Can't or Won't?

It's late. I'm going to admit that I was staring at my closet for about 20 minutes before I opened my laptop and started typing. You see, tomorrow is the Fall fashion show at the Wauwatosa Women's Club (you should all join!), and I want to look nice. Duh, you say, but it's more the fact that I have to see my former Boot Camp coach, Sandi, than the fact that it's a fashion show.

I want to show her that thanks to all this working out, and a lot of her encouragement, I'm a whole size smaller than I was a year ago and I've stuck to it! And I don't mean, I'm a size smaller because I bought smaller pants and darn it, I'm going to make the zipper go up no matter what. I'm comfortably a size smaller and a whole lot healthier!

I think a lot of health is determining if you can't or won't do something about your lifestyle. Can't = impossible, and that's a load of hooey. As it says in the Bible, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." If you are choosing not to get off your couch, then you're saying "can't", and that's something you can change. However, if you're missing an arm and you say, "I can't do push-ups" that's legitimate. If you are refusing to do something, then that's a "won't", and you probably just need an attitude check.

Sandi, like me, hated the word "can't". She knew that if you just tried a little harder, you could! She once told me, "when you think you can't do any more, do 10 more". If people would just choose to at least walk for 30 minutes (10 minutes three times a day counts) or use a stretchy-band, they could do more than they even think is possible!

Fitness is achievable! If I can do it, you can do it! Heck, if I can learn all this crazy stuff, then there is hope that I'll find just the right outfit for tomorrow!

I don't remember where I read this quote, but I love it, and I'll leave you with it while I find an outfit to wear tomorrow:
"Impossible is nothing. Impossible is a big word used by small people. Nothing is impossible."

I spoke too soon...

OK, so I recently wrote about taking time and not getting sick.
Whoops!
The day after I wrote that, I got strep throat!
Facepalm.
Fortunately, at least it's a real infection where they can give you penicillin, and then you get better quickly unlike a virus where all they can tell you is "good luck". Fortunately, it has been over 48 hours, and now I am no longer contagious nor do I sound like Darth Vader!
Whoo hoo!
Sadly, I am still a bit congested. This means that I had to miss the race this morning, but thanks to my friend Kristi (*waves) I'll still get my race packet [free t-shirt]. Next year! I'll run it next year!
So, thanks to everyone who gave me home remedies, advice, and general well-wishes. I appreciate you all!
Love,
Jen

I'll rest when I'm dead

Dear sadly neglected blog readers,
Today you're going to learn a truth that you might already know, even if you may already be aware of it.
You see, back in high school when I foolishly refused to miss school unless I was contagious, bleeding, or broken, I jam-packed my days with classes, clubs, sports, homework, volunteering and even being in the spring musical my Senior year (insert your guffaws here). I was involved in so many things that my over-achiever-ness was hitting all-time highs. I had a very smart, very competitive class all striving for scholarships and outstanding GPA's. My motto at the time was, "I'll rest when I'm dead."
After my over-achiever self got herself a scholarship to college and charged ahead into the major of her choice and without ever wavering. I did it again. I was in clubs, on student government, played intramural sports, had three internships, traveled, held a job and helped organize the senior farewell reception. Oh yeah, and I remained grade-anal so I could wear the special tassels and get that shiny stamp on my diploma.
Fortunately, while this makes me sound like some crazed, teen-movie do-gooder (which I probably was), I got a full time, benefits-providing job within 3 months of graduation. Whoo hoo! Unfortunately, I didn't learn that it's OK to NOT pack your life full of activities and whatnot landing my 23-year-old butt on my parents' couch with mono. I went from running 5Ks to napping on the landing a measly nine steps up from the first floor. Let me point out that prior to this, I hadn't taken a nap since I had a 12-day hospital stay and 5 surgeries at the age of 10.
Lessons learned: humility, patience and napping.
One kicker here: I sometimes have to relearn those post-mono lessons. Take last week as an example. I managed to get a bazillion things done including being able to show up for the Halloween party dressed as Betty Crocker complete with three dessert options for the other ghouls.
Why am I telling you all this? First, because I apologize for not writing sooner and this is my explanation. Second, because it's my blog and I can. Third, because I have two races coming up this weekend and I want to tell you about them.
I can just imagine you intelligent reader thinking, "Woman, did you not learn anything from the previous paragraphs? Do we need to remind you about the stairs?" Well, I can tell you that I'm running on Saturday and walking on Sunday, so no worries that I'm trying to pull a two-fer.
The first is the Warrior 5K: This 5K and 2.5 mile walk, which serves as a fundraiser and community outreach for the WLC cross country teams. It begins at 10 a.m. at Greenfield Park.
The second is the Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis: This event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. at the Milwaukee County Zoo to benefit the 1.1 million people in Wisconsin who are affected by arthritis or one of it's 100 related diseases.
So, once again, I apologize for neglecting you, my readers, but I hope you'll forgive me and stay tuned for adventures in guitar lessons and my last races of the year!
Thanks

Coming from behind

Ok, so except for those few times that I'm running late, ahem, I'm usually on top of the ball. I've got a handle on life, usually. Then I sit down at my laptop after a very productive day (you should see my apartment sparkle!), and read a post from my friend Kalie who blogs from Texas and I realize that I'm behind. I haven't been consistent lately with running or posting.
Fail.
So here's an update, and hopefully something to think about. My last run was the Blazer Race, and sadly, I got lost once again and missed the start. I had to sit in my car and watch as the runners took off at the sound of the gun. The police officer, who I realize was only doing his job, would not let me through so that I could start the race. Instead, I got my number and my t-shirt and walked the two miles with the other walkers (which I had to run to catch up with) in the rain.
Fortunately, being a part of that race helped support Bethlehem Lutheran School and the Menomonee Falls Fire Department. While I joked about how hot firefighters are in a previous post (and they are), it was a little different running that day. You see, that race was on September 11.
In 2001, I was going to my AP Literature class and thinking about the quiz I had to take. Then I heard Billy G. say something about a bomb and I thought how dumb he was to talk about that in a school. I sat down in my normal spot still thinking about myself and that quiz. Then Carl came in and told Mrs. B. that we HAD to turn on the TV. I saw the second plane hit the tower. We were all stunned. We barely moved. Jessie S. started crying because her dad was supposed to go to DC that day (he ended up being safe and sound). We still had to take that stupid quiz. I think Mrs. B. ended up throwing them out.
In 2010, I obeyed a police office and ran for a local fire department. Somehow that didn't seem like much considering how they put their lives on the line for us all the time.
As with all New Year's resolutions, this one needs a kick in the pants. I think Kalie's post and remembering that every race I run is for a very good cause is a nice swift kick in the behind.

Running for Lung Health, Education, Firefighters, Children's Hospital, etc.

Hi all!
If I can swing it I'll be running like a crazy person for a while.
Wait, I just realized what I wrote. While I would normally ask that the peanut gallery please keep their mouths shut, I do love when you all write comments, so bring on the crazy jokes!
Now, down to business.

Here are the runs that I'm planning on doing for the next foreseeable future:
1. My good friend Rulena pointed out the 3rd annual Free to Breathe® 5K Run/Walk in Southern Wisconsin. The event provides an opportunity for lung cancer advocates, survivors and the community to come together to raise awareness and support to fight this disease. 100% of the net proceeds from this event will benefit the National Lung Cancer Partnership’s research, education and awareness programs.
When: August 29, 2010, 7:00 a.m. - Event day registration opens, 8:30 a.m. - Run/Walk begins
Where: Veteran's Park, 1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202
Registration Fees/Deadlines: $20 Online (closes Wednesday, August 25), $25 Event day on August 29, 2010
WHY: Lung health is essential to all-around health. If you can't breathe, it can lead to cardiovascular injury, brain damage and death. Lung cancer is deadly! If I can swing this race between my co-worker's wedding the night before and a wedding shower Sunday afternoon, I'm going to do it. I'm all for supporting anything anti-cancer!

