2nd and 3rd places (overall women) because of a very speedy lady we only saw at the start.

What is a workout?

2009-08-14T04:31:00.000-07:00

I took a 1/2 a day off so I could go home and paint my dining room. It is nice to have a job that I can do that. Where else can you work 6:30 -> 10:30 and go home? I guess if you are a teacher you do have at least a month + in the summer off without taking vacation..hummmm.

I got a great idea - call and see if niece S is bored and wants to help me. I called and as a great niece she said sure. I was going to go pick her up but my brother said he would drop her off since they were coming in. We got started by 11:30 and actually completed the entire dining room, entrance, and hall by 8:00pm last night. That included a two hour break in between for dinner and waiting.

We had to prime all the red with a primer before we could even paint. I also wanted to paint the ceiling. We started by taping with the wonderful tape I picked up at a new store - Ollies. I have to say that was the best tape ever - ever - ever. I am thinking of going back and buying more now. We used the full two rolls I bought and were about six feet short which we just used regular tape - not as good. I painted the ceiling while S started doing the primer. I finished the ceiling and helped her with the priming. After done with the primer we have to let it dry for 2 hrs - hence dinner and break.

I was hoping to just get the primer done. I didn't expect to get the entire room done. We only used one can of primer so I can even return one. I am so pleased that 1) we used only one can of primer and 2) the paint went on great and covered in one coat. I thought because we could still see a little bit of red after the primer coat we would need two coats of paint but it looked good last night. I used to buy my paint from Home Depo and I was wondering how I would do with this new brand from a new store but am very happy. I still need to check it during the day today to see how it looks. I will have to include a picture when I get everything together.

Needless to say I did not run but boy did I get a workout. I am so glad we have central air because I put it down low at 72 and we were still pretty hot. I was getting a little tired reaching the ceiling. If I was just a few inches taller it would of been a lot easier (I guess 5'7" isn't tall enough). I did take some motrin before bed last night and slept SO good. S said her legs hurt from going up/down the step stool. So between the step stool and the reaching I guess it was a good aerobic exercise.

I paid for my niece to run Saturday's 5K but I don't think the $15 is quite enough to pay her for the 8 hrs of hard labor I put her through, I think I still owe her. Maybe I will take her school
shopping.

Relaxing

2009-08-08T06:22:00.001-07:00

I took everyones advice and relaxed. I took the kids camping for five days and didn't even run. We slept in, read books, played scrabble, watched the kids swim. It was great. Vacation has something to be said for it - it's always way to short! We of course then took a week and went to PA to visit our friends. Great vacation with a little bit of site seeing and theme park but plenty of relaxing and scrabble. Now I am back to work and had to work all five days 45+ hrs. I need another vacation. See that is the problem, when you have a vacation, you need another. It is just a viscious cycle.

So after two weeks of vacation where I did manage to run three times thanks to M dragging me! I also managed to run 8 miles this morning and I am still able to move my little fingers. The rest of me is a little slower going but I am motivated now to work on reducing my speed (or is increasing it???) for the Wineglass where me, M, and D are going to run the relay. I am weakest link so I have no more relaxing days ahead of me.

Survivor

2009-06-28T16:36:00.000-07:00

I've never watched the show Survivor but I think I just lived through it.

Friday:
1) Mortared, cut tile, hung tile in kitchen (about 15 feet x 2 feet)
2) Cleaned up from mess
3) Setup a tent
4) allowed two of my kids friends to sleep over
5) Found time to watch a little TV before knocking off at 10:00pm

Saturday:
1) Mopped stairs, cleaned dining room, clean wine rack over refrig.
2) grouted kitchen wall
3) cleaned up mess from kitchen
4) got my daughter, my niece, and my ear's pierces (2nd holes)
5) Setup another tent
6) made cupcakes and frosting
7) allowed five of my kids friends to sleep over
8) Found the energy to give my hubby some attention AND watch a little TV before knocking off at 12:30am

Sunday:
1) Went grocery shopping at 7:00am
2) bought pop-tarts for all eight children that slept at my house last night
3) made deviled eggs, homemade mac-n-cheese
4) cleaned kitchen again, setup for a party
5) had an afternoon quicky to keep the hubby happy
6) Picked up birthday cake
7) made dinner for 17 adults/children
8) Ate dinner BEFORE the rain hit.
9) Sang happy birthday, took pictures.
10) Cleaned up from party

Final
1) Survived to tell this tail. Feet are very sore, eyes are burning from lack of sleep, back pain is just unbearable, my hands are dry like sandpaper. I think I got another grey hair. I think I lost four or five pounds. It is 7:45pm now. I am left with only the five humans, two cats, and two hermit crabs. Can I go to bed before the kids? Even the cats are sleeping.

No one was seriously injured in the making of this long weekend. We did however have a loss of many bandages to cover the bug bites from the children playing outside after dark. No major cuts from cutting tile with a sharp wet cutter that is more a eating machine. All interested parties are warned to NOT try this at home for it may be hazardous to your health (especially Mental health).

Swamp Rat Race

2009-06-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

I didn't run it (dang doctors!) but I guess I have to write about since all my children ran it. My oldest V-12 ran the 5k in only 38 minutes. It is her first, great START. S-10 ran the 1 mile in 12 minutes. A-6 ran the 1 mile in 10 minutes. I am proud of all of them. I told S that he couldn't run it as fast because he had his adnoids removed. He believed it. The "Really?" I got was so funny I hated to tell him NOT. He wanted some excuse to of been slower than his YOUNGER brother. I am afraid the competition is already beginning. Best run I've ever not run. All my friends M, H, D, and S came and ran it so the time just went way to fast. The ran held off until the end so it was just a littel chilly. I certainly can't complain.

My crazy life

2009-06-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

So my family keeps growing. No I haven't gained weight, well maybe a little. Yes the kids are getting bigger but I'm not talking about them. We took in a little cat that was starving to death. She has become a welcome addition. Maybe K would not agree with the vet bill and the litter box - wow. How does a little thing like that make poo that smell the entire house. I never would think it is possible. I can't wait until she is well enough to kick her little furry but outside to do her business. How can I just get the kids to do that now!

So now we are two adults, three kids (that are getting bigger), two hermit crabs, and now two cats. I just can't take it anymore. I think I need a room to myself - no not the kitchen.

Running is going slowly since I can't seem to breath. I am thinking it might be allergies - like I need another excuse to not run. I told my good running buddy D to check when there is a 1/2 marathon in the fall so we can put it on our list. So although I almost died at the 5k I just ran this weekend (32 minutes) I am crazy enough to sign up for a 1/2 marathon. So instead of just 3 miles, I will add a "1" in front of it meaning "1" crazy women who is definitely lost her mind.

I know my kids are outside challenged. I have just banned my kids from the computer and TV and to go outside (and look what I am doing...). We get about 2 days of nice weather a year we better take advantage of it. My six year old comes in and sits down all bummed out. "Mom, there is nothing to do outside". I guess I better teach him how to run and run fast, there is always a 5k coming up.

Spring is just flying by

2009-05-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, where has the time gone? I guess I've been enjoying the spring. I've been cleaning out my house and getting ready for a garage sale. NO it is NOT nesting, I'm doing spring cleaning. I've been busy watching my boys run the bases as they try to master baseball. It sure is more relaxing sitting in a lawn chair in the evening sun compared to watching a hockey game standing on cold bleachers.

I ran 5 of th 6 Mountain Goat training runs but DID NOT run the goat because of a knee injury. I guess I haven't mastered the running thing yet. I would most definitely recommend NOT running a race but signing up for it. I has given me a whole new insight. While everyone else huffed and puffed up hills, I got a massage, read a book, and relaxed in the morning sun. I would most definitely recommend this race however, just for the free food at the end, which I felt I deserved just as much as my fellow runners. I tried to look hot and exausted (not sure if I fooled anyone). I was surprised with the number of runners I now know. We have however decided I keep meeting people at the training sessions and on races, it must be because I have a sign on my back that says "Please talk to me". It is all about the visiting isn't it?

Our wonderful addition to the family (no not a baby), Pinch and Shy, are both doing well and have moved up to biggers shells. I still will not touch them - thank you.

I will be able to spend a little more time with the children this summer (and running) since my company is doing a partial layoff and I will have three weeks off. I may even work on my honey-do-list.

Camping season is quickly approaching and we turned in our leased truck. I think we may be looking for something like a suburban or something like that this time - used of course with the job situation. We however are enjoying not having the payments right now. It does make it hard to make summer plans however. We may be bunking it with friends and family this summer if we don't find something reliable to purchase before that. I don't do well in a tent, I'm too old to do "rough" camping. Did I just say "too old"??? yikes. I do have a friend that will be joining me in the big 40 group (same running age category) very soon so I better stop the "Old" jokes.

Darn Crabs

2009-04-11T09:19:00.001-07:00

So is it being Crabby when you have to poo, not once, not twice, but three times after just a training run? Don't want to go into any more details than that.

My son thought we weren't crabby enough and came from the mall with a hermit crab. We were not even the remotely overjoyed but he was just so excited. You would think it was his birthday or something. His other siblings have all had animals but we've been down that road and did not want to do it again. I said why didn't you call me first, she laughed and said, because I knew better. If looks could kill. Now the human people we are now trying to give this creature a life with as little pain as possible before we kill it, like most of our animals do in this house. Other than cats our track record is not good. Sorry "Pinch".

Darn crabs.

Reasons for waking up at night

2009-03-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

Shit, did I put that homework assignments of A's back in his folder? Damn, I forgot to make school lunches again. Did I leave a note for S to write his words? Did I put that early dismissal form in the school folder? I have to remember to do the laundry, go shopping, sign the kids up for baseball, pack all three kids plus myself. Maybe I can fit in a 30 minute run before dinner. I have to try to find time to buy new shoes for V. I'll never get to sleep, maybe if I make a list - get up make a list, go back to bed. Now the cat has decided to make her bed in the middle of my side. Then to top it all off, K starts snoring like a wind storm, maybe even a tornado, just great. As I start to dose the alarm wakes me at 4:45 to be at work by 6:00. My eyes are blood shot and I feel like I didn't get any sleep.

Have you ever had one of those days/nights? Great, I get them every day. Some day I will wish to be busy like this again - that is at least what EVERYONE tells me. I just can't imagine EVER WANTING this.

30 minute workout?

2009-03-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

What to do in my 30 minutes at lunch? I tried to run the other day but changing, running, and then changing again - all in 30 minutes seems like way to much work. I guess it is sort of like having sex with very little foreplay, a quickie, and no cigarette after - and don't forget ALL BY YOURSELF. Well I don't smoke but you get the idea. I think I did actually run for about 20-25 minutes. I did have to go back to work after all sweaty. Maybe I should of stayed at my desk reading a novel eating my lunch and watching it all go to my hips.

Sugar is cheaper than Water

2009-03-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

So am I cheap? We went to a hockey game with three boys and found soda was cheaper than a bottle of water. No, the water was not special. It was just like any other water bottle. It should of been a re-usable bottle wrapped in gold for the price they wanted. I actually let the boys have soda instead of spending $3.25 for WATER. I am talking WATER people. I just don't get it. Even the cotton candy was cheaper than the water at $3.00. So in the wonderful world we live in, it is cheaper to give your children lots of sugar and then claim they have some disorder and put them on medicine.

