Today has started off kind of crappy.  I got into a wreck on the way to work.  I'm ok and so is my car but it was very very scary.  My car fishtailed and I ended up perpendicular to traffic on the turnpike.  All that happened to my car was a tiny little scratch above the gas tank.  A lady driving a mini-van barely tapped me.  Thank God because it could have been much MUCH worse.  I was shaky finishing in the drive to work and I've already told my friend here I'm NOT driving to lunch...... but WE ARE going to Fuzzy's Taco Shop b/c I've been craving it. DELICIOUS :)

Today is the last day of the 30 day challenge..... but I think I'm going to defer it to a later date.  For a few reasons:  The topic is "A picture".  I want to go out on a pretty AWESOME note and I have some pretty AWESOME things coming up this weekend....

1.  We will be finished decorating for Christmas (I know you want to see THAT)
2.  My super fun bloggy friend meet up on Saturday with fellow White Rock Runners.  (Vist them, Jason, Melissa, Lesley, Jon, Elaine)  I think a few more are joining and some couldn't join b/c of supporters coming in from out of town - but it should be WAY fun and I'm taking my camera - so bloggers beware.... I will take pictures!!!!
3.  White Rock is Sunday and I should have a ton of awesome pictures from that!!!!!!

So do you mind if I defer?  I could show you a picture of the scratches on my car but that's kind of a bummer and no fun - the three above are WAY more fun!!!

Last night we got our Christmas Tree - an 8 foot Douglas Fir.  I wanted the 10 foot Noble Fir but Bill said we couldn't spend $100 on a tree that will be up a month.  It's in the garage "falling out" currently - hoping to move it in the house tonight and put lights on it!

Tonight we have Bill's niece Dani's 16th birthday party/dinner.  It's a family thing and I'm super excited!  She is such a sweet sweet girl and I can't believe she is 16!  She was 10 when Bill and I first started dating.

Should be a great weekend!!! I'm super excited about the expo tomorrow - b/c I'm a nerd and i.heart.expos :)

I'll be back either Sunday night or Monday.....have a great weekend!!!!

Three Things.....

I'm feeling better today :)  Bill ran with me last night - we only did two miles but ran them in 17 minutes.  That's an 8:30min mile people... a HUGE accomplishment for me.  I was basically sprinting.... but I kept up with Bill and felt good after I was done.

My calf is still giving me loads of trouble.  It takes probably 2-3 miles for it to get warmed up and stop hurting.  I think it's shin splints (it's only my right) so I've been biofreezing and icing like crazy.  I'm wondering if the K-tape people will have a booth at the expo....if so I may look into that.  Other than that - I'm thinking some recovery socks are in order.

I got the go ahead from coach Lea today that I can sign up for the rock and roll half in Dallas in March after I see how Sunday goes.  I have a $10 off coupon that they race people gave out at the Turkey Trot and I have until the 10th to utilize said coupon.  I'm thinking if Sunday goes well (which I hope it does b/c I really really really want to do well) I will sign up.  Amber is going to run that half (it will be her first) and I think it will be super fun.  Plus it will be good to work in for my 70.3 training.

Thanks for all your supportive comments yesterday.... I guess I was having a downer day.  Nothing a little run with Bill, some love and encouragement from you and a late night trip to Yogurtville didn't fix right up. 

Tonight we are getting our Christmas Tree...Boo-ya!  I love this time of year and it's time for Christmas to throw up all over the house.  Watch out doggies...you may get jingle bells too.  j/k Bill would kill me.....

Last year I did a peppermint themed tree....it kicked ass....this year we are doing the same with some baseball ornaments thrown in.  (gotta give some love to Bill...it can't be ALL about me.)

I think I should hang our finishers medals on the tree too..... we would have 5 total...it could be a good start :)  Maybe it would win me one of those Allied Medal Hanger Giveaways you always see.  Those are pretty awesome.

In other news today is Day 29 of the 30 day challenge.  (*tear* I know)

Three wishes is today's topic....and although I have a laundry list of wishes; I'll leave you with these.  (Since I'm feeling the Christmas spirit.......... a Christmas list of sorts) 

BILL - THIS INFO IS FOR YOU HONEY (or any other family member/friend who feels so inclined to purchase me a gift for Christmas)

1.  My Garmin 305.....

2. A new pair of boots....cowboy boots.... I love mine but I need a new pair

3.  World peace.... haha j/k - I can't think of a third thing right now so I guess I don't have all that much.....

Happy Thursday Friends!!! Tomorrow is Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stressed out......

