The best present ever!

In my first post, I mentioned that getting pregnant was on my list of "things to do" and guess what...we were successful!  I am now 12 weeks along and we are looking forward to meeting our new addition in mid December!

Being pregnant at 30 is a little different than being pregnant at 17 when I was preggo with Kaelani.  In the words of my brother-in-law, "You're not the whipper snapper you once were."  I admit, this is so true.  I barely had symptoms with Kaelani and felt great the whole time.  I LOVED being pregnant.  And now that I've waited 12 years to do it again, it is not the same so far.  Not that it's been horrible, but I can definitely tell the difference between my pre-preggo bod and the body that is now busy producing another human being...

Energy level:  Has decreased dramatically.  I really have lost motivation to do most things-cooking, cleaning, even picking up the remote... I've become lazy (hence the blah blah blogging as of late).  It's bad.  A radical departure from a few months ago.  But I have John and Kaelani to thank because they have been troopers and are picking up the slack.  Crossing my fingers I gain some energy during my second trimester.

Nap time:  Wow.  When am I not napping?  I love my sleep but this is too much even for me.  I feel tired and look tired ALL the time.  There have been nights I've parked my butt on the couch and have only gotten up to use the bathroom.  Meals would even get served to me on the couch...

Running:  I think my pace dropped just as soon as those two little pink lines appeared on my home pregnancy test indicating a positive result.  And darn...just as I was getting faster.  I continue to run, taking it easy, trying not to let my heart rate get out of control and taking breaks as needed.  My new mantra is-"My goal is to have a healthy baby and pregnancy, not to set a PR." I am running a half marathon this weekend so wish me luck on getting to the finish line safely!

I have been lucky enough to escape morning sickness so far but did suffer a bout of headaches that lasted for about a week.  I'm trying to maintain healthy eating habits while giving into some of my cravings but that at times can be challenging.  Other than that, so far so good!  Our baby is growing just as he/she should be and we are SO very happy and excited-especially Big Sis...who has proudly declared the baby her Christmas present...and "the BEST present ever!"

Bay to Breaker Bandits

We were bad, but I don't feel bad.  Sunday, we hopped in the Bay to Breakers race without registering.  I don't encourage you to run races without paying but if you're going to, this is the one to do.  You'll walk away feeling guilt free.  I don't even know how to describe this race but I told John and Sara it carried the same concept as the mullet haircut--business in the front, party in the back.  The runners that actually cared about their race time and maybe setting a PR lead the pack while all the party people, who I'm sure had no intention of running, lingered on the course getting intoxicated, taking advantage of the road closures.  I had never seen anything like this in my life. Everything you've heard is true.  The traditional tortilla tossing, the costumes, a frat party that stretched miles and miles, and don't let me forget the nudity.  In fact, I couldn't if I tried.  I believe we tallied 37 naked guys, 5 naked girls and zero hot naked people.   The walk back to the car made for great people watching.  It was truly unbelievable, ridiculous,...CAAA-RAZY.  And people actually brought their kids to this event...something I definitely wouldn't recommend. 

{Fell Street}

{Lifeguard station...in case you end up drowning in your own vomit}

{Free Shrek ears on the course...I tried}

Overall, it was a great run and scenic, in more ways than one.  Would I do it again?  Yes. But don't look for me in the middle of Fell Street with a beer pong sporting a kitschy costume.  Maybe I'm getting old or maybe the drunk off your butt look before 9 a.m. doesn't appeal to me...(because really, no one out there made it look attractive)...I guess it's just not my style.

Spring Break in the Big Easy

I know Spring Break happened over a month ago...but better late than never.  Let me begin...

My sister, Missy and her family moved to Louisiana two years ago.  It was a huge move that resulted in us enduring months of separation anxiety.  Prior to moving to Lousiana, they lived a short time in Vegas.  Her living in Vegas wasn't so bad--the flight was short and sweet.  And now that they practically live across the country, it is more difficult to visit.  So for Spring Break, we decided to spend a whole week in the Big Easy.

We absolutely enjoy our time in Lousiana and when you're having fun...time flies!  This last visit, we spent less time sightseeing and more time just hanging out...which was nice...really nice.