2. My friend and fellow committee member, Lisa, pointed this race out to me: The Blazer Race is a fun, community event to raise dollars for the Germantown Fire Department Auxiliary and the Education Fund at Bethlehem Lutheran School. This will help fund the Survive Alive House, equipment for firefighters and education materials for the GFD. It will also support tuition assistance, teacher training, technology and special events for Bethlehem Lutheran School.
When: Saturday, September 11, 2010
Where: Bethlehem Lutheran School at N108 W14290 Bel Aire Lane in Germantown.
Registration Fees/Deadlines: $15 for adults by September 6, $20 walk-up registrations on September 11, 2010 (Children are $10 no matter what)
WHY: I want to help this race get off the ground, so you should all come run or walk! Also, as a person who was TERRIFIED of fire as a child, I really want to help kids learn about fire safety. Firefighters are also wonderful people who risk their lives for the safety of others. They're also usually very attractive. Bethlehem Lutheran School really needs support too to give children the best education possible based on Christian principles and Gospel truths.

3. I've walked for Brigg's and Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital a number of times and I'm excited to run it this year! This run/walk has raised more than $11 million dollars with the help of outstanding community support. This makes it possible for Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (CHW) to provide medical care for more than 325,000 patient visits each year. Note: for runners, this is an 8K option only.
When: Saturday, October 9, 2010, runners' mass start at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Marquette University Campus (the pretty lawn outside the Student Union building on Wisconsin Ave)
Registration Fees/Deadlines: $25 for adults online before the race ($5 chip timing for 8K runners), $35 day of for runners, $30 for walkers (Children rates are different) NOTE: If you register online, your stuff will be shipped to you for $3.50. If you want to avoid that, then you should register at one of the registration sites.
WHY: As a 10-year-old child, I spent 12 days living at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (5th floor!) because I had osteomyelitis (bone infection) in the growth joint of the big toe on my left foot. Seven surgeries, two casts, a wheelchair, a CVL line, crutches, nine months in two bledsoe boots, two months of missed 4th grade, a bajillion dreaded needles, tears, balloons, and relearning how to walk... Long story short, THANK YOU to the wonderful care of my parents, the doctors (most of them), nurses (I still love Janelle), and the PT crew, I can run. I hope I never take this for granted. Now, I'm going to run for the other kids who need all the care and love that they can get!

Pick a race and run with me!

Check out the lovely people at CBS 58 who covered the Run/Walk to Milwaukee Irish Fest and caught one of my team members in this clip:

http://www.cbs58.com/index.php?aid=13705

How awesome is that?

Run/Walk to Milwaukee Irish Fest packet pick up

REMINDER!!

If you would like to pick-up your race packet prior to the event on Saturday,
you can come to the pre-event packet pick-up on Thursday, August 19! However, participants will still need to get their timing chips and Irish Fest wristbands at the event on Saturday, we are not allowed to give those out ahead of time. Yes, you can pick up shirts for other people.

WHAT: Pre-Race Packet Pick-up
(You can get your event t-shirt & goody bag before the race)

WHERE: Arthritis Foundation offices
1650 S. 108th Street
West Allis, WI 53214

WHEN: Thursday, August 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
(pre-race packet pick-up was originally scheduled for August 17,
but we had a problem with the event t-shirts and had to change
it to August 19. We apologize for the inconvenience!)

You rock!

That's right. You heard me. I'll say it again.

You rock!

Cruise Elroy has 13 team members. 13! WAY TO GO!
Your t-shirts will be available from the Foundation on Thursday, August 19 (Happy birthday mom!). We had a slight mishap with the t-shirt printing, so the t-shirts are coming in a little later than expected. However, because you (you fabulous people!) joined a (the coolest) team, you get a spiffy draw-string bag and coupons too. The people who only registered as individuals (who I still love and appreciate), get plastic bags.

If I happen to get the t-shirts early (because I've got connections), I will let you know and you can have your shirts earlier than most people. Aren't we lucky?

Let me know if you want me to make a drop off early. We can plan something. We can even have a secret code like "the eagle flies at midnight", but not that one because everyone will know!

Until then...

GO TEAM!

Open Letter [read: plea] to my Friends Both Runners and Walkers

Hi All!
Here is a reminder that the Run/Walk to Milwaukee Irish Fest is coming up and Team Cruise Elroy still needs some more team members! I got approval from the bosses that I get to actually run the race this year instead of just working the event (that's right, I work for the Arthritis Foundation)! I'm stoked :D

All you need to do is follow these easy instructions to sign up online at http://runwalktoirishfest.kintera.org.
1. Click on the "Register Today" button on the left side of the page.
2. Click on the "Register Here" green button in the middle of the page.
3. Select "Join a Team"
4. Select "Cruise Elroy" from the drop down menu.
5. Fill in all the needed information. When you get to "Fees" section, you can either pick the $20 fun run/walk option or if you want to be officially timed, then you select the $25 chip timing option.
6. Set up your fundraising page.
7. YOU"RE DONE! There will be a t-shirt pick up day ahead of time, or you can contact me and I'll get your shirt to you!

If you're getting this e-mail and you've already signed up, THANK YOU! Please feel free to pass this along to other people who want to join our team!

THANKS,
Jen and 1.1 million men, women and children in Wisconsin who are affected by arthritis (and the other 45 million people across the US who have it too)

P.S. I'll be writing about other fabulous philanthropic options that you can sign up for including the Blazer Run in September and the WLC Golf Outing at the end of August at the Broadlands.

Last assignment for my writing class

Hi all,
I have finished my writing class, and while I'm not sad to be rid of Sam the Eagle/Yoda or the very depressing Linda, I'm a bit sad that I'll miss some of the other characters in class. I wish them free-flowing pens, smooth paper sails, and un-choppy sentences. Here is my last assignment. WARNING: it made my instructor tear up a bit. She had to ask for a tissue! Bonus points if you can tell where I got the names from!

Roadmap
By Jennifer McTavish

The sun is setting on another day at the lake. It’s quiet. The water is calm, the air is warm and the lightning bugs are starting to glow against the dark pine trees. Mosquitoes will be out soon. At the end of the pier, Fred sits very still like he always does letting Anne play and fidget with his hands. In all these years, Anne never learned to rest quietly like Fred does. He still amazes her.

Anne presses the finger tips of her right hand to his left, then rolls the rest of her hand down to line up their whole hands. Fred’s hands are a bit wider and his fingers a bit longer. He doesn’t wear any rings or jewelry beyond the plain band she slipped on his finger 48 years ago. The gold shines just as bright although it has a few scratches on it. When he smashed his hand while fixing the pier they were now sitting on, the ring saved his finger from being broken off. There’s a small scar on the inside of his knuckle as a reminder. Love saves.

She twirls his ring around marveling how it fits just the same. Other than some arthritis setting in to swell his knuckles, his hands are unaffected, a constant. Fred always had very tan hands compared to her pale ones. His big hands made hers feel dainty although she wore a size eight ring, bigger than all her friends.

“It’s a good fit,” Fred once told her early on in their relationship. They had known each other for over 50 years when you count their easy friendship along with their married life. I agree, Anne still thinks to herself.

Fred stares out across the lake. Anne can’t say what he’s looking at or what he’s thinking. She never could. “What are you thinking about?” Anne asks. “Nothing in particular,” Fred answers. If I didn’t know better, I would think that nothing is all he ever thinks about. Anne shakes her head and turns his hand over to study the back.

