Five Things for Father's Day

It's Father's Day and in honor of my dad I want to share some things I have learned from him.  Stoic and often quiet unless he has an opinion (watch out) he had ways of influencing me.  Always guiding and loving.  So here are some things I have carried with me in my life because of my dad.

Road trip with mom and dad

Work Hard

My dad has always been a hard worker.  He left home and his first job was at age 14 setting chokers which is extremely dangerous, and living on his own.  Growing up I remember when there was a recession and he was out of work.   He went every day to the unemployment office and would take anything they would give him.  He claimed they were tired of seeing him show up every day.  At one point he worked at the VA, in his terms as a mop flopper.  My dad is a skilled tradesman, although he was not using his trained skill set, he believed in the importance of work, working hard and providing. He gained a different perspective and stated his strong opinions of the importance of respecting our elders and veterans, in which he did not feel was happening.  Work ethic is something that has been instilled me from his influence.

Friends are Important

Waiting for us to stop laughing - the salmon was heavy!

My dad has put up with Kelli and my antics for years!

Good friends are hard to come by.  

Relationships are important and often you must look at your friends like family....family that you may even actually like.  I am sure this can resonate with some of you.  My dad has few close relationships, which is very different from me. Whether you many friends or just a few, having them is important.

I have worked to cultivate my relationships.  My friends are an integral part of my community and identity.  

Pets are Pals

My dad is an animal lover.  If you were to meet him and have a your furry friend with you...he would most likely ignore you and pay attention to your pet.  The neighborhood dogs make a daily stop at my parent's home.  Some even have their own personal dog beds in his shop and will hang out with him when he is tinkering.  Every night he has to walk Josie, his neighbor's oldest springer spaniel back home, as she loves hanging out all day at their house.  At times, I think my parents intent to visit me, was actually to see Roms.  (ok maybe not but it is completely plausible)

My mom has a  No Pet Rule which she upholds.  However, she is the first to pick up dog toys and treats, dog food and bird feed at the store.  A random chicken adopted my parents and set up roost on top of their recycling bin.  Her name is Cuckoo (and my mom loves her just as much as the furry friends, don't let her fool you).   Since then she has had baby chicks and my dad has made a new roost for her. Upon meeting someone with any dog(s), there is an immediate offer to dog sit.  Which my mom scoffs in the background.

My dad told me today as he noticed the empty space where Roms things used to be - I sure miss that bum!

Go for your Dreams

My dad has always encouraged me to do what I love, commit and follow through on my word and strive to improve.  After my first half marathon I was telling him about the race and he said to me that's great, so when's the marathon? My response Dad, I just did a half marathon...I haven't even wrapped my head around a marathon.  This one of many talks we have had.  Often he will listen, if there is concern he will give me my opinion but more often I'm left with You will have to decide what you are going to do kid.  I used to get frustrated - what is that supposed to mean? I asked you for advice!  But I realize ultimately I have to make my a decision, go for it and the outcome, good or bad, will my own.  I appreciate this much more today than my younger years when I was a bit confused on what to do.

Family Time

Birthday stop at Joe's

Joe's Donuts - the best donuts EVER!

Over the years we gift giving has gone to the wayside and spending time together over a meal has been more of the focus.  We have had dinner at Timberline for my dad's birthday in the past.  For Father's Day, I called my dad and inquired where he would like to go to, so that I could make a reservation.

 

Me:  Would you like brunch, lunch or dinner?  

Dad:  I want to go the Vietnamese restaurant....the one you took us to.  

I paused because I couldn't remember a restaurant.  

Dad:  The sandwich place

Me:  Best Baguette???  

Dad: Yeah

Me:  That's where you want to go is to Best Baguette?

Dad:  Yeah they have good sandwiches.  

Me:  Ok, are you sure?  You can pick any place and you want to go there?

Dad:  It doesn't matter where we go as long as we are together

Well that sums it up doesn't it.  May you enjoy your Father's day with your dad, grandpa or whomever.  There may be some of you who have lost your father.  I can imagine that would be difficult today and may you have a moment to reflect on your memories

My parents have a sense of humor!

.

A rare moment to catch him smiling!

Newport Marathon

My second marathon

I had intended on running my second marathon last year in Vancouver B.C. but due to a horrible ankle sprain I ran the last couple of miles with a friends who were doing the half and full marathon.  I set out to finish my second marathon with Newport in mind.  My training was set and I was more than ready.

Tragedy

The week of my marathon I came home from a trip to find out my dog, Roms suddenly had become ill. I rushed from the airport and took him to Dove Lewis. I had to make the difficult decision to put him down as his body was full of cancer.  I remember the comment he doctor made.  'We can do an ultrasound and if it looks like surgery is a possibility, it will give you 3 - 6 months more time with him.  There will hospital stay, stabilization and possibly chemotherapy'.   (At some point I will be writing about Roms but I just can't....just not yet).  Exactly a week ago today I lost Roms.