What I really looked forward to is quality time with my BFF.  My sister is my best friend. We were both counting down the days for this trip and were wishing for "just two more days" when the last day fell upon us. It's really the little things I enjoy and miss doing with her. Doing our hair and makeup together (Bonus: sharing hair and makeup products), making delicious treats in the kitchen, sitting on the couch sharing a blankie and watching TV while providing commentary to one another,shopping, talking and being with our kiddos.

Speaking of kiddos, my sister has two beautiful babies, Drew and Olivia, and  I often refer to them as my babies--granted my sis gave birth to them but hey...my blood runs through their veins!  They are both super sweet and smart and kept us entertained.  We talked, we laughed, we played, we sang and "ta-da'd" the whole week. Sigh.. Kaelani loved being around the babies and I was impressed by how great she was with them.  She was such a great helper.  She didn't complain or whine once and was eager to entertain them, give them baths and feed them.  She was so sweet and it gave me a sneek peek on how wonderful she would be as someone's big sister...wink,wink.

Now, I can't blog about the Big Easy without talking about the food because OH. MY. GOD. the food is so delicious! I always look forward to eating when I go there and expect to leave a little heavier.  The great thing about coming during Easter is being able to enjoy a crawfish boil.  My brother-in-law's family are wonderful and awesome hosts.  They put on a crawfish bowl where we stuffed our bellies beyond delight and subsequently into a food induced coma.

I am not a contributor to tripadvisor.com or anything but decided to put a little list together of places we enjoy and I recommend visiting:

Oak Alley Plantation-please have a mint julep-and another...for me.

French Quarter, Bourbon St.-bar,bar,bar, what is that smell???, bar, bar, bar.

Cafe Du Monde for delicious famous beignets, Cafe au Lait, and for the powdered sugared mess you'll leave on yourself...and you won't even care.

Jimmy John's- #9 is to die for and yes-you do want to add peppers.

LSU- The campus is gorgeous and flanked with grandious homes.  A GREAT place to run.

Global Wildlife Center-  Do they even have a place like this in Cali?  This place is awesome.  A chance to get up close and personal to tons of wildlife and feed their seemingly bottomless pits.

{My sis and her kiddos}

My Sunshine

I knew one day I would get "the call".  The call that would give me a gaping hole in my heart.  In the back of my mind, I knew this day would come and I would try not to acknowledge the thought.  I would file it away and lock up the cabinet.  It has been two weeks since I got "the call"...two weeks since I experienced the worst heartache I have ever felt...two weeks since my Dad called me to tell me my Papa passed away.

I had just a few days to prepare for the possibility since I knew he wasn't doing so well.  But really...you can never prepare yourself for that.  I DIDN'T want to.  I wasn't ready.  I wasn't EVER going to be.  When I found out, I cried.  I cried ALOT.  Then I would go through periods where I would feel okay.  Thinking about my Papa and talking about him out loud with my family or with my close friends made me cry and feel tremendously sad.  The days that followed went like that.  A whole seven days passed before I would go back home to Olympia to be with my family and to be in my grandparent's home (I like to refer to it as Grand Central), smell and rummage through his belongings and just sit and reminisce about our beloved Papa. 

I have a lot of great memories of my Papa and talking about them with my family really helped me find comfort with his passing.  My Papa was a wonderful, loving, generous and honorable man.  I will cherish everything he has passed on to me and everything we shared...even what seemed to be an endless amount of time kneeling and praying the rosary, all the songs he played for us and sang to us (my personal fav is You are My Sunshine) and for the sweettooth he helped me grow...thanks to all the chocolate (Hershey bars) he loved to give us.  I will always remember staying up late and sitting in his lap to watch WWF, joining him to run errands around town, herding the cows, the vegetable gardens he grew, the pigs and cows he raised (and ate), how he used duck tape as a solution to repair anything and everything, the way he made his own candles, his love for whiskey and inviting anyone who came by to have a drink with him, the way he used to sing and dance...and smile, the childish ways he would charm my Grandma, how he used rice as a means to glue a stamp to an envelope, the many hats he wore, how he slept with a blanket over his head (like Drew Bear), the bullet wounds he proudly wore from surviving the Bataan Death March and fighting in WWII and the Korean War, and the many words of wisdom he shared with me and that I find myself sharing with my daughter.  There are just SO many memories and all of these comfort me.  My Papa lived a great, long life and he left behind a wonderful family.  A family I feel so proud and grateful to be a part of.