At 72, he still has strong carpenter’s hands, and there aren’t many liver spots or freckles dotting his hand. There is a small white line from a very old scar. His sister was teasing him and had locked him out of the house. Having a boy’s temper and a naughty big sister irked him enough to punch through the screen door. Fred and Jean still argue over who was at fault for the eight stitches that made that small white mark.

There is another scar, newer, that runs parallel to “the screen scar” from last summer when he had to pop out a window screen because he locked himself out of the house. Fred didn’t think that Anne knew about it at that time, but she observed him later putting the screen back with a bandaged hand. She never said anything. Still, she wonders if he put two and two together because he smiles whenever she brushes her finger over it.

Sighing, Anne flips his hand over. He lets her. Now, palm face up, Anne traces her finger across the heart line, the head line and the life line. When they were still dating, Fred took her to the county fair where Madame Regina, a so-called-psychic, read their palms for a dollar. It seemed extravagant at the time. “A man’s hands are a road map for his life,” Madame Regina told them. “You can see where he’s been and where he’s going to go.” Anne liked that idea, a roadmap.

Being a good, God-fearing, German Lutheran, Anne doesn’t put too much stake in what they had been learned from their palms. Then again, she can’t lie if you claimed she’s always been a bit hurt that he had the fate line and she didn’t. “You’re going to be famous one day,” Madame Regina told Fred. “Everyone will know you. Many people will come to you for advice.” Anne draws her mind back to the present and her finger down that crease on his hand. Why just today, didn’t both of our boys call to ask Fred’s advice? Fred always stops to say hello to someone when we go into town. Perhaps there is something to what that old fortune teller said.

The sun sinks low over the pine trees and Fred shifts slightly on the wooden bench. It’s the first time he moved since they sat down. His free arm reaches up behind her to give her shoulders a squeeze before he rests it on the back of the bench. Anne smiles and draws letters in Fred’s palm. She spells, “kiss me” on his hand. He laughs softly and brings her hand to his lips.

This reminds Anne of one of the first vacations they took to Florida when they were newlyweds. Since Fred is and has always been handy, Anne planned a visit to Thomas Edison’s winter estate in Florida during that trip. She thought Fred would like to see all the things he invented and built. The tour’s docent told stories about his inventions and the Edisons’ personal lives. When Thomas proposed to his wife, he was practically deaf due to a childhood injury so he asked her to marry him by tapping Morse Code on her knee. In honor of the Edisons’, Anne had drawn silent messages on Fred’s hands for over 40 years. He reads the words effortlessly.

Anne takes Fred’s hand in both of hers and holds them as the sun finishes setting. The stars have come out. The moon shines both in the sky and from its reflection on the lake. It’s about time to go in. Anne looks down at Fred’s hands. On his palm, she writes one more message for the night, “I love you.” Fred turns her hand over and writes, “Always.”

Back from Vacation!

Hi all!
I'm back from vacationing at our family's cottage where I spent as much time as possible outdoors fishing, swimming, reading, shopping, walking and all manner of things with the fam. I also learned to play Bunco (watch out for mom and Grandma!) and Euchre (for the 5th time - thank you Melissa for being SO patient!). I was going to be a good little runner and writer while Up North, but the fish were calling my name. See?



So I was a little lax on the running and the writing... I ran a few times with my brother and sister-in-law's dog, but that was more like being dragged by a small steam engine or stopping abruptly when something extra interesting-smelling just happened to halt that bundle of energy. I'm sure we were quite the sight! As for writing, I took a rainy afternoon and wrote letters to a bunch of my out-of-state friends and in-state friends that I knew needed some fun mail. Who doesn't love getting mail that isn't a bill? NO ONE.

Anyway, one night while I was helping Dad pick up the last of the fishing stuff to take back up to the cabin, I turned around and saw one of our neighbors sitting on the dock. Mrs. and Mr. L-, an elderly couple, were holding hands and sitting on a bench at the end of the dock while they watched the sunset over the pine trees that line the west shore of the lake. That made me think of how my grandparents ALWAYS hold hands when they sit near each other. Then I thought about how Mom and Dad often hold hands at church or in the car. You see people in all stages of relationships, whether it's parent-child, friends or couples, holding hands. That's what inspired writing assignment #3. It's a bit choppy for a poem, but rhyming can be difficult. It's not all hat-cat-bat, you know...

Hands

When asked what is the most attractive thing about a man,

I always answer “a man’s best feature is his hands.”

Why is that they want to know?

“Because they hardly change as you grow.”

Sure they may get rough or later a bit frail,

But the touch, and the purpose never will fail.

Simply holding hands is what they do best;

Transferring feelings and meaning without stop or rest.

At first, reaching out is tentative and shy

To boldly take her hand or wait and let lie?

“Thank goodness for horrible scary movies!

She grasped my hand when the film gave her creepies.”

A while later her father walked her down the aisle,

He gave her hand a pat-pat and he smiled.

He passed his daughter’s hand to the groom

Where love with honor and faith then bloom.

A quick squeeze of the hand and a wink sends an offer

Of activities more passionate and much, much hotter.

This leads to holding hands with tired awe and respect

As they lovingly count ten tiny fingers so small and perfect.

Through the years they offer support, comfort and care

Through triumphs and deaths they applaud and they bear.

No matter what happens his hands never change,

Never falter, always there, his hands stay the same.

Someday, but not yet I’ll sit on the end of a dock

Holding his hand as the waves gently rock.

We’ll hold each other sure as the sun slowly sets

And know that this moment is the best that it gets.

Camera Stormin'

Sunday morning started off kind of bleary. There was so much rain in the past week that I was just hoping that it wouldn't be a crazy storm like in the past few days. If you're one of my out-of-state readers, Wisconsin has had a lot of severe weather this June including a tornado that took out most of the town of Eagle. Regardless of the weather, I jumped in my car and headed to Veteran's Park.

Brainstorm 2010 was super humid and the air was so thick with moisture that it felt like you were swimming. Uh oh. Humid = not fun running/breathing. Fortunately, there was a good breeze going.

The Epilepsy Foundation had excellent signage, so it was easy to find the tents. I checked in with the team check in and then found Melissa and the rest of the Jay-Walkers. (Go back a few blog posts to read about Melissa's brother Jason). So far, the EF also had the coolest t-shirts. See?

How fun are those shirts? This picture is of me and Melissa, who organized our team of her family and friends, before the weather went berserk. I should also tell you that for this race, I decided to test and see if my camera's claim of "waterproof" was true and I ran with it in my hand the whole time.

Here we're headed to the start line. I'd guess about 300 people showed up to run or walk:

These next two photos were about 800-1000 meters into the race (3/4 mile):

This is about 3K into the race when I thought "Hey self, you're taking pictures of other people, why don't you take a photo of yourself?":

These two photos were shortly after the self shot about 3.5K into the race. I've only got a mile to go and it is starting to rain. And was that thunder?

See those clouds out there? Yeah, thunder and lightning happened about a minute or two later! I looked back for a second to take this really blurry photo of (L-R) Discovery World and the Milwaukee Art Museum:

This exceptionally blurry shot is of Melissa, her husband Bill and his friend from college whose name I don't know (I think it was Dan?). I made it around the final turn first (which has never happened before), so I decided to try and capture them with the camera:

Since I finished first for my team (!!!), I stayed at the finish to take their pictures. Here's Bill and Melissa:

At the turnaround, which was about 1-1.2K from the end, it was raining so hard that I had to stare at the ground and could only look up and blink to be able to see. There was lighting and thunder and my shoes were squishing! Brainstorm lived up to it's name!