Tipp Hill Race - great time

2009-03-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

I used to get nervous at races. This weekend we had our first race of the season and I was NOT as ready as I was the previous year but yet I was not nervous. It has now become very familiar. It did bring me some sorrow remembering last year when we did it with my friend M, her daughter and mine went along and cheered us on.

Did I mention the race is four miles, no not just four miles, but four hilly hilly miles? It does seem to go very fast because it seems every corner has music, many bands of great Irish music. There are spectators everywhere. The last mile however seems to be uphill all the way it is all worth it with a great finish. It is strange how people are now getting to be familiar to me and we run into people we know. It is just like another chapter of my life.

I am so thankful to have D to keep me inspired to run. She is so great. It was very nice have L and Z join us at the race as well. It is funny to see Z run in boots and to see how many friends L can make in one day.

Birthdays for Mom

2009-03-06T08:48:00.001-08:00

Mother’s should be allowed to take their children’s birthdays off. Mother’s day once a year is not enough, AND it comes on a SUNDAY – you don’t even get a day off work. Who remembers the day their children were born more? I don’t always seem to remember the exact time but then I was a little busy. I figure my husband WHO WAS THERE NOT DOING MUCH should be able to remember the time better than me. So, after spending 9 months of back pain, stretch marks, and having to pee every five minutes, I also get to make a cake, buy gifts, and plan a party every year, for each one of those dang kids. I think all Mother’s should be allowed to go to a day spa, haircut, nails, have someone ELSE clean their house, go out for dinner and THEN receive a gift from that very lucky child for letting them be born.

What brings this thought on you ask. Today is my son’s birthday, on a Friday, should be perfect for a party on the weekend. The only problem is his brother has a hockey tournament with something like six games. After deciding Sunday afternoon would be safe for a party I called a family member who informed me of one of my nephews birthday party is already planned for that day – I was not informed. Now I don’t want to do a party but my poor son who is only six knows we ALWAYS have the family in. Yesterday he came home from school and said he wanted a "Guess" party. He repeated it three times. Then he said, "You know, when Uncle D and every one comes over", then the light bulb went off, oh "Guest". I think I will do the party next weekend – I will do some games and make tons of food to have 30 people crowd in our house…to see the gleam in his eye when we all sing him Happy Birthday - all for my off-spring.

To Wii or not to Wii?

2009-03-03T18:25:00.000-08:00

My husband and I were the young and naive couple and went out and bought a video game for the TV and spent all our waking hours glued to the TV. After 29 days of no dish washing, no laundry, no ..., we returned it to the store. We VOWED, no more video games in our house.

After many years of marriage and three kids later our best-est friends got us hooked again. We were in video game withdrawal after one weekend at their house, we were hooked, my husband more than me. After much searching for the best price we broke down and got a Wii. My laundry and dishes are still getting done - check, kids are all still safe - check, homework is still getting done - check, dishes and laundry done - check, we seem to have added a neighbor child - ut-oh. We haven't lost any weight unless you count the $$ out of pocket. It is great punishment leverage. If anything, it sure helps pass the long - cold winter days/nights we have 10 months out of the year. Is it helping me train for the long-as-runs my friends are trying to get me to do - ah.....

Snow, Snow, Everywhere, need more to shovel!

2009-02-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

How many snowplows do you think it takes to do the highway? On my snowy commute to work on Friday the snow was coming down 2" an HOUR. We had about a foot already - like that wasn't enough already. I was excited to get up to 50 mph. If anyone knows me that is probably faster than most people go but the wind was blowing and coming down so fast I just HAD to slow it down. It was going very good with only one car far ahead of me and one behind. I thought this was great. Then I saw flashing lights ahead, GREAT a snowplow. Although a little better than seeing a cop it is never fun trying to pass a plow. As I came up on it I soon saw traffic slowing down and backing up. Then I noticed it was not just one snow but, NO not just two snowplows, but THREE snowplows, one on EACH lane. So how in the world am I supposed to pass them now? Do you know how fast snowplows go, no not 50, no not 45, not 40, YES 35. Did I end up following them for 5 miles, no, 10 miles, no, 15 miles - at least. Needless to say I was LATE for work. Just another day in the North Country.

Freedom

2009-02-18T08:45:00.001-08:00

So now I can't hold hands with my own husband because I might be holding hands the wrong way - I heard it is a sign of being GAY.

I can't wear a bandanna because I might belong to a GANG.

I need to get a job in the schools to find out the new things I guess.

Oh, what would happen if I lose an earring and only have one, will that mean I'm a lesbian?

What's next?

Hair color anyone?

2009-02-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

I did something really stupid Sunday night. OK nothing illegal, or something I can't talk about. EVERYONE at work knows about it... OK do I have you interested?

I colored my hair. So what do you think it looks like??? Yup you guessed it - pitch black. V even thinks a little on the blue side. I think blacker than my computer. Yup - not what I planned. My hair is naturally dark brown but this I think is a tad darker. So now what do I do? I should never of colored my hair at 8:00pm at night on a Sunday and HAVE to go to work the next day with it. I had a number of people walk by and then come back to see who was sitting at my desk. It is a huge change.

Then guess what I did. I couldn't take it, it really did look blue-ish. I went to the store right after work and bought new hair color. Something a bit lighter, something more like brown. I lathered it up, let it sit for 30 minutes like the directions said. Totally undressed and jumped in the shower to wash and rinse. When I emerged - no change whats - so - ever - shit.

Then guess what I did. I had to take V to her piano lesson so in the 30 minute time I rushed back to the store and bought yet another kit. This time a highlighter for black or dark brown hair. After piano - 8:00pm again, I hence start again. This kit has a cap - what the fuck. I don't have the time. It also states wait 2 weeks after coloring - yah - 2 hrs is good right! So now I just put it on wherever and put my hair in a bag - real cute by the way. Then wait again 30 minutes and shower and all that again. At least when I got out my hair had some redish/brownish streaks in it - not bad considering. Probably not the best mind you. It sure beats blue hair.

The next day I go to work. Now everyone has to ask, wasn't your hair black yesterday. Now I am worried my hair is going to all fall out the next time I wash it. I don't dare go to a real hairdresser now, she will probably laugh at me.

Another Race

2009-02-08T17:44:00.001-08:00

1st run of the year. Everyone was wondering what to wear. It was supposed to be 30 and winds 30-40 so that makes it pretty darn cold. My old faithful scarf really helped the wind stay off my neck. It was a nice 5k run. I guess I must of been ready for it because it seemed short.
Pros: well marked root, lots of volunteers, tons of spectators, beautiful sites, good porta-potties
cons: lots of people, big big big hill/mountain, long line for food, crowded after party.
Do again: Ya, I would recommend it, weather permitting. I do have an issue running below zero. The best part was the drive there and back. With five us in my car and our Tom-Tom to guide the way we all talked non-stop about everything. That probably just makes the day.
My official time was somthing like 39:.., for a 5k. I felt like my friend M who talked me through my first few 5k's. I did not mind doing that for L at all. I really enjoyed it.

Excuses

2009-02-04T14:22:00.000-08:00

How many excuses have I used this year? I better not start counting. Can't run I see a dog, Can't run there's a hill, can't run it's too cold, can't run I have go poo... I think I am the ultimate excuser. Then there are kids. I can't believe the excuses they try to use: I had to put my lunch pale on the floor my arms were sore. I can't pick it up I didn't put it there. That has to be the best excuse ever. You know it just doesn't work as mother. If I try to use that line on my kids they would just look at me like I have two heads.

I do have one excuse that works pretty good for me: It's that time of the month and I have cramps. Unfortunately it is true and it is hell so I think I should be able to use the excuse at least once a week to make up for the two days of hell a month that makes this excuse true. The best part of this excuse is, my husband can't use it and the kids can't use it - it's all mine.

Another Birthday Disaster

2009-01-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

I can tell you, never leave two 4 1/2 year old's in the basement to play with a very nice looking homemade birthday cake. It is way to tempting and WAS to tempting. All the pictures had finger prints. This year I tried to serve hockey puck deviled eggs. Our outside refrigerator (the attached garage) didn't work correctly and froze just the eggs leaving the soda, jello, and beer just fine. I will have to talk to old-man-winter and tell him next year not so cold. So my basement is not safe and now my garage, what shell I do for next year - bowling alley!

Ever been called Mrs. Clause?

2009-01-10T06:36:00.000-08:00

When my co-runner D said I looked like Mrs. Clause I knew what she meant. Yes that I was pleasantly plump with grey hair and rosy cheaks. NOT. She called me this as we were running at -1 degrees and all my hair (what little strands were hanging out) were grey from frost. Even my eyebrows and eye lashes were grey. My cheaks were indead red from running just a measley 2 1/2 miles and it should be a warm up but instead I was panting and she was non-stop talking me through our mileage. I had to tell her I didn't think being called Mrs. Clause was acompliment and we both had a nice laugh.

It was the coldest I've ever run in, sort of. The wind-chill on top of temp might make a few other days colder than today but I still got my layers on and came home with Red legs. I told D about the time I went running with M in my neighborhood - when I was a "Novice" runner and said "no way" and turned around after only going up to the corner. She thought I was crazy. Of course I was not going running in the cold, icy weather. I guess I graduated from "Novice" stage now. Now D and M are still TRYING to talk me into doing a FULL Marathon. I have not committed yet.

I'm supposed to run what?

2009-01-06T13:25:00.001-08:00

I am starving and my abs hurt and I'm supposed to run what? This new years resolution thing is for the birds. I am just so glad my kitchen is void of sweets and the TV is off or else I would be pigging out watching whatever is on. Now I'm supposed to make dinner and run what? I'm having a little motivation issue today if you can tell. Why do runners even think of running marathons? Who was the crazy person that started this thing and why do more and more people do it? Why do we keep putting ourselves through such torture. For the pain of it? I just don't get it.

Well I better go make dinner for the kids a WW yummy dinner for me, and then change to run my mileage tonight. Think of me while you are pigging out in front of TV.

Another year

2009-01-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

A trip to PA and our first experience at a Wii were great. It was so much fun visiting and relaxing with our friends I think we all could of stayed for another week. I am sad that M ended up with the flu or something resembling such. I taught V and H how to stencil and they whipped my and J's butt's in Pictionary. I don't want to talk about who whipped who on the Wii. It was nice going South and seeing grass again. It really lends thoughts of moving to a warmer climate. Then we return home and reality hits with a foot of snow to be snowblowed and both boys having hockey games.

I took down the tree and all the ornaments and managed to run with D twice over the weekend. I bet her New Years Resolution is to get ME to run a FULL Marathon. That is why she was sneaky and had me run 5 miles today (dog free) when it was 5 degrees out (Fahrenheit.. Celcius would of been nice!) It was a great way to finish my vacation. It definitely goes way to fast.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year and look forward to another great year.

