It's my lunch break. Would have blogged yesterday, but everyone was using the computers, so it wasn't meant to be. I'm starving, so I can't type long. I think its a red beans and rice day, how 'bout you? I love carb loading. I think that is the one thing that will keep me running, just so I can indulge on carbs. Anyway, I read Patti's blog about continuing to run 3 miles after the marathon. I was thinking that us ladies should keep in touch by running together. A 5k here, a 5k there, maybe even a half marathon over there. I plan on doing the 5k run in Flowood Oct 29. A short distance to get me back in the swing of things after the 26.2. If anyone wants to join me, let me know. I'll run with you. It'll give me more of incentive to go than just free food and a t-shirt. I must admit, though, that my heart skipped a beat at the USMC MARATHON forum entry. How I would love to do that run and see all those men in their uniforms and high and tight hair cuts. I'm a sucker for a Marine, what can I say. Ask anyone who joined the Corps why they joined, and the majority will tell you it's because of the Dress Blue uniform in the Recuiter's window.
Well, today has been leisurely slow. I am going on vacation next week so they don't give me too many jobs to do in that event. All in all, a stressless day. I will still run the usual schedule. Melissa, how about a girl's day on Wednesday. We'll start in the pool to work an appetite and go from there. Call me. If anyone else wants to join, the more the merrier.
Okay, gotta go. Take care everyone. If I don't see you Saturday, have a good one. For everyone else, tell your stalkers and hound dogs it's ON for Saturday at the Rez!
Friday, August 26, 2005
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Nothin' Bout Love Makes Sense - Leann Rimes
I have been single now for approximately...counting....9 years. Yes, it seems like quite a long time, but they have gone by fast. The early years were filled with much resentment and bitterness. (I'll leave the names out) The middle were about accepting the facts that it-takes-two-to-tango and that I had screwed up the relationships just as much as they did. Once the denial was over, I moved onto the repairing and rewiring phase. I had to let go of a lot of negative talk and thoughts. (Many times people think they're being humble when they say self-deprecating comments about themselves, but those words are actually hurtful to one's self. ) I learned that being humble and confident in one's self was what I needed to achieve. No more saying "Sorry" for things beyond my control, no more thinking that I was 'not worth it', and definitely no more settling for second best if I didn't need or have to. Now...the last few years have been getting the inner confidence to reflect on the outside. I can have all the strength and power within, but to put it out there and show it was a challenge. What if someone challenged me? Would I cower away or stand up for myself? Would I revert back to my old ways? And so, nine years and counting. I think I've gotten myself to a steady platform of well-roundedness - not literally- as well as being comfortable with who I am and what I hope to be and reflect to others. Having said all that...
Melissa called me this morning to tell me that I had a 'sniffer'. "A what?", I asked. "A sniffer." She was referring to the lifeguard at the pool. He, apparently, is interested and had been asking about me. Well, I told her I wasn't interested, but she let me know that the past is the past, and I should start to let people in. Understood and quite right. My co-worker asked me about exercises that one could do to tone and raise the gluteus maximus. I told him what they were, to which he instructed that I do them because when that man comes along, he may want a firm backside on me. He has been trying to get me married off for a few months now. I said all that to say this...
I do have moments of daydreaming of a special someone in my life. I entertain ideas of long talks and laughing and the whole courtship thing. But I want the butterflies. I want the giggles for no reason. I want that unsure feeling when he walks in the room. Individuals that were happy in their relationships have consistently said 'they just knew'. They went with their gut feeling and asked no questions. That is what I want. I am waiting for that moment when I hear that voice that says, 'Yeah, he'll do.' I want the fantasy, more or less. I know, they don't exsist. But if someone is writing about them, they have the potential to come alive once in a blue moon, I believe. And if the fantasy never comes, so be it. That is what I have chose to wait for and I'll take what comes with it, good or bad. In the mean time, I am having a blast training for a marathon, taking guitar lessons and fixing jewelry.
But if any of you have had the notion to set me up with a possible sniffer, I'll tell you this now. I like atheletic guys that are well spoken and confident almost to a fault. If he asks a lot of questions of you and seems shy, I don't want him. I want a guy to compliment me, not mirror me. If he acts shy too, we'll probably get no where. Oh, and clean fingernails. And I'm big on hygiene. Okay, I've said enough. Going back to my soldering of necklaces. See you Rockettes tomorrow.
Melissa called me this morning to tell me that I had a 'sniffer'. "A what?", I asked. "A sniffer." She was referring to the lifeguard at the pool. He, apparently, is interested and had been asking about me. Well, I told her I wasn't interested, but she let me know that the past is the past, and I should start to let people in. Understood and quite right. My co-worker asked me about exercises that one could do to tone and raise the gluteus maximus. I told him what they were, to which he instructed that I do them because when that man comes along, he may want a firm backside on me. He has been trying to get me married off for a few months now. I said all that to say this...
