hello.amythyst

Beavers and Being an Idiot

2012-01-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

Well, I am not sure how I did it, but I managed to somehow delete all my photos from my entire blog! Ha ha what a moron. I am gradually working on replacing them one by one, but I can tell this is going to be a project for a rainy day. (Or a week of rainy days!)

So the past couple of months we have had an unusual amount of power outages at our house. Well, it turns out that in the park that backs up to our neighborhood, the beavers are going hog wild chewing up the trees, and they fall on the power lines. Back on the 15th, I was running back there and stopped to take a couple photos of what the little buggers are up to back there.

Here you can see where the beavers have munched on a tree quite a bit!

Some trees that have fallen from the beavers nomming on them.

And here is part of the power company's solution to the problem. They have come through the park and mowed these big paths through it. I guess the paths are supposed to have no trees near the lines so when the beavers chew on the trees there is no risk of them falling on the lines.

It is fun to run back there in this area because you can also see all their prints and drag marks from where they drag the logs across the path and into the river.

O.K fast forward a week after these photos were taken, to this past Sunday. We finally had a decent snow here in Michigan (a few inches or so) so I waited until the afternoon to take a run back there, hoping other runners and hikers would have matted the snow down some. Yeah well, they did but not enough. I love running in the cold and snow but when it is deep on a path I have a hard time getting fast enough, and I work a lot of different stability muscles trying to keep myself upright. I am thinking about getting some kind of snow attachment for my shoes to run on trails, but I really don't know where to start. If there is anyone reading this who has any recommendations for me, I would love to hear them!

2012 Race Schedule!

2012-01-02T05:05:00.000-08:00

Yay! One of the BEST parts about the New Year is laying out my race schedule. Gets me totally pumped up and excited. The timing is good too, since tomorrow begins training for the Trail Half Marathon in April. SO EXCITED!

Anyway, here is my projected calendar for 2012:

January 28: Freeze Your Franny 5k. I especially want to do this race now that we live so close to Stony Creek Metropark where it is held. The only thing that turns me off is the goofy ass name!

February 5: Super 5k

Mike and I did this one last year, and really liked the shirts and pint glasses. Also its fun to participate in a race on Superbowl Sunday. Get a short run done in the morning before chowing down and drinking beer all evening. HA.

February 12: Riverview Winterfest 4 mile

LOVE this race. Pancake breakfast comes with it, and I like that it is an unusual distance.

March 11: Corktown Race 5k

This one is PURELY for fun, and I love that free beer is included and we stick around for the St. Patrick's day parade afterwards.

March 18: Shamrock and Roll 10k

A new race put on by the same folks that put on the Halloween Wicked Run last year. That race was AWESOME so this one should be really fun too. I cannot say how much I love 10k medals!

March 25: Outrun CF Half Marathon Relay with Mike

Mike and I are totally stoked for this. A half marathon relay! Another new event we have never done!

April 28: Trail Half Marathon

The big one I am training for this spring. More challenging than a road half marathon, so something new to work toward without increasing distance.

May 19: Save the Manatee 5k

Mike did this one with Hannah last year, and it was too cute. I'd like to do it this year with them if at all possible.

May 20: Back to The Beach (Distance Undecided)

In a perfect world, I'd like to do the half at this. I haven't done two halves that close together before so I haven't completely decided. If I wimp out though, I'd do the 10k. I live right by Stony Creek now, so I feel like I should participate in as many races there as possible since I run there so much anyway!

June-Sept: Not sure, but assorted 5ks and 10ks will pop up at the last minute, I'm sure.

October 7: The Brooksie Way (Distance Undecided)

I am pretty confident that I would rather run the Brooksie Way half vs. the Detroit half two weeks later. It is closer to home and less complicated to get to, plus I have never done it before. OR if I decide to run the full in Detroit (which is also in consideration) then the Brooksie Way could be a training run. Either way, I am hopeful I can do it and not just spectate like last year.

October 21: Detroit Free Press Marathon (Distance Undecided)

Maybe the full, maybe the half, guess I need to figure that shit out.

October 28: Wicked Halloween Run 10k

Loved it last year!

October: Fall Cider Slam

This was an interesting and unusual race. I'd love to do it again, yet I doubt I will have the balls for the bridge jump!

November: Roseville Big Bird 10k

Becoming an old favorite. :D

December 16: Biggby Coffee Jingle Bell 5k

Christmas tradition!

So there you have it. I am sure it will be tweaked here and there, but this is it for the most part. Just typing it out has gotten me so excited to start a new running year!

The Last Two Races of 2011

2012-01-02T04:23:00.000-08:00

My number one New Year's Resolution: to blog more consistently. What sucks about this is I am terrible at keeping resolutions. I will do my best for as long as I can, though!

At the end of last year, I did run two shorter races that I did not post about in a timely fashion. The first one was the 33rd Annual Roseville Big Bird 10k.

I really like the home-town feel of this race. They raffle off prizes including Thanksgiving turkeys, and do a ton of awards. The course even goes right in front of Mike's uncle's house, so he got to wave at his cousin during the race. We bumped into some friends there which was cool, but we had no spectators so no other photos than this one of the shirt, ha.

Then, the weekend before Christmas we ran the Biggby Coffee Jingle Bell 5k.

It was only the second year for this race, and it was way bigger than last year! I really like the course since it goes through a park and not through a residential area, but this year it was really slippery. Like, really slippery. There were great volunteers warning in the really bad spots, but it was still slick enough that it slowed me down a bit. This race is really fun, and seems to be becoming a tradition in my family to do at the holidays.

Happy New Year!

The Past 4853798347 Ten on Tuesdays

2011-12-20T04:03:00.000-08:00

Because it is 3:30 am on Wednesday, and still considered Tuesday night to a lot of people, and because I need to do SOMETHING to get me in the mood to get off of my lazy ass and post more regularly.

If you're not into memes, well um..sorry about that!

December 20 Edition:

1. What is your favorite online-only store?

Amazon of course!

2. Do you enjoy wrapping gifts?

No I hate it and am terrible at it. Every package I wrap manages to look like complete shit.

3. What is the temperature in your city today?

29 degrees and sunny (for now)

4. What time do you eat dinner?

Usually around 8 or so.

5. Will you be making New Years Resolutions?

Negatory.

6. How old is your oldest pair of shoes that you still wear?

I have a pair of Doc Martens that are probably about ten years old that get regular wear.

7. Do you have any restaurant phone numbers saved in your phone?

No. I would attribute this to the fact that I never have any reason to call any restaurants.

8. What is your favorite and least favorite letter to write in cursive?

??? WTF ???

9. Do you know any good riddles?

I don't think I know any good riddles, terrible riddles, or any riddles at all come to think of it.

10. How do you feel about snow?

I love it! (Unless it is holding me up commute/travel wise)

December 13 Edition:

1. How do you eat your eggs?

No runny stuff! I just CAN'T with that. I have a couple weird food aversions and that is one of them. Eggs are alright fried or scrambled or in an omelet though.

2. Do you volunteer?

I have not recently and I have absolutely zero excuse for that. In the future I hope to not be such an ass and make the time.

3. What’s your favorite brand of jeans?

The jeans I have are from Target because they're cheap and fit. I have no idea what the brand is, Target brand?

4. What was your child’s first word? Or what was your first word?

My mom says my first word was "dada". I guess my sister's was too.

5. Can you french braid?

Yes yes yes! I wore french braid pigtails all.the.time when i had hair. All the time! I miss that about having long hair. Truth be told though, that is a lot of why I cut it off...it was always up!

EVIDENCE:

6. Do you prefer wide rule, college rule, or blank paper?

I couldn't give a fuck less.

7. Is there a specific treat do you always make during the holidays?

I usually make the same hodge-podge of stuff. Sugar cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, and this oreo concoction that i can't stand but my family loves.

8. Do you have a KitchenAid mixer? Do you want one?

I am sure one would be amazing to have, but I can't say I really feel like I am missing out for not having one. (That is probably because I've never used one before, ha ha!)

9. What kind of computer do you use?

Some HP thing at work, and I have a cheap as heck bargain Micro Center special that I use at home. I think it was like $275 bucks and I've had it for years, and it suits my needs just fine.

10. Favorite Christmas movie?

Mixed Nuts probably. Or Scrooged.

December 6 Edition:

1. What are 3 things that are on your Christmas wishlist?

-A couple of peaceful, relaxing days with family.
-Decent weather to make all the driving as safe and easy as possible.
-Plenty of food and beer.

2. What’s your favorite Christmas song?

Christmas music used to really annoy me, no matter what the song was. I blame working in retail back in the day and having it ground into my ears. Enough time has gone by where I am pretty much indifferent to it now, but I sure as heck can't come up with a favorite!

There are a couple I especially think suck though, namely "Baby It's Cold Outside". That song: REALLY?!

3. Do you have a favorite band or singer that sings it especially awesome?

Since I don't have a favorite, but have a least favorite, I will point out I especially can't stand Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon's version of "Baby It's Cold Outside". Ha ha! And I actually really love Mariah's voice, just that song KILLS ME.

4. Have you heard about the website goodreads?

Yes! Love it, but I really need to try to keep up with mine better, like pretty much every other website i like. How do people keep up with them all?

5. What are 3 books you want to read?

For now I would settle for having the time to read ANYTHING. Lately when I try to read, it is late at night and I doze. Do not like.

6. Do you hunt deer?

Good lord, no. I am a vegetarian so it would be pretty pointless. Plus I don't have the balls to kill anything ever if I am not defending myself from it.

7. Have you started Christmas shopping? Are you completely finished?

I procrastinate SO bad when it comes to Christmas shopping, luckily the little I have to buy I can get online. I strongly dislike shopping in general, throw in crowds and all that and it makes it the absolute worst part of the holiday season (for me at least).

8. Did you shop on Black Friday? What was the best deal you got?

I cannot think of anything I would want to do less. HA! In all seriousness though, I had to run in to Kmart for something totally non-Christmas related on that day, and I waited until afternoon and was in and out in 10 minutes. PLEASANTLY SURPRISED.

9. What’s one holiday tradition your family has?

My mom's side does homemade/white elephant gifts and no one has to buy anything for anyone which is pretty cool. People do if they have something they want to get, but its totally no pressure and more about hanging out and eating and just being together. I love this so much!

10. How many blogs do you read? Do you subscribe/unsubscribe often or do you purge every once in a while?

I probably have 100 or so in my reader, but I definitely don't read every entry. Some I barely read, but I do not purge them because if they had one entry that brought me to follow them, I figure they're likely to have another eventually. The ones I read loyally are either local, running related, or written by someone I actually know.

November 29 Edition:

1. Do you wear glasses, contacts, or are you one of those perfect eyed people?

I wear glasses, but just to read or be on the computer. I didn't have to until I was 27 or 28, so up until then I thought I was a perfect eyed person!

2. What is the next item you are going to purchase?

Gas. That is the exciting truth.

3. Have you ever watched Judge Judy or any other real court show?

Not really. Last time I can remember is having Judge Mathis on when I was at my friend Amber's house in Minnesota a couple years ago. I don't remember what was going on in the show but we were both like "what in the hell?!". Before that it has probably been at least ten years since I have seen a show like that.

4. How do you feel about fake nails?

I have no opinion on what other people do with their hands, but personally I don't even paint my nails much less drive somewhere and pay someone to cover them in acrylic every couple weeks. Too much.

5. What is your favorite sport to watch?

I never thought in a MILLION years I would say this, but football. I listen on the radio mostly, since committing to the T.V for that long is kind of hard. I like it though! I am even at the point where I text friends back and forth about the game. Seriously, WHO AM I?

6. If you could create your own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor, what would it be and what would it be named?

I know this is one of those questions where I should be able to come up with some cute, quirky name, and tell you about an ice cream with my favorite ingredients, but I am so lame that I don't really care about ice cream, have not had Ben and Jerry's ice cream ever, and can't come up with a cutesy name. I suck, I am aware.

7. Do you have any scars?

Just a few stupid ones. Namely the couple inch long one on my right arm from when my ex-boyfriend Allen and I brilliantly climbed a barbed wire fence. Heh, don't ask. Some assclown accidentally burned me with a cigarette on my right wrist in high school, so I have a perfect white circle there. Both of my ankles are scarred from deep blisters I got when I started roller skating. From the looks of them you'd think I was batshit to have stuck with it. DEDICATION.

8. Does your pet’s name fit them? Is there a more appropriate name?

My cat's names are Simon, Sylvia and Reena. They all have people names, which I guess fits them since at times I think they all are convinced they are human anyway. They all came with their names, so I suspect they'd have names more suited to their actual cat personalities if we had the opportunity to name them, but I like their names!

9. What is your favorite television show theme song?

I got nothin' with this, since I don't know much about TV theme songs. All I can come up with is the theme song for "Bones" because it is done by the Crystal Method, and is often on the T.V at the treadmill I run on at the gym, and it makes me pick up my pace. (Well, for like 30 seconds til it is over)

10. What was your favorite activity on the playground?

Flipping around on the monkey bars thinking I was some kind of gymnast or something.

November 15 Edition:

1. What are your pantry staples?

We pretty much always have flour, sugar, beans, pasta noodles and sauce and peanut butter.

2. What are your refrigerator staples?

Tofu, apples, cheese, carrots, celery, soy milk, and some kind of juice.

3. You already look like Heidi Klum (or your favorite supermodel). Now, what are the top three non-physical things you would change about yourself?

1. I would procrastinate less.
2. I would learn how to say "no".
3. I would be less cynical. (HA! right!)

4. What’s holding you back from your dream job? (If you already have your dream job, how did you get there?)

Very simply put: education and money. I didn't graduate from college. Additionally, I make good money at my non-dream job. All of this combined with the fact I am completely too much of a wimp to just quit.

5. You have $500 to spend but it has to be on one item only. Go.

It probably isn't enough, but Mike needs a new computer SO bad.

6. What is something that you are embarrassed to admit you buy on a regular basis?

I'm not embarrassed of anything I buy regularly, but I bet some people would be surprised I drink as much Diet Pepsi and eat as many Better Made Hot chips as I actually do.

7. What’s in/on your bed every night?

Me, Mike, my pillow pet (I know, I know, but i have to have something in my arms when I sleep. Since like, forever.) and this guy:

The other two cats have favorite sleeping places (usually up against heat vents or something).

8. What is a non-necessity item that, no matter how expensive it gets or how tight your budget if, you will always find room for it?

Cell phone bill probably. But I'd still cut that out if need be. Not sure there is anything non-necessity I wouldn't be willing to eliminate if it had to be done.

9. What is the weirdest sandwich you’ve ever made?

Personally I do not think the sandwiches I eat are weird, but I guess some people do. If I eat a sandwich it usually has toasted bread, hummus, lettuce, cheese, and sliced peppers and onions. Perfect!

10. Would you rather: Be banned from Pinterest forever, but gain a million captive Twitter followers; or, never get on Facebook again but gain five thousand blog readers?

The first part of this question I cannot answer because I have no idea what the hell Pinterest is and I don't really care about Twitter followers. As for the second part, I don't really care that much about blog readers either, but interact with people on Facebook. I guess the point is I DON'T KNOW!

November 8 Edition:

1. What’s your favorite television show for each day of the week?

Monday- Law and Order
Tuesday - Law and Order
Wednesday - Law and Order
Thursday - Law and Order
Friday - Law and Order
Saturday - Law and Order
Sunday - Lions Football

OK lets discuss this for a moment. I just don't watch T.V ever. And not in the "I-don't-watch-TV-so-I-am-so-superior-to-you-hipster" way. I just don't have time. When I do have time I have checked seasons of shows out of the Library to watch, and I really like them, I just can't make T.V part of my regular routine.