The Holidays

2008-12-27T19:20:00.000-08:00

TO MANY GIFTS?
We had a big dinner and early Christmas with some of my family at my house. Then we travelled an hour to visit another part of family and do Christmas with them. Then Christmas day we had tons of gifts from Santa at our own house. Later we trekked to my husband's parents house for yet another Christmas. How does one have time to open all these gifts? My kids get more gifts than they need. It seems they play with them for a month and then nothing. It seems a waste. I always say "In the Old days" - referring to my childhood, when NONE of my Aunts, Uncles, or cousins gave us gifts. We had one Grandma/Grandpa that bought us something small but that is it. I do think families now are buying for more extended family and it isn't necessary. I hate to tell my kids they don't need the gifts. Am I being a Ba-Humbug? My house is filling up with things we hate to get rid of because there is nothing wrong with them except lack of use. How do you justify getting rid of things you don't use or play with? It is the pack-rat in me I guess, if we don't get them to begin with then I don't have to store them or decide to get rid of them later.

A QUICK YEAR:
The year is almost over. I sit and ponder where the time went. We had hockey, hockey, hockey, school, homework, a vacation, more hockey and it seems the year is gone. I have a few more aches and pains, a few more grey hairs, and a few more wrinkles. My kids have grown more inches than I can count. I ran two 1/2 marathons and really want to make that into a tradition or even beat it (maybe!). I hate New Years Resolutions and I hate setting goals but I do hope next year will be as good or better than 2008. I guess that is all one can hope for.
I wish everyone a Happy New Years.

Tagged - 8 things...

2008-12-14T10:13:00.001-08:00

M's Mom did her 8 things - I tried to do 8 - I must be a boring person

8 TV Shows
1. Movies "Chick Flicks" mostly
2. Sienfield Reruns
3. Mash Reruns
4. True Blood
5. ?
6. ?
7. ?
8. ?

8 Things I did yesterday
1. Took A to hockey (took 1/2 the day)
2. Made fudge
3. Went and got Christmas tree
4. Laundry
5. Made dinner
6. Went to bed before the kids
7. ?
8. ?

8 Things I look forward to:
1. Watching my boys do so well in hockey
2. Christmas vacation
3. Visiting our friends for New Years
4. Vacation in general
5. The kids to grow up
6. A movie and popcorn
7. Visiting with friends
8. Shopping with my daughter

8 Favorite Restaurants
1. Wendy's
2. Arby's
3. Moe's
4. Taco Bell
5. Pizzeria Uno
6. 7th North Buffet
7. ?
8. ?

Wishlist
1. Wish I didn't have to work sometimes
2. Wish I lived South so our winters weren't so long
3. Wish I could have more vacation time to visit places and people
4. Wish I could visit Europe
5. Wish my kids would pick up after themselves just once without reminders
6. Wish I could visit NY City - just once
7. Wish we could take kids to DC for a week.
8. Wish we could spend a week at the beach with our best friends.

Things to Do not Enough time to do them all.

2008-11-30T15:34:00.000-08:00

After four short days off I dread going back to work. Why is it Sunday evenings seem so depressing as you think over the weekend you didn't get as much done as you hoped? This time of course with four days off. I have been sick all four but have no choice to go to work tomorrow so it even makes it harder.

We traveled three hours to visit my parents for Thanksgiving and returned a day later. Then the next day we traveled 1 1/2 hrs to a hockey game. My younger son (5) asked me how many different states we were in this weekend. I had to tell him we never left our wonderful state of NY. Snow was always in our travels but we have snows on our car and made the all our travels with no incidents.

I managed to hang the Christmas lights on the outside of the house this weekend, one morning when I still had a little energy. They look great all turned on. I really am not ready for Christmas but I know I have get prepared, it will be here before I know it.

I will be off work for two weeks during Christmas and if I'm not sick maybe I can finish a few things on my list but must make time for the kids. I already promised my oldest son to go sledding somewhere.

Thankful to be Working

2008-11-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

The weather was nice as I walked out of work and ran into a fellow employee that was packed and ready to leave as he transfers to another branch. They let a few people go today and I was glad to hear I was not among the list. It is becoming common news these days as the times are tough. I am so glad to be able to still get up and go to work. It does put a bit of pressure everyday, afraid that a manager will be nocking at your door next. It has definitely curved our spending at home in anticipation that it might happen. The kids don't quite understand when we say we don't want to spend the money. I am afraid Christmas will be a little less than we've done in the past as well. It is amazing how it affects your life. We don't eat out as much. I am spending less on groceries and cloths. It will be tough when our truck lease will be up - we need something to tow with so what do we do. It really does affect your life even if you are not let go if the chance is always over your head. I am very thankful to have my job and really hope the company can hang in but we are playing the side of caution and hoping the for the best. Can we live on one income now that we've gotten used to more? So many people do it every day but once you're used to something and it is taken away makes it harder to get used to not having it.

To cautious with the kids?

2008-11-08T18:05:00.000-08:00

K helped last weekend and we raked our entire yard and had tons (maybe more) leaves out by the edge of the road for the town to come and vacuum up. I came home from work the next day and was laughing while my two boys were jumping in the leaves. I did have to yell at them because someone could run them over if they didn't know they were there. They were having so much fun, I hated to tell them - stop having fun. I guess it is like the time I had to tell them to STOP jumping off the top bunk into bunches of pillows. I hadn't even heard them downstairs so they had plenty of padding but it only takes once that one misses the pillow and ends up with a broken leg or arm. It is not fun hearing "But Mom". I totally agree but I don't want to spend 3 - 4 hrs in the emergency room or worse.

As careful as one is accidents always happen. I really hate it when someone tells me I shouldn't do something because I have to prove them wrong. Tonight K told me I shouldn't use the small knife on the potatoes but stubborn me I continued and should of known. I sliced my thumb but pretty good. I probably should have stitches but I don't want to wait the hours in the emergency room. Now if it was one of the kids I would probably think about it.

How People Shape us

2008-10-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

My running buddy D was saying how one person at a race talked her right into her next marathon only a month after her last. She qualified for Boston at it and that person doesn't even know she did that for D. We went camping over the summer and our camping neighbors were from Canada and could not speak much English but made immediate friends with my youngest son A. The gentleman went to the pool with us one day had the kids all laughing and playing. He gave A a wood necklace and he still has it and he remembers his friends from Canada. Today before running the Bagel Race I really remembered running it with my so very good friend M last year even with her terrible cold. My older boy S hurt his brother and left a great note before bedtime with a dollar, it said "Dear A, I am vary Sory,heere, Love S." I was so touched more than my little son A, so I had to keep the note and wrote a little note to go with it explaining the reason. Someday it may make a difference in their lives.

It just amazes me how the little things people do can change your life and who you are. Sometimes they don't even know they've done it. Of course, you always hope the little things are for the better but of course not always. Just remember, even going to the grocery store could change someone's life so always smile and be positive.

Eastwood Race - Great

2008-10-20T15:01:00.001-07:00

2 Cars, Five People, a beautiful day, one 5 mile race. We did it. Two came in fairly quickly - under 50 minutes, two came in 56, and one brought in the tail end. We all had fun and two had never run that far. We couldn't of asked for a better day and better friendship. I guess that is what memories are made of. It reminds me of why I run. I noticed part of a tree hanging from an electrical line and stopped to point it out to my niece who was running with me. The tree was freshly cut but it looks like they didn't dare cut the wire to get this last part! I bet there were many runners that missed it. It has been a while since I've run with someone and I really do miss it. It will probably be a long winter and I hope the memory of this day will hold me through and give me motivation to run all the winter long even with my yak tracks. There is snow in the forecast for THIS week.

Beautiful Fall

2008-10-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

I ran for the first time since my 1/2 marathon. My knee hurt but today it seems to be ok. I am just surprised how sore I am. I only ran 3 miles and I ran it SOOOO slow - wow. It sure felt good. I was just in awe seeing all the changes in my neighborhood. The leave are at peak and it seems many people are excited about Halloween. The smell of fall, fresh apples, apple pies, falling leaves, chilly evenings, are just part of our culture and something one has to experience to believe. The few years I lived in the South it seemed they didn't have the dramatic change of seasons like we have.

My brother lives in Tennessee and his wife said she couldn't live somewhere where we have more winter than summer. I guess I hadn't thought about that. I would enjoy a little longer summer but I don't have enough pull with the big guy to get that. I guess I will have to make the best of what we have.

A quiet Friday

2008-09-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

I sit at 9:00pm thinking I might run tomorrow morning for a short 3 mile run. I haven't run for two weeks because my knee has decided to give me some problems. Of course flow had to decide to visit just in time for me to start running. My timing is terrible. Motrin is my friend, how can it be bad for me to over use it.

I have started a new cleaning schedule for our house now to save the big bucks we were putting out for babysitter and housekeeping by my cousin. I do feel sorry for her loss of income but am happy about our savings. It has also added more work to my hectic schedule every week. I spend one day cleaning the upstairs and another the down. So tell me why I chose Friday's to be a cleaning day - talk about crazy!

My son is sleeping over at a friends house up the road tonight. It is the first time at this boys house over night. He has played there all summer but I just met the Mom by bringing up his cloths. I am definitely getting more lax by not knowing my kids parents intimately before allowing them to spend 12 -> 24 hrs with them.

My daughter is sleeping next door so that leaves me with only one child at home. Why does the house seem so quiet with only one child home? What a difference.

Glutton for Punishment

2008-09-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

So as the fall is moving in way to fast I find I am now in a hurry to finish all the dang things I haven't had time or energy to do all summer. With a week off of running since my 1/2 marathon I have had so much free time it has been great. Then for some reason my knee decided I needed more time off. So instead of killing myself by running oodles of miles I have to go and stain my entire deck using two whole gallons of the stuff. I canned 16 jars of applesauce and made two pie fillings. I guess I am a glutton for punishment. So if I stay running free what other projects should I accomplish?

Another 1/2 Marathon

2008-09-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

The drive there was great. Austin assited us again (my Tom-Tom) so we felt confident of where the hotel was. We found it only by pure luck. Why do they put the hotel name on the opposite side of the building and not on the road side? How can two people not stop talking for one and a half hours and not get bored with each other? I wanted to laugh at check-in when the lady kept calling D by a nick-name she never uses and kept repeating it. I wanted to laugh. We walked very fast to the Expo in the pooring ran. We were shooting for a wet t-shirt contest, I think I would of won. We did get an amazing reflector vest from New Balance free so I guess the walk in the rain was worth it. We had a leasurely drive to our pasta dinner and that was good because the lack of food did make us a little disturbed. We manage to get a cookie before they disappeared. I guess they figured we didn't need food or cheese for our pasta. Then, to make me feel better I endevoured to challenge D in a few games of Boggle. It doesn't really matter my total for three games matched her total for one game. I guess I shouldn't play with a teacher.

Morning of race we woke up after a great night of sleep. I do have to say, it is the first time I've ever had cup of noodles for breakfast (thank you D). We new we were doomed when we walked outside at 6:00am and walked into a wall of heat and humidity. That is not normal for anywhere in NY in September and no one certainly wants to have that so early on a day of a marathon.

We couldn't use any of the wonderful square potties since the line was about a line long - of course we weren't alone. They had tons of food and drinks before/during and after the race. They had tons of volunteers. They had music, chear leaders, and great spectators throughout the whole course. The route was scenic and not too hilly. Other than the heat and the distance (I must be crazy doing 13 miles) I would love to do this race again. Maybe next time I will come close to hitting my time. Until next time! Everyone in Rochester was very friendly and I enjoyed walking/running with Jan and must thank Karen who I met in the medical tent and was probably sorry later for offering to give us a ride back to our hotel. She was great and waited with me for D to come in. It only took her about an hour longer than she hoped so I felt bad for having Karen wait for us. Oh, I only needed the medical tent for one of my three blisters. Hopefully in a few days we will be ready to start running again. Til next time. Goodnight.