I miss my Papa so much.  I had been okay the last couple of days but this morning I became sad again. I was out running and looking out towards the mountains, where all the land was green and looked beautiful (think Sound of Music) and it made me think of him.  The sun was shining so brightly, like he was watching over me and I felt like crying again, because I think he was--sending me a message--singing our favorite song...You are my sunshine...my only sunshine...

Thank you Papa.  Thank you for being the best Papa a girl could have.  I love you and I can't wait until we meet again.

Running and rambling

So after a little searching, Sara and I have found a race to train for.  Drum roll please...PRESIDIO 10 on April 18th in San Francisco.  I'm running the 10k distance and Sara is deciding between the 10k or 10 miler.  To keep me on track with training, I've chosen a training plan published in this month's Runner's World magazine.  The plan incorporates 3 key workouts: a tempo run, hill or track workout and a long run.  Cross training and easy running on other days of the week and at least one rest day. So my schedule for the week goes like this:

Monday-Tempo Run, 3-5 miles
Tuesday-Rest
Wednesday-Hill or Track Workout
Thursday-Rest
Friday-Recovery Run, 2-3 miles
Saturday-Long Run, 5-8 miles
Sunday-Yoga

Somewhere in there, I am hoping to fit in a Centergy class at the gym BUT since I can't run in the morning now, thanks to that lunatic (you can refer to my previous blog)...I'm not sure how I'm going to fit that in.  This week is Week 1 of the six-week schedule.  I have accomplished the three key runs and given the time change tomorrow, I'm not sure I will make yoga...bummer.  Seriously.

Today was my long run.  I got off to a late start because I was dilly dallying on the computer this morning.  I planned for 5 miles and ended up running 6.  Why? How?  Well let me tell you.  Sometimes on a run...you just feel good.  You feel you can go the extra distance.  Today was a mixture of sorts.  This is what I think contributed to me going that extra mile:

1.  I was feeling guilty.  I am so used to running long distances on Saturday, but lately, I haven't done so.  Running longer helps build up my mileage for the week and my endurance.  My goal is at least 12-15 miles per week.  Monday-I ran 3, Wednesday-I ran a total of 1 mile (warmup and cooldown) plus 8 hill sprints which let's say equate to 1 mile. So that's 2 miles for Wednesday.  So far--5 for the week. UGH.  I have one more day to try to make 12.  I could've ran 2 yesterday but my quads were a little sore from those hill sprints.  So I ran 6 today which brings me to 11 miles.  Darn it, I didn't meet my goal.  Oh well.

2.  The sun was out!  Such a beautiful morning.  Mother Nature has been out of control the past couple of weeks and even though I LOVE running in the rain, running with the sun out is equally pleasing.  However, she wasn't all that nice...she gave me wind...and I HATE running in the wind.

3. My ipod was playing some really good songs today.  At times, I  felt compelled to sing out loud.  I mostly wear my ipod during tempo and long runs and ditch it on recovery runs along with my beloved Garmin. I bought a shuffle for my first marathon so I wouldn't have to skip through a thousand or so songs on my other ipod to get to something I really wanted to hear.  I only put songs on my shuffle that I know I won't want to skip through.  Some songs that played today:

Is it Any Wonder-Keane

Life in Technicolor-Coldplay

Mony Mony-Billy Idol

Beautiful Day- U2

Beat It Up Right-Korn...yes really...Korn

Hold My Hand-Hootie and the Blowfish

I Gotta A Feeling-Black Eyed Peas

How We Do-The Game and 50 Cent

I can hear my sister already...poking fun of my music selection with the exception of Billy Idol--we share an unusual affinity for Billy Idol.  Her ears are more tuned to the likes of Jay Z, T.I., Mike Jones, Lil Jon.  Don't get me wrong though...I do love me some Lil Wayne.

4.  It gave me a little more time to think.  When I'm stressed, angry, or feeling blue... I run.  It's somewhat cathartic for me.  Not that I ever finish every run with insight or a remedy to a problem.  Sometimes, I just think about a hodgepodge of things, i.e., what to make for dinner, what should I wear to (insert event here), what movies I need to put on my Netflix queue...stuff like that.  Today I thought...Damn...my arms are long!  Is it just me...or are my arms freakishly long???  If you've ever ran with me, you've probably heard me comment about them.  I just don't know what to do with the excess...do they serve a purpose?  I feel like a monkey with these limbs dangling at my sides.