Having said that, I put Law and Order in every day because it is on every time I am at the gym, and if I am running I will watch that while on the treadmill. It seems to be on all day every day because it does not seem to matter what day or time I am there, it is on.

And Sunday is self-explanatory :D

2. How many times do you wear your jeans before you watch them?

A lot. Probably because I don't wear jeans all that much so they don't get dirty. I wear like, office clothes to work, then gym clothes, then pjs. Jeans get worn only occasionally now that I am living in these:

Yes more Lulu. Really.

3. What is your favorite pasta shape?

Yes I own this product!

4. Do you read newspapers?

Online for the most part. But we still get a few at my office and I will read them if I have spare time.

5. Do you sleep in socks?

Not usually! If I do I usually end up taking them off in my sleep.

6. Favorite genre of movies?

Mysteries for sure!

7. How do you feel about wrestling?

I have no opinion on it since I don't watch it!

8. Should men pluck their eyebrows?

If they want to and feel that they look better, then sure they can do what they want.

9. Do you have dimples?

Not anywhere that would be considered attractive. HA! (Gross)

10. Do you like to camp?

LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE it!

Camping delivers the awesomeness of digging your pants out of your rear from hours of bike riding, hanging garbage from your car, and the ability to enjoy such delicious craft beers as Busch Light.

Alright. That wraps that up. Thank goodness. :)

HA HA I suck

2011-12-02T15:46:00.001-08:00

I haven't updated in almost a month!

I'd like to say it has been because I have been insanely busy but that isn't really it. Lazy is more like it. Oh, and I took a bit of an internet hiatus over Thanksgiving. (That felt awesome, by the way.)

I have the Big Bird Run to post about, and various other crap. I am hoping to get to that this weekend.

And so this post isn't totally devoid of content, be 15 with me again:

Haha I'm old.

I've been driving around listening to the Guns N Roses "Live Era" album. I used to hear this constantly back in the day. Even though rocking out in my responsible family vehicle dressed for the office isn't exactly the same as rocking out as a carefree teenager, it almost felt like it for half a second. Ha!

I'll update for real soon, have a nice day!

Bloomer Boogie and Mike's Birthday

2011-11-06T08:18:00.000-08:00

This morning me, Mike and the kids went to our favorite park to participate in another race, The Bloomer Boogie. This was a trail race with a 5 mile, 5k and Kid's 1k option. Mike and I both did the 5 mile, Hannah did the kid's 1k and Monica was the photographer/spectator extraordinaire.

The weather was GORGEOUS this morning and I love the Bloomer trails so this race rocked.

Here's the shirt. Even Hannah got one for the kids run which was pretty cool.

Yes I am wearing the shirt in the photo. One of these days I will remember to take a photo of a race shirt BEFORE putting it on.

Mike got the 3rd place medal for dudes 30 - 39, which is pretty fantastic I must say. The medal is a little cheesy but who gives a shit, he earned it!

It is the one shaped like a star, hanging with a crap load of his other medals.

Here is Mr. Speedy himself finishing the race.

When I showed up at the end, he was more than happy to run me in. Show off!

Ha, I am kidding obviously. He's awesome and it was fun to run the last bit with him!

And here is me at the finish. Not sure what the heck is up with this photo, but I have a waistline, I swear.

Kids 1k!

Too cute!

My time was 47:53 which was 5th in my age group. I am happy with that because some of the hills on the trail (not to mention running on GRASS) kind of kick my ass. Mike's was 38:39. He rocks big time. We had fun, and since Bloomer is so close we were home by 10:00 am. Nice!

Yesterday was Mike's birthday. The big 3-5! I ran over to Yates first thing to get him a gallon of cider.

Source

He thought it would go great with the pumpkin waffles he requested for breakfast. Not gonna lie, it did.

After the waffles were all cleaned up, I made him his birthday cake request. Carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting topped with walnuts and toasted coconut. He chooses the same cake every year so I guess he really likes it! They are so delicious but we have too many. COME OVER FOR CUPCAKES PLEASE.

We ran the cupcakes and waffles off at Bloomer Park (of course, ha) and then out to dinner to celebrate. Mike chose Miguel's but we had never been there before. Holy crap, if anyone reading this is local to Rochester Hills Michigan, go there immediately. It was delicious, the service was awesome, and they made the salsa for you table side. Freaking amazing.

Today we might break into Mike's birthday gift from the cats. They're so generous when they aren't terrorizing the house:

It is a special occasion after all!

A Great weekend, great race, and I think Mike had a great birthday! Next weekend is Big Bird!

Wicked Halloween Run

2011-10-31T14:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Mike and I did the Wicked Halloween Run.

This race is about an hour away from where we live, and we (well I at least) were a bit sore from the Cider Slam the day before but I am so glad we did this race!

After the Cider Slam we headed out to pick up our packets. We stopped by Hanson's on the way and FINALLY got ourselves trail shoes. The Cider Slam taught us that we need them.

YESSS!!!!

We really like to pick our packets up a day early when it is available, especially when it is in a location we aren't familiar with (like Plymouth where this one was held.) I have been to Plymouth twice. Once was a lot of years ago for an ice sculpture festival, and once was last summer when Mike and I were lost looking for a Target. BUT I DIGRESS.

We picked up our packets and walked around the town a bit to check it out. We ate lunch at a bar and grill there too which was fun. Since we were on the way west side of town, we also took a detour and went to Running Fit to browse before heading home.

Sunday morning came quick. We got up around 4:00 am to get the pre-race routine done and hit the road at 6:30. Even though we spent some time in town the day before we couldn't remember what parking was like. Duh. I am glad we headed out early, but parking was a breeze. We parked about a block from the starting line and costume-watched for a bit before hitting the shit shacks and warming up.

Our warm up finished just as the national anthem was being sung and we found our spot at the starting line. People had on some really awesome costumes!

I could not believe this guy ran the entire 10k in this(Source):

That is just amazing to me. He was fast too from what I hear.

I loved the costumes! It was so fun seeing so many different outfits and what people were able to pull off. I for one, sweat like some kind of beast and get uncomfortable if I wear the wrong shorts, much less a paper-mache horse on my head. Costume people: you are awesome.

The course was flat and in a residential area and had a lot of turns which I like because I can get bored looking at a bunch of houses. The turns and people's costumes held my attention and before I knew it we were at 5 miles. It went by so fast. I finished in 55:49 and Mike finished in 45:56 and was 6th in his age group. He was already half way through a bagel and banana before I came around the corner to the finish, ha! Both of our times were PRs, which was a nice bonus because we really went into this race with the idea to just have fun.

Also, we got medals for finishing this race which is pretty awesome. It's our first medal for a 10k, and it was really nice quality!

I had a blast at this race. Great weather, costumes, food, shirt, medal, everything. I am already looking forward to doing it again next year!

Muddy Watters Cider Slam

2011-10-31T11:57:00.000-07:00

Mike and I participated in two races this weekend. Saturday was the Muddy Watters Cider Slam, and Sunday the Wicked Halloween Run.

Saturday's Cider Slam was a first for me for about 439857498 reasons.

Ok, maybe more like 3.

1. It was the first race Mike and I ran together.
2. It was the first race I ever ran with an unmarked course.
3. It was the first race I ever ran that had obstacles.

I was pumped to do this race because it took place in my back yard and because it was different. Additionally, it seemed like a good mix of a first trail race for me (since I am planning on a trail half in April) and an obstacle course for Mike (who is doing Tough Mudder also in April).

It took place at Bloomer Park, and Mike and I almost walked there since it is so close to home, but decided against it because temps were in the mid 30s, and if there was a lot of waiting around before the start we'd probably get cold.

Well, there wasn't much waiting around. There was no day before packet pick up, but the race was small (probably about 50 or so people if I had to guess) so everyone got checked in rather quickly. The event organizer gave a small explanation and we were off.

Racers were given a map of the park with checkpoints. Since the course was unmarked, everyone could choose in what order to do each check point and their route to get there. Racers were encouraged to bring a compass since it is a big park, but everyone seemed to know the park as well as we do even though we run there every day. Anyway, once you got to each check point there would be an obstacle and when you completed it a volunteer would mark off that point on a checklist provided at the start. Whomever made it back first within the allotted hour and a half time limit after completing all the obstacles would be the winner.

The first obstacle we went to consisted of running up and down the sled hill five times and slamming a cider and eating a donut every time you reached the top. THANKFULLY there weren't enough donuts and we only had to chow one donut, but still had to slam a cider at the top each time. Had there been enough donuts, I assure you I would have vomited all over the place.

Here is a photo of us heading down the hill for the fourth time. You may notice that there aren't many people ahead of us. That would be because Mike was all about savoring the flavor of his donut or some shit before the first hill and we fell towards the back of the group. It was too funny. He was treating it like snack time or something and not an obstacle HA.

The above is also one of two photos I took at this event. More on that in a minute.

The second obstacle we headed to turned out to be a bridge jump. I knew this was coming and also knew there was no way in hell I would be jumping into the Clinton River. For starters, I hate heights. Second, it was 35 degrees out. Third, I am a chicken shit on so many levels, so no. Having said that, I knew Mr. Mike The Bad Ass would have no issue doing this so I brought my camera along for the simple reason of taking his photo as he did.

Well, things were set up in such a way that I couldn't get across the river without jumping so my wimpy butt had to climb a fence and go a long way around. By the time I did that Mike had already jumped and I missed it. Damn. I was so relived later to learn that I wasn't the only scaredy-cat to not do this challenge. Wimps Unite!

For reference here is a photo found on Google of some complete strangers doing the bridge jump at last year's race. Source

Anyway, I did get a photo of Mike putting his clothes back on in a field of weeds as some dude in a muscle suit ran by, so that has to count for something. This was my first time taking my camera with me on a run/race and it was cumbersome and a pain in the ass. People who are able to take photos while running: more power to you but I am pretty sure I will forever suck at it and also hate it.

After Mike got dressed in the picker weeds we headed to the third checkpoint. This involved running out of the park and down the road to the party store to purchase a piece of candy for the kids scavenger hunt that was to take place after the race. Fine by me, George was working. He didn't seemed surprised to see me, but he seemed pretty surprised I wasn't there for beer or worms.

The fourth checkpoint was going up and down the stairs. Each way is 300 steps. Oh hey there butt muscles!

Fifth was the hill. After doing 30 squat jumps, the idea was to "run" up the hill and then back down. Climbing this hill in the mud is slippery, messy and can take a couple tries. Coming down however didn't take much more than squatting and sliding down on my feet. Evidently everyone else did the sliding on their butts though, because everyone had muddy asses.

Next stop was at a bridge and we did 15 down-ups.

The seventh checkpoint we did was way out in the outskirts of the park, so there wasn't even a volunteer there. You had to write down the address of a nearby building to prove you ran out that far.

We ran back and hit the 8th point. At the bottom of the Velodrome we did 10 chin up variations and then ran back up and out.

Challenge 9 was back at the starting line. There we did sets of down-ups and push-ups in a ladder starting from 10 reps. (That means 55 of each. My arms were like "Can you just stick to running? Thanks.")

We finished the whole thing in 1:33 and covered 6.25 miles. My butt, quads, and arms are still feeling the burn two days later!

Swag was pretty good. We got a backpack thing (similar to the one we got at Let's Move), a water bottle, and t-shirt.

Sorry I couldn't be bothered to take the shirt off before I photographed it. I am lazy, OK.

They also had a raffle, and Mike won a pass that we THINK gets him free race fees in all of the Muddy Watters Trail Series. Still have to confirm that with the race guy though since it isn't really clear.

This race was great. Small, fun, different. I would definitely recommend this race to someone that is into races like the Warrior Dash or whatever or someone who wants to mix it up with more than just running. I can't wait to do it next year too!

Detroit Free Press Marathon and Half Marathon

2011-10-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

I am slow to update, but this past Sunday Mike and I ran the half at the Detroit Free Press Marathon. I was super stoked to run this thing, not only because it is so big and there is a lot excitement around it, but because it was the first race I had run and trained for COMPLETELY INJURY FREE! I haven't run a single race of any distance since the Lets Move Half Marathon in April, I took a little time off and then re-built from the beginning. My foot is totally thanking me for that choice, obviously.

The alarm went off at 3. No really, HA. We ate, got dressed and took mini jogs around the neighborhood to wear off some of the excitement and anxiety. My mom and in laws came over a little before 5 am. Race time was 7 am, and now that we live far from the city we headed out just after 5 am.

Mike and I ran the 5k last year, so we had kind of an idea how congested things get and where a good place to park would be. We parked at the Fox Theater and only paid 2 bucks! Trust me this is amazing for Detroit, especially on a day with not only this event but a Lion's game. Usually you can expect to pay 30 dollars to park. Ridiculous.

Timing worked out perfectly, but next year we might even want to leave a few minutes earlier. We got to the start just in time to shed our coats and pass them off to the fam, use the shit shacks, take a short jog and gel, and find our way to our corrals.

My mom found our friend Bob and his son Scott as they headed to their corral and took this photo of them. They are both fast as hell and running the full. Bob's third and Scott's first.

The full and half runners all start together and the course is the same until the 13 mile mark or so when we split up. There was an epic shit ton of people, so we started in waves that started every three minutes. Bob and Scott were in B, Mike in C, and me and a couple other running buds were back in G and a few more in I.

Here I am waving from the corral as we moved up toward the starting line.

And here is the start as my group finally got our chance to take off!

The first mile or so was so congested that it was hard to get up to the pace I was hoping to hold through the whole race. Not going to lie though, I really didn't care that much because it was fun watching people and I was enjoying myself so I wasn't going to obsess over my pace. I finally found my comfortable pace just in time to lose it again on a tight squeeze right before the Ambassador Bridge. Oh well, might as well conserve a little energy to run that long uphill of the bridge, right?

Running over the bridge was awesome. The view kicked major ass. Some people stopped to take pictures which was a bit of a clusterfuck but no big deal. I could see all the runners ahead and behind me which was pretty neat. It was this steady stream of runners for as far as I could see.

Next was my favorite stretch of the race, which was the part through Windsor. It started raining at this point but it was a drizzly type rain and not a beat you in the face type rain so it was pleasant to run in. Most of it was down Riverside drive so it was scenic and seemed to be pretty flat. There were quite a few spectators and I high fived some little kids haha.

To come back into the States we ran through the Tunnel. It is only a mile long but in my opinion the suckiest part of the race. People love it and get all excited about the "underwater mile" but it was stuffy and hot with 4938573497 people running and breathing everywhere with no wind. Also the second half of it was another steep incline, so the cool air and rain on the other side of it was something i was totally happy to see.

There were a gazillion spectators just outside the tunnel which was awesome. Coming out of that sweatbox tunnel to a bunch of people cheering made it not suck so much.

We then headed past Joe Louis and up into Corktown and Mexican Town. I remember feeling like utter shit around mile 11. That quickly passed though because by mile 12 I was like "OH HAYYY" and having a great time again.

Coming up to the finish, I saw a friend of ours, Aaron, in my sights. He was just head of me! I knew we ran at similar paces from previous races and were in the same corral but I hadn't seen him the whole time until the end. I tried hard to catch him but he was just out of my reach.