I do have moments of daydreaming of a special someone in my life. I entertain ideas of long talks and laughing and the whole courtship thing. But I want the butterflies. I want the giggles for no reason. I want that unsure feeling when he walks in the room. Individuals that were happy in their relationships have consistently said 'they just knew'. They went with their gut feeling and asked no questions. That is what I want. I am waiting for that moment when I hear that voice that says, 'Yeah, he'll do.' I want the fantasy, more or less. I know, they don't exsist. But if someone is writing about them, they have the potential to come alive once in a blue moon, I believe. And if the fantasy never comes, so be it. That is what I have chose to wait for and I'll take what comes with it, good or bad. In the mean time, I am having a blast training for a marathon, taking guitar lessons and fixing jewelry.
But if any of you have had the notion to set me up with a possible sniffer, I'll tell you this now. I like atheletic guys that are well spoken and confident almost to a fault. If he asks a lot of questions of you and seems shy, I don't want him. I want a guy to compliment me, not mirror me. If he acts shy too, we'll probably get no where. Oh, and clean fingernails. And I'm big on hygiene. Okay, I've said enough. Going back to my soldering of necklaces. See you Rockettes tomorrow.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Get it On,Get it On... Bang a Gong!! - T-Rex
Okay, this blog is for those of you who rely on a jump-start from reading other blogs. I am on a lunch break and sped-read some of the blogs, so I have less time to write.
First of all, I'd like to say that I think diets make people crazy. Technically, the word 'diet' is to refer to the regular regimen of food you intake. ie. A dogs diet consists of dog food...or the occassional shoe. We, as worriers, have abused the word diet. Diets, as we know them, are not diets. They are visible moments of temporary insanity and paranoia. Changing one's diet is feesable, but not going on one. You are already on one. It may not be healthy, but admitting that is the first step.
Secondly, I don't think people should pay unGodly amounts of money to have a bell rung for each pound you lose. A woman at work has signed up to lose weight with L.A. Weight Loss. You have to pay for all the weeks they have scheduled you to show up and buy their snack bars. PPHHTTT!! She returned from one of her appointments saying she lost 3 pounds and they ring a bell for each pound. I must confess, in my head I am hearing the loud gong like on the Gong Show. (I just showed my age, didn't I) I can imagine people in the next room waiting for the gong and hearing nothing but air and excuses lingering in the atmosphere. That can be humiliating if you hit a plateau and everyone else gets a chime or gong or whatever.
Thirdly, the rapid loss of weight could lead to psychosis. Another lady at work is on the program. She has lost considerable amount in a very short time. And, it just so happens that she has a thing for men in uniform. There is one particular police officer that she is interested in. She hasn't made her move yet, but she has friends spying on him for her. When she loses a little more weight, she plans on stalking him. I told her that stalking was against the law, to which she replied with a big smile, "I knooow." Crazy!
So, for all you women out there trying to lose weight, don't start a diet. Change your diet. Cut out the stuff your body doesn't need. God made everything your body needs. If it doesn't grow on a vine or tree or from the ground, it's probably not good to indulge too much in that cuisine.
Junk food is okay, in moderation. You all have an advantage over the other ladies... you're already moving. If you haven't lost weight, don't worry. You're not any larger than you were and I don't recall anyone needing an 'I make wide turns' sign on their back.
We're Women, We're Curvy, Get Use To It!
After all I have said, if you still feel that you don't like what you see in the mirror, may I suggest turning off the lights and viewing by candlelight. (Have you noticed that Dove chocolate commercial has a woman in soft lighting...huh? Seeeee.)
First of all, I'd like to say that I think diets make people crazy. Technically, the word 'diet' is to refer to the regular regimen of food you intake. ie. A dogs diet consists of dog food...or the occassional shoe. We, as worriers, have abused the word diet. Diets, as we know them, are not diets. They are visible moments of temporary insanity and paranoia. Changing one's diet is feesable, but not going on one. You are already on one. It may not be healthy, but admitting that is the first step.
Secondly, I don't think people should pay unGodly amounts of money to have a bell rung for each pound you lose. A woman at work has signed up to lose weight with L.A. Weight Loss. You have to pay for all the weeks they have scheduled you to show up and buy their snack bars. PPHHTTT!! She returned from one of her appointments saying she lost 3 pounds and they ring a bell for each pound. I must confess, in my head I am hearing the loud gong like on the Gong Show. (I just showed my age, didn't I) I can imagine people in the next room waiting for the gong and hearing nothing but air and excuses lingering in the atmosphere. That can be humiliating if you hit a plateau and everyone else gets a chime or gong or whatever.
Thirdly, the rapid loss of weight could lead to psychosis. Another lady at work is on the program. She has lost considerable amount in a very short time. And, it just so happens that she has a thing for men in uniform. There is one particular police officer that she is interested in. She hasn't made her move yet, but she has friends spying on him for her. When she loses a little more weight, she plans on stalking him. I told her that stalking was against the law, to which she replied with a big smile, "I knooow." Crazy!