Day 28 - Something that stresses you out.

Currently it's the fact that yesterday I had zero motivation to do anything work-out related.  I had a dinner for work last night which meant that I would either a. get up early and work out or b. work out during lunch.  Ask me if either happened.......... yea - not so much.

I've been completed exhausted in the mornings...which is odd for me b/c I LOVE the mornings.  I love waking up early getting my work out over and having the rest of the day.  But this week it's been TOUGH... like I'm not waking up until 7:30 tough..... which scares me considering I have a half marathon in 3 days.  Anxious/scared/nervous turns into stress...stress....stress......

I'm starting to freak out that I'm not prepared for Sunday - that I will crash.... I will fall back to hating running.... just when I've started to like it.  I'm stressed because my mileage for cycling and swimming isn't where it should be.... how will I ever be ready for NOLA 70.3?  Training for three disciplines is hard work.....

I'm a big ball of mess right now............

November Training Recap:

Cycling: 32 miles (piss poor......I missed every weekend with my riding group...need to pick that up after WR 1/2 this weekend)
Running: 47.65 miles - the most running miles yet
Swimming: 4.76 miles
Total Miles: 84.41

Now granted - this isn't too shabby for me...running nearly 50 miles in a month is something I NEVER thought I would do.  (had I run yesterday I would have hit over 50 - fyi...dammit ALLISON!)

Today I will get in a light 4 mile easy run (I think Bill is going to run with me) and then tomorrow is an easy 3 miler......I skipped swim today...refer to the top of the page for clarification.

I need to decompress and not stress.... I am ready.I can do this.I will do this

Furry and Real families......

That's us... from L to R - Me, Kaylee, Mom, Randy, Cooper, Anna, Paige, Shelby, Nick

This was the last time we had family pics taken in 2008....

My recent favorite picture, however, is this one:

Thanksgiving 2010 at the compound... it describes us perfectly!

Last night I had a nice swim at the gym.  I slept through my alarm for master's swim (SHOCKER!) but I packed all my gear and headed to 24 hour after work.  I got in a good 1500 yds before I had to quit so the aqua class could start.  It really was exactly what I needed to work out the soreness from Sunday's run and Saturday's baseball adventure with Bill.

Saturday I loaded up all three dogs and met Bill at the baseball park where he was hosting tryouts for his select team.  Let me just say, me, three dogs (110pounds, 55 pounds, and 25 pounds), and a Pontiac sedan make for quite the show driving down the turnpike.

While Bill finished up tryouts I let the dogs out and we played fetch for about 15 minutes.  By fetch I mean - I threw the ball and Shakes retrieved it.  Deuce and Lyla ran around like enraged crazy rabid beasts.

When Bill was done we headed to the nature preserve at the end of the park and did the 1 mile loop trail run with the dogs.  They liked it - I liked it - Bill liked it - except for the large sign that said "POISONOUS SNAKE HABITAT STAY ON TRAIL"

I live in Texas people - and that only means one thing....rattlesnakes.... my pace increased.  Pretty sure I ran that bad boy in about 7 min. flat.

After that we walked back over to the baseball fields (but not the most direct way).... we went through other trails and inevitably Shakes found water.

Shakes is a very well behaved dog..... except when it comes to bodies of water.  Shakes will ignore every command if he is around water.  It's not even worth your breath to try and get him away from it... he sees it - he's in.

Before too long (like 30 seconds) all three dogs were in the water having a nice Saturday swim.  All Bill and I could do was sit down and watch.

When they were done - Lyla ran around and got all muddy and gross (she is not very cute dirty).  Not having any towels in the car (swim was unexpected) we decided to hit balls for a little while on one of the fields and let the dogs dry off.  Again - I drive a Pontiac sedan and Bill drives a Honda.....  if ever a need for a truck...Saturday was the day.

I hit two buckets of baseballs (I was good might I add) and then I pitched to Bill (he was way better)... it was super fun...but Sunday I woke up s.o.r.e.

Long story short...... the run Sunday was difficult b/c my body was sore and the swim yesterday just about fixed it I think :)  I feel great today....