No big deal, this was fun and I was smiling as I came up to the finish line.

And here is a pro photo if me crossing the finish line.

The clock is off because of the wave start. My time was actually 2:07:28. I was cool with that. I was shooting for 2:05 but I really had know idea what to expect to run with a non-hurting foot. 2:07:28 is still about a ten minute PR from my last half, so I think I can be proud of it.

Other than Aaron, my friend Allen's sister Kim and my friend Joe finished around the same time as me. Popular block of time I guess!

Obviously Mike finished way before me. I think he was dicking around with the fam on the sidelines for about 40 minutes before I came along. He did awesome. His time was 1:42:55 which was a PR for him as well, not to mention an impressive time anyway.

That little speck is him. My mom was all excited and forgot to zoom. HA

The pros got some good photos of him too I will say:

The family kept busy while Mike and I were out running around by taking pictures of mascots:

Even Roary dropped by to say "hi" to my step-daughter Hannah.

Tee hee.

We stuck around after the half to cheer on Bob and Scott as they finished the full. As I mentioned, they are quick so we weren't waiting long.

Bob came in at 3:17 and Scott at 3:22. Good Lord.

Once they finished we high-tailed out of there before the crowds started pouring in the area for the Lions game. All the tailgater's grills smelled SO good as we headed back to the car. Good thing we were headed to Rosie O'Grady's for pizza and beer.

Mike and I at Rosie's:

It was a good day and a great race. Everyone that we know who raced did great. Plus Mike and I were so thankful that we had so much family there to cheer us on.

Mike is talking about doing the full marathon next year. I am not sure I want to, but never say never! For now I will focus on what is next on the calendar, and that is the Wicked Halloween Run and the Cider Slam next weekend!

Two Days To Go!

2011-10-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

I am so looking forward to this race because there are so many people Mike and I know that are running. About a dozen people that we know of are in the half, relay, or the full. I am not sure if I am more excited to run the race, or to watch my friends finish.

Either way, only two more days to go!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-10-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

1. Something popular that I can't stand/just don't "get" is "Sexy" Halloween costumes. To each their own, but I just find most of them so ridiculous! Like "Sexy" Sponge Bob. Really? Ha!

2. Something unpopular that I secretly love is Roller skating is the obvious one, even though my love for it isn't so secret.

3. When I've had a bad day I get in a really good work out, and go to bed early if possible to put an end to the crap day and get a fresh start at the next one.

4. I'd prefer french fries to chocolate any day.

5. Something that makes me nervous is heights. Hate.

6. Something worth fighting for is family.

7. When people think of me, I hope they think that I am a good person that they are happy to know.

Here is where to go to play along!

Brooksie Way Expo and Spectating

2011-10-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Two half-marathons a couple weeks apart seemed like a bit much for us to run but Mike and I still wanted to participate in the Brooksie Way.

So, Saturday we got up early and headed over to the expo. I really liked this expo! It was a lot of the same booths that I have seen before, but it wasn't very crowded at the time we were there so it was really easy to shop around without the crowds.

We bought way more stuff than we expected to, but everything we got is awesome and we are super excited about all of it.

Barefoot shoes!

These New Balance something or others that Mike had been eying pretty much since they came out.

And I got Vibrams. I am pretty psyched about these things. Not to run in them so much (I don't think I'll ever be a barefoot runner) but to bum around in them and take walks and hopefully build some strength in my injury-prone feet.

Plus they look pretty sweet! (Well, in my opinion anyway!)

We both got jackets that fold down into little pouches that can fit in a pocket, fuel belt, whatever. We ran 11 miles in them later that day and we both loved them.

There is a coat in there, awesome!

I got myself tattoo arm warmers. They look fun, but my first run wearing them they slid down a lot. They're mediums and my arms are about as medium as it gets so maybe the sticky stuff on them just isn't so great. They were kind of expensive though so I will most definitely try them a few more times. If they keep sliding, oh well. I have some black ones that are perfect, tattoo ones are just so fun so I had to get them!

A lot of sweat wicking headbands. So far I already like these better than the bandanas I have always worn. Plus my bandanas don't say things like "Om nom nom" on them. Ha!

Last but not least I got a necklace. I am really not a jewelry person, but this is small and light and was cheap ($15 I think) so I got it.

I really need to figure out how to turn the date stamp off on my camera. Ridiculous.

The next day we headed over to our pre determined cheering station at the 10 mile mark. We were the first ones that showed up to cheer people on at this location, and the cops were blocking off the street when we got there.

Since we were pretty early, we decided to walk down to the 9 mile mark and back and see what was going on.

FREE BEER is what was going on at the 9 mile mark!

The people running the free beer stand were enjoying some beers of their own and it was like 8:00 am. Too funny!

I've never been in a race where free beer was an option DURING the run. I love beer and I am not sure I would take it. I'd love to be posed with that dilemma though.

Another group of spectators at about the 9.5 mile mark:

We saw our friend Bob run by which was awesome but I was all excited to be hollering for him that I forgot to take a photo. Duh.

Here are some runners that we don't know heading towards our comfy spectator spot.

Spectating at this race was a blast. We left before the last runners went by because we had a run of our own to get in, but we could have been there til the end, no problem. Hopefully next year we can run this one. To be honest I like the feel of the smaller races and get extra anxiety when it comes to running huge races like we are going to do on the 16th. I am totally fired up to spectate or volunteer at every race we can if we can't run in it!

Detroit Half Marathon

2011-09-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

The registration for the half at the Detroit Free Press Marathon filled up today!

10,300 people are running in this event. Mike and I have not participated in a race this HUGE before and I am getting more and more excited about it. All those people make it kind of intimidating though too. We did the 5k last year with our friend Mike, and at times the crowds made it a cluster and we had a hard time finding each other at the end. Since I finish in the middle of the pack, I am going to have to wear some outrageous colors or something so my friends and family will see me finish!

Here is this year's shirt:

I love long sleeve tech shirts but last year's fit like crap and I never wear it. Hopefully they fixed that issue but if not who cares. I'm excited to earn the shirt and medal even if the shirt is fug.

Shoes

2011-09-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

Since the beginning of the year, I have been gradually working down into less of a running shoe. I am not a minimalist fanatic and will probably never be into barefoot running, but since I am so injury prone I am really trying to have my feet be as strong as possible on their own, and not depend on tons of support from the shoe I am in.

The shoe I started running in and went through three pairs of; The Saucony Pro-Grid Omni. I had two pairs of the 8 and one pair of the 9. Great shoe but really started over correcting me with my orthotics. The last pair I think I have less than 100 miles on.

I then moved on to the Brooks Ghost 3. I have two pairs of these and they have been a great neutral shoe that I got really attached to. I had some difficulty transitioning into them though. I got shin splints from hell and felt some weakness in my ankles. In time I got stronger though, and those ailments went away.

I have been injury free for a few months, and made the transition to the neutral shoes without too much trouble so this weekend I decided to step down even more and get a pair of Saucony Kinvara 2s.

I seriously freaking love these shoes. And it is not all because of the awesome color combo, they have been GREAT. I thought I would break myself into them easily and use them at first just for shorter runs to build up some strength and still do my longer stuff in the Brooks. First run in them though, I ran just under 5 miles and felt better and ran faster than I normally do. Obviously it could have just been a good run day, but I decided to be brave and run 10 miles in them yesterday. Aside from some mild calf soreness, no problems at all! I know having only run on them twice, I can't say for sure that I am in love with them... but I am pretty confident!

I still have to run in my Brooks though whether I like it or not. I have a brand new pair!

Running Update

2011-09-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

Mike and I are still finding new places to train out by the new place. Right down the road is River Bends park which is awesome for trails. Not to mention, its flipping gorgeous. I can't wait for the leaves to start to change, its going to make for some beautiful runs!

Even though it is nowhere near us and quite the drive, we went out to Kensington Metropark last week to do the 8 mile loop. Mike was there recently but I hadn't been since I was a kid. I totally wish it were closer because the trail around the park that we ran was awesome.

I wish that I was better at getting photos of the animals that we see on our runs. We have been seeing tons of deer lately. The other day we literally ran by a couple deer and were just a few feet from them. A day or two ago there was a whole family of them that crossed the trail right in front of us. Today Mike came back from his run saying he saw a bunch of Turkeys. This is a far cry from our old house where the most wildlife we saw was dogs that had gotten out of someones yard or an occasional squirrel.

Tough Mudder

2011-09-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

No way man, I'm not doing it, Mike is!

For anyone reading this that doesn't know what Tough Mudder is, its a 10-12 mile race with some pretty intense obstacles. Mike is doing it and in my eyes that makes him pretty BAD ASS.

Word is you can get a tattoo, beer and a free head shave at the end. HA. Something tells me the guy I'm married to will partake in all three.

I Could Listen To This Song 40935734908 Times

2011-09-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Holy crap is this song gorgeous or what?

Ten On Tuesday

2011-08-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

1. Do you listen to the radio in your car? If so, what type of station do you like?

I usually listen to MP3s in the car, but when that gets old I listen to the radio. There are a lot of local stations that I listen to here and there, but none I listen to religiously. The Top 40 + 90s station, adult alternative station, classic rock, rock, and country stations are all on my preset.

2. What is the best concert you have ever attended?

I have a couple favorites. Ministry and Coldplay. I know its a weird mix of favorites, but I honestly had the most fun at a Ministry concert (that I can remember), and I always choose Coldplay as a fave because they were a band I went into the show kind of like, "whatever", but came out really impressed.

3. What is the most embarrassing concert you have ever attended?
I am not embarrassed by any show I have ever been to, but some that surprise people are Warrant/Ratt and Asia/Yes. Also, Woodstock 99 was a HOT MESS.

4. If you could have the singing voice of anyone in the world, who would it be?

Christina Aguilera or Mariah Carey. Seriously.

5. You’re auditioning for American Idol. What song do you sing?

I'd stick pins in my eyes before I'd audition for American Idol, but I will play along. Probably "Me and Bobby McGee" or "I Will Survive" since they are my standard karaoke songs and I know them really well.

6. If your previous weekend had its own soundtrack, what would be a few of the songs?

Last weekend was the Armada Fair, Woodward Dream Cruise, and the Air Show (where sadly someone died during a stunt, and we were present). That would make last weekends soundtrack be a mixture of oldies, country party songs, sad songs, and songs about flying. Sample:

"If I Die Young" The Band Perry

"Leaving On A Jet Plane" John Denver

"Alcohol" Brad Paisley

"I'll Have a Beer" Jamey Johnson

"Fun Fun Fun" The Beach Boys

Needless to say it was a busy, fun and tragic weekend. I am hoping for a calmer weekend coming up!

7. Most annoying television show theme song ever:

No clue, I am not well versed in TV. However, I have NO idea what is going on here:

8. Are you and your significant other music-compatible?

We are totally on board with each other when it comes to our major musical interests, but we have differences in taste when it comes to country and classic rock. Other than that we are totally 100% compatible!

9. A song that brings me back to middle school:

Vanilla Ice "Ice Ice Baby"

You literally could not go five full minutes without hearing this song when I was in 7th/8th grade. It was ridiculous.

I just watched that and holy cow that was stupid. Anyway, moving on...

10. A song that brings me back to high school:

Picking one song to go back to high school is really hard! I can pick ALBUMS that would take down that memory lane. But instead, I am going the same route as I did with the middle school question and picking a song that was just INSANELY POPULAR for a really long time from that time period.

Four Non Blondes "Whats Up"

I had this album on cassette, ha. Cool story, bro.

11. A guilty pleasure song (or three):

Ok, it is just one but, Enrique Iglesias "I Like It". I seriously love this song. I cannot hear it enough times!

Haters to the left.

To play along, go to Ten on Tuesday

Long Post

2011-08-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

I have a long post in progress, it is just been hard to finish the time to finish it! Very soon, I swear!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-08-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

1. What do you do for a living?

I am an Administrator and Realtor for a small family owned real estate brokerage.

2. What’s your favorite thing about your job?

That it is in a climate controlled environment, and I meet a LOT of interesting people.

3. What’s your least favorite thing about your job?

Lack of work/life balance (X a million.)

4. If you weren’t a ____________, what would you be?

In a perfect world I would be in gym management or something around fitness. That environment would be PERFECT!

5. What is something that you would love to get paid for that you think no one would ever pay you for?

Roller skating, running, painting, karaoke, crafts, traveling.

6. If you could have any job for exactly one day, what would it be?

For one day?!? I'd pick any job's day off, haha!

7. If you had to do manual labor, what would you do?

Something in construction probably. It is what I understand the most, anyway.

8. What is something you were forced to learn in high school that was supposed to be super important, but you never actually use?

For me it was most math beyond basic math. I also don't do anything that has anything to do with science. These things are still super important in the real world, but not for my job. I am still glad I was forced to learn them!

9. Who was your favorite boss? Why?

Honestly the best boss I ever had was probably the Property Manager at my last job eight years ago. She had her hands very full but took good care of us.

10. Where would you rather work: Dunder Mifflin Paper Company (The Office), Wernham Hogg Paper Company (The Office, UK), or Initech (Office Space)?

I have no idea what any of this means.

To play along, go to Ten on Tuesday

Adventures in Running and Lululemon

2011-08-02T12:38:00.001-07:00

Running near the new house is a blast! I have already previously mentioned that the trails are awesome, but to add to that we figured out the other day that the ski hill at Bloomer Park is FANTASTIC for hill intervals.

We have also seen quite a bit of wildlife. Deer are an obvious one, but I haven'tgotten any photos yet because they move so fast! I have however gotten a photo of this guy (or girl):

Google tells me it is most likely a Northern Water Snake. They don't seem to be bothered with people, but I will definitely make sure I am watching where I am running on those paths next to the creek!

I am really thrilled to have such easy access to more trails now. Although I have been running consistently for a long time, now that I am doing more trail running I can tell that my muscles are facing new challenges and I am looking so forward to being able to get even more fit because of it.

Since there is so much access to trail training, I am SO fired up about doing the Pinckney Half in April instead of doing the half marathon at Let's Move again.

Speaking of races, I haven't been doing many. BUT here is what is tentatively in store for the rest of the summer as well as the winter and fall season:

Duck Dash 5k August 7, 2011
Run Woodstock 5 Mile September 11, 11
Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 10K September 18, 11
Brooksie Way 5k October 2, 2011
Detroit Free Press Half Marathon October 16, 11
Scare Away Hunger 5k October 23, 2011
or the Renegade Run 3 mile October 23, 2011 (Renegade is trail, so leaning towards that)
And I cannot WAIT for this one: Muddy Waters Fall Cider Slam 4 mile October 29, 2011. You wear costumes, slam cider and donuts while running, and people throw apples at you. This sounds HILARIOUS. (And also kind of vomit inducing!)
Run Thru Hell 8k October 30, 2011
Bloomer Boogie 5 mile November 6, 2011
Roseville Big Bird Run 10k November 13, 2011
Pinckney Trail Half Marathon April, 2012

Phew! I hope they all can be accomplished!

Also now that we have pool access, I have been trying to work on my swimming form. HUGE fail. I have huge aspirations to do a Tri, but without some kind of classes or coaching, its not happening. I suck!

Now, moving on to something I thought I would never do, but have done:

JOIN THE LULULEMON CULT!!

Ok, maybe it isn't that serious. BUT I do have a couple of their things now and am quite happy with them!

I got this skirt for my birthday. Its Lululemon's "Take Flight" skirt.