So there it is.  Week 1 and whole bunch of gibberish. 

Lesson learned.

A few blog posts ago, I shared how triumphant I felt upon conquering my first early morning run.  Fast forward a couple weeks to a few days ago,  I decided to put on my big girl panties and get up once again at 4:50 a.m. to run-- this time sans Jessica (bad move) in an effort to prove to myself that I could in fact get up without being held accountable to anyone but myself.  In that particular post, I also made a note to self to buy some mace...which I had not yet acquired (another bad move) and definitely could've used during this run. 

I started my run feeling pretty good, feeling triumphant again, thinking, Wow, I could really do this early morning run thing...this is great!  There were more cars out this time so I felt a little safe knowing there were people watching and I even saw another early riser getting their workout on on their bike.  On my way back and less than a mile away from home, I am running a short distance in an area that is not so well lit accompanied with shady trees and an uneven surface. The uneven surface coupled with the dim lighting force me to look towards the ground while running to watch where my feet land.  And then out of nowhere I hear a roar.  The roar came out of some lunatic that seemed to drop out of the sky and right in front of me.  I let out a terrified scream and yelled, "YOU FU$*!#G SCARED ME!" I could tell my reaction surprised him (go figure idiot).  His reply, "Oh my god..I'm so sorry."  I continued running fast and feeling scared, repeatedly looking over my shoulder.  I didn't recognize the guy and I felt his intention was to scare me.  I couldn't believe this guy thought it would be fun to get his kicks scaring a woman in the middle of a run...and in the dark.  Who does that??? Not a runner.  Even though this guy was clad in what appeared to be dark running clothes, it could've just been a disguise.  Because again...what kind of runner does that?  Most experienced runners are well versed in running etiquette so I was pretty shaken up afterwards wondering if he could've been a sex offender looking for his next victim. 

After work, I rushed to Fleet Feet and finally bought pepper spray.  I'm embarrassed that it took this kind of wake up call for me to go and get some because who knows how long I would've gone forgetting/procrastinating to get some.  I also tipped off the local police department and they offered to send out an extra patrol in the area. 

I'm fortunate that I wasn't attacked.  I feel foolish for going out that morning.  Needless to say, this was a lesson learned.  No running in the dark-not without a partner and pepper spray...but preferrably-no running in the dark at all (per John and advice...or should I say instructions I will be sure to embrace).  And always be prepared.

Early morning runs are possibly in my future...but for now I am pleased to say--I have pepper spray...and I'm not afraid to use it.

Be careful out there my friends.

absence makes the heart grow fonder

Aahhh.  I love the ocean. These past couple of weeks have been madness for me. I've been super busy and trying to juggle my schedule. Every weekend has been filled with events--birthdays, girl scouts, etc. During the week, I've been trying to fit in runs in between school, this cake decorating class (only 1 class left to attend), grocery shopping, making dinner, cleaning up, and raising a daughter. John has been out of town working so I have been handling everything. I'm fortunate and happy I have a husband who takes things off my plate so I don't feel so overwhelmed...so it goes without saying that his absence has really made an impact in my everyday life.  When I had a meltdown the other week, I knew I had to do something.  Taking a mental health day was not going to cure this.  I needed some R&R.  And I needed it to be quiet.

The timing couldn't have worked out better. Our anniversary was coming up so I decided to plan an impromptu trip to Mendocino, which happens to be our halfway point--the Black Eyed Peas song Meet me Halfway playing in my head now--haha. I booked a two night stay at Glendeven Inn. I left Tuesday afternoon hoping to be there before the sun went down. Getting there was no easy feat. It was a drive of a little over three hours. Lombard had nothing on these windy roads! The windy roads coupled with driving on the edges of cliffs, had me hyperventilating, going through hot flashes and my hands firmly gripped on 10 and 2 at every turn. The upside of it was driving through vineyards, a canopy of redwoods and seeing the ocean as I was nearing my destination. When I got to the inn, I was welcomed with a glass of wine and bruschetta...that alone was worth the tortuous drive.

Our room had a huge bay window with a view of the ocean, a fireplace and no TV-- but don't be alarmed, the inn had wi-fi which we totally took advantage of.  We didn't make much of a list of must do's in the area but since the forecast had called for rain, John and I weren't sure if we would be able to enjoy the beach but as luck would have it...it didn't rain the entire time! We got up the next morning and ran on a trail (which by the way, kicked my butt) along the coast.   And the sun was gracious enough to make its presence.