School Days

2008-09-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

The kids are all back at school. K is already thinking of all the things he can buy with the money we are saving not needing a babysitter any more. Now I have to be home in time for the bus. Today made the boys bike with me while I went running. My youngest boy - A, doesn't do very well riding his bike up hills but it sure beats paying a babysitter, poor S had to wait for me at every intersection, maybe next time I will make him run instead of biking it!

K found lots of old pictures tonight of my babies when they were young. I forgot how they all had chubby cheeks. I also didn't realize I also had chubby cheeks I don't have anymore (baby fat?).

Why do I sound like a broken record, brush your teeth, do your homework, put your dishes in the dishwasher. Do kids ever learn to pick up after themselves? Why do I try to do 8:30 lights out? They always have excuses - I was never that way!

Count down to my marathon and I am looking forward to being away from the kids. I even checked the weather forecast today - Today Tuesday, race Sunday, humm, the forecasters can't plan one day out what am I thinking! Must be just hopeful thinking.

We are starting to think fall and winter. We took the kids ice skating on Sunday with my brother and his crew. I think there were ten of us on the ice between us and I don't there there were a total of 20 people out there so they let us do whatever pretty much. My brother is a great skater. He never did hockey or anything but we did grow up on ice between the backyard some years and the town outdoor ice rink. Him and my oldest son played tag and chased each other around the rink. They tagged me or my niece once in a while and we of course would pretend we weren't it and would tag them back. It was a great day for everyone. V who has never been much of a skater seemed to even enjoy it once I had her switch to hockey skates. It was a great day but made me think summer is almost gone. It will be touch to visit either my parents or my friends the Yonkers once hockey starts in October. Both my boys will be doing games this year so I am afraid K and I will be going separate ways with big bags of hockey gear.

My oldest son is in 4th grade and wants to take up the trumpet so we have to go to a parent meeting. I can't get him to read for 10 minutes so how will he do reading music? I guess we will give it shot since he does like music and loved the recorder last year.

Well they are messing around instead of brushing upstairs, why can't they just get ready for bed without someone standing over their shoulders?

Quick Vacation in PA and WV

2008-08-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

It was such a great relaxing vacation. Who would guess with ten of us traveling from PA to WV together in two vehicles that I would say it was relaxing. Why does going pee mean it is time to eat again and lose at least one child?

I think M and I both had some tears when we got to PA and we hugged more than we ever have. We both were strong and held back major tears. I was afraid if I let loose it would not stop. It has only been a month and we do talk but it is definitely different now. I think we will always be like family and will always be connected for life.

It was a memorable moment when we went swimming at a river in WV. I was almost in tears (again) thinking how we were making memories. Everyone was talking and laughing all at the same time. It was so nice going swimming (one in underwear) and dragging my son in the water to wash up. It was great that his screams were not heard by ANYONE because there wasn't ANYONE within miles. There are probably more deer than people in WV. I was still a wimp and wouldn't jump in from the rock. It was great swimming.

We slept in a hay cabin that was so warm we left the unscreened windows and doors wide open. I was just amazed we didn't have a bug invasion. We did have a bat issue we did not tell my son or we knew we would never get him to sleep in there. He was already afraid of snakes that one of the other kids said were in the cabin. I didn't hear the dog walk in some time during the night - I guess I was sound asleep. At least it was only a dog and not a bear (not kidding!).

We all survived and I got to see a new side of my great friend M. I guess I knew she could sing but I enjoyed listening to her with her sister, Mom, and daughter. They are great. M's Mom is a great inspiration to her family.

We had a great time, great food, great visit, great time overall. I enjoyed meeting someone else that reads my blog. I figured no one would be this crazy. It was a great time and I would love to do it again some time.

So Mud Mountain didn't seem to be muddy at all. Will I have to come back in the spring to check out the mud. I even brought my white t-shirt for mud wrestling for K & B's enjoyment. Maybe next time.

Loop Around the Lake

2008-08-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

Another race. My friend D talked me right into doing the Loop around the Lake (15K) when I could of done Willow Bay 5k. Just because the 15k fit better in my schedule I think it was still all D's fault. I wouldn't of signed up for another 1/2 marathon if it hadn't been for D and M.

I had an upset stomach after the race which seems to become my norm of late. It is probably because I am not eating like I should probably. I used to get upset stomach on even a 5k but I don't anymore. Maybe it is just my body not used to the distance yet. So, maybe the 15k will help me in the long run. I still want to blame D and M, let me think how!

I did like the Loop Around the Lake and was very lucky to end up running with someone and her Dog. I came in 2nd to last. It was the first time I've run in pouring down rain. I said I would be happy with an 11 minute mile. I came in 1hr 39 minutes. Is that actually under? Wow.

Little Subjects

2008-08-03T05:39:00.000-07:00

After finishing the Harborfest 10k in a terrible 1hr 10 minutes with a bathroom break I was shocked to hear from D that we left to early from the awards. I came in third place in my age group. I wonder what they do with the awards people don't pick up?

Now I've signed my life away and signed up for another 1/2 marathon and only have six weeks to train and a 15k in between. I must be crazy.

Another subject: I have enjoyed a little free time and have cleaned a little bit of my house and trying to finish some projects we haven't had time to do all summer. We haven't camp since our vacation to Maine because it seems we have way to many things going on every weekend. I am sure the camper won't go to waste.

Yet another subject: I had to break up a fight in the pool yesterday between my girl child and my older boy child. It is not normal for them to fight (argue maybe) but I was wondering if it won't be the last. My niece just turned 13 and my girl child is not far behind - they say girls are harder to manage when they hit teen age. So far I have to say my kids do mind me pretty good (or they have me fooled).

Yet another: We are weekends are a bit lonely now with the Y family gone and left us! We are looking forward to visiting them in York, PA. I found out my husbands brother is coming to visit at the same time and we definitely won't cancel our visit with our friends, it is more important!

Busy Summer

2008-07-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

The summer's been busy. How does one sum up so many things? Vacation is a great thing. Every family should get away from home, computer, and television at least a week out of a year. Trying to make 600 cookies in one week is not easy but something to put on a resume. I don't miss flying. How does one decide who gets the arm rest? Glad to get back to work and find out I wasn't let go like others in our company. Running a race is a great thing to do for one self. I definitely miss having the Y family here but we are surviving. We are looking forward to a long weekend with them in August.

Inspiring?

2008-06-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

My friend M got both D and myself running and blogging. She is such an inspiration and will be for many more people in her life – it is just her carma. I may not be the best runner in the world, or even writer but have found I enjoy both from time to time. D is a much better runner and now I am finding out, a great writer. You really need to check out her blog.

We were talking about what inspires people and how some people feed off negativity, other only positive reinforcement works. M puts ideas into people and pushes just enough. When we are running and I tell her I want to walk at the stop sign then she says ok then we run harder to there. When I’ve emailed her with things she used to say I should blog it – I started blogging. When running with D, D would tell some great stories. M told her she needed to blog it. Now D is a blogging fiend. Now you would never know D had to be pushed – just a little. M doesn’t push hard and she is definitely not pushy like some bible people that just don’t shut up, she just puts an idea in your head and lets it sit there for a while until that idea just has to get out and work. It certainly isn’t a negative idea so it isn’t bad.

I am sure wherever M goes she will continue to inspire people in positive ways. It is great to be good at something, sometimes hard to recognize it (she will probably deny it). I know D and I will miss her but will continue to be inspired by her and maybe help inspire others.

Got Pepperoni

2008-06-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

It is not easy to train for a marathon and I give anyone credit for doing it. My poor friend D has a fear of dogs and is training for a marathon. She has now found her great 5 mile loop has a dog that is not chained, or held back in an manor and likes to come after her. She gets very nervous and her heart starts pumping hard (like it isn't already but that's another story).

On occasions that M runs with her, M brings pepperoni sticks in hopes that she can than throw at the dog and he will chase and eat it and leave them alone. I don't think she's actually used it yet. I hope she never gets to that point.

Today D says she got chased by a dog - it is not easy to be a runner and have to deal with animals that allowed to rome like us humans. I do believe it is better now than it used to be years ago (when I was young - yes that was years ago). So any suggestions to prevent from major scarring on legs from animal teeth marks - other than the pepperoni?

Weekend stuff

2008-06-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Weekends are way to short. I was busy all weekend doing stuff, fixing meals, and shopping. I go to work on Monday and realize I still have so many other things I should of gotten done but didn’t. Then I can’t remember what I did all weekend, clearly not what I should have done.

So how does the weekend go so fast and the weekdays so slow? Maybe I should make a list for home to keep myself focused. I didn’t have: bike rides, play football, or making pancakes with my son, on my list but I thoroughly enjoyed it and would do those things again. I’ve heard you should take the time out and enjoy your kids for they grow up fast. I guess I did enjoy the weekend even if my house is a mess, my parents are visiting, and my yard work is still not done, and, and, and. It will still be there when I get around to it.

The 13.1 Marathon done!

2008-05-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

We were so excited about going. It was a great drive up, and had a new toy to play with - a TOMTOM, which my husband was nice enough to let us use and had changed the voice to be Austin Powers - it was just so "Bloody" funny. We were so happy to find out the hotel that M & D stayed at last year decided to start their continential breakfast this year at 6:00 instead of their normal 7:00 just for us runners! It was starting out to be a great weekend. We tried for an early bedtime but there were neighboring folks that thought 9:00 and 10:00pm were still party in the hall time. We all seemed to get some sleep and were up wide awake and downstairs for our wonderful breakfast at 6:00am.

The gun went off without any warning and we were off, it seemed to quick somehow. I have to say the weather was great and I enjoyed the race and even better to have M run with me. We actually passed D twice (who was doing the full marathon AND trying to qualify for Boston).

After losing a little time with a bathroom break M and I still managed to make our time that we planned (2:30). D was so nice to make us bracelets for our time. They really helped since I can't think when I am running. But when we got to mile 8, M did say we only had 4 miles left and I was able to figure that wasn't quite right - would be nice, it is nice to see someone else has the same problem I do when running. I once gave someone wrong directions. I won't give directions again - even when I think I know them - when I'm running of course.

I didn't know what to say to D as she came over the finish line. I gave her a hug. I was just amazed how she could do the full 26.2 and still talk. I know sometimes you have good runs and others times you don't. I felt so bad this was not a good run for D. I tried to not talk about it for I saw tears were just behind the eyes ready to flood any second. We managed through the tough moments and found food which always helps.

After a late checkout and we were all showered and exausted, we piled back into M's car and headed home with Austin giving us a laugh. We stopped at the favorite Ponderosa they always stop and eat at after marathons but none of us had an appetite.

I would have to say I am thankful for D and M for helping me train for this race and feel it was all worth it. I will have this memory forever. I would definitely do it again. I did call P last time to tell her all about it. P definitely helped in getting me to train and stay with it. I am so lucky to have such good friends.

Allergy Season

2008-05-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

I started with a stiff kneck before the Mountain Goat, then the next week I had a sore throat, then I started with a pounding head. I tried all sorts of cold and allergy medicine to combat it. Do you know how hard it is to run with a stuffy nose and no tissues. The idea of using a leaf crossed my mind but my luck would be a poisin ivy. I have mastered spitting on the side of the road but have you ever tried to blow snot out of your nose to the side of the road, trust me don't - it's not pretty!