I am IN LOVE WITH IT. I have several running skirts of many different brands, and this is by far my favorite. The material is much lighter than what I am used to, and most importantly the undershorts do not ride up on me at ALL. This is amazing in itself, because I have thunder thighs and pretty much EVERYTHING rides up. The price tag isn't that bad either ($56.00 I believe), considering I have a couple other skirts in the same price range. LOVE!

Also for my birthday I got this. The "Run Swiftly" shirt.

Good things about this shirt are that it is extremely lightweight, it is long enough, and it seemed very airy and kept me cool. I am very grateful that I got it as a gift, and will wear the heck out of it, but personally I didn't feel that the performance owned up to the $58.00 price tag. It might be great for a lot of people, but when it comes to shirts, I am perfectly happy with my $10.00 pack of three wife beaters.

Since my birthday (which was July 21, by the way) I have also acquired the following two Lululemon items:

The "Run Speed" Skirt. I'm doing my run in this tonight, and it fits just as AWESOME as the skirt above, so I know I will love it.

"Wunder Under Crop" pants. I will not lie, I have a decent amount of junk in the trunk, and my butt and thighs have ALWAYS been bigger in proportion to the rest of my body. There are NO STRETCHY PANTS THAT LOOK THIS GOOD ON MY ASS. Seriously. I can't see how it would be possible to fit any better. I have never worn stretchy pants like this without shorts or something over them because of my booty. Now, I do. They're AWESOME!

There is just one more thing that I am coveting from there, and then I will cool it with the Lululemon:

Seriously, how ridiculously awesomely GIRLY would I look in that? Ha ha.

Anyway, to wrap it up, I will say I am absolutely THRILLED to be almost 100% settled in the new house and with time to update more regularly. I have even found the time to get back into painting (with a new set up in the new place!) and work on my very neglected Recipe section. I hope to have that up and running soon.

To all reading, have a BEAUTIFUL afternoon!!!

Lighthouse Channel Markers

2011-07-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

I can be a little bit of a nerd about lighthouses. I just love them! We took out the boat for the first time this year (shameful, I know!) on Saturday. And on our travels we came by these channel markers.

This one appears to have been restored:

While this one has not:

I've done some minimal google research about them but have not come up with much yet. I'd like to know more about them, like when they were built, why only one was restored, and so forth.

Too cool!

Caterpillar!

2011-07-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Look who is nomming up my pepper plants!

We are pretty sure he is a Tobacco or Tomato Hornworm. Cool looking guy, but I rather he not eat the plants! Also, he will turn into a pretty gnarly looking moth.

He was relocated to Bloomer Park. Hopefully he finds something to eat there, and his buddies don't come eat up what plants we have left!

Today I am 33

2011-07-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to ME!!! Horray!

It is a hot one, so no running. BUT I did get a new Lululemon outfit for my birthday that I am SO excited to run in, it just won't be today.

My cats were also very generous and got me a few gifts for the garden. Such thoughtful kitties!

Anyway, here is to turning 33! It isn't a milestone birthday, and I have to work all day but it is an excuse to celebrate, so YAY!

A Long Time Coming

2011-07-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

I am SO glad to have the opportunity to update after what seems like forever. The first thing making it hard to update is that since the move, I have no internet at home. Both the cable and the internet are being installed Monday, so yay!

Also, sometimes I get down time at work to post but that really hasn't been happening much either. We have been SO BUSY until this very moment I swear.

Anyway about the move, I miss living in downtown Ferndale, but how can anyone not LOVE running in this:

Or this:

every single day and even more if I want, since both Paint Creek Trail and Bloomer park are practically in my backyard.

Living right next to a waterfall isn't bad either!

So needless to say finding motivation to train for the Detroit Half Marathon has been simple. I absolutely love the country feel of our new place, and all of the things around it that we love to do.

I miss Ferndale a lot though for different reasons. The convenience of being walking distance to pretty much anything and everything, the artsy and creative atmosphere there, and most of all the friends and neighbors we met over the years. Change is hard even if it is good!

Also in the middle of all the chaos, Mike and I had our FIVE YEAR wedding anniversary! I cannot express how thrilled I am to have such an amazing husband. Five years flew by!

I also changed my hair one last time. I got sick of using pins, so I had the sides and back cut down even more and the top cut into a mohawk like thing. It is hard to explain so here is a photo:

It isn't that mohawk-ish in this photo, but I assure you when I put it into one it is pretty bad ass. Finally I am happy and it should be fairly easy to keep this cut without any difficulty. HORRAY.

Sidenote: I always look like a dope and like my eyes are closed in bathroom mirror self portraits. Is it possible to take a good one, ever?

Ok, I am off to spend the rest of the afternoon at the pool and cooking out. Oh, and only five more days until my birthday. I cannot begin to wrap my brain around the fact that I am about to turn 33. Time rushes by so fast!

HI HI HI HI

2011-07-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

Busy with ALL kinds of crazy stuff (and also having some internet issues). I am still here, still alive, and will be updating very soon!!!

Something You DEFINITELY Don't Hear Every Day

2011-07-01T06:35:00.000-07:00

Amber: i got into an argument with Casey Anthony's toilet paper last night

Hair

2011-06-30T14:21:00.000-07:00

Well I tried to grow my hair out just a tiny bit, into some kind of inverted bob like thing.

Kind of like this:

And I got pretty far, even though it was really driving me nuts.

But I reached my breaking point! It was hanging in my eyes, and hanging weird over my ears, and i was having to barrette it back and it was just too much screwing around. So I am back to:

Ha! Nice try, but it looks like I will NEVER be able to be lazy enough to get this lovely waist length mop back that I used to sport!

This is probably a really, really good thing!

Garage Sale and Moving

2011-06-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

The garage sale went really well!

A lot of the big stuff sold like the foosball table, dryer, dining set and more. About half of the smaller stuff sold too. This is really good because we had a TON OF STUFF. I am not sure I could handle having another one though so it looks like the big stuff will get sold on craigslist and the rest will all get donated. It was fun but I am glad it is over!

This weekend will be the completion of the move to the new house. The last things to get moved are the bed, the cats and the plants! I am so excited for this, but there are a lot of things I am going to miss about the old house. I am thrilled to be moving out into the burbs far enough where I am going to be pretty much right on top of great places to run and parks, and being able to walk to go fishing or to the cider mill. But, I will miss the city and the convenience of being so close to so many things, and how much fun it is to be within walking distance to a downtown area with shops and restaurants. But overall, it is going to be great and I can't wait to start this new chapter in our lives!

Oh, and the new TV came today. First TV I have ever bought. Probably because no one in my house really watches one, but the one we have is too big to move. So this is kind of exciting! Makes me want to get a movie to watch or something :D

Mike already has it all hooked up!

My Friend Pat Summarizes LinkedIn

2011-06-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

Patrick: man people's linkedin pages make them look ridiculous
Patrick: OMG I AM FUCKING DEVOTED TO MY CAREER AND KNOW ALL THIS SHIT
Patrick: in reality they're in their cube right now shopping for spatulas on amazon

Ten on Tuesday

2011-06-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

1. What’s the perfect meal? This is a question that is going to have a different answer probably every single day. I just like too many things to narrow it down to one thing being perfect all the time. I will say though since I don't get as much time/opportunity to cook as I would like, it would definitely be something Mike and I could hang out together and make for once.

2. What are the perfect pair of shoes? WELL broken in doc marten boots, Crocs flip flops, pretty much any Saucony I have ever tried.

3. What is the perfect afternoon? Any afternoon which is not spent at work. I get about 15 of those a year, most of which are spent doing things productive. In my dream world it would be spent with a long run, gardening, taking the boat out, painting, drinking tea, reading and eating. Is it possible to do all that in one afternoon?

4. What’s the perfect house? The one in which you share with people you love. Preferably without wallpaper and with a gigantic garden.

5. What is the perfect outfit? Jeans and a T shirt. Being fussy and fashionable isn't my thing.

6. What’s the perfect wedding song? Hhahah hell, I don't know. I find most of that stuff cheesy, so there really wouldn't be an ideal wedding song for me. I am sure there is something totally unconventional that would suit me and Mike, but we are already married so I am not going to spend too much time thinking about it.

7. What is the perfect job? Any job that understands work/life balance.

8. What’s the perfect hairstyle?
I have no idea! I have been trying to figure this out my entire life. I do not want to deal with maintenance so my hair constantly grows to my waist, then I hack it off. This works fine when it is super short or once it gets to pony tail length because I don't have to do anything with it. The awkward in between part when it is growing out though? This is why I have hats. Going to have regular hair cuts/nails done/ whatever women do is way too much upkeep and takes up too much time that could be done doing something awesome. SO, until I can get my hair to just stop growing, I am sure I will never know what the heck the perfect haircut is.

9. What’s the perfect music festival?
I used to really enjoy all of the local ones, especially DEMF. Now though, I'd rather spend Memorial Day weekend camping and running than drinking and dancing and being out til 5 am. I will say though I had the time of my life during the DEMF era, and look back at it with fond memories, but I don't think I will be going back.

A music festival that wasn't so great: Woodstock 99. Seriously. An interesting way to spend my 21st birthday weekend, but a disaster in retrospect.

10. What’s the perfect day to yourself? To myself? I don't even know where to start with that. Probably spend a lot of it at the gym, and maybe baking something, and then reading outside if it is a nice day. Then I would probably get lonely and want company :D

Garage Sale, Father's Day and Simon

2011-06-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

Mike and I are moving. With this came the realization that we only need/use about 15 percent of our crap, so we decided to have a garage sale. First of all, trying to organize the darn thing around the chaos that is our life lately has been nuts! Now, pretty much everything we want to keep is moved to the new house, but the garage is 100% full with sale items. When I say 100% full, I mean it! There is just enough space for the garage door to go up and down without hitting a couch, or sewing machine, or box of miscellaneous crap-ola that has got to go.

It is completely mind boggling how easy it is to accumulate stuff. If you're anywhere near the Ferndale area this weekend please FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS HOLY come and buy/take this stuff off our hands.

Included are things such as:

A couch and chair set, foos-ball table that literally was used only ONE time, air hockey table, dining set, t.v stand, TWO t.v.s (one a large screen), a dryer, art and art supplies, a stereo, more misc furniture, kitchen stuff and to be honest a hodge-podge of other misc items that are in perfectly good shape, we just don't have a need to lug it all to the new crib. So, I am keeping my fingers crossed for nice weather and a successful garage sale this weekend!

After all that screwing around, we went to my parent's house for a Father's day BBQ.

Like a good Aunt, I got in the ice cold pool with my nephew.

But after the long day, even the cold water couldn't wake me or Mike up, and this is what happened after dinner, lights out!

The long day was finally over!

Anyway, I have countless things to do this morning, but I will leave you with a photo taken this morning of my sweet boy, Simon enjoying his favorite upstairs window for one of the last times.

I hope he is not picky and will like his new windows just as much!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-06-14T06:05:00.000-07:00

1. How do you pronounce the word aunt? Does your pronunciation rhyme with ‘haunt’ or ‘can’t'? I say it so it rhymes with "can't" but to each their own.

2. Do most of the people in your life know you blog? Or are you partially or totally anonymous? I'd say most probably do. I don't give a crap about being anonymous yet I don't advertise that I blog either. Whoever does or doesn't read is fine by me.

3. When you grocery shop, do you prefer to bag your own groceries or do you like it when the store bags them for you? Paper, plastic, or reusable bags?

We have reusable bags, but I forget them quite a bit. That is O.K though since the other ones get reused around our house for various things. I bag my own groceries when the store doesn't have a bagger. It seems silly to just stand there doing nothing while the cashier rings me up and then bags. It moves the line quicker for everyone you know?

4. Do you have a green thumb? I like to think so! The past couple years my vegetable garden has done really well. I am not sure if I am actually good at it or if my yard just has super awesome soil or something. Regardless, I love gardening and it is definitely one of my favorite hobbies.

A couple photos of my jungle:

(How do you like that deck-is-stained-but-lattice-isn't look? If there is a logical reason for that, I have since forgotten it ha, ha.)

5. If you watch the Food Network, which chef/show host is your favorite? Sorry to say I don't watch the food network, and I don't even know if i HAVE the food network.

6. Do you like to take baths? Do you take them very often? I never, ever, ever take them. Ever. I'd rather hop in and out of a shower.

7. What color are the walls in your kitchen?

They are whatever the flip this is:

Its like a pale green/off white/I don't even know. And then you can see just barely on the left that the upper half of the wall in part of the kitchen is a deep green. Mike picked the paint colors when we moved in, and his favorite color is green so I am surprised the whole house isn't in some shade of green.

8. Do you prefer to dine outdoors or indoors?
Eating outside is fun when the weather is nice. We usually only do it after grilling something though.

9. Describe your ideal weather. Sunny and around 70. Perfect!

10. If you could learn any foreign language, which would you choose to learn? Probably Spanish because it would be the most useful. Not that I am capable of learning a language anyway; I took five years of French and can't speak a word of it so it is probably a lost cause anyway.

I Am A Winner!

2011-06-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

Jeff at Detroit Runner did a contest giving away GU Brew and I was one of the lucky winners! GU Brew is a sports drink that is in tablet form and you drop it into a bottle of water. I've never tried it before so it will be cool to check it out on my next long run.

Winning stuff is so fun!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-06-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

This Fill in the Blank Friday is about vacationing, which i know very little about. (I am working on that though, trust me.) Anyway, lets see what I can come up with:

1. This weekend I'm: working, OF COURSE, and doing countless things around the house. I do have a party to go to on Saturday though, which is FANTASTIC because I am ready for a break from all this work and house b.s and am totally ready for a beer.

2. My last vacation was Labor Day weekend of last year I went to Minneapolis to visit Amber and the crew and go to the State Fair, look at waterfalls and do things like drink beer on a stick:

And look at giant spoons:

I felt like such a world traveler then, because two weeks prior myself and a couple other girls had gone to Kansas City to see one of my favorite friends from way back, Julie.

Here is a photo of us doing this like really girly pose that I feel completely awkward doing (and it shows), before we went out for the night:

3. My next vacation will be
I have no idea! Mike and I are always blathering on about taking a trip to do a race, but with my schedule in reality it is probably just dreaming. BUT how awesome would it be to go somewhere new to do a half or full marathon? Seriously. Maybe we have to find a way to put that together and cut it out with the dreaming.

4. My favorite way to relax is in bed with my laptop and a movie on, and my cats snuggled up.

5. When vacationing one should always: like i would know? Seriously. I have no clue.

6. When vacationing one should never yeah I don't know this either. Anyone that takes vacation advice from me is a complete idiot.

7. The best part about a vacation is for me, coming home. I don't get to travel anywhere with Mike aside from a camping trip here and there, and let me tell you the first time I went to Minneapolis I thought I might DIE without him and was so homesick. Even walking into the house after camping for a day or two has a unique feeling, and I am always so happy to be back.

Getting Back Into The Swing Of Things

2011-06-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

So today was long, and hot and insane, but I am not here to bitch about little things, I am here to happily announce that since I have returned to running from my hiatus, my foot and shins are both feeling the best they have after a run in a YEAR. I am psyched about this, and am hoping if I am not an idiot and over do it maybe I can keep feeling pretty darn good.

For the record, I am not 100% pain free, but I doubt I ever will be. Comparatively though, I'm feeling AWESOME. Sadly we did not do the Run For The Red, but that's O.K. It truly might have been too soon, and besides the weekends have been outrageously busy around my place lately. So, the Run For The Ribbon is next on the calendar, and I am ready to RACE. (Even if I might be slower than usual!)