At the suggestion of our innkeeper, we went to Piaci Pub and Pizzeria in Ft. Bragg for lunch. For a pub...the pizza was actually pretty tasty and the locals at the pub were very friendly...this was the kind of place where everyone knows your name...and by the time we left...they did. We were given passes to the Botanical Gardens and it was nice to take a long walk among the blooms hand in hand.  The gardens happened to lead us to the beach...nice bonus! For dinner, we ate at a small restaurant that faced the ocean in Little River coincidently named La Petit Rive (The Little River in french) and stuffed ourselves into a food coma.

One of the best parts of our whirlwind trip and something we continue to rave about is the breakfast that was served to our room in a basket every morning. Check it out...isn't that too cute?

{If only we could eat breakfast like this everyday!}

{Glendeven Inn}

{Feeding the llamas on the grounds...that's Llama Mama}

{the fireplace that kept us nice and warm}

Mendocino fit the bill.  Quaint, romantic and quiet.  Like with all trips, I wish we had one more day.  One more day to just do nothing. nap. walk on the beach. sit by the fire. You get the idea.    We are going to try to make another trip out there so hopefully we'll get a day to do just that.  On our last day, we tried to stretch it out a little by having a long lunch and coffee afterwards but alas...we had to part ways.  On the long way home I got to thinking...maybe it wasn't just a dose of R&R that I needed...what I needed was my husband.

Rockin' the Davis Stampede

And that we did! I must be honest and say I was a little hesitant about signing up for this race...actually more indecisive about which distance to run. Since I had run a marathon December 6th and with this particular race being held on February 7th (Superbowl Sunday...go Saints!), I was concerned about putting too much physical stress on my body and worried that I wouldn't have enough time to recover and train well in time for the race. But with the help of our encouraging friends and well planned training runs (thanks Sara and Brian!), John and I signed up for the half and I'm so glad we did... especially with this race being John's first half marathon and being able to train together.  I was so proud of John...he faithfully stuck to his training schedule and out ran me on those hills.  Early in our training, we even managed a couples run with Sara & Brian and Jessica & Dave...and a trip to Starbucks...where talk of training for the 10k turned into training for a half (it was probably set up as an intervention...haha).

So back to the Davis Stampede.  Turned out a few more of my running friends signed up for the race and luckily we were all able to see each other before the start...in line waiting for the bathroom...no doubt--and where Sara and I spent a lot of time watching the "elites" warm up...now that is some funny entertainment! We weren't lined up when the gun went off but it didn't matter, that's what chips are for.  John, Brian and I started together and pretty much stayed together until we got to the latter miles where those two sped up.  The course wasn't really scenic, mostly residential and some industrial but the weather was absolutely perfect!  I did feel some tightness in my right calf...an issue I've been having for some time so I am going to try to make an effort to nurse it wth stretching and icing.  I somehow caught up to John and we ran the last half mile to the finish together.  That was a great run...and I beat my best half time by 9 minutes!

In other and more exciting news...Kaelani and Katie ran their first kids' run that morning..1 mile! It was so cute to watch them run and cross the finish line together. Here are some pictures.

{Pre-race photo at the Start Line}

{Studying the course map...notice how focused they look..haha..love it!}

{Here they come!}

{Aww...we are so proud!}

After the race, we headed to Habit Burger to reward ourselves and spent the rest of the day relaxing and resting our tired legs watching the game at Sara and Brian's.  I guess I can say we had a alot to celebrate that day...a first half for John, a kids' run for Kaelani and Katie, a PR for me and to top it off...a victory for the Saints! 

In the meantime, I've been running a few times a week...cutting down my weekly mileage to 12-15 miles...getting back to the gym for yoga and centergy (time permitting) and searching for the next race...so stay tuned.

4:40 AM...

That's what time my alarm clock went off this morning. Last night, I set my alarm to go off 10 minutes earlier than when I really needed to get up to allow myself one snooze--it usually takes about three to get me up (haha). So why I on earth did I get up this early? To run! I have been so busy lately that I've been having difficulty finding time to run. It had been 3 days since my last run and I was itching for it. There was no way I was going to get these miles in this week if I didn't schedule an early morning run. The thought of running that early...especially on a work day seemed impossible to me...an occurrence I could only dream of. I'm the kind of person that needs at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep and a cup of coffee to start my day right. For the past few nights, I had only been getting 6 hours and it was starting to show...so I wasn't really sure I could or...even should...do it.