I finally broke down and went to the doctors yesterday and yup a sinus infection. I went to the drug store to pick up three Rx's. 1) antibiotic, 2) yeast infection medicine because I always get one after #1, 3) refill on allergy medicine - I better take every day to prevent 1,2 again. Hopefully I will be good for Sundays Big Race (my 1/2 marathon).

M's house is beautiful

2008-05-12T04:32:00.000-07:00

I come home from M's house and get upset with mine. They cleaned it up and redid almost everything to get ready to put the house not the market. They did an outstanding job on the house. I wish I didn't have a house, I would buy theirs.

I think I need to clean out and throw out all my stuff so my house can ALWAYS stay neat and clean. If you have nothing it sure makes it easier to keep your house picked up. The hard part is getting the kids get rid of their stuff. We are having a neighborhood garage sale, maybe I should get the kids to put their stuff out for that and that way they can earn a little $ from the junk they get rid of and can use to buy something like the webcan's (spelling) they have been begging me for (more stuff!).

Die-hard Runner?

2008-05-08T05:07:00.000-07:00

I did finish the Mountain Goat (10 miles - 1 hr 58 minutes) and felt pretty good until about 5 minutes after the race and thought I was going to pass out. I spent the rest of the day between the couch and the bathroom. I even ran a fever of 104. Not sure if it was the race or a bug that I picked up. My husband asked me “So are you ready for the ½ marathon?). My husband was sick later that day (payback). I hope it was just a bug because the ½ marathon is just around the corner now and I don’t want to be that sick again. I do have to say I would not have done as well without M helping me. She kept me going.

D, M and I did a workout in the rain last night. We went to the schools track to attempt our 9x400 @ 5K pace; D had to do 800’s. We also brought along six kids, bike, gloves, and balls (yes we are crazy). It started out great and then started to drizzle then started poring about our 7th loop. Then we caught the kids playing in the long jump pit which of course is yucky from the rain. We made it home all wet but no complaints and I really think the kids had fun. At least it wasn’t real cold. This is what memories are made from.

I guess this means I am a die-hard runner now when I even drag my kids out in the rain?

Ease-dropping

2008-04-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

When you work in a place with Cubicals you are bound to hear EVERYONE's conversations. Now with cell phones it seems that people are having conversations everywhere including the bathroom - yuk.

Today I heard someone on their phone talking as they walked by my cube and I heard. "I think we have an issue the dog food. It was making noise." I didn't hear any more and wanted to hear the rest of the conversation.

When you hear someone talking around you and it sounds like a subject you would like to join in on, do you? Is it considered disrespectful? I never know. When I hear my boss talking to someone I think it is something personal and I really don't want to hear it I get up and leave. It is hard when we don't have "real walls". There are times you hear things you aren't sure if the people realize you are just on the other side of the "wall". If you do hear things you were not the intended I guess you don't want to pass it along, it might get you in trouble.

Tagged - List

2008-04-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

M's Mom tagged me but I didn't see on my blog but here's my answers.

Five things in each of the following categories:
10 years ago, I was:
1. Living in Brewerton, NY 2. Raising my daughter was wasn't even one yet. 3. Working at a
different company 4. Still on a bowling league 5. making Christmas ornaments
Today’s to do list:
1. Make dinner 2. Help kids with homework 3. Try to pick up the house 4. Run 3 miles
5. Ride bikes with kids
Snacks I enjoy:
1. m&ms 2. Homemade cookies 3. Yogurt bars 4. Apple pie 5. Popcorn
If I was a billionaire, I would:
1. Pay off my debts 2. Give all my family some 3. Travel 4. Invest lots for kids college
5. Buy land for house in NY and maybe West Virginia
My bad habits:
1. Talking to much 2. Trying to do to much 3. Volunteering to much 4. Negative opinion
5. Losing my patients
Places I’ve lived:
1. Hampton, VA 2. Silver Spring, MD 3. Massena, NY 4. Liverpool NY 5. Brewerton NY
Jobs I’ve had:
1. Seamstress 2. Baker 3. Store Clerk 4. IT trainer for Navy 5. CIO for Air Force

Laugh at ones-self

2008-04-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

When we go on trips I sometimes let my boys use my MP3 player. We went to Rochester last week and the first day I ran by myself was the other day so I got out my MP3 player and went off. When I hit about the 3 mile mark I noticed the same song has been playing all this time. I didn't even notice. I was so concetrated on the hills and bettering my time I didn't even notice. It was just so funny. Maybe I don't really need the music - I must not of been listening to it anyway! It was just so funny.

Will I lose my nail?

2008-04-22T06:59:00.001-07:00

I ran ~9 miles on Saturday and my toe hurt a little. It wasn’t that bad that I remembered it later. On Sunday I went running my required 4 miles and my toe hurt. Since I was already out running it was a little late to go back and trim it. By Sunday evening my toe was red and swallen. I trimmed the nail even though it didn’t seem it was very long. I put Neosporin and a bandage over it but it kept me awake all night. It felt a little better on Monday but is still sore to touch it. Tuesday it is again still sore but getting better. I have to run tonight and am worried will it make it worse again. Should I go out and buy new sneakers? The ones I have now are only a couple months old but are not the kind I usually buy – I went cheaper this time. I only spent $60 instead of my normal $80+. Maybe it was a mistake.

Another weekend

2008-04-21T04:32:00.000-07:00

I ran with my best two running buddies on Saturday and did my longest run ever. Of course I think every weekend from now until the Marathon will be my longest run ever. We did nine miles/or about nine. I was exausted but felt good. My toe is killing me now. I think either I need new sneakers or needed to cut my nail. I guess it is time to get new sneakers anyway. Don't buy cheap ones. These were just a little cheaper but didn't last me as long and not as comfortable. It is isn't worth it in the end.

I spent the rest of Saturday shoveling mulch. I am surprised/but not that I am not sore at all. I was a bit sore all over on Sunday but M dragged me out running and we did a good stretch after and I feel much better. I was glad she came over or I might not of gotten out there to do our 4 miles that was on our schedule. I feel good that we did it.

The weather was great so it was nice letting kids use sprinkler and bathing suits. I forget how messy and dirty the house gets from it. Oh well the house will stand and the kids had fun. Keeping busy makes you sleep well. Just another weekend of many I hope for the spring/summer.

Strong Museum in Rochester

2008-04-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Strong National Museum of Play, in Rochester was ausome the other day. We paid the extra and took the kids through the butterfly room. The room is temp/humidity controlled with oodles of butterlies. They are just everywhere. It was great for me, I really like it. By the end of our time (not sure but think it is only 10 minutes) I was so hot with heavy jeans on. The humidity is pretty high for the butterflies. My son got a nose bleed during this and we were asking everyone for tissues, no one had any. I saw a couple with a stroller so I had my daughter ask for wet wipe - that worked great. We had just a couple minutes left and my daughter wanted to go. She didn't like the heat. She wears short sleeves all year round so I am not surprised the heat bothered her. I would do it again. I had a butterfly the attendant had to remove from my shoulder before we left the room. We did that first thing in the morning and had the rest of the day for the rest of the place. We spent about six hours and were not bored at all. It is fun for any age I think. I can't wait to do it again.

Child Labor or not to use Child Labor

2008-04-16T17:32:00.001-07:00

The kids are playing and my hands are getting blisters from raking. Do I buy more rakes and make them help this weekend? I finally retired the rake after three hours. I did not run tonight but got a good workout in the yard. Now my kitchen floor is so bad I don't even want to walk on it because of all the dirt that has been carried in. I got out our floor vacuum and my youngest boy (A) is taking care of the floor. I feel a little bad that I am sitting doing this while he is "working". He is however singing "1,2,3 Like a Bird I sing..." so maybe he finds it fun. My Dad used to say if you hum or sing that means you are happy.

Mountain Goat & Small World

2008-04-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

Mountain Goat Training:
Saturday was a great race day. D was so nice and ran with me during our Mountain Goat training. It was a 6.5 run that I was supposed to do at 10K race pace. It helped having her Vic to see our time and speed. We started out way to fast at something like 9 minute mile. D has great stories (like M) to help pass the time and let me forget that I can’t breath. I PR’d. I think I did something like 10.5 minute mile which is darn good. My only other 10K race was the Bud run last fall where I did 11:15 pace (I had to look it up). I am so happy with this time. It is great. The weather was nice and sunny, I was sleeveless and warm – for Syracuse that is great.

Small World:
We always seem to talk about how small a world it is. D was telling me how her high school principle used to drive around and catch kids skipping school and she was caught once, she remembers him well. She went to something for work last week and ended having to speak with him. She remembered him but he did not remember her. Small world.

I have a brother that lives in Nashville and just started a new job. A year ago he came home for my parents 50th anniversary party and all the family camped on the family private property. We had about five or six campers, including Aunt/Uncle, parents, siblings, cousins. Anyway, the other day my brother went out to take a look at someone’s RV that was just towed in from the highway with a flat. Low and behold it was our Aunt & Uncle. The door was open so he walked in and the dog greeted him. Being a dog lover he remembered him from last summer and said hello to him by name. My Aunt and Uncle were just shocked to think someone in Nashville knows them when they live in Mississippi. It just shows what a small world it is.

Great Weekend

2008-04-07T04:24:00.001-07:00

My weekend started off great and ended great and everything in-between was great.

My excellent friend offered to run my 8 miles with me instead of doing her pace workout she was supposed to do. It is the longest of ever run and I don't know if I would of done it without her. The Mountain Goat training we are doing was scheduled to only run 6.5 miles so we continued on after reaching the "end" to do MY additional 1.5. It was nice that D was able to show me her old stomping ground and hear some old stories. The run in the city is beautiful with all the architecture. I must of been an architect in my past life.

The sun came out later and I raked the yard in the nice warm sun. My husband made a great dinner and I fell into bed totally exausted that night.

Sunday I was still in my bathrobe at 10:00am which usually never happens. I again worked in the yard and packed up the kids later to go to a park near the city. I ran for a little with kids on their bikes and walked a bit with my husband, on the one of the best spring days I can remember. Dinner at my in-laws was as norm but seemed better with having had a great weekend.

After putting the kids to bed, I again fell into bed and finally shut off the light at 9:30pm. I should of run with my friend D on Sunday morning but thought I would slow her down. Now that I found out that my friend M didn't run with her I feel bad that I didn't. Next time D - sorry.

I hope this is just the start of a great spring/summer we will have and deserve in Upstate NY.

8 Miles down only 5 more to go!

2008-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Can't believe I did it. I ran 8 miles today and lived to tell it. I guess maybe I am on my way to being ready for my 1/2 marathon. My friend D was offered to run the Mountain Goat training with me today so I didn't have to do it by myself. I can always thank both D and M for keeping me going. They both just talk on all the way. I definitely recommend finding some good friends that are better runners than yourself so they can keep you going when you can't even talk because of exaustion. I thank you D and M for helping me along.

Seasoned Runner now?