I was a wreck - emotionally.  I wasn't sleeping and I forced myself to eat just because I knew I had the marathon.  I did my runs scheduled for the week.  Not the best of circumstances but it would work out as I had my training in place.

Newport

Running buddies in the marathon - Justin, Maureen, Diana, Abbi, Megan, Brittany, Kari and some marathon maniac photo bomber

The marathon recap

The good:  I felt great and I ran under 10s or at 10 through mile 12.  Kari and Dave were on the course cheering us on and offering support.  I even stopped at the oyster station and threw back a raw oyster - I felt fantastic!!

The bad:  A gu exploded in my pack and I had stickiness to deal with around mile 9.  But really in the light of things a little stickiness is the least of my worries.

The ugly:  Around mile 12ish my pace slowed down due to the sharp shooting pain in the side of my right knee.  A couple of times my knee gave out on me.  I waved Abbi on to run her race and to not wait for me.  Every step felt like I had a knife in the side of my knee and it was being twisted with each step.  The cantilever course killed my IT band.  I stretched a couple of times and my pace slowed to 11s.  

The rest of the story:  I saw Kari around mile 13 and swapped out my water belt for a hand held, which got rid of my sticky mess issue.  I grabbed my Voltaren and slathered a bunch on my knees and leg.  Each aid station I added more Voltaren hoping the topical anti-inflammatory would help the pain subside.  Every time I walked I could barely begin running again.  I got to the turn around and saw K at mile 18.  I took a few minutes to roll out with a stick my leg and took 4 Advil.  

The spectator bus rolled past me and I saw Dave waved and I waved back.  Around mile 19 I saw Kari and she said 'I'm running with you'.   Kari had no plans of running and didn't even have water on her.  I started to cry....this was not supposed to happen.  I was not supposed to lose Roms, my body was not supposed to give out on me, I was not supposed to walk, I was not supposed to run 11-12 minute miles....I was angry - so very angry, I was emotional and I was hurting.

I saw three women holding signs and I said to Kari 'Is that our girls?'  Sure enough Kim, Karen and Trisha were there with signs made.  Honestly I didn't even read the signs I just was excited to see them and I hugged each one.   Trisha joined us.  Again, not intending to run she had on a sweater and pants.  Having Kari and Trisha there for support was huge for me.  Actually having everyone there was huge.  I am pretty lucky to have so many people in my life that are there for me.

Trisha and Kim holding signs

Change in plans

My original goal was to run the marathon in 4:30, this was not happening and I knew it.  I set a new goal to finish before 5 hours.  Which would still be a PR.

I finished the last two miles strong as far as running but I was sobbing.  Imagine the ugly cry. (Yes, I know not pretty).  The crowd was great they were cheering.  My strength has always been the final stretch.  I can pick up my pace and run in.  Honestly I'm built more like a short sprinter than a long distance runner.   I took the downhill as an advantage and passed runners.  As I rounded the corner I heard someone yell - 'Yeah you go girl!!!'  I saw the clock time 4:54. 

Mimosa toast with Diana and Abbi

I think the first person to hug me was Diana.  My heart sank and I felt like crumbling.  I was disappointed that my body gave out on me and did not meet my potential.  Or in some ways I think knowing what my potential is and seeing the gap was/is frustrating.  My finish time 4:54:31.  Under 5, more than 4:30.  

My medal

What did I learn -what do I know?

I learned that I can finish more than half a marathon in sheer and utter pain. I know that I am mentally strong even in my weakest moments.  I know that I cry and can express that emotion and not feel bad about it. I know that I have some of the best and most amazing people in life.  I know that I will need to be patched up but I will run again.

Post marathon relaxation on the deck

Post marathon icing - I was too lazy to go get ice - vodka from the freezer works!

Marathon Training

I'm in the midst of training for my second marathon and it feels completely different than my first go around.  The biggest change was my commitment to resistance cross training. I started with a reformer pilates class once a week and hitting the gym intermittently. My run plan is similar to what I have done in the past.  Much of my initiation to change was watching my friend, Kim transform not only physically but performance wise through the Metabolic Effect.  I couldn't find any time to get a weight work out in until, she told me she was only doing 30 minute strength workout.  I bought the book, read it from cover to cover and not only started doing resistance training but changed some eating patterns.  I dropped 8 lbs and noticed not only a change in my appearance, increased energy, increased speed and strength.

I bought a package of reformer sessions so I have been doing more reformer than weights recently.  My most recent training run was a 20 miler.  The day before I ran 5 in the morning and that evening did Pilates.  20.13 mile run - total time 3 hours 42 minutes and 49 seconds with only one major stop for the bathroom.  I felt stronger than ever.  I did have a foot cramp on mile 17 and felt like I was on fumes on mile 19, in part due to losing a gu.  My last nutrition was at mile 12....all things considered, I was rocked it.  I know that I will perform well at the marathon as I will have rest, appropriate nutrition and support on the course.

A & I before our 20 miler!