So, for all you women out there trying to lose weight, don't start a diet. Change your diet. Cut out the stuff your body doesn't need. God made everything your body needs. If it doesn't grow on a vine or tree or from the ground, it's probably not good to indulge too much in that cuisine.
Junk food is okay, in moderation. You all have an advantage over the other ladies... you're already moving. If you haven't lost weight, don't worry. You're not any larger than you were and I don't recall anyone needing an 'I make wide turns' sign on their back.
We're Women, We're Curvy, Get Use To It!
After all I have said, if you still feel that you don't like what you see in the mirror, may I suggest turning off the lights and viewing by candlelight. (Have you noticed that Dove chocolate commercial has a woman in soft lighting...huh? Seeeee.)
Monday, August 22, 2005
Another week down!!! How is everyone? Hope you all had a good Saturday run. I ran on the treadmill briefly and did the elliptical for a short time. I must admit, there was a gentleman that was on the elliptical next to mine - kinda cute. Slightly older than I but that just means he's seasoned. I like them a little older than me. It was obvious he worked out regularly. I didn't see a ring, but I know I am not his type. But if any of you single ladies in the group want me to put in a good word, let me know. Anyway, my workout totaled an hour of sweat. Indoors. The heat was unbearable in Meridian. The index made it about 106. I was so glad for the a/c in the rooms. (I didn't have to pay that electric bill).
Slept in this morning. Funny, 6:30 a.m. is sleeping-in to me. I felt great. I was waking up at 4 or 5 everyday since Last Tuesday. If I didn't have the water jug, I'd probably try to sleep in again. Oh, the sacrifices we make for a little glory....
I can't think of anything witty to write, nor do I have an outrageous story to tell everyone. I did develop pics that turned out to be of me leaving Oklahoma. My hair was shoulder length and I was wearing it down. So Patti, if you are running this weekend, I'll bring the picture so you can see what I mean by wanting to find someone who can cut my hair right.
Matt, sorry to read that your date was a no go. Maybe you two are good for each other, just not right now. Then again, maybe she needs convincing. I have this vision of the kind of guy I would like to date, tall and muscular, yet; I keep dreaming of the opposite. It has been said that God talks to us in our dreams. You think it's possible that he and the angels are up in Heaven going,"Watch this...I'm gonna stick a short, stocky guy in her dream. That'll teach her to be picky." Oh well.
Mark, sorry to read about your possible fracture. What is a group without the leader of the pack? (I won't break into song) I'll pray that it's a misdiagnosis.
Melissa, don't feel down. Just get your chakras in line and breathe. If that doesn't work, wear palazzo pants. They're wide legged...no one will even know you have shankles. (That's when your shin merges into your ankle.)
Lynn, you said no leather bras or tattoos. But did you get leather chaps? I love those things.
Carol, start tapering NOW!. That way you can be well to do the full 26.2. I am not kidding. You've worked too hard not to be able to wog Chicago. Remember, less is more.
Well, I'll end this for now. Take care and see you Rockettes in the morning.
Slept in this morning. Funny, 6:30 a.m. is sleeping-in to me. I felt great. I was waking up at 4 or 5 everyday since Last Tuesday. If I didn't have the water jug, I'd probably try to sleep in again. Oh, the sacrifices we make for a little glory....
I can't think of anything witty to write, nor do I have an outrageous story to tell everyone. I did develop pics that turned out to be of me leaving Oklahoma. My hair was shoulder length and I was wearing it down. So Patti, if you are running this weekend, I'll bring the picture so you can see what I mean by wanting to find someone who can cut my hair right.
Matt, sorry to read that your date was a no go. Maybe you two are good for each other, just not right now. Then again, maybe she needs convincing. I have this vision of the kind of guy I would like to date, tall and muscular, yet; I keep dreaming of the opposite. It has been said that God talks to us in our dreams. You think it's possible that he and the angels are up in Heaven going,"Watch this...I'm gonna stick a short, stocky guy in her dream. That'll teach her to be picky." Oh well.
Mark, sorry to read about your possible fracture. What is a group without the leader of the pack? (I won't break into song) I'll pray that it's a misdiagnosis.
Melissa, don't feel down. Just get your chakras in line and breathe. If that doesn't work, wear palazzo pants. They're wide legged...no one will even know you have shankles. (That's when your shin merges into your ankle.)
Lynn, you said no leather bras or tattoos. But did you get leather chaps? I love those things.
Carol, start tapering NOW!. That way you can be well to do the full 26.2. I am not kidding. You've worked too hard not to be able to wog Chicago. Remember, less is more.
Well, I'll end this for now. Take care and see you Rockettes in the morning.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Lose the underwear and travel LITE!