2008-04-02T03:48:00.000-07:00

I've run in the snow with yak tracks now. I ran a race with salt on the roads (if you are from a snowey area you know what I mean, not household salt!). I ran a race where they ran out of water because it was so warm. I've ran even when I really had to go to the bathroom. I've run in the rain. I did start out running one day with M when it was 20 degree out. We got up to the corner, the wind hit me, and I just stopped. I said I couldn't do it. M thought I was joking - I was not. We turned back and went running later that day. But now I am seasoned because I took a fall during the our Mountain Goat training Saturday. Does this mean I am ready for a 1/2 marathon - NOT!

Eye problems?

2008-04-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

I can't see close up anymore. Someone commented that my eyes are just old. So if my eyes are old does that make the rest of me old? Most everyone in my family wears glasses except me. Three of my siblings wore them from the time they were in 1st grade. I wonder if my children will need them. Have there really been studies on if eye problems are carried down from your parents or just your luck of the draw? Do carrots really help. Speaking of carrots, my husband bought some organic carrots that are white. They taste absolutely the same. Is the orange pigment added for people or what?

A new Chapter of Life

2008-03-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

Three good friends of mine retired today, I am so happy for them. Sad for me, I will miss them. I know I may see them a few times but not like our chats we have on occasion now. I am way to young to retire. One of my friends is only 49 and has 31 years here. That will never happen for me. Since I will never have 30 years in anywhere I think I should retire 30 years from when I started working. Of course my children will be in college then so I guess just quitting my job won't be an option.

I saw a old high school friend at Easter and wow she had put on weight (I guess I can't talk much - I know how it happens). It made me glad I'm trying to keep mine off.

I am a little sore today from running this weekend and my workout today was so hard. I was wondering if I am pushing myself to much for this 1/2 marathon. I only ran 5 1/2 and 5 miles (total 10 1/2) this weekend and I am sore. The half marathon is 8 weeks away - can I do it? Maybe I am getting old. I never used to think "Can I really do this".

Crazy Lady

2008-03-27T03:40:00.000-07:00

Am I the crazy lady my neighbors could be talking about? I was outside yesterday raking, shoveling, and picking up sticks. Yes we still have snow piles and lots of wet ugly leaves underneith so I was cleaning it up. The sooner the patio is cleaned we can cook out and use it! Yes, I am ready for spring. I got in the car this morning to hear we are expecting another 1-4 inches OF SNOW tonight. So, did I do all that work for nothing? Where is our spring - it is turning me crazy.

Everything Changes

2008-03-17T03:44:00.001-07:00

I cleaned my closet yesterday and found some "old" pictures. I found some when my youngest was around 2, I guess in perspective that isn't old, he just turned 5. I found other pictures of our first camping trip with our best friends. It is amazing how young we all looked. My daughter did comment, "Mommy you were fat then". I guess I should of told her that wasn't polite but I looked at the picture and had to agree. It made feel good and bad at the same time. Bad for being over weight then -how terribel I looked, but good that I have lost weight since and am trying to keep it off so I don't end up back there.

Looking at the camping trip with our friends made me sad a little because our best friends are moving out of state soon and things will be different. I am sure we will still camp with them in the summers but we definitely won't see as much of them as we do now. I think it also makes our time together now even more special.

tired for no reason?

2008-03-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

I think the very busy week caught up with me today. I went to my son's last hockey game and then retired at home for an afternoon/evening of being a couch potato. That is not normal for me but sometimes it is the best medicine. I did manage to get laundry done which never ends.

Both boys are done hockey for the season which I am really happy about. I have started my 1/2 marathon training. I am working on our summer camping and other vacation plans. I can't believe Easter is only a week away. Does anyone have any extra vacation I can use, it never seems I have enough!

First Race of Season

2008-03-08T17:15:00.000-08:00

Wow, am I out of shape. Four mile Tugg Hill Run. We lucked out and it didn't rain while we were running. It is the first time I've ever ran a race with the salt from the road crunching under our feet and snow all around us.

I ran with my friend M who was nice enough to stay with me. My friend T joined us for the last mile (he had already finished and ran the last mile with us). I think T helped me keep going, I was pretty bushed at the end. We finished the 4 mile, in 45 minutes while my friend D finished it in 31 minutes. I am sure T finished it even less, he said he didn't know what his time was. I think I am going to call D Speedie now.

I loved the atmosphere of the race. We saw some beautiful houses, lots of folks waving, clapping, and cheering us on. I think there was a bar at every corner and they all had music - not just music, some had bands and great singers. The only downfall were the hills, which I guess really made the race a good workout but my time would of been a lot better if I didn't have the hills.

D was awesome and gave M and I cat-in-the-hat hats to wear. I joked that it would hurt my time because of the wind resistance. It certainly didn't hurt D. It was great having everyone commenting and laughing at us. One guy said we were great looking women, the hats really topped it. Thanks D for the hats.

Definitely a fun race with over 1,300 people and a great start of the year. I would definitely recommend it and put it on my list of races to do again. ONLY DOWNFALL. The line was so long to get food after the race we skipped it. Maybe they will fix that for next year.

Final and last note. I must thank my great friend M for staying with me for the whole race. I am sure she could of done the race in a lot less time. The last mile, her and T talked about Boston Marathon and other things while I was breathing hard going up the last hill. She is a great friend to do this for me.

My Entry for FREE SCHWAG

2008-03-07T16:05:00.000-08:00

Surpise or not to Surprise

2008-02-29T08:30:00.001-08:00

We went roller skating/roller blading last week and my middle son's roller blades were too tight so we rented roller skates instead. His friend Big J did circles around him with his roller blades and my poor son just didn't enjoy it. He kept saying he wants to go back when he gets new roller blades. My husband found some on EBay that came with pads and a backpack to put it all in (great idea). We surprised him with it the other night. He was so happy he gave my husband a big hug and he isn't the hugging type, it was a precious moment.

I put an envelope in my daughters folder this morning labeled "book order". She called me up and asked what books I ordered. I told her it would be a surprise. She hung up on me. I guess she must of woke up on the wrong side of the bed. She must not like surprises. She did call me back and I told her I ordered a number of books and I think she will be pleased with my selection. She still wanted to know.

I received a delivery of flowers from my husband at work last week and it really made my day. It was a great surprise.

So are there people that don't like surprises? I know there are times when you probably shouldn't surprise folks but I really like the little surprises.

Tonight I am taking my daughter out for a movie and dinner without her brothers, girls night out. So should I bring the boys something home as a surprise or does that set a precedence they will expect something every time and then it won't be a surprise?

Is it still Winter?

2008-02-26T15:31:00.000-08:00

As I walked by the front window and looked out this afternoon I thought how excited I was to see the snow back in November. Although the snow is pretty I am way over it.

Things I've been busy with this winter:
1) Hockey with the boys
2) Running - getting ready for my 1/2 marathon in May
3) watching movies and drinking hot chocolate to stay warm
4) Work - very busy these days
5) Baking - ask M about my Banana Bread and my chocolate pie!
6) Running the kids to activities - Boy Scouts, hockey, piano, and religion
7) Snowmobiling (always need Motrin after!)

My Dad had surgery last montha (doing great recovering quickly) and I actually picked up a needle and did a little embroidery while waiting in the waiting room. I really need to get back to doing that more. I find it very relaxing and the end result is always beautiful.

I worked a few 1/2 days last week while the kids were off for "winter break" - like we need a reminder it is winter. Anyway we went roller skating which I enjoyed more than I thought I would after all these years. It is great exercise. I couldn't keep up with M who joined us with her three kids. I took the kids to see Alvin and the Chipmunks (again with M and crew) and took them bowling. These are the thing I used to do with my husband before kids. Maybe some day I will have the time do some of these things again with my husband.

I am already looking at my next race coming up soon but it is in conflict with a hockey tournament, and the Pinewood Derby. I guess all these activities sure makes the winters go by a LITTLE bit faster. What else would we do during our long winters in NY!

Little Things

2008-02-14T03:48:00.000-08:00

I have to remember my youngest son A who instead of saying Three it comes out sounding like flee. He then gets mad at us if we do it. He definitely knows the difference - just can't say it.

My daughter V knows how to get my son S really mad. I remember when I was growing up I remember how my older brother D could get my younger brother H mad like that. I sit back and think how things repeat and how life doesn't change.

We were all surprised to find old pictures of my Mom's parents when they became US citizens and my Grandmothers picture looks JUST like my niece. It is also strange the mole my Grandfather had (was documented on his form) my same niece also has in the exact same place.

As I go out every weekend and run with my friends M and D I get a little sad to know that M will be moving this summer and the memory of our weekend runs will always be in my mind. In many years something will remind me of that as well, just like the above. Maybe our daughters or sons will take up running with friends and it will bring back a flood of memories of days gone by.

This is the year my son S doesn't want to do valentines - should I write it in his school book for him to laugh about some day?

So do I live to much in the past? Do I just enjoy remembering the good times? Am I really a historian at heart? Maybe I am a little of all of that - aren't we all?

What can be considered exercise?

2008-01-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

Does it depend on how fit you are? When I did weight watchers years ago it said any activity that you up off your but and NOT eating could be counted so I counted my bowling.

Now my trainer/friend P said I can't count bowling. So how about Ping Pong? You do get your heart rate up there more than walking I think. I am already looking at my marathon schedule that starts Monday and figuring out how/when to fit in the exercise I will need to do.

It is definitely harder in the winter to get out and get exercise.

Note: I am jealous of M's sister who got a ping pong table for Christmas. I might have to look around to see how much they cost now!

Peer Pressure?

2008-01-17T04:37:00.000-08:00

You hear about peer pressure when kids are in high school and college but you rarely hear about it later in life. I guess I am in the "later in life" stage and I just realize we still have it. Of course the peer pressure comes, not just from friends but from the family.

I am peer pressured (not hard mind you) into running with my wonderful friends. Of course I peer pressure them also.

My brother peer pressures me into going to Massena to visit the folks "Come on we're all going, it will be fun".

My husband and my good friend M & B say, "Come on, lets get baby sitter and go out".

My kids peer pressure me into taking them out to eat - humm I don't have to cook.

The difference between peer pressure for a teenager vs an adult: teenagers are usually doing something illegal or something they know their parents would definitely not approve of. As an adult the peer pressure usually is to do something instead of vegging out in front of TV so really would be good for you.

So who says peer pressure is bad!

"After" Christmas Family Letter

2008-01-15T04:09:00.000-08:00

My husband hates reading the family letters we get at Christmas time. I enjoy some of them. I think some are just bragging a whole lot. I was thinking of putting one together since I am so proud of my kids and all, something like this:
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My daughter V has grown so tall and beautiful her teeth however want to go their own way so are now in braces. Our middle son S was doing so well with hockey he decided we needed some excitement in our lives and has decided to be goalie. So instead of adult teeth coming in they will be going out. Our youngest A is a very smart boy and we are very proud of him also. Pre-k has not been a challenge at all for him. We were shocked to see that he can read already. Now we just have to keep the Maxim magazines out of his room!

My husband K and I have been very busy running the kids around and we don't see much of each other. I started running about nine months ago (fitting it in where I could). K saw me the other day and asked where his wife was. I guess I should let him know I am his wife but it is more fun this way!
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So what do you think, should I send it out? It says a little of what each of us have done for the year - doesn't it without bragging to much???

Do I have the Bug?

2008-01-09T07:16:00.000-08:00

I am now signed up for my first marathon. Don't get excited, it is only a 1/2 marathon. I am already worried about running that far. So far I have only run at most at one time 6 miles. My very good friend M reassures me it will be fine. She has done a schedule for us that starts at the end of January and we only go up 1 1/2 miles every two weeks so it should be good. I am still worried.