The day after our 20 miler I was worried as I had planned on going to Pilates.  I wasn't sure if my legs and abs would hold me, but I felt great throughout and after the class.  In some ways this is a true test of how ready I really am.   I have two more long runs before the marathon, a 12 and 8 miler.  As I taper,  my focus will be to continue my resistance training, stretching and rest, rest, rest and more rest.

Whirlwind April

April Recap

April was an amazing month. I had so many experiences.  My intent was to write about them but I came down with a cold.    Besides being in the height of marathon training, it knocked me down literally for a week so my good intentions went by the wayside.

Riverboat Series

The Mississippi behind us.

KY was rough - 1/2 of the loop was a trail and there were 10 loops.  Who's bad idea was this anyway? I had tweaked my ankle and so the trail aggravated it even more.  I took it easy and completed it.  The view of the Mississippi was breathtaking.  The southern hospitality had me mesmerized and the I was indulging in everything fried or in butter (rolls with strawberry butter, fried catfish with crawfish on top, fried chicken, fried green tomatoes and pickles....so much for ME).  I also got to meet some of Kim's fellow blog/racer friends.  MCMAMMARUNS was super awesome and was another friendly face on the course!  After the race we headed back to Memphis and we went to the National Civil Rights Museum which is part of Hotel Lorraine, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr spent his last hours.  The museum just re-opened and if it is not on your highlights of visits around the country, it should be.  Moving, interactive and informative.

Tennessee

TN - a much better race but still took it easy as I knew 7 am would roll around the next morning with another race in Arkansas.  I felt good and other runners commented on how smiley I was.  I also found that my favorite race food at the aid station was the spanish olives.  Just the right amount of fat and salt to keep me going.  I loved them so much I bought a jar and plan on having them on the marathon later this month.  We hit Sun Studios before heading out to Memphis and it was pretty amazing to hear all the stories. Our guide was fantastic.  

Sun Studios

AR - Hmmmm Thunder, lightening and torrential downpour.  Not to mention that in the first 4 miles I had to run to the bathroom and my calves cramped up so I headed to the car around mile 5 tore off my compressions socks, slathered my calves and ankle in Voltaren (best product ever available in Canada for $16, here you need a prescription, which is not covered and they charge you $70) and had a small pep talk and major attitude adjustment.  I decided for a negative split which I had 17 minute difference. Around mile 10ish the rains came and lightening was striking.  Runners were advised that they could stay in their cars.  Seriously...I'm over it.   My shoes were so waterlogged they felt like 10 lb weights on each foot.  I borrowed Kim's hat because there was so much water it was like a semi came and splashed water everywhere I couldn't see.  For fun, I stomped in three puddles like a 5 year old and ran the rest of my race.  One of my personal worsts, but strong finish and felt happy that the last half was unlike the second half.

Soaked in Arkansas

Brings back childhood memories

Other tourist highlights - The birthplace of Kermit the Frog (it's free and the size of one room) in Leland, MS - Beale Street and Graceland.

Kim and Trisha flew home and I headed to NOLA.

NOLA

I met Hannah, Sean and Lauren in New Orleans.  The food is amazing, the people watching is even better and there is live music and partying everywhere. I also loved the architecture of the city. Food highlights are Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait and BBQ shrimp...they are both must haves.   

On our way to the swamp tour I saw a sign for Crescent City Classic 10K.  I searched for information and the next day hit the expo and signed up on the spot.  I had just run 39.3 miles in 3 days.  It was the best race experience ever - they had a Marine Corp and Navy jazz band, neighbors came out with music, beer/sausage and mimosa stops.  Plus I fared well 101 out of 1083 women in my age group.  I can deal with that.  After the race we walked through the Besthoff Sculpture Garden and Botanical Gardens.

Hannah, Lauren, Sean, Dad & me - Cafe du Monde

Jackson Square

Architecture - Spanish and French balconies

Cornstalk fence

Las minute sign up!

Jazz at Fritzzels

Besthoff Sculpture Garden

10% :) <3

Taste of the Nation

Taste of the Nation is part of Share our Strength and No Kid Hungry which started 27 years ago in a collaborative effort to help hungry children.  The impact has made a difference by offering food and meals to children not only during the school year but in the summer.  Some of the beneficiaries are Partners for Hunger-free Oregon, the Oregon Food Bank, St Vincent de Paul Society and Klamath/Lake Counties Food Bank.  Kim and I were able to taste the best of the best in food and drink.  Tickets were sold out and it showed there were so many people.  If you attend in the future, I recommend sharing food with someone so you can have more tastes.  For an attendee paying for a ticket you get more than what you paid for and everything goes towards a great cause.

Taste of the Nation

Crystal Ballroom

Kim and I should be on their ad!?!

 It's been a whirlwind of a month.  But it is not the place, the food or the race.  It's the experiences I have had with the people in my life.  That is what makes my life so rich.

Taste of the Taste

I was invited to a PR event for Taste of the Taste - an effort to get the word out about Taste of the Nation.  Taste of the Nation is part of Share our Strength and No Kid Hungry which started 27 years ago in a collaborative effort to help hungry children.  The impact has made a difference by offering food and meals to children not only during the school year but in the summer.  Some of the beneficiaries are Partners for Hunger-free Oregon, the Oregon Food Bank, St Vincent de Paul Society and Klamath/Lake Counties Food Bank.