Thank you to everyone who donated $$ to help our team! We raised $505.00! Thank you!

Writing project entry 2

While I realize that this blog is about projects, it's been mostly about running and fitness. I'm going to jump tracks to love.

Today, I was at my writing class and we read our assignments out loud while the others read along. Everyone loved my piece on Maddie and thought it was really cute. But the essay that really caught my attention was by Katie M. She wrote an essay based on a conversation she had with her 85-year-old widower father Katie asked her dad about his "lady friends" and if they were just friends.

His answer was so touching that I'm sure that Katie wouldn't mind if I paraphrased it for this blog post (plus, I'm pretty sure I know all my readers and she's not one of them):

My friends are just friends, and they'll stay that way. Your mother is the love of my life even though she's gone. Love is that feeling. Love comes from that one person, and you never know when it'll show up or where it comes from. She brought out the best in me, and the worst in me, too. She challenged me, and made me the best man I could be. When you have a love like that, the best kind, you don't settle for anything less.

I think that's one of the best definitions of love I've ever heard. Makes me sigh a little bit (or more than a little bit).

HOT HOT HOT

It was well over 80 degrees (probably closer to 90) yesterday when I ran Sarah's Stride. They changed the race course since I ran it last. Before it started near my parents' house and ran through Tosa just a bit northeast of the village. It used to be practically all down hill. This race was slightly south of the village, mostly along Honey Creek Parkway, and it was barely downhill.

Here's what the route looked like (approximately):

The day was really hot and humid, so it was a blessing that there were two water stops and they were placed really well. I started behind one of the boys I used to babysit for. Now, he's practically taller than me, but not as fast! I only finished about 30 seconds behind him. Since it was so hot, I had to stop and walk a bit. Fortunately, most people had to walk because of the heat. Everyone at the finish line looked like they were going to melt!

See?

Another new project

Hi folks!
Does anyone out there keep a journal? I must admit that I've tried NUMEROUS times to keep a diary. I was always intrigued by people like Laura Ingalls Wilder who turned her life into an amazing book series (which you should all read, especially if you're a girl). I love reading biographies - auto or not. Granted, most of these people are famous, but who knows? Perhaps I'll be known for something some day. I could be famous (preferable to infamous), and someone will ask me to write about my life.

Keeping a diary now would help me a lot later. Wouldn't it be cute to have little anecdotes in my future memoir from my early diaries? I think my future readers would get a kick out of those types of stories. Then again, if it's the future and I can just dream about it, I also dream that I have a really awesome personal assistant to help me with these things! Ha!

Anyway, due to circumstances outside of my control, I'm taking a creative writing class. Yes, take a moment, go ahead and laugh. As with any class and any person who does not want to be in school, I must remember that a) I like learning new things and b) classes are supposed to help you become a better more well-rounded person. I stand convicted.

My first assignment is to "free write" for at least 5 minutes every day. When you free write you aren't supposed to go back and edit, let your pen stop moving, or worry about anything besides putting thoughts on paper. So far, my free writes have been about our dog and about the letter p (I was contemplating my penmanship). They're hit or miss on the creative front. Perhaps I should turn my free-writing into journaling? This would help me for when I'm famous in the future and will probably prevent any more horrible Sesame Street-like entries brought to you by the letter P.

Now, for your enjoyment and reading pleasure, is my good entry about Maddie.
Maddie's Internal Morning Monologue

Mom.
Mom?
Mommy!
Wake up Mom!

I have to go potty now! Can’t you see I’m doing my “I’ve got to pee dance?” Plus, there is something making a lot of noise outside that I need to see, and I need you to reach the door handle. I think it’s a garbage truck.

Oh good! You’re up. Continually patting your arm worked! Can we go now? Daddy was snoring again. He also left that beeping noise go on and on forever. Why does he do that? Can I come up on your bed? Daddy left a warm spot. We should snuggle for a little bit.

Did you hear that noise coming from outside? It’s a new noise. I think there are kids outside riding their bikes. I want to go see. I don’t want to play with them because they go too fast, but I want to watch them go up and down the street.

Mom, I still have to pee. I really need you to work the door handle. I wish I had the right words to tell you all my thoughts!

The kids are still on their bikes. Can I please go look at the kids playing outside? We have to go down stairs so I can do that. I bet I can make it faster than you can! I bet I can mak… Whoa! Those last few steps are hard. Did you see me, Mom? I almost fell. Why are you holding your rail so tightly? Did you almost fall too when I ran in front of you? I’m fast, huh?

I’m hungry. Can I have a treat today?

Mom, I think we need to have a talk about how many treats I get. I have been a very good girl. When I go potty when you want me to, I think I should get a cookie. When I behave at Grandma and Grandpa’s house I should get another treat. I’m not like that other girl, Chloe, who tries to get out of the yard and go play with the kids when her Mommy says no. Since I’m not naughty, I should get a cookie.

Mom, after I go potty, can we walk to Grandma and Grandpa’s? It doesn’t look wet outside. They have treats at their house. I bet Grandpa would like to see me. Can we go now so he can give me a treat? Why do we have to wait?

Oh, what’s in that basket you’re holding? What’s that smell? Is that for me? Oh, it’s laundry. There is really stinky laundry today. I think I still smell pizza sauce on Lisa’s t-shirt. I wonder if it still tastes like pizza. Can I see?

Wait. Why are you going down more steps? Don’t go in the basement Mom! It’s scary. There are not fun noises that come from down there. It’s not like the kids playing outside. I don’t like basements. But mom, it’s dark down there. Don’t go. Please don’t…

Oh no. She’s gone. She’s gone forever. The basement ate her and Lisa’s pizza t-shirt. I should go down and look. No, maybe she’s not really gone. I should just wait here on the top step. I should be patient, but I’m afraid the things making the noises in the basement have taken my mom. I’m going to cry. I should be brave. I can’t. I’m not brave. What am I going to do? I’m alone. She’s gone. She’s gone forever.

YOU’RE BACK! You’re back! You’re alive! The basement didn’t take you away from me! How dare you do laundry and scare me like that? That’s ok. I love you and am so glad you’re back. Were the stairs hard? Did you have to fight off the basement monsters? Promise me you’ll never go back down there again. I don’t like it when you leave no matter how long you’re gone!

Can we go to Grandma and Grandpa’s house now? Quick! I should look cute. I’ll stare at you with my big brown eyes and wag my tail in an endearing manner.

Oh no, don’t step there. Sorry about that. Yeah, I was so scared that I don’t have to go potty any more.

June Run/Walks - A Double Dose

Remember when I totally goofed on that January event? Well, I'm going to make up for it in June by doing two run/walks.

First: A good friend of mine, Melissa, has a brother who has Epilepsy. This year I am going to join her team Jay-Walkers (named so for her brother Jason), and run in Brainstorm 2010 as part of my 5K challenge. Epilepsy is the medical term used to describe the more than 20 types of seizures. Epilepsy can affect ANYONE, at ANY AGE, at ANY TIME. There are 30,000 individuals affected by epilepsy in our four county Southeast Wisconsin area (Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington) and 44-50% of those diagnosed with epilepsy are NOT medically controlled at this time.

Please help me help Melissa and her family support the Epilepsy Foundation of Southeast Wisconsin to bring help and hope to individuals affected by seizure disorders! I've met Jason and he is an amazing person! Their whole family is amazing! Check out my fund-raising site to pledge some dollars if you can. You can join Melissa's team too if you'd like and run with us!