So in keeping with the 30 day challenge - Day 27 was pets.... Here are our fur baby's... Deuce, Shakes and Lyla

Shakes - will be 8 in February.  Bill got him when he was six weeks old.  At 8 weeks he had his first seizure.  Irony at it's finest?  He is still epileptic today and we keep him on a constant dose of phenobarbital for severity.  It will never completely eradicate the seizures but helps with the severity of them.  He's 110 pounds of pure sweetness..... he has the bark of a mean dog - but immediately tucks his tail and runs as soon as he sees someone he doesn't know.  Yes, he's THAT scary...  Bill and Shakes have been through alot together.... he's Bill's best companion :)

Deuce - turned six in June.  I got him after my fifth year in college (my extra senior year...what have you).  he was the only yellow one in the litter and I just fell in love with him.  He's been my buddy through so much. 

Lyla -  The newest addition to our little family.  Bill's rule has always been "Animals can not out number humans"... all it took was laying eyes on her for five minutes and he was hooked.   We adopted her from a shelter that saves animals before they are euthanized.  Since Nov. 1 she has stolen our hearts... .(I'm so glad I finally have a LAP dog!)

So there it is.... my family -- furry and otherwise :)

Lessons through my ipod

Day 24 is something I've learned.... Day 25 is 10 songs on my ipod as selected by shuffle mode.

Let's combine the two (I'm good at doing this) and I'll try to tell you something I've learned while trying to relate to the song....this could be tricky but funny or a total BOMB.... we shall see...

This should almost catch me up on my 30 day challenge....... two posts in one tomorrow and we should be good to go...

Ready, set, shuffle...

1. Cross Canadian Ragweed - Long Way Home
     * I've learned that even though home maybe far way - you are never to far away to feel the love of your loved ones.  Home could be the town you grew up in, the town you never lived in, or the town you currently reside in....whatever "home" is for you - it's never too far away.

2. The Beatles - Can't Buy Me Love
    *  Doesn't this speak for itself?  You can't buy love, you can't buy trust.... all the things in the world pale in comparison to love (in my opinion)... although love can't pay your mortgage, your electric bill, etc - love can conquer all

3. Graham Colton Band - Morning Light
    * Tomorrow is not promised, today is gift.... live it that way

4.  Bebo Norman - A Page is Turned
    * Although you are not guaranteed tomorrow....when/if it comes.... it is a new day-a new page in your chapter of your life.  Write what you want, make it what you want and live with no regrets

5.  Pink - Raise Your Glass
    * No matter what - there is always room for wine :)

6.  The B-52's Love Shack
   * A house is a house.... love makes it a home

7.  James Taylor - You've Got a Friend
    * Never, ever, ever take for granted your friends.......... ever........

8.  Ray Lamontagne - You Are The Best Thing
    *Although Friends are wonderful, most definitely needed, and somewhat of a foundation - nothing compares to that one person who is the best thing.

9.  Dave Matthews Band - Say Goodbye
    * Saying Goodbye is the hardest thing I've ever done.... especially when the person is no longer living.  Goodbyes are no fun....

10.  Buckcherry - Crazy Bitch
   * sometimes people will be, for lack of better words, crazy bitches......

I'm seriously behind in my 30 day challenge.  I think the last post was Day 21 A recent picture and that was LAST WEDNESDAY!!  As much fun as I'm having researching a bio fuel production company and analytically deciding the value of the risk of this business.... I need a break.  Like a serious one from insurance...so here it goes.... **note this could be a rather long post.......I have A LOT to catch up on**

So here it goes....

Day 22 - Favorite City
Day 23 - Favorite Vacation

I think I can wrap these two up into one post....

Honestly my favorite city is probably Dallas..... I love it here!  There is so much to do!  It probably helps that I grew up here and can find all the fun "local" things.... but it seems that the fun never ends.

There is always an interesting exhibit at the Museum of Art (if you are into that), ALWAYS a Broadway play at the Music Hall, plus more restaurants per capita than any other US city. (seriously!)

It's my home... my family is here, my life is here, and although I'm not opposed to moving if opportunity should take me, I love DALLAS and I love TEXAS!

Seriously.... how pretty is this? (I captured this on my 10 miler yesterday at White Rock - keep reading for that recap)

My favorite vacation is a total toss up.... I loved when Cayla and I went to Hawaii... Seriously LOVED it...no better time than spending a week with your bestie in a tropical paradise, but my two absolute favorite vacay's were Bill and I's first vacation EVER - San Fran and Napa Valley and then one a few years later to Boston and NYC.

I wish I had pictures to share on here (not even an old blog post I can link you to) but those two vacations were amazing.

First - San Fran/Napa - for the obvious reasons.  This was our first get away together after four months of dating.  It was a SUPER romantic trip -- fully complete with lodging at the wineries in Napa.  Bill worked on the wine side of his business at the time so it was total VIP treatment the entire time. Our bungalows at each winery were secluded and private and totally kick ass.