The focus of the event was to give social media enthusiasts and bloggers a chance to have a taste and to inspire others reading our social media outlets to purchase tickets to the event at McMenamins Crystal Hotel & Ballroom on April 29th.  Tickets are $85 ($150 for  VIP admission).  I reviewed the line up and it looks pretty amazing.  Here are more details: http://ce.strength.org/events/taste-nation-portland-or

Tonight I was able to sample food, wine and spirits, which will be present at Taste of the Nation.

Kim & I starting with a toast of Moet & Chandon 

Even the Chefs were posting

Chapter 24 Wines - Fire & Flood

Irving Street Kitchen 

Lardo

Bull Run Distillery - American Whiskey

Pamplin Family Winery

Renata - Rabbit Terrine

Boke Bowl

Potato Latkes with Lox, Dill

(Other beverages served were Newton Wines & Volcanic Mineral Refresher)

Best drink of the night was the American Whiskey by Bull Run Distillery - smooth and refreshing.  Just to note I don't usually drink whiskey ever but I have to say I was impressed.  Delish dish was Boke Bowl's Crawfish & Pork in Spicy Black Bean Sauce over Rice Tots.  The flavor with added spice and texture was wonderful.  My next favorite food served was Irving Street Kitchen's Green Garlic with Parmesan and Smoked Halibut Soup.  The color of the soup was appealing which only was exponential in taste.

I had a great time, talking food and wine with bloggers.  Met some really great people and was given some great restaurant recommendations.  Brunch - Sweedeedee and Broder, best bakery - Mt Tabor Bakery.  I will have to add these to the list of places to go.  The best part was spending time with Kim (outside of running and in normal clothes with make-up...who knew we could clean up so good).  We even have something in the works for a tasting and tour of Bull Run Distillery.

The concept was a great way to get the word out about the event and to help raise not only awareness but funds to support those in need in our community.  I look forward to seeing you at the event!

Upcoming Races

My good friend K is completing a half marathon in every state.  I admire her goal and think it is a great way to travel the US.  (I wonder after she has completed the States if she will try to run a half marathon in every continent???)  I have only run a race in 4 States (AZ, CA, OR & WA).

Anyhow, she has asked me on a number of times to go on a trip for a race.  The first was for a back to back race in Hartford, CT and Providence RI in the fall.  I excitedly told her to take Hwy 2 to see the changing fall colors and gave her a list of places to eat in Boston.  I declined the invite.  Next was Kansas and I had been to Witchita.....and have no desire to ever go back.  Then she mentioned the Riverboat series.  5 races in 5 days (either half or full marathons) in KY, TN, AR, MI & LA.  She only needed to do the first three states and when she said Memphis....I responded with "I will go on the following condition we go to Graceland, Sun Records, hit Beale St for some Blues and eat BBQ!"  She agreed and in the next month I will be running 3 half marathons in a row.  Then I was informed about the walking of the ducks at the Peabody hotel.  So that has been added to the list.

If you haven't noticed by the first two references I am HUGE Elvis fan.  I would make my mother buy tapes (yes tapes) from Columbia Record Club (I would tear out the stickers, lick and affix them to the page).  In the car, we played Elvis until the tapes became warped and the sound was off.  This will be a momentous event for me.   Post races I'm meeting up with friends in New Orleans.  I have never been to this area of the country so everything will be a first and an adventure.  I'm so excited!!!

Needless to say with all this excitement, running 3 half marathons is a whole new game for me.  (What did I sign up for???) The first thing I did was pick my PT's brain.  His suggestion was ~ build up to three long runs in a row, starting with lower mileage.  The only caveat is I'm also training for a marathon.  So I started running 5-5-6 (plus a 4 miler and track) and worked my way up to 10 - 17 - 10 last weekend.  And I survived.  I have a week and a half until we leave and my goal is to keep training for the marathon and taper back.  I have 18 miler planned next weekend, but I will only do two runs instead of three.

I am looking forward to this adventure and if anything it has prepared me for my upcoming marathon.

Inspired???

I have been through a hiatus from blogging. In part, I lost the spark and really something to write about.  How was I to top 39+ things in one year?

Well I guess in some ways I'm renewed the spark to write...maybe zero in on an area.  My running for example, it is something I'm doing weekly and I've got some great things coming up.  Blog worthy to write about!

I'm back, healthy and more ready than ever for the upcoming spring/summer races and just running with my community. I think in part that is why I enjoy running so much....my community of runners who are friends and some are like family.

So be on the look out for a blog here and there.

Looking for Silver Linings

Craptastic

How else can I describe something horrible and look for the possible good out of it....

I have a tendency to make poor choices when I'm tired.  This also occurs when I'm coming down with something.  Case and point, prior to my marathon last year, I was so tired I put my pants on inside out and then promptly was sick for a week.  