The other run/walk I'm going to do is called Sarah's Stride. This event is the first 5K I ever ran, and I'm going to be back! It's June 19 at 3 p.m. and it benefits the Ronald McDonald House. Here's the story: Sarah Hegarty, the event’s namesake, and her family were welcomed and comforted at a Ronald McDonald House for many months. In her memory, Sarah’s Stride has become a tribute to all of the Ronald McDonald House families who are fighting courageous battles against diseases and injuries that no one would wish on any child.

The first time I ran this event, the late Sarah's neice, little Sarah, thought that everyone was there for her instead of her aunt because the race had her name on it! Tugs on the heart strings doesn't it? If you want to help me support the Ronald McDonald House, please sign up online here. Otherwise, you can sign up by printing out the sheet at the link before the last one and mailing it in, or you can sign up race day.

See you at the start line!

Lunchtime Entry: Shoes!

Howdy readers!
As most of you know, I really love shoes. I probably have too many or more than I need. I take that back. I KNOW I have too many shoes. But they're so pretty! So shiny! So comfy!
Well, er, they may not be comfy if they're shiny and pretty...However, please see exhibit A)
Other than the pointy toes on these babies, they're pretty comfy.

Exhibit b)
Very comfortable - I walked all through Denver with these guys. Not for walking on the grass though. The heels sink in and get stuck.

Exhibit C)
Now these babies I can walk EVERYWHERE in. I love them! Note how I have lots of red shoes...

Exhibit D)
Totally awesome running shoes that are supportive and junk. LOVE!

Now, just out of this sampling of shoes, which do you think is best for your knees? (Jeopardy music as you think... doo, doo, doo, doo...)My guess was the running shoes.

According to this article here, the soft soled flat ones (Exhibit C) are the best. While I love those shoes, I was totally stumped!

War Paint

While I was reading my latest issue of my Fitness magazine and they were talking about all these great citrus-infused products (my favorites) and the "best gear of the year" for all different sports. Granted, I know that while many of these products are tested out by the fitness professionals that work on the magazine, I also know that many of those products are offered to them for free to try. They showed everything from biking shorts to swim goggles to running shoes.

Then I thought, gear is like armor. You need good gear to protect yourself when you're out there taking on the world. Unlike our service men and women who deserve the best armor out there, we don't need to have the most expensive, latest and greatest gear. Proper gear, yes. Expensive, not so much.

Then it made me laugh because the next section in the magazine was on beauty products, which I guess count as "gear". Of all the gear, I think that sunscreen is probably the most important for summer, but all the fun shampoo and things are great too. Other than sunscreen, the one thing you won't find me without is mascara.

Mascara = war paint. I feel like if I have mascara on, I can go take on the world. When I had boot camp, I didn't put it on before I went and ran around like a crazy person, but I do wear it almost EVERY day.

Is there any gear that you love and wear every day? Any fitness gear that you love and want to share? Discuss...
(I love Asics, Saucony, Champion, Mary Kay and CO Bigelow!)

Melissa's Family Update

Hi all,
Melissa (of Brainstorm and Jay-Walkers fame) contacted me this morning to ask for some prayers and support. I guess Jason is NOT doing well, and has some post-seizure issues. He had to be transferred to a new hospital and had a bad night. As he comes out of this latest status seizure, his family just has to wait and wait until his system settles back as close to normal as it can.
Please send as many good thoughts and prayers their way as you can!
Thanks!

Race Updates

Hello all!
It's been a while, but May is very hectic at work so my weekends are kind of shot for racing. The only weekend I have really "open" is the weekend before Memorial Day Weekend, but who knows what I'll find to do then (MAM After Dark with Courtney!) I'm thinking of trying to do a 5K up north over Memorial Day weekend, but we'll have to see about that.
Anyway, I wanted to give you some feedback on some runs. First, the Rock N' Run: the race itself was kind of crappy because SOMEONE on the planning side mustn't have checked with the park department because they had to cut a 2.3-ish mile course down to about 1.5 miles due to a soccer tournament and a lacrosse game. While I prefer to NOT get hit in head by a lacrosse ball or run over by a soccer player, I do appreciate thoughtful planning. Also, their pre-registration pick up lines were insane and there were no promised chips for timing. On the plus side, the t-shirts were very cool.
The coolest part of the race was that it was like my very own slice of "The Biggest Loser". As I mentioned in my last blog entry, the girls from boot camp and a few other folks were going to run this together because it is Julie's first race. Julie is Coach Sandi's sister, and I first met her last fall when she attended camp as a guest. Julie, Coach Sandi, their sister Jeannie, Ellie (and her hubby Tom) and I ran together. Julie and Sandi's husbands were at the finish line with cameras, dogs and small children (who had dandelion bouquets for us!). Jeannie and Sandi are really great runners so they ran with Julie and I especially because they know we're a little slower. Julie set the pace and off we went.
At the finish line, Julie powered through and had a great time. Between all of us high-fiving and hugging and whatnot, Julie said thanks and that it's been a hard time/long road. I just wanted to hug her for finishing (although I think she could totally rock a 5K with no problems). I found out later that Julie has lost 170 POUNDS! That's right, Julie, who looks smokin' now, has worked her butt off and basically lost another person.
She's so amazing! I voted for her as the "most inspirational camper", but was OK with the person she lost to because it was me! That's right! I have the certificate hanging in my office to prove it (and posted here for you).
Another person that inspires me is my friend Melissa and her family that I told you all about a few posts ago. Her brother Jason has epilepsy, and they're the ones I'm going to do Brainstorm for in June. Not only does her family work really hard to raise funds and awareness about the Epilepsy Foundation, they have had to overcome some huge hurdles this past year with ups and downs in their health. Melissa's Dad had some MAJOR health issues, Melissa was having stomach issues, her husband got a concussion and now Jason had a status seizure over the weekend and was put in ICU. I wish I could order a vacation for this family!
If you haven't gone and checked Brainstorm or the Epilepsy Foundation out yet, please do. You can find out more here or by jumping back two blog posts.
Thanks to all the inspirational people out there!
And P.S. no volleyball this summer. Just running, horseshoes and softball. And probably some swimming...

Rock n' Run

As many of you know, I'm slightly a freak about Milwaukee Adventure Boot Camp (Go Elmbrook girls!). Well, this Saturday a bunch of us girls are going to be running the Rock N' Run to benefit the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and the United Performing Arts Fund. Since, this race is only a 3K and you get two complimentary MGD 64 beers, so it's not exactly a serious race. As a semi-serious runner and fan of the arts and beer, I think this is going to be super fun.
IF you read this and are inspired by running, the arts, or beer, this is the race for you! I will be meeting up with the Boot Camp group on the steps of the Senior Center/Muellner Building at Hart Park at 10:30 a.m. You are welcome to join us!

Details from 102.9 The Hog:
It’s THE HOG's MGD 64 ROCK N' RUN, presented by Rogans Shoes and Michalski Chiropractic!

A 3K fun run / walk with 2 complimentary MGD 64s after the race (21 years of age or older)! Proceeds benefit the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and United Performing Arts Fund.

The ROCK N' RUN happens at 11am on Saturday, May 1st at Hart Park in the ‘Tosa Village. There will be no "day of" registration. Sign up by 5 p.m. to get in!

Every runner & walker gets a commemorative ROCK N' RUN t-shirt and 2 complimentary MGD 64s after the race (21 years of age or older). It's all for the low low donation of $25 (did we mention it's a chip time event)!

Post Race enjoy food from Mr. Picnic and Streetza Pizza, plus ice cold Miller from Leff’s LuckyTown (like the new Aluminum Miller Lite Pints just $4 each).

THE HOG's House Band Black Frog will play after the run.

Brainstorm in June!

Hello everyone!