So what is it now? 7 weeks? 42 days? Someone tell the butterflies to land, I can't take it when they flutter all at once. My shoes say I've logged in about 100 miles now. This is only from the beginning of July. It's over 200, I'm sure, since I started in February. As I was marking my shoe after this morning's run, which by the way, was quite fun. I ran with Miss Cathy Chapman. We talked, walked and ran. I informed her of the Amazing Race audition and she briefed me on the 'Chosen Frozen'. It was quite entertaining. I think everyone should get out of their normal pace groups and run or even walk with someone different in the group. I've gotten to know Melissa and Lisa and Cathy to name a few and am glad I did. So all you fast runners, take a day off from the speed and get to know a fellow runner.
Now, back to the original broadcast:
As I was marking my shoe with another tic-mark, annotating my 5 miles, I got to thinking. I remember Melissa and Robin discussing about what to wear and what to bring to the Marathon. Do what? I need to start a plan for this? I don't even know what clothes I am going to wear for work until I get out of the shower that morning. I just figured I'd wear my usual blue shorts - the ones that get the cars honking - and all the usual other accoutrements I need to complete the 26 mile trek; which isn't much. I usually pack a day or two before I go anywhere and if I think of something before hand, I'll write it down and lay it on the suitcase until I do pack. I am all about 'packing lite'. If I don't need it I won't take it. A friend of mine once packed for a week in Washington. There was a shirt for every night and a shirt to replace that shirt, should it become dirty. Two jackets, four pairs of shoes, five sets of pajamas and several pairs of pants. ( The suitcase was full and we hadn't even got to the underwear or toiletries.)
Jan, from TNT, had mentioned to make sure one takes: Ibuprofen, Pepto Bismal, Gu, water bottle(s), glide, and maybe some wetwipes(you never know). This is on your person as you navigate the race. Carrying all the things I might need could total a few extra pounds. I've gotten use to running with the weight I currently have, I don't need a reminder of what it use to feel like running with extra weight. What am willing to carry: Energy gels... without caffeine. Caffeine will give me the runs, so if I take those I have to carry wetwipes which could be a good 6 oz. right there. (Yes, I know what some of you are thinking. I will have dropped double the weight by the time I've used and discarded the wipes, but who wants to maneuvar through 10, 000 of the 40,000 to get to a Port-a-jon and find it Occupado by some other caffeine-sensitive first-timer?) Glide - already applied, a double coating. Good socks - worn with extra foot powder. The shoes that got me to 20. My Chicago hat - so that it's obvious...I'm a tourist. The Marathon Makeover shirt, of course. My fave sports bra with car key - why break a habit if it doesn't hurt or smell. It could be worse, like lucky, unwashed socks. And lastly - a portable camera, 'cause no one's gonna believe this one! (Notice I didn't list underwear?) I learned that lesson on the 15 miler. Ouch!
Well, I must go now. They're shutting computers down all around me. I guess that is my cue. I'll be in doing the military thing this weekend so enjoy your group run. I'll see you for the long run. Take care and take it easy.
Now, back to the original broadcast:
As I was marking my shoe with another tic-mark, annotating my 5 miles, I got to thinking. I remember Melissa and Robin discussing about what to wear and what to bring to the Marathon. Do what? I need to start a plan for this? I don't even know what clothes I am going to wear for work until I get out of the shower that morning. I just figured I'd wear my usual blue shorts - the ones that get the cars honking - and all the usual other accoutrements I need to complete the 26 mile trek; which isn't much. I usually pack a day or two before I go anywhere and if I think of something before hand, I'll write it down and lay it on the suitcase until I do pack. I am all about 'packing lite'. If I don't need it I won't take it. A friend of mine once packed for a week in Washington. There was a shirt for every night and a shirt to replace that shirt, should it become dirty. Two jackets, four pairs of shoes, five sets of pajamas and several pairs of pants. ( The suitcase was full and we hadn't even got to the underwear or toiletries.)
Jan, from TNT, had mentioned to make sure one takes: Ibuprofen, Pepto Bismal, Gu, water bottle(s), glide, and maybe some wetwipes(you never know). This is on your person as you navigate the race. Carrying all the things I might need could total a few extra pounds. I've gotten use to running with the weight I currently have, I don't need a reminder of what it use to feel like running with extra weight. What am willing to carry: Energy gels... without caffeine. Caffeine will give me the runs, so if I take those I have to carry wetwipes which could be a good 6 oz. right there. (Yes, I know what some of you are thinking. I will have dropped double the weight by the time I've used and discarded the wipes, but who wants to maneuvar through 10, 000 of the 40,000 to get to a Port-a-jon and find it Occupado by some other caffeine-sensitive first-timer?) Glide - already applied, a double coating. Good socks - worn with extra foot powder. The shoes that got me to 20. My Chicago hat - so that it's obvious...I'm a tourist. The Marathon Makeover shirt, of course. My fave sports bra with car key - why break a habit if it doesn't hurt or smell. It could be worse, like lucky, unwashed socks. And lastly - a portable camera, 'cause no one's gonna believe this one! (Notice I didn't list underwear?) I learned that lesson on the 15 miler. Ouch!