Since I am just getting back into running after an injury, this entry about coming back after a hiatus was totally helpful to me. Plus I just think Skinny Runner is adorable and kick ass and I love her posts anyway.

Now that my foot is cooperating, I should be roller skating like crazy too. Mike has been working an obscene amount of hours and that forces us to miss our regular sessions. Overtime hours rock, don't get me wrong but I am more than ready to skate again A.S.A.P.

(Ok, that isn't me but I am so excited to get back skating that I feel like I COULD do that if I wanted to. Alright, probably not but you never know I might just try!)

Good night, and here is to a cooler less hectic day tomorrow!

If Only It Were This Simple

2011-06-03T15:27:00.000-07:00

Allen: We should make a new workout program: lose weight while drinking to techno and eating healthy foods.

Amy: BRILLIANT!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-06-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

1. I love that tonight is going to be a back yard fire kind of night because fires in the fire pit out back are bad ass, that's why.

2. A time that mama knew best was
pretty much every time she said "you'll thank me for this later"

3. My first kiss went a little like this: I can sum it up in one word: AWKWARD.

4. My celebrity crush is currently ICE-T and his wife Coco. AND thanks to my favorite person in the state of Minnesota, Amber I have this

to read this weekend. RESPECT.

5. My splurge of choice is Running gear and entry fees for sure. Come to think of it I sure would like another pair of shoes..

6. My biggest accomplishment is
my marriage for sure. We are just shy of 5 years being married, which isn't too shabby considering we didn't know each other well when we got hitched. People are always talking about marriage being "work", and I am pretty psyched to say we haven't hit the part yet where it is work.

7. My dance jam of choice is well at least for the moment:

I used to have this album and recently re-downloaded it. I have been having an awesome time in 1998 ever since.

Down Power Lines and Other Non-Excitement

2011-06-02T14:40:00.000-07:00

Above is my driveway, poop from the giant oak tree next door and all. Evidently that house on the left there had a live wire down in the back yard and the fire department shut us out of our own driveway and back yard. We didn't have power until this morning, which really isn't a big deal, but holy crap it was boring as soon as it got dark out. We rarely lose power so who the hell knows where the flashlights are and all that, so we just went to bed.

I have started running again. I started all over and am building my mileage up from the beginning. This is pretty much thrilling to me, since I next to hate the elliptical and the less time I can spend in the gym the better, especially when it is this nice out. I still have to go EVERY.DAY for now though because my mileage is still so low, I have to make up for the difference on the god forsaken elliptical or arc trainer. Doing all my runs outside, and only going into the gym to use the weights again is going to be pretty much awesome when that day comes.

We are kicking around doing the Run for Red 5k on Sunday for the hell of it because the weather is supposed to be nice. We'll see though. One thing I do know is I am dying to get back into doing races!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-05-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

1. From your childhood, what do you miss most about summer vacation?

Not having to go to work or school, and doing shit like playing all day. Not having a care in the world is pretty awesome.

2. Are you going anywhere on vacation this summer?

Probably camping here and there, and hopefully the usual Minneapolis Labor Day weekend trip will happen. But to be honest, I really don't know for sure just yet.

3. What foods do you like to barbecue?

Holy crap, pretty much everything! Corn, potatoes, tofu, kabobs, bean burgers, you name it!

4. How do you celebrate the fourth of July?

By not having to work, and playing the "is that fireworks or gunshots" game while sitting at the fire pit in our back yard.

5. What’s your favorite beverage to drink in the summertime?

BEER. Ok, I am half kidding but I do like beer a lot. The sad truth is that my favorite drink all year round is probably water. It sucks being this boring.

6. What movie are you looking forward to seeing this summer?

Can't say I have one. I really don't have time to watch movies. I don't even have a clue about what is coming out.

7. In the car: windows down or AC?

Windows open, unless I am supposed to show up somewhere looking presentable and not all sweaty and windblown.

8. Have you ever had a summer fling?

Ha no. Some guy always had me tied down into a pesky relationship. Now that I am married a summer fling is kind of out of the question.

9. Do you wear sunscreen?

Yeah I do, to avoid getting burnt. BUT I confess I like having a tan so I allow myself to get one.

10. Do you have any favorite summertime activities?

The one on my mind the most right now is BOATING. We have been super short on time but I am still in disbelief we haven't had the boat out yet this year. Not even last weekend when it was like a million degrees out. My fingers are crossed that it will be soon.

This is the bay near where we keep our boat. You see what I mean? I am ready for that like, yesterday!

LOOK AT MY PLATE OF FOOD

2011-05-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

What social media faux pas bother you the most?

Mine are more like "pet peeves" than "faux pas", because if they were really "faux pas" so many people wouldn't do them, RIGHT?!

1. This one mostly applies to Twitter: Posting photos of your plate of food. Even worse is when people post photos of their half eaten plate of food. There seems to be some weird fascination on Twitter that people give a fuck about what you're eating. Half eaten food on a plate is gross in real life and also in photos.

2. Again with Twitter: People that RT everything that is said to them or about them. (Especially when they are #FF tweets.) We get it, you're great. Someone talked to you, I don't really need that on my feed though.

3. Over sharing! This can be anything from being horribly TMI to updating every two seconds to share every mundane detail of your daily life.

4. Instagram. Ok, not a faux pas but I just think its hilarious that we have all this technology and really awesome cameras these days, and people use a photo service that intentionally makes their photos look old and fucked up.

5. Outrageous amounts of Foursquare posts. Foursquare is cool, but you don't have to send every post to Twitter and Facebook if you don't want to. I am pretty sure no one cares that you are at CVS or whatever.

6. Overselling. When a persons tweets or statuses are all wanting you to do something for them ie: "READ MY BLOG, DONATE TO MY CAUSE, GO TO MY WEBSITE, BUY THIS FROM ME". I don't know anyone that wants to read constant pushy sales pitches.

7. All those "copy and paste" status messages on Facebook.

8. Pushy game requests on facebook. I hate getting a notification and thinking it might be something cool, but its just someone wanting me to send them a worm on Fishworld or whatever.

9. People bitch and that's cool, but there are certain people that are always complaining. "Poor me" types are just as annoying on the interwebs as in the real world.

10. Useless "trying to be clever" hashtags on Twitter. #thishashtagisinnowayusefulatallandnotfunny

There you have it!

Ten on Tuesday (On Saturday?!)

2011-05-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

I am way out of order with the Tuesday/Friday list memes, and have been really slow to update. I have taken a few weeks off from running due to my injured foot (which is healed up nicely now thankfully) and been very very very busy with another huge thing going on in my life, but I am not quite ready to write about that here just yet. So that explains my lack of posts! As for being all screwy with the Tuesday/Friday lists, that is just disorganization.

So anyway, on to "Ten on Tuesday" on Saturday.

1. Have you ever used Craigslist?

I use Craigslist pretty much every day, mostly for work. For anyone that doesn't know, I work in real estate/property management and Craigslist is fabulous for finding tenants for rentals. We also use it to hire contractors and office staff.

As far as personal use, I use it to find tenants for my personal rental property, and have sold and given away quite a few things there also. Posting stuff in the "free" section is frigging hilarious, because people will take ANYTHING if it is free!

2. Can you sew?

Heck no, and it isn't for a lack of trying! I have a sewing machine that I can't even thread and trying to sew something by hand is even worse. I gave up a long time ago. Looks like that sewing machine might be the next thing to get rid of on Craigslist.

3. Do you pour syrup on your pancakes or dip your pancakes in the syrup?

Soggy food really grosses me out, so I have to have the syrup on the side and use only a tiny amount of it. I can afford to be picky about it though, since I eat pancakes pretty much next to never.

4. Rain storms: Love them or hate them?

To be honest, I love them if they fit my schedule. If I am in bed listening to one that is great, or if one knocks the power out at work and I can go home, awesome! They get in the way if I am trying to get a long run in or go camping or something like that.

5. Do you like swimming?

Well, I like the water. I can't swim though. This is the first issue to tackle before doing my first triathlon.

6. What kind of drink do you order at Sonic?

I have never been to Sonic and highly doubt I ever will go to one. When they finally showed up here in Michigan, I looked at their menu online and it really isn't for me. Being vegetarian and someone that doesn't eat fast food, their options don't appeal to me. Some of the drink combos look interesting though!

7. Are you funny?

Haha, probably on very rare occasions.

8. At what age will your kids get cell phones?

I'm not having any kids so this doesn't really apply to me, but I would probably want them to have one probably around age 12-13 but with restrictions.

9. What’s your favorite vegetable?

Corn!!! Look at the exclamation points, that is how much I like corn.

10. Were you a Girl Scout?

Yes and a Brownie. I remember having a lot of fun but don't really remember doing much other than parties for holidays and going to camp. I am sure we learned something though. Or maybe not, I know I somehow got the sewing badge...

Fill in the Blank Friday (on Saturday!)

2011-05-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

1. People always tell me I look like

OK so obviously I look like the last photo, because that is me. I have never seen the resemblance between me and these celebs, but I guess I don't see myself the way others do!

2. Friends don't let friends have booger nose or stuff in their teeth. Seriously.

3. A sunny day is perfect for racing! Today is a completely BEAUTIFUL day, and Mike and Hannah are out running the Save The Manatee 5k at Metro Beach.

I would love to be there for the perfect weather, and the completely adorable participant shirt:

But, as in every other Saturday I will be at work all day. I think we are going to wrap up this perfect sunny day cooking up some food on the BBQ, and I am sure I will be out dicking around in the plants. Perfect!

4. My favorite accessory is The necklace my sweaty faced self has on in this photo:

It was Mike's grandmas, and it became mine when she passed away. I went a few years without taking it off, but now with so much running I wear it less. Anyway, its really pretty and I get tons of compliments on it, which is a good feeling knowing where it came from.

5. If I could afford it I would pay off my house immediately!

6. The cure for boredom is keeping busy and being creative I guess!

7. I am currently "in like" with Parfaits from Western Market!

Not Running and Mother's Day

2011-05-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

Well, I still have not been able to run yet. When I attempt I am in pain pretty much immediately, and icing and stretching isn't doing the trick. I think I am off to the doc here soon for another set of x-rays. I am hoping so much that I don't have a stress fracture since I am eager to get running again.

In the meantime, I have been biking and using the elliptical to try and maintain my fitness level the best I can. But I am ready to run!

For Mother's day, my mom and I got up super early and hit up the Clinton River Trail/Macomb Orchard Trail/Stoney Creek Park for a 20 mile ride.

It ended up being 21.72 miles, but who's counting?

It was a totally beautiful morning and when we got started we were pretty much alone on the trails.

This was a positive because although bathrooms are provided here and there on the trail:

They were pretty much the worst freaking shit shacks I have ever experienced in my entire life. I know I say that about every one I encounter, but holy crap you'd think barnyard animals were using this thing. Nasty!

The trail led us into Stoney Creek, where the lake was the lowest I have ever seen it, but that did not stop the swans, kayakers or fishermen!

We had breakfast after, and went to visit my sister after that. I hope my mom, and sis both had an AWESOME Mother's day!

Half Marathon and 6 Mile March for Babies

2011-05-02T16:41:00.001-07:00

Wow! What a jam packed weekend!

First, the race recap for the Let's Move Half Marathon.

The alarm went off early, way early! We get up super early on race days in my house. Neither Mike nor I like to be rushed and like to be able to eat breakfast and shake the cobwebs off before we leave.

Usual race day breakfast, a couple episodes of "Married With Children" (TV programming is slim pickins at 4 am!) shower and change later and we were ready to go. My mom came by to ride with us, and we went over to our friends Bob and Christine's house to meet up with them, and we were off to the race.

Parking was plentiful and so were porta potties, and the weather was gorgeous. The day was off to a good start.

Here we are pre-race-porta-pot-warm-up chatting.

My mom took a photo of me waiting for a shit shack. Thanks for this memory, mom!

Mike and I did a short warm up together, and then split to find our respective pace groups. On our way, we ran into some people we know from the Ferndale Library Monday Night Movies, and that was pretty sweet.

This race had two starts, one for under a 2 hour pace, and one for over. Mike and Bob were in the first wave, and I was in the second. Once that wave started, and I knew they were gone I got a last minute blast of nerves and had to run up to Christine for a hug.

The gun fired for my wave, and we were off. I stuck with the 2:10 pace group. I was hoping to finish in 2:15 but their pace felt comfortable, and they were motivating, so I enjoyed running with them.

Around mile 4, I turned in to Metro Beach, and I saw Bob running out. He was at about the 7 mile mark. He is fast!

At mile marker 6 there was a gel station. At mile 7, a water station, except they were out of cups so no water. I felt really bad for the people that had just taken gels and would need water, but felt really glad I decided at the very last minute to run in my fuel belt, despite it being cumbersome.

Between miles 9 and 10 I fell behind from the 2:10 pace group. That's O.K though, I was still on track for a 2:15 finish.

Mile 11 I would have given anything for it to be over. My foot is really sucking at this point.

Mile 12 til the end I felt better. The finish was around a corner, so you could hear it before you could see it. There were little kids shouting "only 100 meters left!" I looked at my Garmin and could still finish in 2:15 if I pushed it.

Final Time: 2:16:03. One minute slower than my ultimate goal, but still something to be proud of. (It is worth noting that my Garmin said the course was 13.21, so if it were a little long, than I truly did meet my 2:15 goal, so I am happy!)

When I crossed the finish... NO WATER. I was shocked. Both Bob and Mike took off to try and find me some once I finished off what was left in my fuel belt. We never did find any water, so I ate 49835349 oranges instead. I thought it was kind of lame that there was no water at the end. But, things happen.

Mike's Time: 1:46:15. I was so impressed!
Bob's Time: 1:31:57. Third place in his age group!

Everyone did such a GREAT job!

I love this photo, you can see how happy all three of us were with our results and the day in general!

Christine got us to focus on the camera:

On our way out, we made it official and put a 13.1 sticker on my car.

Then it was time for lunch on the water with the family. And a beer!

My overall impression of this race: it was awesome! Clearly the lack of water was an issue, but other than that I loved it. The 2:10 pace group was AWESOME, the entertainment was fun (Elvis impersonators!) and even though there were not a ton of them, the spectators were fun. Plus, mother nature was on our side.

My foot isn't great, but I am icing and stretching and taking a few days off of running. I can't wait until I can get back on my feet again though and get ready to do another half!

Sunday was the March for Babies six mile walk at Metro Beach. Mother nature was NOT on our side for this event. Well, at least at first. The rain was really pouring down when we got there, and the walk itself was held off for a bit.

Here is the group under the pavilion waiting for the rain to calm down.

The walk was two three mile laps around Metro Beach. This was a really cool event; they put so much into it! There was food/snacks/water/favors/entertainment at every mile marker. Plus, once the rain stopped and the sun started to shine, it was fun to watch some of the wildlife and people taking their boats out. I think my sister said that the team raised just under $1,000.00 for The March of Dimes. Awesome job by all!

So, over all a fun and active weekend. Time now for a little rest and relaxation, especially on this foot of mine!

Busy Busy Busy!

2011-04-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I am just about to turn in for the night. The alarm will be ringing at 4:00 to get ready for the Let's Move Half Marathon! Mike, Bob and I just got back from the expo. It was pretty small, but Mike and I did get our 13.1 stickers for our cars. Oh, and I got a Sweaty Band, pretty much because it had skulls on it, because I don't have much hair and usually wear bandannas anyway, ha.