We stayed on property at Fetzer in Mendocino County then headed south to stay at Korbel.  This one was an AMAZING tour/tasting and vineyard.  Seriously if you have time to take a vacay to Napa - it's worth the drive over to Korbel.

After Korbel we headed to Napa and stayed at Franciscan and then headed to San Fran for a two night stay downtown.

It was an AWESOME trip - and one where I completely believe we fell totally in love.  Awww... I know grab a Kleenex.

Secondly was our trip to Boston/NYC a few years later.  For obvious baseball reasons.... going to a game at Fenway was unreal.  Even if you aren't into baseball - you should go!  The have THE BEST stadium food and just being in a historical park is pretty cool.  We didn't have a chance to make it to a Yankees game.  Bill had been to Yankee stadium previously and it just didn't work out in our schedule that year.  Hopefully I will be able to see Yankee stadium one day.... kind of sad I didn't get to see the old one but oh well.

NYC was super fun...Bill surprised me with AWESOME tickets to Chicago on Broadway - we had amazing dinners, went sight seeing, and the typical NYC Shopping.

In Boston we did a complete walking history tour which was so interesting.  That afternoon we rested our feet at Cheers!  I'll never forget that day - Jess was having her second surgery for her brain tumor and Bill and I sat and drank to keep me from being sad the whole time.  I didn't get good cell reception in Cheers because we were in the underground part - as soon as we left I had a text message that she was out of surgery and in recovery and was doing great.  It was a relief!

We could do a stay-cation and have fun together!  Actually last night we were talking about our vacation in 2011.... I think Europe may be on the horizion in the fall of 2011... I sure hope so - we've been DYING to go!

Yesterday I ran 10 miles.... 10 freakin' miles!  Each weekend I surprise myself by going longer distances.  I had a hankering yesterday that "why stop at 13.1 miles next week...."

Can it be true....do I have the desire/will/determination/and self discipline to train for a FULL MARATHON???  I know I do have all of those - but do I believe in myself?  That is the true question...

Maybe after the 70.3 in April I can think about a full marathon...until then I'm enjoying the little accomplishments I make every weekend at White Rock.  Who knew that I would enjoy running so very much.  Can a triathlete become a runner?

A recent picture....

This one is a bit redundant right?  I've posted like a thousand recent pictures of myself... you can click HERE if you want to see some....

In other news....

Thanksgiving is tomorrow (WOOT WOOT!!!) Super excited for a fun filled day with friends and family.  Tomorrow we will spend the day at Bill's dad's house with his family eating, playing cards, catching up and the annual Kelly Brother's Football game.

This football game has been played every year on Thanksgiving since Bill was able to walk.  He is the youngest of four boys and as soon as he was able.....the Thanksgiving Day Kelly Bowl was born.

The teams:  Marc/Bill vs. Jim/Paul

The stadium: the side yard at the Kelly house in Highland Village, TX

The time: roughly 2:00 - post feast/pre cowboy game

The stakes: A very worn, very tattered replica WWE belt that has a strip of athletic tape across the bottom with "Kelly Thanksgiving Bowl Winner", written in Sharpie (it's been on there since the mid 80's - no lie)

The Winner:  Takes home the belt.... one brother has it for six months and then it is shifted to the other brother/teammate for the remainder of the year.....

So far we've only had a few injuries over the years.... nothing major...Bill did however, break his arm one year.

No worries.... I'll have my camera.

Then Friday we will head to my mom's for a late lunch and spending time with my family.

Very thankful that we have these two days to spend with our families and friends and be thankful for so many things.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 20: Nicknames

Are you sad I only have 10 days left of this challenge??????? What am I going to blog about when this is all said and done?  I'm sure I'll find something entertaining for you.....or at least what I think is entertaining.

Nicknames:

I've always been jealous of people with really cool nicknames....like my friend Newbie.  Although her mother (and sister-in-law) hate it I think it's neat we have a name just for her.  Seriously my kids will call her aunt newbie one day.  Nicknames I've been called (some less consistently than others)

Al: My whole family calls me Al....
Alllie: Some certain friends call me allie
Allie Wallie: Jess called me this
Allie-Tri: Bill calls me this on weeks before races

Pretty uneventful nicknames I suppose......  Do you have any nicknames?