Well, I must go now. They're shutting computers down all around me. I guess that is my cue. I'll be in doing the military thing this weekend so enjoy your group run. I'll see you for the long run. Take care and take it easy.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
CATCH THAT MAGIC MOMENT...RIGHT NOW!!!
Yes, I have been lacking in motivation lately. Yes, I had a little bit of an issue with being disenchanted by others aaaannnnd an incredibly wonderful date with Mr. Hershey - (he's rich you know...something about an heir to some multi-million dollar dessert company, who knows?)
But I am now declaring that, "The buck stops here!" After much thought and wincing, I have come to acknowledge that zero hour will soon be upon us. The time to act is NOW. And now, in the immortal vocal stylings of Miss Nancy on the Romper Room, I will look through my broken mirror and say, "I see T'knesha and Chris and Susan, Hallie and Sally. I see Lisa and Phaedra and Carol. Rick and Dawn andMelissa too." ( I know there are a few in triage, we have not forgotten our sisters who are wounded.) But as for the rest of you, where are you? If it's work or a responsibility, no problem. But if you just blew us off, well I'm hurt. I don't expect anyone to run sprints up and down the Spillway, nor do I have no compassion. But if you're fudging, you're hurting yourself! The great people you admire didn't become great by fudging. (You know, fudge sounds really good right about now... ugh! Focus!)
You're probably wondering what happened to me to get me riled up again. I'll tell you in two simple words...Van Halen. Some of you know them, they are a rock group that was really big in the 80's. I heard one of their songs this morning. (I like them better with Sammy Hagar singing) Have you ever found yourself liking a song, but never really paying attention to the words? I have and this particular song was one of those. The song is called RIGHT NOW.
RIGHT NOW!
There's no tomorrow.
RIGHT NOW!
Means everything.
RIGHT NOW!
Catch that magic moment
Do it Right here and now...it means everything.
Again, I had a thought. (You're probably thinking, 'she thinks waay too much'.) We're on borrowed time. I believe we are all here to do great things. Achieve great things. Not just for ourselves but for others. You may be out there walking 15 miles to achieve a bit of greatness for yourself, but you don't realize that you're motivating everyone else ahead of you and behind you. For those at the tail end, you inspire as well. You could easily bow out and no one would see. It's not easy being in the back, but you don't give up and you finish what you started and for that I thank you. ( I thank you because you're an example to me of what I can be at 40 and 50. If you won't quit, neither will I. ) Yes, rest is good, I agree. But remember, there is no guarantee of tomorrow. If you're putting it off until tomorrow, whatever it is, be prepared in the event tomorrow never comes. The what-ifs and shoulda, woulda, coulda senarios can be exhausting. I know you know someone who is like this. Now is your chance to be the example they need if nothing else. God, I believe, has given us many blessing and abilities, more than we are aware of. Have the faith to be the very best you can. If you wake up one morning and all you can do is walk a mile, so be it. If that was your very best, no one could ask for anything more.
Lastly, I want to say that I believe in the power of prayer. (Reading all those installments of the Left Behind series can really boost one's confidence in prayer) There is less than two months left to the marathon. For all those who wish to, pray. Pray for all those suffering ailments and setbacks. If you don't pray, just think kindly of them and wish them well. I look forward to seeing all of you in Chicago. Don't quit and you will see that greatness will be achieved on October 9, 2005.
But I am now declaring that, "The buck stops here!" After much thought and wincing, I have come to acknowledge that zero hour will soon be upon us. The time to act is NOW. And now, in the immortal vocal stylings of Miss Nancy on the Romper Room, I will look through my broken mirror and say, "I see T'knesha and Chris and Susan, Hallie and Sally. I see Lisa and Phaedra and Carol. Rick and Dawn andMelissa too." ( I know there are a few in triage, we have not forgotten our sisters who are wounded.) But as for the rest of you, where are you? If it's work or a responsibility, no problem. But if you just blew us off, well I'm hurt. I don't expect anyone to run sprints up and down the Spillway, nor do I have no compassion. But if you're fudging, you're hurting yourself! The great people you admire didn't become great by fudging. (You know, fudge sounds really good right about now... ugh! Focus!)
You're probably wondering what happened to me to get me riled up again. I'll tell you in two simple words...Van Halen. Some of you know them, they are a rock group that was really big in the 80's. I heard one of their songs this morning. (I like them better with Sammy Hagar singing) Have you ever found yourself liking a song, but never really paying attention to the words? I have and this particular song was one of those. The song is called RIGHT NOW.
RIGHT NOW!
There's no tomorrow.
RIGHT NOW!
Means everything.
RIGHT NOW!
Catch that magic moment
Do it Right here and now...it means everything.