The race shirts are pretty cool. I love long sleeve tech shirts, which these are...but they're white which pretty much means disaster for me since I am messy. I give it a few wears and I will have bumped into something or spilled something on it!

I will post photos tomorrow when I write my race recap. I'm sleepy so I not much time for photo taking/uploading til then!

Last thing I will mention about the race: I am having foot trouble too, so keep your fingers crossed for me that I tapered enough this week, and did enough icing and stretching and all that.

Sunday is the March for Babies. I can't wait for this either! A HUGE thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to our team! There is still time to donate if you'd like to and haven't already!

Here is the t shirt for the walk. It is so cute and has my nephew's name on it that was stillborn last month. Very sweet.

Luckily I took this photo earlier and had already uploaded it, so this post isn't totally picture-free.

Anyway, that is it for now. Time for a good night of rest, and looking forward to a beautiful day tomorrow!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-04-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

1. How many blogs do you read every day and what are they? (I’m talking the ones you NEVER miss)

I have a ton of blogs on my google reader, and I read them all first thing in the morning. Sometimes there are a lot of posts, so I may skim, but I at least look at everyone's posts. I pay the most special attention to the people I know in real life that have blogs, and try my best to never skim a post made by someone from the real world.

2. How many “best friends” do you have? Do you have different “besties” for different areas of your life?

I have one "best" friend, and it is Mike. Ok, cliche I know, but it is true! All of my other friends combined make up my second best friend. They are all amazing in so many different ways!

3. What’s your daily make up routine?

Daily: just lip gloss and mascara. If I am going out, I can go a little crazy with the eye makeup. ;)

4. What is your ideal girl’s night?

Not having a girls night at all! Seriously. I don't really have any girl-specific interests, and the girl friends I do have aren't overly girly so there wouldn't be any need to get together and exclude the guys.

5. Do you keep up with your nails/toenails or are they au natural?

I don't paint my finger nails at all. It is too much maintenance and it chips too easy, so forget it. I do paint my toenails though. Running has made my nails damaged and I am still growing in one I lost (gross I know). Even though I hate open toed shoes and rarely wear them, I go to the doctor/physical therapy enough that I feel like I should keep that covered up haha.

6. What’s your best roommate story (assuming you had a roommate at some point in your life)?

In my early 20's I lived with 4 guys. It was pretty much an out of control party house. I could probably tell stories from that point in my life forever, but there are none that I want out on the open internet :D

7. What’s your “go to” outfit that you wear more than anything else?

In the winter: jeans and a t shirt or sweater. In the summer: tank top and shorts. If I didn't have to dress professionally for work, these are probably the only items I would own.

8. Do you have a beauty secret?

Sure: "don't worry about beauty secrets".

9. Did you read Seventeen magazine growing up?

YES! I had a subscription to it and also to Sassy. I remember liking Sassy a lot more, even though the name is stupid.

10. How did you learn to put on makeup?

I am not sure! Trial and error I guess!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-04-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

1. Fridays are just another day. People that get weekends or days off really don't know how lucky they are!

2. My cats make me terribly happy.

3. Something that inspires me is the talents of the people I surround myself with. Musicians, artists, athletes. They are all inspiring!

4. If I had the day off today I would spring clean! I know it is boring, but its raining out today like crazy, and it really needs to be done.

5. If I had to put a label on my home decor style, I would say my style is "whatever-is-cheap-enough-the-cats-can-ruin-but-doesn't-look-like-shit"

6. Concerning politics I would say I'm middle of the road. Sometimes lean to the more liberal side.

7. I'd like to go to pretty much anywhere that has food so I could eat.

Weekend Recap

2011-04-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick recap before I brave the snow for a 12 mile run!

This weekend was pretty quiet, which was a nice change from the rush-rush-rush of most weekends!

On Friday evening after work, Mike, Monica and myself went to the Cranbrook Institute of Science. I don't think I have been to the museum since high school, so it was a fun and different thing to do. Mike was just there with Hannah a few months ago, and it was super busy. He said Friday was really nice, because we were all able to actually see the exhibits without all the crowds. The main exhibit was Dinosaurs, and not gonna lie, it was pretty sweet.

On Saturday I was hoping to do the Downriver Dash, but Allen's sister who I was hoping to run it with, went out of town, the weather was terrible and windy and of course I had to work. I guess it just wasn't in the cards! That means the next race on the schedule is the Let's Move Half Marathon. Horray!

For the first time in forever, I had nothing planned what so ever for Sunday. I was able to hit the gym before 8:30 and work on some artsy craftsy stuff early in the day. Around noon we decided to hit up REI because Mike needs sunglasses. Well, we didn't get sunglasses but I got these:

I am a sucker for convertible pants. They just make so much SENSE. These I loved, because I like when the zip is higher to make the shorts a bit shorter. So they can be shorts, rolled up to be capri length, and obviously pants.

And we got Mike this green shirt. I guess if he didn't like any sunglasses he had to get something!

We were able to then spend the rest of the day at home. I tried to enjoy every second of it, because I looked at my calendar and I don't have a free Sunday until JUNE at least!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-04-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

1. My favorite daily responsibility is,

Feeding the cats. They are just too cute and go nuts when it's time to eat!

2. My least favorite daily responsibility is,

I hate doing dishes so much! Even with a dishwasher. But even more than that, I hate dishes in the sink, so they always get done :D

3. My favorite cuisine to eat when going out is

I hardly ever go out to eat, but off the top of my head I probably like to get thai food, mexican, or pizza. Or pretty much anything, since going out to eat is a treat.

4. My favorite cuisine to prepare at home is

Macaroni and cheese, lasagna, salads, and of course anything on the grill!

5. Andy Warhol said that everyone is famous for 15 minutes. My claim to fame is

avoiding fame (and being the center of attention) at all costs.

6. If I could have 3 wishes I would wish for

1. A better work/life balance.
2. A better work/life balance.
3. And did I mention, a better work/life balance.

I can't think of any wish I have that couldn't be accomplished with a better work/life balance. Such as: finishing my degree, rescuing more animals, traveling more (or at all), volunteering, spending more time with/helping family, and so on.

7. My biggest pet peeve is

Complainers!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-04-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

1. If you work, do you drive to work or take public transportation?

I drive. It takes me about 15 minutes to get to work. The only public transportation available is the bus and if I were to take the bus it would probably take me an hour to get to work each day!

2. How often do you get your haircut? Do you go to the same person every time?

I confess I am new to going somewhere for a haircut. My hair is pretty short now, and there is no rhyme or reason to me going in to have it cut. If I feel like its getting a bit long I will go have it trimmed up. I don't see the same person every time. I'm not into the *~salon experience~* so I run in and out of Great Clips.

Before all this I never got hair cuts at all, my hair was waist length and always in ponytails. (Well, except for the one time when my husband cut it all off in the bathroom, but that is a totally different story for a different day)

3. Do you read the newspaper? If so, a hardcopy or the online version?

No. I get news from the radio, or the internet (not one specific online paper), or word of mouth.

4. What is the best book you have read this year?

It is April and I haven't read a single book for pleasure this year at all. All I have read are books for school. So I guess by process of elimination the best books I have read this year are textbooks. (Boooring!)

5. What is the best movie you have seen this year?

I have only seen one movie this year which was "True Grit". I really did enjoy it so it may or may not have been my favorite anyway if I had seen more than one!

6. Do you tend to crave sweet or salty foods?

Salty for sure. I don't really care for sweets, and am not really that excited about chocolate at all.

7. Do you eat breakfast every day? If so, what do you have?

Most of the time yeah, unless I am running late for some reason. Usually it would be some granola or half a bagel with peanut butter.

8. If you celebrate Easter, what Easter treat/candy are you most looking forward to?

I couldn't care less about Easter or sweets, but on Easter my family goes to a Buffet, so I look forward to over eating and sleeping most of the afternoon.

9. How late is “sleeping in” to you?

I work six days a week, so the only day when I could ever sleep in if I wanted to is Sunday, and 90% of the time I have something to do or a race and get up early anyway. I am pretty sure I am incapable of sleeping past 7:00am no matter what!

10. Where are you going on your next vacation?

Due to my job I pretty much cannot travel or take any vacations, so the next thing I will do that will even qualify will probably be camping over Memorial Day weekend. I am looking so forward to that already!

Weekend Recap

2011-04-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a lot of fun! Great weather too!

Friday, my family and I went to a bowling fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis, put on by family members of my stepdaughter, Monica. (She has a cousin with CF). I like bowling, but rarely do it and somehow managed to bowl a 161! Just lucky I guess! Mike was bitter I beat his 158, ha ha!

We made out when it came to raffle prizes. I won a bracelet, a package with a couple hats, a t-shirt and DVD, and we won the grand prize, which was a rolling cooler filled with a MASSIVE AMOUNT OF BOOZE. We will be able to entertain people at our house from today until forever with all of this. It is unbelievable!

Saturday was my friend Jenny's birthday party. I popped in to see her and it was nice to see her and also my friend Ashley and her entire family.

Yesterday, Me, Mike and Hannah met up with our running friend Bob and ran the Spring Check Up 5k on Belle Isle.

The weather was gorgeous, and the course was really nice with great views. I really enjoyed it. There are quite a few stray dogs running around Belle Isle which is kind of freaky (especially considering how many times Mike has been bitten by dogs while out for a run) but they didn't seem to be phased by any of the runners at all.

Our friend Bob, got a PR and also took first in his age group. Mike ran with Hannah and encouraged her to a also PR, and and I finished at my usual time. I am so consistent!

Mike and Hannah coming in to the big finish. You can see Bob on the right in the blue hat enthusiastically cheering her on!

Me finishing! I am smiling because Bob and his wife Chris, are AWESOME cheerleaders!

Bob going up to accept his medal.

The rest of the day was just beautiful. We did work in the yard, and then our neighbor came over and we got out the grill. It was amazingly perfect!

I can't wait to run at Paint Creek this afternoon. It is going to be smushy and muddy but will be so much fun!

Fashion

2011-04-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

I totally do not understand fashion by any stretch of the imagination. However, I do follow a ton of fashion blogs. My fashion blog following started out more or less as something I could "wtf" at when I was bored. As time has gone on though, I have come to learn that fashion people look at it as an art form, and I can respect that especially with couture or styling for photographers. Most of the fashion blogs I read though are of every day people, who are concerned about fashion on a daily basis. I am getting confused with a number of things I keep seeing over and over:

1. Belts over open cardigans.
2. Belts over pretty much anything that doesn't need belting.
3. Scarves as large as tablecloths.
4. Scarves as large as tablecloths with short or no sleeved shirts.
5. More seasonal confusion with open toed shoes in winter and boots in the summer.
6. Super high end brand trendy items. (on regular people, not celebs. $2,000 shoes, really!?)
7. People posing pigeon toed and staring off into the distance.
8. Knee socks.
9. Boots with open toes.
10. One blogger in particular owns and wears quite often an skirt made from goose feathers. GOOSE FEATHERS.

I recently read a blog post where the author was trying to make the point that fashionable people were taken more seriously in life. She wrote that someone at her office job was great at her job but treated with disrespect because she was not fashionable and her suits were ill-fitting. However, in my personal experience working in a professional environment, if someone showed up with a belt over an open cardigan, knee-socks, or a goose feather skirt they'd have more problems than someone in an ill fitting suit. But, what do I know.

I can agree that what you wear does send a message about yourself to others. If that is something an individual is concerned with, it isn't hard to dress appropriately without breaking the bank, or obsessing over it. The blogger I mentioned above makes it sound as if fashion should have been her co workers #1 concern, yet I am sure the co-worker dressed how she felt most comfortable and confident, which contributed to her good work performance. She could have been shitty at her job and worn tailored Chanel suits. Not sure that would have gotten her the promotion either.

While I'll never understand the fun in shopping, or the need to have 300 pairs of shoes, or spend my hard earned money on something with no function, I do get that it is a hobby for others. I confess watching these girls play dress up on their blogs is fun for me, and I'll keep watching them do it from over here in my sweater and jeans.

Fill in the Blank Friday (on Saturday!)

2011-04-09T07:37:00.001-07:00

1. Something that makes me a great friend is, I am a good listener. There are a bunch of people that come to me to get things off their chests, yet I am pretty private when it comes to my own situations.

2. I am looking forward to seeing my friend Jenny tonight and celebrating her birthday with her!

3. I am not at all thrilled about having to show houses later in BFE.

4. If I had to describe myself in 3 words, they would be "low-maintenance", "positive", "hopeful"

5. Something I'm really cheap about is pretty much everything, sorry to say. Gotta save up for the answers to the next question!

6. Something I'm willing to splurge on is Charity fundraisers, (I am the queen of the raffle!), roller skates, running shoes, unprocessed or organic foods.

7. I would trade MY SOUL for a five day work week in a heartbeat.

Spring Check Up 5k

2011-04-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

Looks like I am squeezing in the Spring Check Up 5k this Sunday! My super speedy running buddy Bob is running it too, and I will have Mike and Hannah as cheerleaders! Should be a good time, as long as the weather is decent. Weather.com says 72 and thunderstorms, and accuweather.com says 78 and sunny. HUGE difference!

I haven't run at Belle Isle before, so this should be fun. I don't have high hopes for a super fast time since I have a birthday party the night before for one of my favorite ever friends. There is a good chance I might be out later than usual and may or may not have a beer! :D

March of Dimes March for Babies

2011-04-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

On May 1, 2011 I am participating in the March of Dimes March for Babies for my nephew Kellen James Davis.

It is a six mile walk around Metro Beach, and the day after the Let's Move Half Marathon (also at Metro Beach), so my legs are getting a work out that weekend! And it is TOTALLY worth it!

If you are in the giving mood, please visit my web page and donate what you can in Kellen's honor and to help babies in the future!

Thank you SOOOO much in advance!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-04-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Ten on Tuesday is about dating, and even though I am married and terms like "date night" kind of bug me, I'll still play along!

1. What is your ideal best date?

Things I enjoy doing with Mike are things like kayaking, or hiking or running. Going to sporting events are cool, and so are concerts. I'd say I like going to movies, because I do...but I've only been to one in the past five years at least. Other things always seem to get chosen above going to movies I guess!

2. How long does it take you to get ready to go on a date?

It takes me about 30-45 minutes to get ready to go out, depending on whether or not I have to shower.

3. What would you wear on the date?

Jeans, or basic top or sweater, and doc martens. Which is pretty much what I would wear in any situation.

4. If you are married, how often do you go on dates? If you are single, when was your last date?

I really don't consider hanging out with my husband a date to be honest. Before I was married it would have been considered a date for a guy to come over and make dinner and watch a movie, and now that I am married and do that every day so I guess my last date was yesterday.

5. What was your worst date?

Ages ago my friend Miranda set me up with this guy she knew, and the whole thing was awkward. He talked constantly about ex girlfriend drama, his shirt was buttoned wrong, he sat too close to me (like in my personal bubble), and was way too TMI about his past. It took weeks for him to stop blowing up my phone, and I never saw him again.

In his defense, he was nice enough, and I am sure he found someone that didn't mind all the clinginess and over-sharing!

6. Do you/Did you kiss on your first date?

Yes. It happens, people.

7. If married, how long before you knew he/she was the one?

I got married after I knew my husband less than two months. So somewhere between one day and two months.