So I was tired....I have been tired for a couple days, maybe even longer.  I skipped my Tuesday night track work out and went straight home.  I was in bed by 8:30.  As I was falling asleep, I thought to myself - I'm pretty sure I locked my vehicle.

So the next day I wake up, get my day started and head out the door.  My hatch is completed lifted.  My heart sinks into my stomach.  I already know what has happened.  I race to the back of the car to find my Northface and Columbia coaching jackets, but no silver Adidas bag with my skates.  I see my passenger front door is wide open everything rifled through and an extra spare house keys on the ground in front of my vehicle.  They also pulled out my running shoes and left a perfectly good Nike bag with gym clothes in it.

After filing a police report, the officer informed me that the thieves did not close the doors because it would make a sound which could alert (my dog).  I notice the drivers side door and back passenger door are not closed all the way.  The bag was not visible as the cover over the trunk area was still intact.  It was possibly a random check of vehicles and mine happened to be unlocked.

So what was in the bag - nothing of value to anyone but me.

• Custom baby blue suede skates with a silver star inset (how rock star is that??)
• 8 champion cords for my kiddos to use
• Powertwist
• A test book
• A cd
• 2 pairs of mittens
• 2 hats
• Thermal leggings
• Custom thermal zip up pants
• Thermal long sleeve top
• Ripped up silver Adidas gym bag
• iPhone car charger

I filed a claim and spent the day filling out paperwork and bringing in quotes for everything.  I checked with pawn shops and am checking on Craigslist.  A sergeant from the pd called and asked me to check on Craiglist as SP Teri skates were listed.  

What can't be replaced is the violation I felt.  And the disappointment in making such a costly mistake.

The negatives

I had personal items of value and sentiment stolen from me.

I had a personal melt down and am emotionally exhausted.

I have a $1000 deductible.

I have been informed that I will take a hit and my insurance premiums will go up.

My poor body will be freezing at the rink.
My old pair of skates are really too small and after 10 minutes of wearing them, I sat on the boards in my socks.

Even if I replace things it will cost me and I do not want to accrue any debt.

I probably will not get these items back, more than likely they have been tossed aside.

The silver lining

Everything is replaceable and I'm ok.

I still have my coaching jackets and can make do to stay warm.

The kids complain about the champion cords triple hooks being difficult to use - I can get the S hooks which are easier for them.

I called United States Figure Skating as they do not sell a stand alone test book, they sent me a replacement.

I paid $190 for Powertwist and it is now priced at $160 with shipping.  SAVINGS!!!

I have lost weight and my custom thermal pants were falling down like a gangsta - time to size down and get a new pair.
When I sprained my ankle I taught in my Uggs for 5 weeks...I took and passed both of my Master ratings exams in shoes, dress shoes at that.  Maybe Jimmy can strap on some blades to my Uggs - total comfort, right?

My silver Adidas bag was ripping and with my no spending policy I had planned on not replacing it unless it completely broke - it was close and I was bound to have to replace it at some point anyhow.

I am headed to conference later this month where they often give discounts to coaches for the most expensive item on the list which are the boots.

Who doesn't need a new pair of skates....now what color should I get????

One of my skaters wrote this to me  -

":( well at least they didn't steal you :) then we would have bigger problems? :)"  Wisdom from a 17 year old!

The positives outweigh the negatives.  It still stings but in the end, everything will be ok.  

Hello ~ Your absence has been noticed

Where did you go???

Blogging bi-weekly

A recent reader asked when I was going to write again.  I have not one good reason as to why I haven't written....maybe a combination of excuses to being busy, having the flu, shifting from having 39 things to complete has left little to write or just being plain lazy.  Will my writing be on a more consistent basis than a quarterly financial report, lets hope so.  I can't promise anything but I would like to get back to blogging on a more regular basis....

Updates

Ankle

I'm mostly recovered from my sprain in November and am running again.  It has been a long recovery...my family (biological, skating and running), friends and co-workers has probably had enough of my grumpiness. Running really is a fantastic stress release, besides the other health benefits.  I'm just following everything my PT says.  At this point if he told me to stand on my head for an hour I would.

Sadly I will not be running the BMO Vancouver marathon in BC this coming weekend.  I will be there in support, cheering my fellow marathoners, half marathoners and running Kari in at the end.  I guess I can say at least I'm enjoying possibly the best part of the course running through Stanley park.  I will still have the fresh look at the end....rather than haggard...seeking salt and sustenance.  

I will run another marathon.  I have missed my run buddies and it feels like I'm starting to return to my old self.

Paying off my Debt

One of my goals was to pay off my credit card debt, which I can officially say I have done as of today. The extra funds that went to paying off my debt will be split into savings and extra payments to a car I just recently bought.  I was in need of a newer vehicle and bought wisely.  It feels good to not have that hanging over my head.

Tapping into my creative side

I just took another glass blowing class.....I won't give away too many details (this will be a future blog so stay tuned).