I just spent the first part of my morning at a conference for work.  It was boring....who schedules these things the week of Thanksgiving....BUT.... we are leaving here early today for a team holiday outing. i.e. we are gong to happy hour.  Very thankful I got up early and ran this morning.

The conference today did have an amazing key note speaker.  Scott O'Grady who lives here in Dallas now spoke for about 30 minutes on his experience when he was shot down over Bosnia.  Who can check is WIKI page here....

It was an amazing speech and definetly gave me a new outlook going into Thanksgiving.  I really want to read his book......

He said the 3 things that kept him alive for 6 days while hiding out in Bosnia.... his faith in God, his relationships (family/friends), and his patriotism.   It reminded me of a quote Jessica wrote in her journal...

"My relationships with people are what prepare me for eternal life, and nothing else on earth will matter when I face God.  I will pray that my relationships, not just my close relationships, but all will always take priority over every other thing in my life.  Loving is the most important thing; not work, school or gain.  Character is my legacy."

What is your legacy?  What keeps you going every day?

Monday Delicious-ness.......

Monday's seriously don't seem as bad when they are the start of a 2.5 day week.  I vote for short weeks every week - who's with me?  It also is a sign of good week when you wake up on Monday and learned you won a giveaway!  Thanks Stephanie (Run to Health) for the Pearl Izumi toe covers!  I can't wait to see if they fit....they will come in handy as it starts to get cold here!

Last night Bill made leg of lamb with marjoram au jus for dinner.  It was freakin' delicious.  He worked all day, marinated, roasting and making HOMEMADE au jus from the pan drippings.  It was amazing. 

We made a salad to accompany the main dish and let me tell you - I was stuffed.

Lamb became part of my rotation after I tried it at Texas de Brazil...now granted TDB could cook up squirrel and make it gourmet; everything is THAT good - but then it solidified how much I loved it when we found our favorite Greek place.

If you live around here (Jason) or you are visiting the area try Zorba's.  Even if you don't think you like Greek food - this place will make you fall in love with it and you will crave it - seriously - CRAVE IT!  (they have loads of vegetarian items also)

Bill and I probably go a few times a month (another plus; it's BYOB) and split the same thing every time; what can I say we are creatures of habit.  Now I'm hungry for a Gyro....damn it!

I baked two pies last night...I know you can go ahead and call me Betty.... We are having a pie contest and silent auction today at work and my pie  better win... it is so flippin good.  Wanna see??? You HAVE to know I would have taken pictures....(sorry for the quality - I took them on my iPhone)

Ingredients:

• Pastry dough for a 2-crust pie
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups of peeled, cored and thinly sliced apples (see note)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 425° F.

Line a 9-inch pie pan with half the dough.

Combine the brown sugar with the cinnamon and flour and toss with the apples and lemon juice.

(brown sugar, cinnamon, flour)

(apples and lemon juice)

(combine together)

Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie shell. Dot the butter over the top.

Roll out the remaining dough to form the top crust. Cut decorative vents in the crust with small cookie
cutters, or just slit it in a few places with a knife.

Lay the top crust over the fruit. Crimp or flute the pastry together. You may brush the surface with a little beaten egg and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if you like.

Bake the pie for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350° F. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes longer or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

So it doesn't look all that pretty after it is baked....but it tastes good and I better win ..... I like to win....especially food related contests b/c I rock at cooking (not tooting my own horn or anything....)

Day 19: Something you miss....

Jess, My Dad, my nanny, laying around on Saturday/Sundays (no more of that with training, my metabolism from when I was a teenager (what happens to that!?!), not having ANY bills, summer, my riding boots - I can't find them anywhere!!!, my six pack...I had one once when I was 16....

What do you miss????

Day 17 and 18 plus a 9 mile run....

That's a packed blog title....it made me tired typing it.

Day 17:  WAIT - I RAN 9 FREAKIN' MILES YESTERDAY!!! (9.3 to be exact....at least that's what the Internet said)

Did I ever think I could run 9 miles...never...had you asked me 5 years ago - "Allison, how long do you think it would take you to run 9 miles?" I would have said - "9 days...maybe 10....."

I can't believe it but I'm so proud of myself.... This week I have a couple easy swims, the turkey trot on Thursday, a few bike rides, then my last long run before WHITE ROCK HALF!!! 10 miles next weekend and then it's on like donkey kong! (WATCH OUT NOW!)

Stefano over at RUN WITH THE BLACK KNIGHT is hosting a Virtual 10K race during November.