The only thing that really got me out of bed was knowing that someone was counting on me to meet them out there. My friend Jessica, who I met through Team In Training (and who conveniently lives near my neighborhood) called me the other day. She gave me a rundown of the many many miles she was planning to run this week and mentioned she was planning on a 5 miler at 5 am for today. The 25 miles she was going to run this week compared to the zero miles I had logged thus far this week motivated me to entertain the thought of joining her. I struggled with the idea of getting up to run before dawn but called her last night and we made plans to meet just outside her neighborhood. So right at 4:50 am--I definitely used that snooze button--I rolled out of my warm cozy bed and put on the running gear I had so neatly laid out the night before. I headed out the door and it seemed weird at first...a little scary to be out there in the dark with just the street lamps on. Not a soul in sight, just dew on the grass and park benches and silence. I even thought to myself--geez, if something happened to me, I would have no help or witnesses! (Note to self--get some damn mace already!) I expected it to be a lot cooler than it was. The weather was pretty comfortable and I ended up taking my gloves off a mile later. It was about a 1.5 miles before I would see Jessica and as I started to approach our meeting spot, I kept looking into the distance for her...and then...just as we had planned, I saw it. I say "it" because I am referring to her stride. It's a funny thing runners can observe and learn to recognize with fellow runners. After all the miles we have run together, I knew Jessica's stride and could spot it a mile away...okay well maybe a quarter mile away. So we continued on together talking and running as if we owned the streets. Seriously, it was that dead. It seemed all of the people on our side of Suisun were still deep into their REM cycle. We separated when I had reached my neighborhood and my trusty Garmin read 5.25 miles when I got to my doorstep. I got ready for work and enjoyed my cup of coffee (first of all, I don't know how I managed a run without even having a cup first!) It was a great run and I felt really good knowing I got it done with and out of the way. Today was the first time I had ever run this early and it definitely won't be my last. A dream come true.

Togetherness

Happy Valentine's Day people.  John and I typically don't do anything elaborate for Valentine's Day..mainly because we have quite a few things to celebrate all inconveniently spread over a 4 week period and the other reason is...we're married!  In chatting with other married folks, I discovered that V-day isn't always marked with chocolate, long stemmed red roses, weekend getaways and cards from hallmark--whew--we aren't the only ones.  John and I usually stay home, make dinner and watch a movie.  So in honor of V-day, I thought it would be nice to celebrate it by just being together.

Our day of "togetherness" started with a 5 mile run. We weren't really feeling it considering we were out with our friends the night before and consumed a fair amount of alcohol plus a mere 6 hours of shut eye.  We had committed ourselves to a distance of 5 miles, so we dragged our butts out of bed and it was worth it... we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful morning.

After we successfully completed our run,we headed to our favorite breakfast spot, Sandy's, where we indulged guilt free--happy to be consuming calories we just burned. Then off to see the movie Valentine's Day...how appropriate right?

Sadly, our day of togetherness  was literally just that and had to come to an abrupt end.  My hubby drove 5 hours Saturday morning to see us and needed to head back to be at work on Monday.  He just called a little while ago and reported he was almost there.  So I guess what I'm trying to convey here is that I'm thankful my sweetie drove all this way because having some time of togetherness (best when kept simple)  is better than having none at all. Don't take these moments for granted. 

Birthday Fun!

How cute are those tea cups? We had Kaelani's 12th birthday party a few Saturdays ago.  Our theme was a mix of tea party and crafts.  My friend Sara is a Stampin' Up Demonstrator and we thought it would be fun for the girls to make some crafts with her products.  They turned out fantastic!

{Valentine's Day Lollipops}

{Scrapbook page}

Here are some pictures taken from the party...

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

{Teapot cake}

 

{Breakfast time}

The girls had a great time and were kept busy making crafts whilst listening to some of their favorite music. She had a few girls stay the night and of course, they stayed up pretty late giggling...while John and I were out cold.  These past 12 years have flown by us and our little girl is maturing into a young lady every day.  I hope the years ahead don't go as fast but in the meantime we will continue to enjoy all things Kaelani...even the tween tantrums...haha.  We love you Panda!