8. Do you prefer day dates or night dates?

The time of day is completely irrelevant if the company is good.

9. How old were you when you first were allowed to date?

My first "official" date was in eighth grade. My dad drove me and my middle school boyfriend to downtown Birmingham to walk around and go to Subway. So, I was probably about 13. That wasn't a big deal to my parents; I don't think I started freaking them out until ninth or tenth grade!

10. What is the most embarrassing moment you have had on a date?

I went on this "group" date with a guy when I was pretty young. It was me and him (we had been out a couple times), his sister and her boyfriend, and another couple (I forget now who the hell they even were). Anyway, we went bowling. They were all too snotty to wear bowling shoes so they just bowled in their regular shoes. I thought that was kind of dumb but followed along anyway because I didn't want to be a pain. Well, the shoes I had on were clearly not meant for bowling, because I went up to take my turn and WIPED OUT RIGHT ON MY TAILBONE. I was mortified, but to my amazement no one saw it! I am still kind of surprised about that because it was a pretty brutal wipe out!

Another Weekend Gone Already!

2011-04-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

Not surprisingly at all, I couldn't get off work Saturday to do the 10k at the Martian Invasion. This is totally not surprising at all, but it is a downer because I was really hoping to run another 10k this month before the half marathon on April 30. There is no other 10k on the calendar between now and then, which is a total bummer.

The only other race I may do between now and the half is the Downriver Dash in Taylor. It's only a 5k, but my friend Allen's sister is running that one, and I haven't seen her in quite some time, and since she is awesome it would be cool to see her. BUT that is on a Saturday too, so I won't count on getting out of work!

The out of control shin splint problem I was having seems to have rectified itself. Yoga or stretching or something has helped the pain, but I am running a lot slower than usual. To be honest, I really don't care if I am slow or not as long as I don't have to deal with the shin splints!

The weekend was pretty quiet. Just popped in a couple places downriver to see some friends on Saturday, and showed houses and relaxed yesterday. I am looking forward to a quiet week because next weekend will for sure be a busy one!

Have a great week!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-04-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

1. The best prank I ever pulled was:

I put a rubber band around the sprayer thing on the kitchen sink when I was a kid, so that whoever turned on the water would get sprayed. Well, my mom was the one that got sprayed and while I thought it was a freaking hoot, she did not.

2. The best prank ever pulled on me was:

Someone took my car keys and hid an orange roughy fillet (*#(%&@?!) under my passenger seat. I am sure you can imagine how THAT turned out. Nothing quite smells like rotting fish in August!

3. A day without: laughter is a day wasted.

4. The most important thing in my life is:

My family! Blood, non-blood, and four legged :D

5. I dream of:

Literally? Dog food size bags of goldfish crackers, old people square dancing in my yard, clowns that live in chimneys, and various other shit I can't explain.

If not so literal: I dream of a day when I can spend more time with friends and family, and not the vast majority of my waking hours working.

6. I dread:

Getting old, or dying before I have had a chance to enjoy a lot of things that life has to offer. (Wow that sounds depressing, yikes haha!)

7. A discovery I made this week was:

It is totally possible to chip a tooth eating green beans. (I could have lived forever without making this discovery, by the way.)

A Couple of Races

2011-03-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

A week ago, along with our running friend Bob, Mike and I ran the Corktown 5k. We had been looking forward to this for a long time, since we always come down for the parade and it sounded like a lot of fun.

Bob warned us about two things: 1. if you pick your packet up early don't count on a shirt, and 2. The bottleneck at the beginning of the race is a clusterbleep. He was right on both accounts. Hanson's was out of shirts when we picked up our packets. Even though we were warned, we always pick up race packets early if possible, to have one less thing to worry about on race day. We were told our shirts would be shipped to us, and hopefully that's true, because I admit i LOVE race shirts!

The bottleneck. WOW. It wasn't even so much the bottleneck, but at this particular race there were more people in the front at the start of the race that didn't belong there than I have seen. Now I'm not a race snob that gets all bent out of shape about this like some people do, since I run these things for fun and not to set any kind of records, but this was the second time (the other being the Detroit Zoo) where I felt like it was a bit of a safety hazard. I run 5ks at about a 8:30 pace, which isn't that fast, and I felt like i was passing people constantly and weaving around for the first mile at least.

We were told it was a light-hearted event, and would probably see a lot of people drinking beer and stuff while running. This was so true. Mike who is faster than me and usually is near the front of the pack, said he was running next to a guy who was taking beers that people were handing out from the sidelines. I saw a couple ladies stop to take shots. This was just so funny to me and I got a huge kick out of it. I don't think I am brave enough to try drinking WHILE running, but I did participate in the free beer that the race handed out afterward!

Then just this past Sunday my whole family participated in the 5k at the Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon which was on Grosse Ile.

Back in February at the Riverview Winterfest 4 Mile Race, my oldest step-daughter Monica, heard about the CF race and was excited and wanted us to do it. She also wanted to do it herself because she has a cousin with Cystic Fibrosis and is very passionate about the cause. Worked for us, and before you knew it my youngest step-daughter Hannah and my mom were both on board too.

The plan was that Mike and I would walk or walk/jog with my mom and the kids and we would all participate in the event as a family. At the last minute though, I decided to run it, so I could finish first and find a good spot to take finish line photos of the kids and my mom.

This race had a ton of kids, and families and walkers participating, so I felt more at the front of the pack than I am used to. At first when I could still see the pace car I must have looked at the Garmin ten times to make sure I wasn't going too fast. But all was well and I got to the end, grabbed a water and took a spot on the sidelines. I expected everyone else to all finish at once, and guessed if they were walking briskly they'd finish around the 45 minute mark, so I had like 20 minutes to find the best spot and get comfortable. At about the 36 minute mark, I heard "Amy!" and looked up and it was my mom! I couldn't believe it, she jogged the WHOLE THING! I was so proud of her!

A few minutes later, I could see Mike and Hannah coming up to the finish, both of them running. Hannah was so excited to get to the finish line and that was so cool! Mike said they had a blast and alternated walking/jogging through the whole course.

Monica was the last to cross the finish line, but did it with her aunt, and two cousins. The little baby is the one with CF.

It was a great experience to have our family members participate with us in something we enjoy doing so much, and for a good cause.

Next up: The 10k at the Martian Invasion!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-03-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

So, I have a lot to catch up on post wise. I thought I'd get the ball rolling by doing a "Ten on Tuesday" since it has been awhile :D

1. What condiments are always, always in your fridge?

I am not a condiment person at all! However, there are a few things that seem to be in the fridge all the time. We almost always have some kind of hot sauce. Swat sauce from The Fly Trap is a favorite for sure. The only other thing we almost always have is some kind of mustard, usually with horseradish. I assure you though, that is NOT mine. BLECH!

2. How do you like your steak cooked? Your burgers?

I don't eat steak or burgers!

3. What’s your favorite use for fresh tomatoes?

Fresh pico de gallo, for sure.

4. What’s your go-to dinner when you haven’t planned anything in advance and you don’t feel like going out?

Some kind of stir fry. It is so easy to just throw whatever veggies we have in the wok. Easy clean up too :D

5. What’s your favorite snack food lately?

The trail mix fairy brought 36 lbs (!) to my house. It's my favorite now, but ask me again in a few weeks and see if I feel the same.

6. What’s your favorite weekend breakfast to make at home?

Actual weekends with free time to do something like make breakfast are few and far between, but when they do happen Mike makes AMAZING pecan pancakes and breakfast burritos.

7. What’s your favorite thing to grill? How do you do it?

Holy crap, what ISN'T my favorite thing to grill! I can't name just one but here is a brief list of the awesomeness that comes off the grill at my house:

kabobs, potatoes with herbs and olive oil, corn on the cob (sometimes with hot pepper butter), tofu, bean burgers, stuffed peppers, we have even grilled pizza!

8. What’s your favorite wine for under $10? If you’re not a wine person, what brand of beer is your favorite?

I don't drink wine. Beer is definitely more up my alley, but I can't say I have a favorite brand. I do have a favorite style though, and that is an IPA. I like beer extremely hoppy and bitter the best.

9. Give us your most delicious cocktail recipe.

I'm not really a cocktail person either. Occasionally I will have a gin and tonic or rum and coke, but that is really rare. I hopefully don't have to give you the recipe for either one of those, ha.

OH, well I did make mojitos last summer with some of the fresh mint from my garden. Well that was fun, but quite frankly more work than it was worth.

10. How do you like your eggs?

I am picky picky picky about eggs. They have to be cooked hard, in an omelet or scrambled. The thought of runny yolks make me want to vomit all over!

The Continuing Foot Drama

2011-02-26T09:04:00.001-08:00

As I have mentioned, 3 months of physical therapy got me nowhere as far as easing the pain from plantar fasciitis and bone spurs (one in my heel one at the base of my big toe on my left foot). My doctor prescribed me custom orthotics, which I immediately got fitted for and was so enthusiastic to try. After almost a year I was ready to run (and walk!) pain free!

Three weeks ago, the orthotics came in and I took them out for a test run. My PT had recommended I run more on my forefoot and I had been running this way for about a month. I was sure the forefoot running combined with the orthotics combined with all the PT exercises would do the trick. Well... Yikes, boy was I wrong! I tried the orthotics a couple more times, and still yikes! It appeared that the orthotics and the stability shoes I was running in were over correcting me. I was supinating, which with the feet I have I am sure for the first time in my life. I now had something new to add to the list of lower extremity ouches: shin splints.

To solve the over correction issue, I went back to Hanson's and bought a neutral running shoe, the Brooks Ghost.

Sweet! My first pair of neutral shoes ever, and I get to run in them for the first time the very next day in the Riverview Winterfest 4 Mile Race.

I don't like to run in new shoes (or anything for that matter) for the first time on a race day, even if it is a short race. But in this case I figured I'd take my chances. I am so totally glad that I did, because I felt pretty good! I was psyched and was sure that the neutral shoes were the answer to all my problems.

Well not for long. After a few days I was dealing not only with my old friends PF and bone spurs, but: shin splints, arch pain, and ankle pain too!

My ankle has gotten a bit better, so Wednesday I thought it would be O.K to get back on my skates. Now I can add “quarter sized blisters” to the above list. Haha, nice.

What a pain!I am not giving up though. I am going to continue to try and find the right combination of stretching exercises/shoe/insert/skate/gait until I get it right. It is a little disheartening because I really can't improve my running when I am having this level of pain. I can't get any faster, and I am very careful about increasing my mileage too quickly. I am still doing short races quite frequently, with mediocre times. I just want to stay involved and motivated, and continue to try to find the right solution. As for the half marathon I am already registered for in April, I am going to do it and try my best. My ailments won't stop me from finishing, but they will stop me from finishing at my full potential unless I can find the solutions that work for me. I am keeping my fingers crossed!

2011-02-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

I know it has been awhile! There is a post in the queue that I am working on. I keep getting distracted!

Should be up soon, I swear!

Finally Feeling Better

2011-01-20T20:07:00.001-08:00

I am finally feeling back to myself. I cannot WAIT to get back to my regular routine, and see my friends this weekend!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-01-19T16:51:00.000-08:00

1. What’s your favorite color to paint your nails?

I don't paint my nails, ever. Its a pain in the ass to keep up with since it chips in like, HOURS. I do paint my toenails though, but don't let that fool you. Running jacks up the nails and in flip flop season, I like to keep that covered up!

2. Do you like to sneeze?

Ha ha! Lol not really. Sneezing usually means allergens or a cold or something else unpleasant, so I'd rather not.

3. How often do you fill up your car with gas?

When it gets low, obviously. Usually every week and a half or so. And I never fill up before the light goes on!

4. Were you named after anyone?

My mom had friends as a kid that were twins, Amy and Beth. I don't think I am named after them exactly, but she liked the names so she named be both of them :D

5. Have you made any good recipes lately?

Wow I wish! I haven't followed a recipe since the holidays or so. Social engagements, and cat sitting, and being sick, and LIFE have all gotten in the way. I hope to fix up some good grub soon!

6. What’s an easy money-saving tip that you use regularly?

Well I don't know if it is a money saving tip, but I don't buy anything I can't pay cash for. Does that count?

7. Would you rather have a sore throat or an ear ache?

They both blow and this question sucks.

8. Do you have any scars? What are they from?

I am pretty scar free for the most part! But I do have a few worth noting:

Both ankles are scarred from blistering and breaking in a pair of roller skates about five years ago. I never would have believed I would have been scarred for life from that!

Someone ran into me with a cigarette in high school, so I have a perfect white circle on my right wrist.

I have about a four inch scar down my right forearm. My former boyfriend, Allen and I had a bit of a ridiculous mishap with barbed wire. I probably should have gotten stitches, ha. But that story is a separate blog post all in itself haha.

9. What are you “known for” in your circle of friends/family?

Probably roller skating, because its not that popular of a hobby these days.

10. How do you like to eat your pancakes?

With a little bit of butter and a TINY bit of warmed up syrup. NOM

Being SICK

2011-01-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

Today is the third day in a row that I haven't been able to pull my body out of bed at 5:00 am for yoga, and the second day in a row that I won't be going to the gym. Normally, I don't miss workouts for anything, but this is that "hit in the head with a sledgehammer" type illness that has completely defeated me! I pretty much ache from head to toe (especially in my back), have a fever and a ridiculously painful cough, and am fatigued. I am pretty sure I have the flu, despite the fact that the internet is telling me it is SARS. (Oh really now?)

Anyway, while I am totally disappointed that I can't keep up with my regular routine, I am doing my best to lounge around and drink tons of water and all that stuff they tell you to do when you're sick. Hopefully in another day or two (wishful thinking?) I will be O.K and can return to life as normal!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-01-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

1. I feel happy when:

I am on a long run in cool weather, on the boat on a sunny summer day, when I have a day with nothing planned, when I see my nieces and nephew being goofballs, and when I am sitting in front of the fireplace with a book.

2. I get silly when:

I have had a couple beers, haha. Or when one hilarious thing will set me into a fit of the giggles.

3. Something that makes me sad is:

People that are a-holes to their kids or pets. Hate hate hate.

4. Something that makes me annoyed is:

Right now it is the snow. I don’t really mind the snow, except for when I have to shovel it or it makes people forget how to drive. Both applied this morning. Later, it will be the New Years Resolutionists at the gym. I love seeing people get motivated, but hate crowds so much!

5. A time that I’ve been truly surprised was:

Each time my sisters said they were pregnant. Not sure why I was so shocked but I was floored every time!

6. I am so thankful for:

A loving family, and good health.

7. I feel loved when:

Mike does little things like get up early to brush the snow off of my car. It truly is the little things that count!

Sylvia The Cat

2011-01-09T13:59:00.000-08:00

What I Am Looking Forward To in 2011

2011-01-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

2011 is going to be a big year of change, and while not all of it is change is positive, there are a lot of things to look forward to!

1. First and foremost, getting my FOOT FIXED. I cannot wait until the day comes that I can run normally again, or even walking normally would be cool. Ha. I can’t wait to get fitted for my orthotics next week and see the doctor. Even though I know the doctor will not have much to say that I want to hear, the sooner I hear it the sooner I can make the right changes.

2. Getting back into racing. I might have had to slow down the past couple weeks, but I already have committed to three races: The Riverview WInterfest 4 mile Run in February, The Corktown 5K in March, and The Lets Move Half Marathon in April. Obviously the first two aren’t going to be an issue since they are short, but it would be totally awesome to have my foot take care of me for that half in April, since I would like to do a couple more this season and the full in Detroit or Chicago this fall.