Again, I had a thought. (You're probably thinking, 'she thinks waay too much'.) We're on borrowed time. I believe we are all here to do great things. Achieve great things. Not just for ourselves but for others. You may be out there walking 15 miles to achieve a bit of greatness for yourself, but you don't realize that you're motivating everyone else ahead of you and behind you. For those at the tail end, you inspire as well. You could easily bow out and no one would see. It's not easy being in the back, but you don't give up and you finish what you started and for that I thank you. ( I thank you because you're an example to me of what I can be at 40 and 50. If you won't quit, neither will I. ) Yes, rest is good, I agree. But remember, there is no guarantee of tomorrow. If you're putting it off until tomorrow, whatever it is, be prepared in the event tomorrow never comes. The what-ifs and shoulda, woulda, coulda senarios can be exhausting. I know you know someone who is like this. Now is your chance to be the example they need if nothing else. God, I believe, has given us many blessing and abilities, more than we are aware of. Have the faith to be the very best you can. If you wake up one morning and all you can do is walk a mile, so be it. If that was your very best, no one could ask for anything more.
Lastly, I want to say that I believe in the power of prayer. (Reading all those installments of the Left Behind series can really boost one's confidence in prayer) There is less than two months left to the marathon. For all those who wish to, pray. Pray for all those suffering ailments and setbacks. If you don't pray, just think kindly of them and wish them well. I look forward to seeing all of you in Chicago. Don't quit and you will see that greatness will be achieved on October 9, 2005.
Monday, August 15, 2005
A Change Will Do You Good - Sheryl Crow
The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25
Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.
Hebrews 10:24
How has everyone been? I've gotten complaints in the past days that I have not blogged enough for those who rely on blogs to sustain, so I thought I would oblige. Last I blogged was on Thursday, I believe. Since then...let's see... Ran at the Rez with 5 other marathoners. We ran an easy 8, telling stories to entertain one another. We enjoyed ourselves which I think is nice when you running doesn't feel like a chore.
And obviously, I attended the BBQ later that day. I was in full effect in my "chef" mode when Melissa called to say she was parked outside my apartment waiting for me. (Since it was hot in the kitchen, I opted to cook sans clothes, so in my frantic state of trying to finish baking and wrapping the food, I almost forgot to run and get dressed. "Pants!!" Talk about dinner and a show! Saw the kittens, had a little margarita, ate everything, sweated and discussed with Patty how she thinks my hair should be cut.
I said all that to segway into my next topic: change. There was much pleasant surprise to see people in casual attire, makeup, hair down. (It's mainly the women - who knew how rough we looked.) I was pretty much the same except for more clothing but the outer appearance was a change. "A nice change", someone said. That got me thinking. Change. Lifechange. Marathon Makeover.
Makeover: to be made anew.
So, I ask you all, "What did you expect to change from this experience?" The ability to run 26.2 miles under your own power, non-stop, and in one day is obvious. But what else? did you plan to change your size? Your shape? Your way of life? Or maybe an alteration that wasn't so much physical but rather behavioral. Were you hoping to open your mind to new things? Open your heart to let others in; maybe accept others regardless of their flaws. How about complementing one's weakness with your strength? By doing so, were you able to learn that we are all alike, yet different? Perhaps the change you sought was to prevent. Prevent yourself from 'never completing anything you started' - like myself. Prevent yourself from taking the easy road, being lazy or in denial. Preventive maintenance, some call it.
I joined this group with the simple intention of running a marathon. As time progressed, I found myself opening up to people. Befriending people. Sharing. I've not honed my skills of networking, but I am getting better. I am no longer hiding away in my apartment thinking the world has the problem, not me. I've also learned my flaws are quite accessible. They emerge when I am judging people or being mean-hearted out of spite, I realize. (The old habits sneak up on me sometimes) I'm working on it. Admitting is half the battle. All in all, the change has been welcomed. And no matter where I run or who I am running with, I know that it is the Marathon Makeover that started it all.
For those of us who aren't experiencing problems and setbacks, let's be sensitive to those who are and not shun them because of it. It can be hard to be a part of a 'family' when the love you receive is 'tough love'. I say we start Christmas early this year so we don't have to wait to be giving and nice to others. I gues what I am trying to say is, whatever change you expected from this experience, let it begin in your heart. The change on the inside shows on the outside.
Proverbs 11:25
Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.
Hebrews 10:24
How has everyone been? I've gotten complaints in the past days that I have not blogged enough for those who rely on blogs to sustain, so I thought I would oblige. Last I blogged was on Thursday, I believe. Since then...let's see... Ran at the Rez with 5 other marathoners. We ran an easy 8, telling stories to entertain one another. We enjoyed ourselves which I think is nice when you running doesn't feel like a chore.
And obviously, I attended the BBQ later that day. I was in full effect in my "chef" mode when Melissa called to say she was parked outside my apartment waiting for me. (Since it was hot in the kitchen, I opted to cook sans clothes, so in my frantic state of trying to finish baking and wrapping the food, I almost forgot to run and get dressed. "Pants!!" Talk about dinner and a show! Saw the kittens, had a little margarita, ate everything, sweated and discussed with Patty how she thinks my hair should be cut.