Japanese

I took Japanese II but the flu took me down and I dropped the class.  My mom and I still talk half in Japanese and English.  She just recently brought me some flash cards....so Learning Palace like of her.  My mom was notorious while I was growing up for creating homework if I did not have any.  This occurred all through grade school and even in the summers.  She and my aunt were well known in Learning Palace.  I remember summers prior to the school year learning math.  I would get in trouble for not paying attention because I already knew how to do it.  Thanks mom! Domo arigato gozaimasu.

That is the general update....more to come.

2013 - A new start

2013 - A new start

I haven't written in a couple of months.  I set out a goal or one could call them 39 resolutions and I accomplished them in one year.  I am not sure how I did it because by November 1st I was pretty wiped out trying to get everything done and my bank account was not looking so good either.

So that brings me to talk about resolutions.  They are really goals.  Goals are the best way to accomplish anything I want to do.  They must be reasonable, achievable and there must be a timeline.  In addition, announcing your goals to family and friends and tracking your progress makes you me accountable.  Lastly, at times, it is necessary to make adjustments to goals, whether that be timelines or changes in the goal itself.

My resolutions

Get out of debt by Dec 2013

You can't do 39 things and not have the funds to do so.  This was not very good insight on my part.  So here is my plan:

• All credit cards are locked in the safe (step 1 done) and not to be used
• When making purchases go through wants vs needs assessment
• Every month I have a set amount of money that is paid to the credit card
• I have taken on a new role at work which pays me an additional amount 2x a month - this money will be a direct payment to the credit card
• I have taken on a second class which provides additional money 2x a month - this money will be a direct payment to the credit card

I do believe I will have this paid off before Dec 2013.

Blog biweekly

I really enjoyed my blogging last year.  I actually have missed writing.  It had that accountability factor for me which I believe was part of how I accomplished 39 things before my 40th birthday.  Being realistic with the time I believe I can write twice a month.  If I write more than that, I'd be thrilled. Taking into consideration, I don't want to write about meaningless topics to make a goal.  

Enhance my creative side

From my 39 experiences I loved being outdoors and taking art classes. I have worked to develop good self-care in the physical aspect of my life but have not done so with my creative side. I need to tap into that part of me.

My plan is to:

• Take more hand blown glass classes
• Take a painting class (need to sign up)
• Take a class that works on my physical/creative side - possibly belly dancing (spring or summer)

Continue learning Japanese 

This was one of my 39 experiences.  I took a class this fall and greatly improved in my skills.  I even know 4 Kanji characters.  However it's like I'm still in first grade.  This is an important piece to me both culturally and personally.  I hope to travel to Japan again to see my family and be able to participate in conversations, rather than have my mom or cousin translate for me.

My plan is to:

• Take Japanese II (I'm signed up)
• Continue talking with my mom in Japanese weekly - that will even happen today as we celebrate oshogatsu
• Complete assigned homework 
• Practice daily writing and repeating phrases

I hope that 2013 brings much promise to you all.  What are your resolutions and how will you accomplish them?  Have you told anyone about them?

40th Birthday

I'm 40

I'm officially 40. I have completed all 39 experiences and had getting deported added as an unscheduled 40th experience. How many of you can say you have had that? I don't feel older. Ok maybe I do because I haven't felt great most of this trip and am still feeling effects of heartburn from dinner last night probably doesn't help.

Highlights

Top three highlights and not in any particular order were 

1. Seeing the Orcas
2. Overnight in the Aquarium
3. Oregon Caves

With Crater Lake and Tunnel Falls a close tie with the Oregon Caves.

All nature related.

Most Rewarding

1. Raising over $1000 for breast cancer
2. Feeding the homeless
3. Running sub 2 half and marathon

At the Bottom of the List

Being in a commercial.  Too much standing, waiting, freezing.  I am on tv but I wouldn't do it again.  Even getting deported was better than my commercial experience. It was not horrific because I encountered acts of kindness from the Alaska flight crew, US Customs agents and fellow passengers. 

Stats

Top 3 Post Views

1. Bye Bye Bryan - it's tabloid like right?
2. Crabs 1 - Sonya 0 
3. Timelines - (my first blog a little over year ago)

Looking Back and Looking Forward

I've had an amazing year...a busy but amazing year.  I would like to continue having more outdoor adventures, enhance my creative side, helping others, buy flowers from the farmers market, take time for myself and continue blogging.  I may need another venue for blogging as I have had complaints from readers that Blogger will not allow comments.

In the next year I have travel opportunities(South America, Asia), another marathon and growing my own veggie garden. I'm sure other things will pop up along the way. But for now I'm just going to enjoy the day.

Faith Cafe

Faith Cafe

My idea of going snowmobiling did not work out.  Part way through the season the snowfall was not great enough and my connections with snowmobiles said it was a bad year.  

Huh - well it was time to replace this experience.   A friend of mine was helping out through her church to feed the homeless.  She has done this quite a few times with her mom.  I really thought it was fantastic to help out others in need.  Especially those who are hungry.  A person can acquire food from a food bank, but do they have the means or facilities to cook or create a meal.  Let alone a hot meal? 