I am excited about this race because I will be with M and D and M and I are planning to run it together. It is always more fun on a long run to have someone to do it with. I don't mind listening to my music when I am by myself but I guess we aren't allowed to use them on races. I don't understand this. I don't think I can keep my mind occupied for a 13 mile run - for that matter 26 something. So therefore, I am very happy to have M running with me. It will however leave D running a very quick pace to qualify for Boston and do the full 26. We will be there at the end for her.

So I am booked for the race. Now D has us a hotel room we are going to share. So in total I figure this race will cost me over $100. I guess that is cheap considering there are people that travel from other states and probably don't share car/gas/hotel like I am fortunate to do. Who says running doesn't cost much.

Memories to remember

2008-01-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas was great. S opened his gifts faster than his siblings and says to me "It's ok Mom that I didn't get as much because I still like what I got". He, however, got the same as his siblings. I had to point that out to him. I don't think he believed me.

As my friend M was pointing out in her blog they have bumby cookies while we have bustard and our crousants are now cassoroles so I completely understand. These are memories you will remember forever.

When I was growing up we picked on my youngest brother and called him a boys name from the other street that no one liked "Hector". My older sister's don't remember this because they were in high school/moved out by the time we started doing this. When my brother went to college he still used the name and still many years later still goes by "Hector" - most people don't know his real name. Don't ask me about Homer the guost, who lived at our house.

It is the funny things that stick from childhood. Bustard, bumpy cookies, Hector, and who knows what else are funny things that will only make sense to family members but these are the memories that make a family a family. Enjoy them as long as you can.

So Sorry

2007-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wish you hadn't said something. It happens to me probably more than some people because I talk too much and seem to put both feet in my mouth. It is my own fault and you would think I would learn. Last night a friend of my daughters wanted a combo of food that was very strange --- I don't remember what it was, something like ice cream and pickles. I said what are you pregnant - I instantly wanted to take it back. She is only 11, I was only referencing the food combo and she probably didn't get the reference. Of course earlier this week I did the same thing - stuck my foot in my mouth with the same girl/parents. I just hope the girl/parents can forgive me for my big mouth. I hate to think I am turning into my Mom. I will try harder not too!.

By the way, the Nutcracker with my daughters best friend H was awesome. It was the best show I've seen and I've seen the Nutcracker three times in Syracuse in the past three or four years. Of course having someone on stage you know really makes it even more special. And of course she did a great job. It must be a great experience to say "I was in the Nutcracker".

Busy, Busy, Busy

2007-12-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

I've been busy baking, wrapping, shopping, singing Christmas songs, decorating, writing cards. Now, if my fireplace worked I would be ready for Christmas. I still have a little shopping to do and a little baking but the bulk of my getting ready for Christmas is done. I have left it up to my husband to figure out what is for Christmas Eve dinner so we haven't started any of that shopping but we have time.

V just got her braces yesterday and is very tired and sore. A is over tired these days because of a cold and poor S is just tired of all his homework. I thinkChristmas break will be good for all of us. I am tired of my sore back and finally went to the doctors for some drugs - hope they kick in soon but don't put me to sleep, not that I don't need it BUT I don't have time to sleep. They say sleep is over rated but I disagree, it is my favorite pass time.

Running - hum - I'm thinking about it. Diet - Hummmm - what is that?

Stages of Life

2007-12-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

Life definitely has different stages and every one is unique. Of course if you are one that chooses to not have children you may skip a few of these stages. I think I am moving into a stage I have heard is one of the most difficult.

Youngster Stage, High school Stage, College Stage, Single Stage, Couple Stage, Married Stage, Babies Stage, Kids-Toddler Stage, Kids-Teenage Stage, Kids-college Stage, Kids moved out on their own Stage, Kids married Stage, Grandkid Stage, Retirement Stage, Dependent Stage
think I am between Kids–Toddler and Kids-Teenage stages. I left my daughter home alone for about a ½ hour the other day and she only called me twice – while I was running. I can’t say what stage I’ve enjoyed the most but I have definitely learned something from every stage. I am definitely not an expert in any of the stages and would not like to repeat them. I do look forward to the retirement stage some day. I try not to give parents advice in stages I have not been in yet. I do sometimes give parents ideas of things to try on stages I have been through. Do not potty train too soon, they will train you rather than you train them. Talk to your kids, someday they will talk back and then you wish you could get them to stop. Let them cry – it is good for their lungs and it’s payback for when they become teenagers and make you cry. Don’t let husband watch a toddler when sports are on. Definitely let kids know how much work they were when they were babies. Give lots of hugs and kisses because some day they will need to help you on the last stage! I probably missed a few stages but maybe someone will enlighten me of a stage I am not aware of yet!

Winter already?

2007-12-05T04:29:00.000-08:00

It sure looks like winter outside my house even though the radio said it is still officially fall. The picture looks like something I should use on a postcard “Wish I wasn’t here”. By the way the evergreen tree you see next to the little snowman is really a dead tree my son S found when we were searching the Christmas tree farm. He actually asked one of the workers how much it cost. I thought he would laugh since it had not one needle on the whole thing. Anyway there it sits in our yard like it belongs. Only my son S would think of doing something like that. He definitely thinks the glass is ½ full. For S everything has possibility. As I was out freezing my toes last night hanging the lights on the front porch, he was laying down making a snow angel. It was a perfect evening last night. It wasn’t really too cold and it was lightly snowing and no wind. It would have been a beautiful evening to go for a run. Of course when I do have time and feel like going running it will be 20 below and windy. Only my good friend D is brave enough to go out in any weather. She should have been a mailman instead of a teacher.

Let it Snow

2007-12-04T03:58:00.000-08:00

M had a great plan to write why the snow is OK….Funny how our lists differ.

1. I tell the kids “Go out and Play in the snow, when you come in I will make hot chocolate”
This way I get the house without kids for a little bit. It is so peaceful.

2. Curl up with a blanket and watch It’s a wonderful life.

3. Turn on the fireplace and covet the TV to watch a movie.

4. Watch the kids make a snowman from the warm confy house.

5. The kids cute faces with red cheeks from the cold and wind. All bundled up so they can
barely move.

6. Not go out in the evening.

7. Excuse to make cookies – have to warm up the house.

8. Can leave all the food for Christmas dinner in the garage because it IS a cold storage
building. Animals won’t smell the food – it will probably freeze in a matter of minutes.

9. Snowmobiling

10. When you are having a bad hair day just leave the hat ON.

The Thanksgiving Race

2007-11-29T03:45:00.000-08:00

I forgot all about blogging this race we did. We had a whole slew of people and when I got to the race I saw people I knew from work also. I followed my good friend M to the race, speeding through some streets more than the speed limit! She had a full car with her Mom & Dad, D and her son, and I had my niece S. That was seven of us and we met my friend S there along with P who I knew would win something cause she is so fast.

It was cold and rainy but I think everyone enjoyed it. I ran with my friend S and visited the whole time. We at least met in the nice warm cafeteria of the school so we could warm up before and after the race. They had pizza which I was afraid would upset my stomach but D said it was great but couldn't get a second piece because it was gone already - it must of been good.

We had to wait around at the end for the prizes because of course D and P both won. They are lucky to be in different age groups. I will have to figure out if they will ever be in the same - I then would have to say D would be in big trouble. We were like the last ones to leave because the womens age group awards of course were the last and FORGOTTEN! Good thing all the women were hanging around waiting so the announcer said thanks to everyone for coming and all the women went running up - excuse me....

M did a great 5k run, she did not PR but they announced her as having won the 10k race. It was even in the paper and on the web that way. That is the way to do it, sign up for the 10k but run the 5k. They come in at the same time, same place so who would know. They didn't time us at the start so no way to tell.

We took a picture at the end but we had no one around (because we got out so late), my camera was in the car and so M took one picture and I took another. It was a nice run and I would do it again.

I don't think any of us PR'd, oh wait M's Mom & Dad might have. I did a very slow 35 minutes which is definitely was not my fastest or slowest. I did a nice jog with S so that was much more fun than trying to PR on this race. I will wait and PR when the weather is nice and less hills on the route.

I got home and K had started the turkey and the house smelled great. I started in on all the fixins and my parents showed up and the day was in full swing. It was a great Thanksgiving.
I really enjoyed M's whole family coming over for desert and drinks in the evening. I think there was only twelve of them and we had thirteen in my family. I was surprised I didn't feel crowded in the house. Everyone got along and had a nice time (at least I hope).

Good Years - Bad Years

2007-11-27T16:06:00.000-08:00

My daughter has no problems in school but my middle son struggles. I believe he had sleep deprivation from the time he was a baby until his surgery when he was 2 1/2 to remove his adnoids. He finally slept through the night shortly after his surgery. Anyway, his teacher this year is making it a bad year for school. We spend at least an hour a day on homework. We even had a number of sheets during the holiday weekend when he is only in third grade. Many other of the parents are having problems with this teacher also. It sure makes getting home from work SOOOOO enjoyable. I certainly don't blame it all on the teacher but I know he does better when the teacher is more organized and can handle rumbunchious (spelling???) boys. I know of at least three other children in this same class that are struggling - I guess I won't expect straight A's or even B's this year. I just hope he doesn't lose his enjoyment for school and his willingness to try his best. I am sure the teacher is doing the best she can but it just doesn't seem fair for the kids that aren't perfect!

Tonight I screemed at the top of my lungs at my son because he couldn't remember a story the teacher read to them last week. Of course it was probably Monday or Tuesday and we had the holiday in between. If he couldn't do the three pages of homework then the teacher WILL (and has) given 0's. I just don't want him to fail because of not remembering. I sent a note to school asking the teacher if we could borrow the book or get a copy if it was short enough. I got no reply. The night before he was supposed to finish a page but it referenced a map we did not have. I see tonight we have the map so at least we can finish this. I sent one page of homework to school and she wrote on it "paragraph" and gave it back. So does this mean he has to rewrite it with paragraphs or is this just a note for us for the future. I have no idea. I usually end up calling one of the other Mom's to see what she thinks the teacher really wants us to do. She sent home spelling words this week (always hand written) with the word equiptment. I can see having a typo but.... Again this is going to be a bad year!

little things

2007-11-21T11:37:00.000-08:00

We were sitting down for dinner one night and my son S asks "Can you pass the Bustard?" He really meant mustard but we had passed him the butter just before. So now we pick on him, we will say Hey S, do you want some Bustard???. The other night I made croissants for dinner and again we were all sitting eating and S asked if he could have another casserole. I really lost it. S was so upset but it was so funny. These are the little things I am always saying I should right down to remember some day. When the kids are grown I will miss these little things.

Courteous and kind???

2007-11-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

I went to three different stores today to get Thanksgiving stuff and a few other things we needed. I was really surprised how nice, patient, kind, and courteous everyone was. This includes the shoppers and the employees. I was thinking it was because I went early and people that were shopping weren't in as much of a rush as some folks that are stopping right after work. Usually we shop in the evening and it seems everyone is edgy and grumpy and rude.

I was very impressed with one cashier at Walmart that was so patient with an older women that seemed a little confused on how to pay with a credit card. I should of gotten her name and wrote to Walmart on her excellent customer service.