I said all that to segway into my next topic: change. There was much pleasant surprise to see people in casual attire, makeup, hair down. (It's mainly the women - who knew how rough we looked.) I was pretty much the same except for more clothing but the outer appearance was a change. "A nice change", someone said. That got me thinking. Change. Lifechange. Marathon Makeover.
Makeover: to be made anew.
So, I ask you all, "What did you expect to change from this experience?" The ability to run 26.2 miles under your own power, non-stop, and in one day is obvious. But what else? did you plan to change your size? Your shape? Your way of life? Or maybe an alteration that wasn't so much physical but rather behavioral. Were you hoping to open your mind to new things? Open your heart to let others in; maybe accept others regardless of their flaws. How about complementing one's weakness with your strength? By doing so, were you able to learn that we are all alike, yet different? Perhaps the change you sought was to prevent. Prevent yourself from 'never completing anything you started' - like myself. Prevent yourself from taking the easy road, being lazy or in denial. Preventive maintenance, some call it.
I joined this group with the simple intention of running a marathon. As time progressed, I found myself opening up to people. Befriending people. Sharing. I've not honed my skills of networking, but I am getting better. I am no longer hiding away in my apartment thinking the world has the problem, not me. I've also learned my flaws are quite accessible. They emerge when I am judging people or being mean-hearted out of spite, I realize. (The old habits sneak up on me sometimes) I'm working on it. Admitting is half the battle. All in all, the change has been welcomed. And no matter where I run or who I am running with, I know that it is the Marathon Makeover that started it all.
For those of us who aren't experiencing problems and setbacks, let's be sensitive to those who are and not shun them because of it. It can be hard to be a part of a 'family' when the love you receive is 'tough love'. I say we start Christmas early this year so we don't have to wait to be giving and nice to others. I gues what I am trying to say is, whatever change you expected from this experience, let it begin in your heart. The change on the inside shows on the outside.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
HETEROSEXUAL ANGRY CHEF SEEKS THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE TO GIVE ENDLESS HOURS OF INTENSELY-HIGH GLUCOSE PLEASURE.
Two months left. I can't wait. I'm getting burned-out just being excited. I peaked waaay to soon. Now people inquire of me when the marathon is being held. I, somewhat unenthusiastically but with a smile, say,"October", and let the awkward silence carry me into the next inquiry or a peaceful daydream. Somehow my internal clock or chemistry has shifted. One would surmise from all the characteristics that I am displaying that I am pregnant. Hah. Thankfully that is not the case, for an amoeba I am not. (Amoebas are a-sexual, able to reproduce without a partner, in case anyone was wondering) Seriously, my mental process has shifted.
Food. I daydream more about food, or rather, what I will eat later. I even have dillusions of granduer sometimes that I am a chef on a t.v. show like Emeril, with my own catchy one-liner. I'm brought down from my momentary psychosis when I either burn myself or something is boiling over. Honestly, I have only wanted to eat salsa and chips for the past week. Nothing else. Of course, I know better than to do that, but if I wasn't training, it would be Tex-Mex in the Alexander residence for the next week.
Anger. Not necessarily anger, but I am just now realizing that I am disliking a number of people that I know. Names are withheld to protect the innocent. It's not their fault. Most things I can simply ignore or let roll off my back, but lately, I have succumbed to a ton of mental complaining. "What is wrong with such&such?" "Why do I have to deal with this person today?" "The next time such&such says something to me...." I, luckily, have a buffer that syphons these particular thoughts away from the throat region and recycles back to the brain. Regardless, I think my rose colored glasses are losing their tint. I have been able to catch small glimpses of these people that, for the moment, are unattractive. But who am I to judge? I know I probably have an enormous amount of traits that unduly ride the nerves of many people. Probably the same people that I have taken a disliking to. I wonder if the heat is finally affecting me. I don't get road rage, but I do get tempted to teach a few people a lesson when they're riding my tail. I have done well to get rid of about 80% of my cynical and sarcastic mouth, but I now work among two cynics. One will bleed a cynical joke to the last drop, exhausting every which way possible to either make you feel bad or until enough people have joined in on his side. The other argues just to argue so you'll get riled up and irritated. No wonder I have no energy. I'm sure it isn't something chocolate couldn't cure.
Take care. I have a date with a fella. You might know him. His last name is Hershey.
Food. I daydream more about food, or rather, what I will eat later. I even have dillusions of granduer sometimes that I am a chef on a t.v. show like Emeril, with my own catchy one-liner. I'm brought down from my momentary psychosis when I either burn myself or something is boiling over. Honestly, I have only wanted to eat salsa and chips for the past week. Nothing else. Of course, I know better than to do that, but if I wasn't training, it would be Tex-Mex in the Alexander residence for the next week.