If you are interested in hosting a Stampin' Up party or would like assistance with Invitation and Event design, please visit Sara Holley's website.

Running without support...literally

 

This is embarrassing...it really is.  This picture represents some of the items I describe as my running gear.  You've got the shoes, the hat, the Garmin and for cold weather...gloves.  In my opinion, these items are essential when going for a run.  Well, when I went out for a run today...I forgot one significant item.

I got home from work and no sooner was I busy at the computer handling girl scout matters, planning birthday parties and checking email.  I had planned on a run and since I had class tonight, I knew I had to start getting ready if I wanted to log at least 3 miles.  So in the middle of a phone call and a few text messages...hey, I can multi-task...or so I thought, I start changing into my running gear.  At this point, I am pressed for time so I quickly dress and head out the door.

As I hit the pavement, excited about being able to run in the rain, a feeling suddenly comes over me...I felt free...not free as in spiritually...but free as in physically.  And then it hits me...OH MY GOD!!!  I forgot to put on my dang sports bra!!! OH MY GOD!!!  How in the world did I manage to forget to put on something so critical??? Now I am only about 4 houses down from my house when I realize this and only take half a second to ponder returning to the house to put it on.  I decide against it...turning around would mean less time and a shorter run.  Aah to heck with it...I'm going to keep running...3 miles won't cause that much damage to my girls..will it?  I certainly hope not.

So the "support-less" run was not that bad and the rain came down hard but felt oh so good.  But I still do feel the need to pray...Oh running gods...please don't let me run into this fiasco again...especially on a long run or race day!

Sleep for it...

So we went to our favorite store today...Costco!  Kaelani has some money saved up and decides--more like impulsively decides--she wants to purchase a camera.  I wouldn't consider my daughter spoiled but she does have a lot of things and a camera is one of them.  However, the camera she currently has is suddenly "inoperable" because the buttons are too small for her fingers...what???...(kids will come up with anything these days).  John and I quickly came to the conclusion that our little girl just wants a new camera, after all, hers is sooo 2008.  Needless to say, John and I aren't sold on the idea of a new camera and know hers is still in working condition.  We tell her to "sleep on it" and if she still wants it in a few days, we can come back.

Nevertheless, John and I are subjected to the terrible tween tantrum, i.e., "It's my money...I could spend it the way I want", pouting and the silent treatment.  We leave Costco--sans camera-- and when we get home, our little drama queen rushes to her room to call a friend.  It is so quiet in the house that John and I can hear her conversation.  She begins to give her friend a play-by-play of the incident and then says...wait for it...wait for it..."My parents told me if I want the camera, I have to sleep for it first...why do I have to sleep for it...that doesn't make sense!"  John and I start exploding with laughter careful to cover our mouths to keep her from knowing.  Aah...youth and their innocence!  These moments become more rare as kids get older but are equally appreciative each time they happen.  I guess I better tell her what the expression "sleep on it" means.  Haha.

A little piece of motherhood

As I've mentioned before, my daughter Kaelani is emerging into her teens.  She will be 12 on January 28th.  Can you believe I am going to have a 12 year old?!

I have always been revered by Kaelani but for the past couple of months, I have noticed subtle changes in our relationship.  For one, I no longer have as much influence as I used to over her.  Everything I like...she doesn't.  Everything I think is cool...is not so cool.  Oh no!  Have I become that Mom???  The un-cool, un-hip Mom?  No...I can't be...I am approaching 30 but I am still considered a young mom to be brought down to that level. Right? Wrong...

So the other day, I was surprisingly stricken with some type of stomach bug which had me sick for most of the night and confined to the bathroom rather than my bed.  In the wee hours of the morning, John wonderfully offered to stay home and take care of me.  While I was still feeling nauseous, I didn't think it warranted him to wait on me hand and foot so off he went to work.  I rested until it was time to take Kaelani to school.  I rolled out of bed, brushed my hair and teeth, pulled my hair up, put on my glasses, a zipped hooded sweatshirt, lounge pants and slipped on my Uggs.

We got in the car and made our way to school.  I happened to stop right in front of the place...kids everywhere...a prime spot to be dropped off in my opinion. Kaelani sat in the backseat so I turned around and noticed that her face was covered with hair and she was awkwardly yet purposely turned away from the window with her head facing downward.  I began to greet her goodbye when she asked me to pull the car up further.  I looked out the front windshield and told her I couldn't due to a line of cars stopped in front of me.  And then I turned around...and she was gone!  She pulled a Houdini on me! Nowhere to be seen...didn't even say goodbye.  And that's when I realized...I became that mom.  She was embarrassed of the way I looked!  I mean...I was sick...give me a break! 