A good friend of mine, Melissa, has a brother who has Epilepsy. After she did a presentation on this disease and the Epilepsy Foundation for a class back in college, I've donated to her team every year. This year I am going to join her team Jay-Walkers (named so for her brother Jason), and run in Brainstorm 2010 as part of my 5K challenge. Brainstorm will be my June race on the 27th at Veteran's Park near the lakefront.

Epilepsy is the medical term used to describe the more than 20 types of seizures. Epilepsy can affect ANYONE, at ANY AGE, at ANY TIME. There are 30,000 individuals affected by epilepsy in our four county Southeast Wisconsin area (Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington) and 44-50% of those diagnosed with epilepsy are NOT medically controlled at this time. From the the Foundation's website:

The Epilepsy Foundation of Southeast Wisconsin is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all those affected by seizure disorders/epilepsy through education, direct services, advocacy and the support of research for the prevention and cure of epilepsy. We are the only agency specifically organized to serve the diverse and special needs of the 10,000 children and 20,000 adults with epilepsy in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Waukesha and Washington counties. An additional 100,000 family members may also require epilepsy-related services.

Please help me help Melissa and her family support the Epilepsy Foundation of Southeast Wisconsin to bring help and hope to individuals affected by seizure disorders! I've met Jason and he is an amazing person! Their whole family is amazing! Check out my fund-raising site to pledge some dollars if you can. You can join Melissa's team too if you'd like and run with us! Thanks for all your support and reading my blog! Oh, by the way, I still don't have a May run picked out. Suggestions? Help!

Exercise High and Running for the Alma Mater

Hello folks who I've sorely neglected for about a month,

First off, please allow me to apologise for my lack of posts. I should really get more on top of that, but life happens. Also, summer is going to be nuts with running, horseshoes, softball and volleyball. Eek!

Second, I've started up training again with Milwaukee Adventure Boot Camp (LOVE) in Elm Grove. While my schedule and finances do not allow me this treat more than a few times a year, I'm so stoked to be back. I'm waking up at 4:30 a.m. (Crazy? Why, yes!) to drive over to Mary Knoll Park and get my butt kicked for an hour (5:30 - 6:30 a.m.). We literally don't stop moving the entire time. We do lunges, plank holds, sprints, squats, kicks, band exercises, weight exercises, stretching, running, hills, bear crawls and more. There are even a few exercises that we have renamed funny things like "the naughty housewife" and the "boob lifter".

While it is kind of ridiculous to get up so early and run around like a crazy person, it is a huge boost to my exercise routine. Plus, a ton of people that were in my classes back in fall are still there this spring and we're all just so happy to see each other! When I first signed up a lot of people lovingly asked, "are you nuts?" to which I replied, "apparently." Then they saw how fit and happy I was, so now I get lots of "babe, look at your calves!" which makes me extremely happy. (That and when I wore a skirt that made the BF say "whoa...") I know that your self worth is not in how you look, but based on your personality/soul instead. However, my soul is doing cartwheels with all this energy I have! Then again, that energy is gone and I'm snoozing by about 9 p.m. for the next 4 weeks. Ha!

Finally, I have some more happy news! I took off another 32 seconds from my 5k time! That's right! Running Gary's Gallop on April 17 was a lot of fun, although super windy. This event is to help the athletic programs at Wisconsin Lutheran College - my college, sweet college. I loved going and seeing all the smiling Warrior faces. Tons of students, alumni, alumni kiddos, and community members were there to run the very hilly course. Even my church's 5K Klub was out with a good showing.

I ran with my friend Tammy who was on the WLC Cross Country team. I kept up with her for about the first mile and a half, but she was still going strong when one of the hills took it's toll on me and my side. I had to slow down a bit, but was pretty excited about my mile times. My favorite part of this race is that you do your last 500 meters or so by running around the track and then a dash down the center of the field to the finish line. It's like running for a touchdown! At the finish line, my friend Brian who is also on the Alumni Committee with me gave me a high five... and then patted my head... silly man.

While the formal results aren't posted yet, I can tell you that my friend Angie won 2nd place for our age group and that my time for this run back in 2008 was 35:01. Man, that makes 31:29 feel even better!

Up next: No idea. Suggestions for May anyone?

To the back, to the back!

Dear runners who are slower than me (if that's possible) and walkers and people with strollers at 5k events,

MOVE TO THE BACK OF THE GROUP AT THE START LINE.

I would like you to take note of the statement that I so very rudely put in all capital letters. My co-workers and I had a discussion on slow runners and walkers today. Part of our jobs are to set up and make sure that 5K fundraisers go smoothly. We get annoyed by (and worried for) the ba-zillion people who think that they should be at the very front of the start line.

Here are a few reasons why:

1. We don't want you to get hurt. Hard-core runners who are there for qualifying times or want to win "fastest" awards will mow you down. Please look around you and find someone who you suppose is about your same fitness level and start near them.


2. We want to make sure that people who are there for qualifying times don't get tripped up by people who "just want to see the start" and then don't move back. Again, they will trample you.


3. We care about the safety of your children. That's right. I'm talking to you lady with the baby/toddler in the running stroller. I know you're probably one hot mama and can run way faster than me, but please don't stand at the very start. People will run right over you or dart in front of the stroller requiring you to jerk the stroller in a motion that I'm sure is not either comfortable or safe for your kiddo.


4. As a runner, nothing sucks more than starting behind someone who you guessed to be much faster, but who has decided to fiddle with their MP3 player or shoelaces or whatever at the very last minute. Then you jog along like you don't know what you're doing and you cause problems for those around you, which again, is not safe.


5. If you don't back up, it ends up like this (Thanks to Failblog.org):

Really, we want you to be safe. If you aren't sure how fast you are, it's never wrong to start a little farther back than you think and then move up during that first quarter mile. We don't want a jumble of people crashing together causing all sorts of problems and injuries. Also, it's really annoying. Please act accordingly.

Thank you,

Me

Full of Blarney!

What a crowd we had! I don't just mean the nearly 1,000 people at the 19th Annual Blarney Run/Walk, but I met up with/saw so many people I knew! I found Sarah (pink bandana) before the race like we planned, and she had her friends Josh and Becky with her (see attractive people on the right in the photo below).

I also met up with my friend Rulena from church and she started the race with us. Sarah had never done a 5K before, but she did a great job finishing at 34 minutes flat (according to the official posted results thanks to the Badgerland Striders). I finished just ahead of her at 32:42. Becky, Josh and Rulena all finished in the 20's.

The race was very hilly along the Underwood Parkway and Swan Boulevard. I had a very slow first mile because you really had to jockey to get to an open space to hit your stride. The second one was downhill but I got a stitch in my side so I could really lengthen my stride too much. The third mile was mostly uphill and that really divided people. You could tell who still had some fire in them and pushed through strong. Others gave their all in the first two miles and got passed by the fired-up people. I can gladly say that I finished strong and passed quite a number of people in mile three. I was hoping to finish faster, but oh well. Next time!

Pros of the event: it was well-organized, I had lots of friends to run with, great cause, good food afterward, clear results and had great volunteers! The Wauwatosa Historical Society raised about $20,000 for their projects including the roof on the Kneeland Walker House which is leaking badly (HINT! HINT!).

Cons of the event: uphill last mile, bottleneck at the turnaround and the finish line, people who don't know how to line up for a race.

The pros win (as they always do).

Luck o' the Run

I just looked at my last month's entry and CANNOT believe I let this go this long. I faithfully maintain another blog for my day job, and am sorry to have left this blog alone for nearly a full month. However, the timing of the run/walk events is practically exactly a month a part since this Saturday, March 13 will be The 19th Annual Blarney Run!