Anger. Not necessarily anger, but I am just now realizing that I am disliking a number of people that I know. Names are withheld to protect the innocent. It's not their fault. Most things I can simply ignore or let roll off my back, but lately, I have succumbed to a ton of mental complaining. "What is wrong with such&such?" "Why do I have to deal with this person today?" "The next time such&such says something to me...." I, luckily, have a buffer that syphons these particular thoughts away from the throat region and recycles back to the brain. Regardless, I think my rose colored glasses are losing their tint. I have been able to catch small glimpses of these people that, for the moment, are unattractive. But who am I to judge? I know I probably have an enormous amount of traits that unduly ride the nerves of many people. Probably the same people that I have taken a disliking to. I wonder if the heat is finally affecting me. I don't get road rage, but I do get tempted to teach a few people a lesson when they're riding my tail. I have done well to get rid of about 80% of my cynical and sarcastic mouth, but I now work among two cynics. One will bleed a cynical joke to the last drop, exhausting every which way possible to either make you feel bad or until enough people have joined in on his side. The other argues just to argue so you'll get riled up and irritated. No wonder I have no energy. I'm sure it isn't something chocolate couldn't cure.
Take care. I have a date with a fella. You might know him. His last name is Hershey.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Dooon't Forget Your Second Winnnnd! - Billy Joel
Ladies! Gentlemen! Marathoners! Lend me your ears...er...eyes!!!! He-he!
How is everyone? A week is much to long to be away. Melissa said I needed to visit another library if this was going to happen again. I would, but during the week is impossible. Anyway...
Ran about 20 miles Saturday. Woooo! I feel tapped out. I enjoyed aquiring the bragging rights, but my thighs are sore. I don't think I'll go any farther in distance until the race day. Thanks Lynn for running with me. I was running alone from the beginning, so to finish with someone was great.
Today, however, I must admit, I don't feel like running. My get-up-and-go feels like it got-up-and-went. (For you Aerosmith fans) I may just walk tomorrow just for the sake of walking. Walking has always been given a bad rap by other sports, and unfoundedly too. I would much rather run as fast as I can than walk at a fast pace. If anyone has done the latter for an extended period of time you will agree with me when I say that the soreness is astounding afterward. Walking is not for the weak. I get shin splints from speedwalking, but not running. Go figure. To all you walkers, I may pay homage to you tomorrow morning. I'll even wear my blue shorts so I can get a few honks. (It's the shorts, I believe. It does something to the drivers when they pass by. Their horn is like a magnet to their hand. I am modest though. I simply wave back with a winning smile and an easy trot. That is until they pass, then I'm gasping again, barely able to maintain composure.)
I must get going now. Ice awaits my purchase and I am without raisins at home. Before I go, I have a few questions: First, does anyone know the mileage limit to a pair of running shoes? Is it 500 miles? I have been rotating two pairs since the end of June and one of my pairs reads 80 miles. (I leave tic-marks for every 5 miles I've run.) Let me know so I can buy a new pair now, to break them in in time for Chicago. Secondly, is anyone interested in taking scissors to my hair at the momentous event of my finishing the marathon? Lastly, does anyone know where I can get a new body incase this one breaks down before October? My joints are becoming anxiety-ridden like the rest of me. That's all folks! P.S. Melissa, if you're going Wednesday, I'll see you there.
How is everyone? A week is much to long to be away. Melissa said I needed to visit another library if this was going to happen again. I would, but during the week is impossible. Anyway...
Ran about 20 miles Saturday. Woooo! I feel tapped out. I enjoyed aquiring the bragging rights, but my thighs are sore. I don't think I'll go any farther in distance until the race day. Thanks Lynn for running with me. I was running alone from the beginning, so to finish with someone was great.
Today, however, I must admit, I don't feel like running. My get-up-and-go feels like it got-up-and-went. (For you Aerosmith fans) I may just walk tomorrow just for the sake of walking. Walking has always been given a bad rap by other sports, and unfoundedly too. I would much rather run as fast as I can than walk at a fast pace. If anyone has done the latter for an extended period of time you will agree with me when I say that the soreness is astounding afterward. Walking is not for the weak. I get shin splints from speedwalking, but not running. Go figure. To all you walkers, I may pay homage to you tomorrow morning. I'll even wear my blue shorts so I can get a few honks. (It's the shorts, I believe. It does something to the drivers when they pass by. Their horn is like a magnet to their hand. I am modest though. I simply wave back with a winning smile and an easy trot. That is until they pass, then I'm gasping again, barely able to maintain composure.)
I must get going now. Ice awaits my purchase and I am without raisins at home. Before I go, I have a few questions: First, does anyone know the mileage limit to a pair of running shoes? Is it 500 miles? I have been rotating two pairs since the end of June and one of my pairs reads 80 miles. (I leave tic-marks for every 5 miles I've run.) Let me know so I can buy a new pair now, to break them in in time for Chicago. Secondly, is anyone interested in taking scissors to my hair at the momentous event of my finishing the marathon? Lastly, does anyone know where I can get a new body incase this one breaks down before October? My joints are becoming anxiety-ridden like the rest of me. That's all folks! P.S. Melissa, if you're going Wednesday, I'll see you there.
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