It is terrible that we are surprised these days when employees are patient and kind, and feel we need to reward them. It should be a norm but in this age it is the opposite. We tend to complain a lot more than we are to compliment.

One complaint for the day: I couldn't find the Cranberries because the store decided to move EVERY CAN to a display at the front of the store that NO ONE even walks by until you are LEAVING the store. OK - I got that off my chest.

Getting Ready for Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how much time it takes getting everything ready for Thanksgiving. I guess I could buy the pies and rolls, then it wouldn't take me long at all. I really like homemade so I guess I'll have to spend the time. I am going to make six pies tomorrow. I will get as much ready tomorrow so I don't have to spend all Thursday doing it. So instead, I will spend all Wednesday. So I will do all this work to be eaten in less than an hour. So why did I volunteer to do it? As much as I don't like to cook, I think I like my own food better than others. So since I am volunteering I can be sure I make what I like, the way I like it. K might smoke the turkey and I love the taste that way. So as much work as it is to get the smoker out of the shed it turns out so moist it is worth the work.

I am running in a race in the morning and hope to stay warm, who's idea was this anyway! My parents will be in about the same time I will be getting home. I expect my brother to be over some time in the afternoon. We will play a little cards and have a little drink and lots of food. I am hoping our friends M&B and their family will come over in the evening for desert and drinks. I

I don't think Thanksgiving is really about the turkey but more about getting together with friends and family. I wish everyone a very happy Turkey day and don't forget black Friday!

You think you have it tough

2007-11-16T06:47:00.000-08:00

My boss and good friend is having it much tougher than I ever could. Her husband has cancer and has been out of work for about two years. He works in the medical area and can't be around any germs. Their first attempts of beating it didn't work so he is now in Boston. Insurance only covers about 1/2 so they have signed over their 401's to pay the medical. That of course doesn't cover the travel expenses of gas and hotel and food. To top of this he hasn't had a paycheck in two years because they didn't have long term insurance. I don't have it, probably most people don't. It makes you think, maybe it would be a good idea. If it happened to my husband and had to choose 401 or his life - hum... There is no choice.

I think how tough I have it with headlice and stomach bug and then think of my friend, how lucky I am we are all healthy.

What a Week!

2007-11-13T09:14:00.000-08:00

Our hamster died, our cat died, two kids have head lice again, my youngest is running a fever today and all three had coughs and runny noses. So, I cleaned up the hamster cage, made a grave stone, Berried the cat, shampooed the kids, did tons of laundry, gave the kids all medicine before bed, and fell into bed just after them. I am surprised I am still typing; even my fingers should be tired. I did manage to run with my friend D this weekend, change my bedroom around, took kids to the MOST, make homemade donuts, watched two movies, and help K try to finish the wood trim on the door. Did I tell you we are also getting our roof done? At least we aren't crazy enough to do that ourselves (ok we are, but we didn't!). My diet is shot to he.. but otherwise I think I am still in one piece and doing ok.

I've been tagged

2007-11-07T05:41:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by my friend M. I am such a novice on this and feel really terrible that even her Mom knows how to setup a link in her blog and I do not. But anyway, I will write about myself as M and her Mom have done.

1. Being a Mom is the greatest and I hope my kids feel they can talk to me about anything. I also hope to be able to say like M's Mom that they will feel I am their best friend.

2. Yes I am married. It does help being that I am trying to raise three children. We definitely have different personalities and that is good for a marriage and good for the kids to see and be used to. I sometimes forget to include K because I get to wrapped up with the kids. I often find myself talking about "BK" Before Kids. We had several years we were together before we had kids and life was a lot different. I would not change things at all and there are times we all get frustrated but I believe we are strong and having good friends that also have a good marriage that we sometimes go out without kids so we can remember we are still a couple.

3. I'm the "Man" as M and D call me. I usually say I can bring home the bacon and fry it up in a pan. I don't even remember what commercial that was from. I can do many "manly" chores around the house and my best tools are my cordless drill and the circular saw and I really would love to have a compound miter saw.

4. The Baker in me. I can't cook - I admit it, seems like most everything I try to make turns out like Sh... but I can BAKE and unfortunately I love to eat what I bake. I love to try new recipes and change them at the same time. I love to bake for my friends so I don't have to eat it all myself.

5. Yes I work also. It sure makes it tough to do all the things I do at home but I don't know what I would do without it. I keeps my mind challenged and I get to work with some great people. Don't ask me how to do a crazy link on a blog but I can program a scanner for a very large company to receive their inventory - go figure!

6. Travel. I love to go places. I think I get really cabin fever in the winter because we go so long without going anywhere. Even going to Massena to visit the folks helps me. I guess that is why I like camping because it feels like getting away from home but still being comfortable in your own bed. I always want to go somewhere by spring time and it is hard to convince K that we "really" should go somewhere. I don't know why I am this way but it is just part of me.

7. Wow - 7. Yes I run with my crazy friends M & D. I used to run in high school and always felt it clears the mind and just makes you feel better overall. I thought how I would like to get back into and now that I've lost almost 60 pounds I can actually run up to 6 miles and not think it is a "Long" way to go. I am so happy to have friends both at home and work to help me keep going and not give up. 1/2 marathon here we come!

Ever have a pet funeral?

2007-11-07T03:42:00.000-08:00

The first pet I lost was a cat and of course it was in the middle of winter and the ground was so frozen we couldn't dig a hole. I refuse to do like some crazy people and put it in my chest freezer so we took it to the vet and it cost us a fortune. All three of our fish died within days of each other but they just got flushed and the kids didn't make us have a funeral.

Well now Fuzzball has passed this life quietly onto better things. We dug a hole in the FRONT yard, a requested by my middle son. We also made a wood cross that said "RIP Here lies Fuzzball with his birth and death dates. I know my middle son is emotional and cried a bit a bed time but otherwise was pretty good about it - it was his pet after all. The other two didn't seem to care at all. My youngest just went back to playing the computer game after we told him. They did however all attend the funeral. How long before he wants a new pet?

I do have to admit I like the absence of animals to have to deal with when we go away on trips. Now we are only left with three cats. Two are 18 and one looks like skeleton with bones. I actually washed his feet the other day because he isn't washing himself anymore. It is really a tough decision to put them down or not. They've lived this long, what's a few more. I do not plan on getting any more when the two older ones goes. One is just enough and I don't think she will mind being an only child.

I guess this is the life of a mother.

The things we catch

2007-11-06T07:41:00.000-08:00

I blame it on school. My kids have been healthy all summer. Two have had head lice and two have had the stomach virus going around. I feel sorry for my daughter who was the lucky one so far to have both. I am waiting for the stomach virus to go through the rest of the family as it did for my brother's family. Two different things already and it isn't even Thanksgiving yet. Can't wait for the rest of the year!

Fun Halloween

2007-11-01T09:54:00.000-07:00

We had a nice time with friends and family. It sure makes it busy the way we do it, but I don't think I would change it. Maybe next year I can talk my niece into handing out candy since this year she trick-or-treated but didn't even wear a costume. I really don't like that. Seems like if you can go beg for candy you should at least look silly.

I posted our "team" picture but my hair was really pretty bad. I hope it doesn't look like that all the time and I just don't realize it. I hope it was that I was having a really bad day.

Just Another Day

2007-10-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Had to set my alarm on Sunday to be sure to be up by 7:00. D and M were going to be at my house at 8:15 for yet another race. I of course scurry around the house picking up the messes left from the night before - not sure why because more will be there by the time I get back. D & M are always right on time so I don't finish my breakfast and head out the door with the new halloween costumes I made for the three of us. I don't think D's son was upset I didn't make one for him. D & M didn't mind even wearing them - that was pretty good. At least I didn't cover their faces or make them wear wigs or makeup. We were all M&M's. The race was a nice run but truely not one you can 'PR' as they call it, since we had to wait for other running, take turns passing folks, slow down for the very slippery bridges which I think one was a mile long. It was however fun and Me and M stayed together and chatted. I felt really impressed with M when she asked me how I was doing as she ran with a box of tissues - always thinking of every one else. It started raining at the end of the race but we were in the woods at that time so didn't really get any of it. After we finished we found out it was hail and it decided to do it again a little later. It was a nice run, my friend P who joined us for the race took first place in her age group and D took first in hers (they were in different groups). M and I are just there for the bagels!. We did a quick trip to the mall and home. I did an even quicker trip in the shower to head to walmart for a bday gift and Chuck-e-cheese for a party. After that back to Walmart for snacky foods for an evening with my parents. Rush home and hope to pick up the house again but not in time for my parents and brother and his family to walk in the door. My Mom was so nice to comment how I didn't pick up my pile of cloths off my bedroom floor. Of course she is referring to my stanky cloths from my early run. I was planning on throwing them in the wash but just didn't have time. That is the life of a "Fast" paced Mom. I am sure M can relate and D and P have been through it also! I fixed things for lunch and at 8:30PM when the chillens should be fast asleep counting sugar plums, my oldest comes down and says Mom I need index cards for school tomorrow - hence a third trip to Walmart. It cost me more in gas for those darn index cards than they cost to buy them. You think she could of mentioned it the other two times we were there ---- NOOOO.

Envy?

2007-10-23T05:21:00.001-07:00

There are so many things I can do, but much more I can't. I am also not strong in many areas - don't ask me about names of actors/actresses or movie titles (although I love watching them). I love music but can't tell you artist's names. I can't knit or crochea, play piano, can't do electric, or plumbing. I really would love to knit or play piano some day but as for the others - not really interested. I think the more you know how to do something the more you get involved in doing them. I am the trick of all trades but the master of none. I guess my best would be baking. I think I learned to sew out of neccessity. That is probably how many people learn the things they know how to do. Probably how most men get into doing car work. I find with sewing I have to be in the mood. I think I like making costumes because they are fun and enjoyable when done. Baking - I could do it every day and I don't think I would get bored or out of the mood. I guess you call that a passion. So now I am off to make costumes for myself and my running buddies - it will be funny when we are running the "Halloween Run" on Sunday. I don't know how we will have a good pace - we will be laughing all the way to the finish - since it is only a 5K.

Eastwood is very pretty in the fall

2007-10-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

The 1st Annual Eastwood Park-to-Park Autumn Run was great. It was a 5 mile run through Eastwood. They even had chips. They were only for the finish but that was a lot better than no chips at all that I've done on some races this summer. The run was beautiful since we were at peak for our fall colors but the path brought us by some beautiful houses and the volunteers and folks that cheered us on were the most I've seen for any race. The hills were the ONLY downfall, I would do this race again in a minute - well maybe in a few weeks. I have to admit I have thank D for helping me have a much better pace than I would have on my own. She tries to tell us she doesn't push but she does - those darn long legs, she just can't help it. If M or I needed to slow down I am sure she would have but I think she pushed us just enough. M asked me a couple times if I was ok, maybe I looked hot, it was very thoughtful but I was to winded to say thank you then, but thank you M for your support. The weather was absolutely beautiful and I don't think I've ever seen such blue skies in October. I just wanted to sit in the grass and enjoy the warm sun the rest of the day but at last M said it was time to go. Oh, and our time was 54 minutes which I am so happy with (even with hills!). I look forward to next fall and doing this again.

P.S. I blogged my race because M and D said I had to. I am glad I did. Thank you.