I have never been what you call a "lucky" person since I don't really believe in luck, but this all just seems a little coincidental. A run scheduled to be a part of St. Patrick's Day, a holiday where we celebrate a lot of everything about a country where people are stereotypically superstitious, on the 13th? I really hope 13 turns out to be my number on Saturday! I REALLY want to break the 30 minute mark, but we'll see.

So, how about some information on the race? It's the same starting spot as the 8K that I ran last month so no worries about finding it, and the course is very similar. Downhill, uphill, downhill, uphill, finish! Why is the finish line always uphill? Can't it be flat?

The Blarney Run/Walk is set up as a fundraiser for the Wauwatosa Historical Society, which is housed in the Kneeland Walker House (about a block from my family's house). The WHS does many wonderful things for the city including holding the history of Tosa, maintaining a library of records, revitalized the Little Red Store (which has a community bike rental program coming this summer!), and restoring the beautiful murals hidden behind the walls of the original entrance to Wauwatosa High School (now Wauwatosa East High School). These are only a few of their projects. They just had an event on some of the founding families of Wauwatosa that I went to with Mom, Debbie, and Kathy and learned all about the Hart's, Wheeler's, Warren's, and that where our house is used to be a lake. Who knew?

A new and exciting development is that one of my childhood friends (Hi Sarah!) has now taken up running and is going to meet me at the race! While we're not sure if we'll be on pace with each other, we can at least start the race together. Correct me if I'm wrong Sarah, but her goal this year is to run a marathon! A MARATHON! I'm so impressed! I don't know if she remembers this, but when I was a kiddo and had a bunch of surgeries on my foot, Sarah was a very good friend and patiently walked around my block with me while I re-learned how to walk. At the time, we were just two little girls being silly and taking walks, but really, it was a great way to do physical therapy and we probably didn't even notice it. Now we get to run a race together! Hopefully, I'll remember my camera and we can snap a few photos to share with you all.

As always, I'll report back after the race on Saturday and let you all know how it went. Hopefully, I'll have some good news about my time! Thanks to all my friends and family who keep an eye on this blog. It's fun to share this challenge with you!

Because it would feel wrong not to say it, wish me luck!

58:02 Baby!

Hello all!
You'll be happy to know that not only did I find the race location, show up with ample time before the race, make a new friend, and create a make-shift ponytail hat, but I finished the race in under an hour! If you're a repeat reader, you'll know that I signed up for the Steve Cullen Health Heart Club Run awhile back and was thinking, "8K, pssssh, that's totally doable!" Then it got closer and closer and then it was today! Eeep.

I practiced my long distance running at my friendly YMCA and did some weight training because I knew there would be hills, but WHOA, this was harder than I thought.

First off, let me tell you that the ponytail hat rocked. It kept my head warm and my hair out of the way. I had a couple of other runners mention it. Whooot! I cheated a bit and instead of sewing around the edges like I mean to do, I just snipped a hole in the back about where my ponytail would be. Wearing it also helped keep my iPod earbud in place (I only race with one in so I can hear other runners). Like I said, it rocked!

Second, I didn't train for as long as I should have. While I'd like to blame the signs posted in the Y that say "Usage on all cardio machines is limited to 30 minutes!", I know that it's mostly me going to the Y late at night and saying "2+ miles is long enough." I took my average mile time, added a minute or so and then guessed that I would like to finish in about an hour since an 8K is about 5 miles. Then in a slight panic, I checked out last year's race times to make sure that they kept timing that long (5K events usually cut off between 45 minutes and a hour). Yay for me they time until 1 hour and 20 minutes!

Race day comes and I don my spiffy new hat, layers of shirts, running capri tights and then track pants because IT WAS COLD! The friendly weatherman said the high today was 25 degrees F, which means while I was running in the morning was probably around 20 degrees or less. *shiver*

So I drive over there with plenty of time and park in the WLC lot because it's close and free! This other lady, Suzette, climbs out of her car once she sees that she's not the only one to park there. We become fast friends (no pun intended), and walk to the race together to pick up our snazzy t-shirts, race numbers and assorted goodies from the sponsors and Badgerland Striders who were big supporters of this race.

While we're walking, she's telling me about how her sister-in-law keeps her signing up for races and then backs out so she's so glad to have met me. She's so nice! She's also paranoid that she won't finish the race. Suzette doesn't believe she's a good runner. She's wrong.

We get all settled and head out to the race start line with our music and timing apparatuses (apparati?) and she's freaking out a little. Suzette, if you ever read this, please know that you're awesome. I tried keeping her calm and saying that if we should get separated, she should just try her hardest. The horn goes off and after saying good luck to each other, the woman takes off! Like lightening!

The first mile is up hill (boo), and by the first turnaround on Swan Blvd., I say hi to Speedy Suzette and shout out a few encouragements to the really fast people, and then quickly realize that it's me and a bunch of people older than my parents. That's right, I'm running with the AARP crowd. First off, kudos to them because I'm sure when they were my age, they were super fast. Second, they have lots of good tips and aren't afraid to share them with a friendly 26-year-old woman who is trying to not slip on the snow. Gotta love people! Runners are generally a friendly bunch. I think it's the endorphins.

Miles 2-4 are pretty level (map of course), but slippery due to the snow and I only had to jump out of the way of one dude trying to pass another once. The sun was shining, the volunteers were cheerful, and the water stops were perfectly placed. It was a beautiful February morning. After cheering on Suzette as she whipped past me after the second turnaround, I knew I had to pick up the pace or the AARP crowd was really going to show me what for.

Suddenly, my old exercise Boot Camp instructor's voice came in my head. "When you think you can't do any more, do 5 more. When you think you can't hold on any longer, count to 30. When you think you can't go faster, pick up your feet and do it," Sandi said. I listened and soon I was passing people at the end of mile 3. Mile 4 looked easy-peasy until my side-ache hit. "Nooooo!" was my only thought. I hadn't had to slow down at all and I had just passed people. Darn it.

Fortunately, I kept ahead of my AARP crowd with only 1 of them passing me during the uphill mile 4. That last mile was a killer, but when I crossed the finish line and saw my official time overhead, I was such a happy camper! After getting through the alleys at the end of the race, I met up with one of my AARP crowd who told me that he's been running for over 40 years. AWESOME! He was so encouraging, I felt so good about my time. I met up with Suzette in Wil-O-Way building, grabbed some Cullen Family Chili and then we walked back to our cars.

Now, I sit here in bed writing this and waiting for some Advil to kick in. I love running, but perhaps the 5ks are the way to go. That or no more running in snow. We'll see. Either way, it was an exhilarating way to spend a chilly February morning!

Next up: The Blarney Run.

For the love of running!

Howdy readers!

Sorry I've been away for a while, but life happens, right? I've been undertaking a variety of projects as usual and the latest two have been to a) convert an old ski cap to a running cap with a ponytail holder (see Exhibit A) and b) find out if I can buy a house (see Exhibit B).

Exhibit A - Thank you Trailheads for the "Goodbye Girl" hat photo

I think this will be really awesome if I can simply cut out just the right level ponytail hole. Then I can have a nice and warm head, but not have the pain and awkwardness of shoving my ponytail under my hat. The other alternative, which you have seen in photos is to do the two braids/pig tail 'do. While cute and effective, the braids knock my earbuds sometimes and tickle my neck.

Exhibit B - Thank you Yard Envy for the photo.

While I can't afford a mansion, I'm hoping that I could afford something a little bigger (but equally cute). Going through all the hoops to buy a house are quite exhausting, but I have a feeling it will be totally worth it!

Ok, so what does home buying have to do with running you ask? Well, tonight as I was on the treadmill at the Y, the show "House Hunters" was on HGTV. I love this show and that I can watch it while running. The bigger point, however, is that it reminded me of a very important fact in looking at houses: safety!