I guess this is a sign my daughter is growing up and into her teens but I must say, it does make me chuckle a little and think back to when I was her age.  In fact, I talked to my Mom about it and she recounted a story of my sister and I hand-picking an outfit for her to wear to our school one day.  Sigh..I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Addiction

I've been running for only 15 months now and I absolutely love it.  I started running because I needed to switch up and step up my exercise regimen.  Back then my workout consisted of  three times a week for 30 to 35 minutes on the elliptical and twice weekly group exercise classes.  It wasn't bad, but it just wasn't doing the job.  I needed something that would continuously challenge me and make me sweat...sweat profusely.  I began reading running books to learn about shoes, proper form, nutrition and then started doing a few runs on my own and sometimes with a friend.  In January 2009, I joined Team In Training and signed up to run the Rock n Roll Seattle Marathon.  Ever since, I've been hooked.  Running has got me into the the best shape of my life and helped me drop those infamous "last 5 pounds." And the best part is that I could eat whatever I want and it works out for me because runners need carbs to refuel and carbs happen to be my fave.  Pasta, rice and bread...I can't get enough!

Not only do I run so that I could eat whatever I choose, I run because I love the feeling.  And it is the feeling that I'm addicted to.  Every time I plan a run and complete it, I feel a great sense of accomplishment and that I've done something good for myself.  When I've had a bad day, I can go out for a run, have time to think and de-stress, as it also serves as a form of meditation for me, and when I'm finished...I feel a hundred times better.

My husband got me a Garmin for Christmas the year before last and I have a love/hate relationship with that thing.  It tells you the truth and sometimes not what you want to hear...or see for that matter.  Occasionally, I promise myself not to look at it during a run (like today) for fear that what I see will hinder my performance while on a run.  I never thought such a device could have such power over you.  And some days, I can't stop myself from looking at it. Pretty silly, huh.  Oh and I forgot to mention how gigantic it is and looks on my wrist.  I'm not trying to make a fashion statement out there but I'm just sayin'.

Among the miles, I've met many wonderful people, made new friends...

and I've also inspired a few to start such as my husband and brother-in-law.  My husband has been such a great running partner and sets a good pace for me.  He's naturally faster than I so it works great.

Our first Turkey Trot

So I'm already thinking about my next run because, as you know, addicts crave that high and are all about getting that next fix.  I'm planning on 7 to 8 miles this Saturday...my longest run since my last marathon in December.  Until next time...Happy Running!

Thirtysomething

So it's 2010. A new decade. And for me, the decade I am going to turn into a thirtysomething. Wow...just typing that overwhelms me with anxiety. I will be 30 in exactly 29 days (for those of you who aren't math wizards, that would be February 1st). I know everyone says 30 is the new 20 and it's not that I'm terrified of getting older (okay, maybe just a wee bit). I guess looking back, I thought I would've accomplished many of the items on my proverbial bucket list by now. So enter "the blog". Not only do I have countless thoughts that run through my head, day in and day out, this blog will give me an opportunity to share those thoughts, document some of the best times of my life, and hold me accountable for what I set out to do. With that said, a few things on my to do's this year and this decade and in no particular order:


*More running, more yoga, more pilates and oh more races
*Plan my 30th birthday bash...ideas anyone?
*Travel. Anywhere outside of California but I am hoping somewhere tropical or a destination requiring a passport would be awesome.
*Finish college
*A triathlon
*The NYC Marathon
*Learn the art of photography

and the endeavor I am most excited about...drum roll please...

*Getting pregnant!

Yes, you read that correctly. After years and years of talking about it, talking to other people about it, changing our minds, and talking about it again, John and I have decided to have another baby and we are very excited about it. Another person super excited, our fabulous daughter Kaelani. Now Kaelani will be twelve in a few weeks so I'm sure some of you are thinking, "why would you want to go back to diapers, car seats, strollers, sleep deprivation yadda yadda yadda?!" John and I always thought we would have another baby when Kaelani was around 3 or 4 but sheesh time flies and we kept wanting to wait until the "right time" and right now, the "right time" seems to be about now.