We arrived early, there are multiple churches that rotate in serving at Faith Cafe.  We arrived around 4:30 checked in, they went over the details, held hand then said a prayer and sang a song.  Then the doors opened.  The tables have tablecloth and flowers on them.  There were families, elderly, people in wheelchairs, teenagers and young adults.  Hunger does not see an age, your ethnicity or abilities. 

We stood by the table and as people sat down I offered them a drink (milk, juice, soda, coffee, tea or water) and brought them silverware.  I then lined up in the kitchen for the plated meal which was beef stroganoff over a biscuit, green beans and salad/fruit salad.  There was a dessert table and individuals could have seconds once everyone had been served.  In the back of the church was a table with food items for people to take.  It varied from bread, peanut butter, fresh fruit and chips. There were other items but I didn't get a close look as I was busy.  We cleared plates and cleaned up after everyone left. 

One of the volunteers said to me this is an experience, isn't it?  It is and it was.  

I often ask myself after any experience, would I do this experience again? For the most part I have answered yes - (with one exception).   This officially is my last of my 39 experiences.  My perspective has shifted and I have grown in so many ways.  I appreciate and see things very differently.

What's Next?

I've been asked will I have 40 experiences when I'm 40?  The answer is no.  It takes a lot of planning and time to do so many things in a year.  It also means funding these experiences and as I once said to a former boss "work is getting in the way of my activities, however work is paying for those activities".

I am turning 40 in less than a week and as I reflect back on my best moments it helps shape the direction I would like to go toward in my future.  As I move forward I would like to focus on enhancing my creative side, enjoying the outdoors and making positive impacts.

A Day at the Spa

A Day at the Spa

I have always wanted to treat myself to a full day at the spa.  I have had massages and facials and pedicures but not all at once.  The difference is having it all happen on one day.

Choosing a Spa

I looked around online.  I called a few places.  Some were really expensive and a few recommendations came in to go to Bonneville Hot Springs.  But I really didn't want to stay overnight and after a whole day at the spa I would be mush.  Driving back might be hazardous.  I have had pedicures at Coldwater Creek.  It is probably the best pedicure I have ever had and - bonus - close to my house.  No accidents on the way home.

The Treatments

After filling out the usual paperwork, I went to the changing room to put on a robe and slippers.  I headed into the waiting/relaxation room where I was brought tea, a heated neck wrap and started with a foot soak.  Sherry came out to greet me and took me back for my first set of treatments a back facial.  I have never had one and it wasn't included in the Renewal Spa Day Package, but if you are going to go all out, then why not???  It's like a facial but on your back - they cleanse, do a mask, steam your pores and extract and end with a very light massage.  Next was a sugar scrub and last was my essential facial...again cleansing, mask, steam and extractions with hand/arm massage.  I was lead back to the relaxation room where I was brought lunch.  After lunch I went back with Robin for hot stone massage.  This was my first hot stone massage.  They actually use both hot and some cold stones.  I am used to therapeutic massage so this was really different and what I might call "fluffy". After my massage I went back to the relaxation room and had more water and another heated neck wrap. Then Lindsey took me back to do my manicure and ultimate pedicure.  I'm not sure what happens during the pedicure because they place a heated neck wrap on you,  lay the chair back tuck you in and offer a eye pillow and I essentially end up taking a nap.  They wake you up with some energizing scents and back in the relaxation room with a heated neck wrap and water/tea.  

Final Thoughts

I spent basically a whole day at the spa.  I was very relaxed afterwards and had enjoyed my time.   The staff were fantastic. If I were to do this again, I would swap out the hot stone massage for swedish.

I may even have to set up a day at the spa on my trip to Mexico.

Dressed for Success

Dressed for Success

One of my 39 experiences was to knit a blanket and give it to a shelter.  Little did I know how difficult it is to knit....let alone to have the patience.  I attempted to create a scarf which looks more like a misshapen pot holder.  I think someday I might finish it.  But in this process I decided to still donate a blanket.  I also decided to clean out my closet and donate clothes, shoes, etc. in lieu of the blanket.  Since I have become a runner, my body shape has changed....I'm thinner and my clothes do not hang correctly and because of my running my feet have gone up 1/2 a size.  I had a closet full of clothes/shoes that were not being worn.  It makes sense as I'm cleaning out other areas of my life that I clean out things that are no longer being used.

Prior to bagging everything up

I decided to research different domestic violence or intimate partner violence shelters to donate my unused clothing/blanket/bags and shoes.  Most shelters do not have the space to hold donated items and refer to different thrift stores.  I decided to donate my clothes to Dressed for Success - which is connected to Bradley Angle House http://bradleyangle.org/  Women can go in and find appropriate clothes for work, including suits.  They also take shoes and casual clothes as well.

October is also domestic violence awareness month so I bagged up the items and took them down to  donate.  It felt good to give to other women who are looking to escape an abusive situation.  Many encounter financial hardships in trying to escape their situation.  The clothing that I no longer can wear or fit me can go to these women as they begin a new life.