One of the biggest things for me when I look at a house is seeing if I feel safe. Part of this safety check is "would I feel comfortable running through this neighborhood on my own?" I love the Y and all, but running in my neighborhood makes me feel more a part of it because I can see the houses, see my neighbors and generally just be a part of my community.

I'll report back and let you know how both the house and hat things go!

Big whoops...

Don't I look cute?

I mean, this doesn't look like the face of a woman who went and picked up her race packet and then got lost on her way to her very first race of her 2010 running challenge does it?

This doesn't look like the woman who ran outside in the cold, icy weather dressed like a dork (see previous post) in order to run last Saturday at the Frosty 5k does it?

Well, sorry to say that's exactly what happened. I whiffed my first race. I cannot tell you how angry I was at myself. My sister was in the car with me ready to take photos of my first race of the year, and she can tell you the colorful language I used. Please don't ask her though. It's embarassing enough to have your friends call you and ask what your time was and not be able to tell them. There may or may not have been some tears involved.

Thanks to my handy-dandy iPod + Nike, I still ran a 5k that day and my sister did take my picture. I love that kid! I will not post my time because it was unofficial, but let's just say it was right where I guessed it would be.

I'll just have to sqeeze another race in later this year. Thanks to Facebook friends, I've got lots of suggested races for later this year. We'll call whatever race that is the "January Make Up". Stay tuned...

Run #1 in the Cold and Dark

Also known as, "What the spoot was I thinking?"

OK, so if there is anything I'm known for, there are probably two things that stand out: one, researching my goofy ideas, and two, trying to do too many things at once. Let's look at these independently, shall we?

First, we'll examine researching ridiculous and/or far fetched ideas. Running, sports gear (like the sweet Road ID at right), playing bag pipes, buying a new car, buying a house, and I'm sure there's more. However, looking at this list, I guess researching things is a good thing. So it wasn't so dumb in the first place. I researched running at night and running in the cold independently. Things I learned were to wear reflective clothes, dress in layers, watch out for ice, and if you're listening to music with headphones, you should leave one ear open to listen for cars or other vehicles among other things.

This leads to the second point of trying to do too many things at once. Usually this means juggling work, sports, clubs and hanging out with all my friends. Or, if you are familiar at all with my post-it filled day planner that I finally had to replace with an electronic version, you'll have a good idea of what I mean. In this case, I decided to run outside last night because my first 5K of this challenge (which I need a good name for - suggestions?) is coming up this weekend. The only time I had yesterday (because I slept too long in the morning before work) was to run after work.

While this wasn't a terrible idea, it wasn't my most brilliant moment either.

So, I'm wearing lots of layers, have my reflective vest on and a blinking red light on my back. I can't stand it when there are runners out at night, and they are wearing all black or other dark colors. I don't know why they don't wear something that makes them more visible because accidents happen! Enough of my ranting...

So off I went with my iPod Touch + Nike going, blinking light, keys and cell phone. I was ready! Or so I thought... First, I noticed that the iPod sensor wasn't picking up my run and I was over a half mile away from home. Drat. Second, ice is really hard to see in the dark despite my nicely lit neighborhood. Third, my neighbors are nice, concientous people who are runner friendly and appreciated my reflective gear.

Once I got the hang of dodging the icy patches and reset my iPod sensor, it was actually very nice. My layers kept me warm, the air wasn't too cold to make breathing difficult, and I might have looked like a shiny, blinking figure in the dark, but I was safe. It all worked out.

Doesn't mean I'm going to do that again, though. If you see me running in outside in winter yet this season, you'll see me bright and early in the morning.

Safe running folks!

Found two new races!

Hello all!
I was reminded today at my Alumni Committee Meeting that Gary's Gallop Run/Walk is coming up in April. I love this race because a) it's for my alma mater Wisconsin Lutheran College, b) I think the race director does an awesome job, c) I get another WLC t-shirt, and d) the last 100 yards are a dash across the football field at the Krauss-Miller-Lutz Outdoor Athletic Complex!

There is a 5K run (first mile is down hill!), a 2-mile walk, and a kids' dash after the 5K. They are so cute! You can check out photos of last year's race here. The race attracts about 300 runners and walkers, families, Warriors (that's us WLC folk) and friends! All proceeds go toward WLC's athletic booster organization, the Warrior Club. So far, GG is the only race that I have planned that I've done before. Hopefully, this won't make me to sure of myself and that I can keep a good pace.

I knew I wanted to do Gary's Gallop, but I honestly couldn't remember whether it was in April or March, but now that I know, I was stumped about which race to run in March. Thanks to this handy-dandy site called Running in the USA, I found The Blarney Run.

The Blarney Run is held every spring in Wauwatosa on the weekend nearest to St. Patrick's Day. This 5K has a course for runners and a shorter course for those who want to walk. Like Gary's Gallop and the Steve Cullen Healthy Heart Club Run, parts of this race will be run on the Wil-O-Way Underwood Parkway. I think my favorite part of this race is that the kids' race is called the Twinkle Trot! All proceeds from this race go to helping the Wauwatosa Historical Society.

Anyone want to join me for the races? The more the merrier!

M-I-C... K-E-Y... I-N-S-P-I-R... A-T-I-O-N!

I'm 26 (and 3 days) old now and loving it so far! Because my friends are awesome (those that went along and those that stayed), we spent this past weekend celebrating in Disney World!

Out of the 9 people that went, 3 of us had the same birthday, one was the next day and one is in a week. Another friend, who did not travel with us, came to Disney to run the 1/2 and the full marathon (not on the same day. Overall, we had a lot to celebrate!

First, we celebrated the fact that we all made it there on the same day. We had lots of weather issues this weekend starting with our flight! We ended up making a lovely side trip to Pittsburg! It was fun though because our group is full of easy-going people. We event got some of the people on our plane to participate in "The Wave". Awesome!

Disney World was filled with princesses, fun rides and more importantly princes - ha ha! No, seriously, Prince Charming = hot! But I digress... After braving a day of cold and rain and one more ride on Space Mountain, we headed to Hemmingway's for our surprise birthday dinner. I'm pretty sure that was one of the tastiest meals of my life! I'm tempted to try and recreate the crab cakes that I ate.

Epcot followed and friend Julie ran the 1/2 marathon with a good time despite the rain and freezing temperatures. I thought it was really funny when one of the "cast members" (all people who work for Disney are considered Cast Members) said, "I bet you're from up north, aren't you?" "How could you tell?" I asked. "You're all dressed appropriately for the weather!" So true... We hit all the rides and went to every country. Holly and I took a picture in front of all the signs. Holly had never been there before and was probably the most excited of everyone! Besides getting our photos taken with signs we also got EVERY classic Disney character. I promise the photos are a hoot (I also promise that I found my camera cord despite the lack of photos).

The next day we slept in and relaxed while Julie ran the full marathon. Yup, she ran both. When you do that, it's called the "Goofy Challenge". Aptly named, huh? Anywho, Julie did awesome and Holly, Annie and I were so inspired, we decided that we're going to run the Marathon in 2012. This way, I can run my 5ks and we'll have LOTS of time to train. Just watching the people run both days was so inspiring. I think it's awesome when people just reach for their dreams and get them! If anyone wants to join us, we'd love to have you!

As we were waiting in a LONG, LONG line to get through security, I noticed how many people were still wearing their finisher medals and marathon shirts. If I finished, I would TOTALLY wear the shirt for a week, and the medal for a month. They were all talking about how much fun they had and how they were so glad to have done it. I'm so there people!

Pictures and fun anecdotes later - this traveling birthday girl needs to hit the hay!