3. Getting my NCSF certification. I am not too far from that, assuming I pass the test which hopefully won’t be a problem. It is fun to learn, but will feel awesome to have the piece of paper in my hand :D

4. Hoping that it works out that I can work less this year (no more six day, 55 hour work weeks), and spend more time with my friends and family, and travel a little bit.

5. Assuming that happens, I am looking forward to making the yearly trip to Minnesota, camping lots more, getting away with Mike for our anniversary, getting to go see Julie in Kansas and Jacci in Orlando, and in a perfect world traveling to do a race would be AMAZING. But I will try not to over dream, haha.

6. Clearing out some unneeded stuff. I am in a position where I am going to have to get rid of a lot of things and clean some stuff out. While I am not one to hang on to stuff, there is probably a lot of things around my house that have been ignored and could be thrown out. Once that time comes I am sure it will feel good to get rid of some things.

7. Two words: BOATING SEASON! I always love boating, and this year since I won’t be able to spend so much time gardening, that means more time on the boat!

8. There is one thing I can’t put online yet, but I am BURSTING AT THE SEAMS ABOUT. Soon as I can say something though, I will because I am super excited!

9. Getting over a few hurdles, and just being able to relax and not worry. Sometimes knowing something unpleasant is on the horizon and worrying about it is the worst! I just want to hurry up and get to the other side already!

10. Most of all I am looking forward to another happy, healthy year surrounded by wonderful friends and family. I truly am lucky and feel grateful every day for all that I have.

Best to all of you this year!!

In Which I Complain And Whine About My Foot

2011-01-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well I only have one more physical therapy appointment to go. And that is just so the therapist can reevaluate my gait and set up an appointment for me to get fitted for custom orthotics.

And my foot isn’t overall any better.

I took the two weeks off that I was supposed to, and my first run back was today. Yikes. I ran an easy three miles, and trying to forefoot run totally tore up my calves. Plus my foot. I know in time my calves will adjust to forefoot running, but I feel like I am starting all over. With my foot not seeing that much improvement, it is mildly discouraging.

I am really hoping the orthotics and forefoot running help. When I go to the doctor next week, I sincerely hope that there is no talk about surgical procedures or shots. I just want this shit healed up, I have races to run!

Happy Warm New Year!

2010-12-31T17:49:00.000-08:00

Holy cow it is a warm New Years Eve! Everyone have fun, be safe, and enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T14:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!!! It was a beautiful day to take the four wheeler out. Beautiful, sunny and snowy winter day.

Happy Holidays!!!

My Foot Is Wack

2010-12-20T18:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I am now over two months in to my physical therapy and although I have some good days, my foot for the most part is just as bad (and some days worse) than it was when I started. Luckily I have been assigned a new therapist who is taking a totally different approach to my treatment, and he is awesome! My exercise regimen there now is consisting of a lot more yoga and also trying to get to the bottom of why I got injured in the first place. I am learning so much about the mechanics of the legs, and how I can alter the way that I run to ease my pain and prevent new injury. One thing he has prescribed though? NO RUNNING BETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YEAR.

Excuse me WHAT?

O.K, it isn’t that bad, and it isn’t that long of a time frame. I guess I am just nervous about a couple of things:

1. That the time I take off won’t be long enough, and I will be told to take off more.

2. That taking time off won’t help and I will be sent back to the doctor to be re evaluated for cortisone shots and/or surgery. DO NOT WANT.

3. What my other cardio options will be to keep up my fitness while on a running break, especially in the middle of winter. I never can seem to get my heart rate high enough on a stationary bike for some reason, and ellipticals and arc trainers I pretty much hate. I guess I will have to suck it up for awhile! I’ve been putting off learning to swim, and I guess its about time to take a class so in the future I will have a low impact cardio option.

Although I’m stubborn, the break is a good idea. I am literally hobbling a lot of the time and it cant heal with me messing with it all the time. I am running a Jingle Bell 5k tomorrow, but I in no way, shape or form expect to get a good time or even care about getting one. I just am participating for fun, and as motivation to get this foot healed so I can still do the longer races I have planned for this coming season!

Vikings and Jets Game

2010-12-13T18:03:00.000-08:00

Last night’s Vikings and Giants game at Ford Field. Amber was in town and brought her tickets so we all sat in AMAZING seats! The Vikings lost, but everyone had fun :D

Smiths United

2010-12-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

Since I couldn’t figure out how to add video to my last post, I’d like to share with you a band Mike and I went to see this weekend at the Berkley Front. The singer is Mike’s friend from high school, and they’re a Smiths/Morrissey cover band. Now I can go either way on the Smiths, and like some songs and some others, not so much. These guys however, did a great job…and it wasn’t until halfway through the show that I learned that it was only their second show, and they’d formed only six months ago. Not too shabby.

The Post In Which I Finally Have a Few Minutes to Post Something

2010-12-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

It seems like lately, most of my posts here have been super short. I wish I could somehow make the time to update regularly, and I admit I am jealous of people that are able to somehow consistently maintain a blog though a busy schedule. I am just a bit more flaky and unable to do that!

It is a busy time of year obviously with the holidays, and I am super excited to work on finishing up my gifts this weekend. This year is one of the first years that I haven’t been a super Scrooge, and its actually been a lot of fun. I still have a week or so before I start baking, and that is always my favorite part about the holidays. Even though there is no actual baking involved, I am super psyched to make these this year, from this post at The Idea Room. My nephew (and my dad, ha!) will eat them up.

As for my foot, it is finally feeling better. I have really been hoping the therapy would help me, and I wouldn’t have to go back to the doctor for cortisone shots (or worse yet, surgery..yikes!). Wednesday, they started taping me and it seems to have helped soooo much. My past couple runs have been amazing, and last night I even had a training P.R. I am super excited to learn how to tape myself, and also get fit next week for custom orthotics. I know there are a lot of people in the running world that frown on orthotics, but where I am at right now I just don’t know if I will ever be able to run on a natural foot with how much i pronate. I doubt if I could ever be the kind of runner that can run in Vibrams, flats, or barefoot. For now, it feels like a lot of the pain from the plantar fasciitis is relieved with the taping, and most of what I feel is pain from the heel spur which therapy can’t cure anyway. My hopes are with the orthotics and taping, the spur won’t get worse, and the P.F won’t come back.

Well, that is all worth mentioning at the moment. I hope anyone reading this has an amazing weekend!

Horray!

2010-12-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

My foot feels the best it has in awhile today. It is AMAZING what a few pieces of tape can do!

Yikes

2010-11-27T18:28:00.000-08:00

Leftover Thanksgiving burritos + long run = terrible, terrible idea.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T18:29:00.000-08:00

Have a fantastic, wonderful and RELAXING Thanksgiving!

Five Things I Am Looking Forward To This Week

2010-11-24T18:31:00.000-08:00

Well obviously this week is Thanksgiving week, so there is so much to look forward to!

1. A day off work. It only happens a few times a year that I get more than one day off a week, and every time it does I look forward to it for weeks. I can’t wait to have that little bit of extra time away from the office.

2. The FOOD. I love to eat obviously, and my family is very non traditional so I won’t be having the the standard meal, but I can’t wait to eat and hang out and take it easy.

3. Seeing my friends from high school on Friday night. Some of them I only see at this yearly get-together, some more than that. It is always great to see them though and keep in touch with how they are and how their lives are going.

4. Tomorrow morning’s run. Even though we can’t do the Turkey Trot, Mike and I will be up early doing one of our own. No medals or tech shirts or P.Rs, but a good long run in the cool air before chowing down all day is going to feel AWESOME!

5. Getting moving on my christmas gifts and projects. Sometimes it is hard to find time, but all of the late nights spent on home made gifts make it so worthwhile in the end.

So, that is all I can think of for this week. I hope anyone reading this has a fantastic week and Thanksgiving!

Big Bird Run

2010-11-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

Big Bird Run shirt. Sponsored by Michelob Ultra…that explains the beer coozie that also came in our race packet lol! P.S. gloves also came in it. Lots of goodies for a small race!

Family Photo

2010-11-12T18:36:00.000-08:00

So here is my family on my dad’s side. I am so happy with this picture and the rest of the set, because it has been a long long long long time since we got together to do an entire family photo. At least 8 years!

Photos were taken by Creative Expressions Photography, which also happens to be my cousin. She does a great job!

This weekend is the Big Bird 10k in Roseville, which is the last race we are registered for until the 1/2 Marathon. Mike and I ran the Big Bird course on Monday, and it was easy enough. I’ve been feeling a bit under the weather though, so hopefully it goes as smoothly on Sunday.

And speaking of the Half Marathon, we are brainstorming and trying to come up with creative ways to incorporate Mike and I doing this run in with raising money for JDRF for my sister’s team, Emily’s Enthusiasts. We have a lot of good ideas so far!

Well, off to the gym. Everyone have a great weekend!

Detroit Free Press Marathon

2010-10-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

Me, Mike and Mike at the Detroit Free Press Marathon Races yesterday.

Detroit Free Press Marathon

2010-10-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

O.K seriously. And I thought I was psyched YESTERDAY? Holy crap, now I can’t wait to run the half in April. The run went great today. Mike got a P.R, and beat our other friend Mike who has been untouchable until now. The sun was shining and the weather was perfect. So.much.fun!

Will Run For Beer

2010-10-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Bought this magnet at the fitness expo tonight. I am SO PUMPED for tomorrow! I can’t wait to run, and cheer on all the marathoners. Also, Mike and I are doing our first half in the spring. Here’s to hoping my foot is better then!

Saying Goodbye To A Friend

2010-10-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of me and what are probably my two oldest friends, Emily and Tasha. Tasha and her family are moving out of state, and last night we went out one last time. It was an excellent time, and I will miss her!

Update

2010-10-08T18:45:00.000-07:00

Potato and Bean Enchiladas are what is for dinner tonight. I made a few changes (like adding hot peppers to the sauce and omitting the cheese) and HOLY CRAP delicious!

Today was my first PT appointment, and I can tell already that it is going to help so much!

Mike and I went camping in Pinckney Saturday night, and had a blast. Beautiful 5 mile trail run yesterday with fall colors. So glad we made the last minute decision to go!

Fall

2010-10-04T18:51:00.000-07:00

I can’t wait for trail runs, fall colors and a bonfire this weekend. Fall is just spectacular!

Beer On A Stick

2010-10-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite photos from my trip to Minnesota. Cannot go wrong with Beer on a Stick!

Mums

2010-10-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know I get really excited about small things… but the mum on my front porch is GORGEOUS!

10 Things That Make Me Happy

2010-10-02T18:57:00.000-07:00

My Husband
Because he is the most amazing person I have ever met. My life has been a BAZILLION times better since he came into it, and the best decision I have ever made was to take that chance and marry him (even if we were totally crazy and barely knew each other at the time!)

Sylvia, Simon and Reena
The crazy furbags who run my household! One orange tabby and two Siamese. Sylvia is the orange, and she is the house bully and grouch. Ha. Simon is my 12 lb snugglebug, and Reena is my scaredy-cat sneak. All three have total distinct personalities and are a TRIP and a half. They keep us busy with their shenanigans but they bring SO much joy into our lives!

Roller Skating
Not only because it is a blast, but because it is a somewhat uncommon hobby these days, and I share it with Mike. We met skating, and we have made so many awesome friends through skating. It is a HUGE part of my life.

Running
I love running because I can kind of disappear into it especially on a bad day. (Kind of have to watch me on that though because I’ve been known to get myself lost on trail runs because I zone out, haha). I also enjoy running even more since participating in races. Runners are an AWESOME, supportive group of people, and the comradery is amazing. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment when you finish. :)

Gardening
Having the satisfaction of planting little baby seeds in my house in March, to them flourishing throughout the summer and feeding my family and friends is so gratifying. My seedlings supplied five entire gardens this year including my own. We planted/gave away hundreds of seedlings and are right now enjoying the last and biggest harvest of the year. ( I do love all my flowers too, not just the veggies!)

Karaoke
I love karaoke, because I truly do enjoy to sing but HATE being the center of attention. Its pretty much the only way in hell I would get up in front of a crowd to do anything. Even saying that, whenever I do karaoke somewhere new, I still get a bit of stage fright.

Painting/Crafting
I enjoy doing these things because I love seeing an idea or thought actually BECOME something. That and they keep me busy during the winter months when I can’t be outdoors, and it’s cheaper than purchasing things to hang around the house. (Not to mention my family always appreciates hand made gifts, or they at least pretend they do haha)

Boating
Being on the boat, or anchoring somewhere and floating in my floaty chair and just feeling the sun and listening to the sounds around is my absolute FAVORITE summer activity. My schedule doesn’t permit me to do it all that often, which might be part of why I appreciate it so much.

Camping
The sounds of nature and smell of a campfire are HEAVEN a few nights a year when the rest of the year consists of hustle and bustle.

Friends
I know it is a generic answer, and now that I am older I have fewer CLOSE friends that could be called upon in an emergency. However, just having such an interesting combination of people in my life makes me happy. From bar buddies, to high school friends, to running partners, I have a truly diverse group of people in my life and I love them for all of their differences.

My Sister's Wedding

2010-09-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

It was a little cool outside, but my sister’s wedding was beautiful and also fun!!

YAY!

2010-09-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

My little sister is getting married tomorrow, YAY!

Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo

2010-09-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well the run went exceptionally well, foot issues aside. I still finished in 26:35, and I didn’t have any REAL pain until walking the zoo after. The photo is my mom finishing the race and pushing my nephew Braylen in his stroller. I was SO proud of her for doing this event, and she had a great time!

Mike also was proud of his time. He came in at 22:24, which is a race PR for him. The day turned out to be great, but now its time to get out the ice!

Update

2010-09-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Detroit Zoo 5k in the morning, and my foot is in horrible shape!! It almost seemed like it was getting a bit better, but after walking around at the DYI fair all afternoon it is killing me. I took ibuprofen and am icing it, I am just hoping it doesn’t give me too much trouble tomorrow.

But, even it if it does, it will be a good time!

DIY fair was a lot of fun and I can’t wait to go back tomorrow. I got a great new shirt and we tried some delicious new food. I even ate an elephant ear all by myself, yikes!

Update

2010-09-15T19:09:00.000-07:00

I don’t get it. I’ve been having the worst time with my foot. I’ve been dealing with plantar faciitis since I started running, but the past week it has been AWFUL. Ever since walking around in flat shoes at the state fair in Minnesota, the pain has now expanded to my ankle and arch. I have a race this weekend, so I am continuing to prepare for that, I just hope I am not doing any real damage.

I guess after this next race, it will be time to finally see a doctor about this since it is clearly not going to get any better!

First Tigers Game!

2010-09-13T19:11:00.000-07:00

Mike and I at the Tiger game yesterday!

Comerica Park

2010-09-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

At my first Tiger game at Comerica park! Great seats too! Thanks JDRF!

Minnesota Trip

2010-09-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

Minnesota was a blast! Here are me and Amber and Bert at the fair with a local reporter. My camera was stolen a few months ago, so I can’t wait til Amber and Bert share some of the photos with me that they took over the weekend, so I can post them here and on Flickr. Fun weekend of food and friends!

Countdown!

2010-08-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

The curd countdown is on, EIGHT MORE DAYS until I arrive in Minneapolis. I can’t wait to see everyone and chow down on some horrible-for-me foods!