All the items I donated

I think it is important that in my life that I make a difference where it counts.  This is one of those times.  Honestly do I need "stuff"?  Our society has become such a consumer wasteland...selling the notion that you "need" this.  When many of us are spending outside of our means, going into debt, collecting items in excess and are one step away from becoming a hoarder.

How can you make a difference in someone else's life?  How much stuff do you really need?

Plus 1000 & a Sub 2

Girlfriends Half Marathon

Feeling good & on target

The Girlfriends Half Marathon was my set date for meeting two challenges.  The first to raise $1000 for breast cancer and the second to run a sub 2.

Raising a $1000

I started the fund raising by kicking in $100.  I sent emails to friends, family and people who donated in the past.  I also solicited on facebook.  I suggested skipping one's latte/mocha and donating the $4 or $5 one spend on the coffee.  One response I received was I'm taking lunch all week next week and donating $50.  I was overwhelmed by the tremendous amount of support and officially raised $1, 050. 

Breast cancer kills 11 women a week in Oregon and SW Washington.  If you think about you may know someone who has breast cancer or has passed away.  I was so overwhelmed and grateful for the response from everyone.   This was not possible without the following supporters:

• Aunt Barbara 
• Karen F
• Helen Y
• Carole W
• Jennifer L
• The Andres Family
• Dorothy H
• Andrea O
• Joseph B
• Melinda W
• Karen C
• Sharon O
• Kari M
• Fritzi F
• Marie R
• Laura F
• Kelli C
• Emily W
• Sean S
• Nani T
• Erin S
• Mary H
• Kathryn W
• Jenny G
• Jennifer B

Sub 2 Training

I have come in several races at 2:05:xx. I knew I needed some structure to meet my goal.  After running the Ragnar Relay, I took 2 weeks off and then signed up with the Runner Chick Training Club.  http://www.runnerchicktrainingclub.com/index.html  I have met many of my goals and made life long friendships with runner friends because of Kelly who started the group.  If you are looking to get connected with other women who want to run, get on a training plan to meet your goal I suggest you join. I also highly recommend doing one of her run adventures.

Kelly had me set up on a 12 week plan to break 2 hours.  She hooked me up with some other runners who were planning to do the same.  My consistent run buddy over the 12 weeks was Christina.  First of Christina had already run Hippie Chick at 1:55.  Our first speed workout was mile repeats at 8:54 pace. I was dying.  My legs felt fine but my lungs were screaming.  The other thing is that Christina can talk during the tempo runs.  Lucky for me Jamie could talk with her and I basically told the girls I could talk to them on the warm up and cool down.  Every week I was able to run the required mileage (and then some) but was struggling to keep up on the tempo runs and mile repeats.  I was so anxious about making the "time" we would end up running about 5 - 10 seconds faster.  I even went home one night and had a melt down, questioning whether I could run a sub 2.  Kelly kept saying it will all come together.  

I was running a tempo run and feeling completely stressed about having 2 more miles to go and Jamie exhaled.  Then it clicked for me.  I wasn't breathing.  I was so focused on my time I was creating my own world of anxiety.  That was the turning point for me.  I relaxed and let myself breathe.  On the cool down mile, I told Jamie what I noticed about her breathing and how I found it helpful.  After that, things became easier.  I knew I could run a sub 2. Christina gave me feedback each week that she noticed my breathing was getting better.  

On our last tempo run the week of the race, Christina and I running 8:54 (subtract 5 seconds off we were really doing 8:50) and half way through our run realized we were talking to each other!  

My Fund Raising Efforts 

With the Pink Brigade Guys

Because I raised over $500 I was supposed to get a 10 minute start and I was waffling on starting early or running with Christina for part of the race.  Then I found out there were only 2 of us (really only 2 of us that raised over $500???) so the organizer asked if we could be recognized with the Pink Brigade Guys and have our entrance fees waived for next year.  The Pink Brigade guys raised a $1000 and had to wear pink to run.  22 men participated.  I thought pretty awesome!

Pre-Race Photo with the ladies

Ready to run!

Christina and I ran a little over a mile together.  I stayed just under 9 minutes and she was running faster.  At one point she looked back at me and I said "go".  We all have to meet our goals and she had it in her to run faster.

I felt good until mile 10.  I got a side stitch. So I pushed up the hills and my Garmin click 9:16.  Really?  I think I may have said the f-word out loud.  Then somewhere along Officer's Row, I saw my mom and dad.  Well I can't suck now.  I picked up my pace and waved at them.  It was a good motivator to have them at the end.  After that I came into downtown and knew I had 2 right turns and I would be done.  I pushed and ran as hard and as fast as I could.  

Then we went by the finish line and cheered on the other runners.  It was a great day!  There were 2242 women listed for the run.  Here are my official results:

OVERALL 190 
DIVPL 48/480
TIME 1:55:17
PACE 8:48

Lunch at Beaches