The Rules:
1. Wear something black (shoes, socks, pants, shirt or whatever you want);
2. Run 10 km in the period Nov. 8 – Nov. 28 (the 10 km can be part of a longer distance);
3. Let me know within Nov. 29th if you ran and if you wore something of black or if you mentioned it on your blog;
The winners will be announced on his Friday post (December 3rd) and gifts will be mailed as soon as possible. The awards are 2 black long sleeves shirts random and 1 shirt for the less fast time.

Hey Stefano, I did it!  SEE!!!

BEFORE (in all black - Don't mind Bill's messy bathroom)

During my run (about mile 7) I saw this gem...I appreciate the fact that this person is active and walking...but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to document the Golds Gym sauna suit.....

 After the run and not dead!

Day 17:  Something you are looking forward to

I think this calls for another list....

• Thanksgiving time with our families...good food, good wine, good family and big ole turkey coma
• Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving with Amber.... we have some super fun socks!
• My first half-marathon for obvious reasons
• Starting my strength and speed portion of my training for New Orleans 70.3
• A&M vs. t.u. on Thursday - BTHO t.u.
• 2.5 day work week
• Pie contest at work tomorrow (which reminds me I need to go to the grocery store

Day 18: Something you regret...

I regret very little...I believe the choices we make are for a reason and we may not understand that at the time the decision is made; but everything happens for a reason which leads to little belief in regret I guess. 

I do regret not having a relationship with my dad towards the end of his life.  Although he made many, many mistakes that led to us not having a relationship, I wish I could have at least told him I forgive him and that I love him.  He was a great dad despite all the things that occurred. 

I regret not staying one more hour with Jessica in the hospital the last time I saw her.... What I would give now for that one more hour.

But there is no room for regrets in our short life.  We are living on borrowed time, and as I get older I realize that more and more.  The decisions we make will have repercussions, consequences and quite often will cause the ripple effect in others lives not just our own.... so I continually strive to be more conscious of those decisions and live accordingly. 

How was your weekend? SBJ's bachelorette party was super fun and she loved the surprise..... a scrapbook from all the girls that attended chronicling her friendships with all of us. Each girl made pages and we put them together for a great gift for SBJ!

Pics to come :)

Home Sweet Home

Day 16: Your dream home

Warning: this is a picture HEAVY post.....

I could go on and on and on and on about my dream home.  The little things that I would want if money wasn't an object.  Thank you google images for the below pictures :)

# 1  - A wrap around porch.  I've always wanted a BIG wrap around porch with a porch swing, rocking chairs and other outdoor furniture with cushions you can change out during the different seasons.  I think an inviting porch sets the tone for your guests.  Seriously with a porch like this who wouldn't want to come into your house?  I think my want/need for a wrap around porch can be attributed to my southern upbringing.  Every southern belle needs a big porch right?????

# 2.  - Pristine landscaping - I would totally have to have a yard boy for this one.  I hate working in the yard... my neighbors still  mow for me currently.  BUT my dream home would have a perfectly landscaped yard...complete with in season hydrangeas and lush green grass that the future kids could play in.

# 3- A chef's kitchen.....Double ovens, range, griddle and 4-6 burners are a MUST! Sub zero fridge and freezer, built in microwave, stainless steel EVERYTHING...double dishwasher, wine fridge, I can keep going if you want.  I spend 95% of my time in the kitchen.  I love being in the kitchen, cooking, entertaining, etc.  Let's be honest, when you have a party doesn't everyone tend to gather in the kitchen?  I love to cook so a chef's kitchen is a serious dream of mine.  Like a big one....

# 4 - A slate pool.  Summers are BRUTAL in Texas.... so a pool is a definite want/need.  We would have to put up a fence around it b/c of Shakes.... he LOVES to swim and if he had a seizure and fell in the water it would be terrible.  {Yes our dog's name is Shakes and, yes, he is epileptic... I'll tell that story another day}

The pool will have a hot tub as well.........

# 5  - The Koehler Shower - a crap ton of shower heads ( I'd take one on the roof for the rain like effect too) seriously - could you ever get any cleaner?????? Look at this puppy!!!



# 6 - A whirlpool tub - Sunday's are for bath time.  I take a shower every day of the week (often twice) but Sundays are bath day; especially after a long run or bike...nothing is better than soaking in a bubble bathed tub.  (I like to shower first though....not a big fan of sitting in my own filth)  Rose petals are optional.....



# 7 - A glorious master suite.  King bed, wood floors, fire place, crown molding... you get the idea.  A retreat of some sort.  Heaven in a bedroom form.

# 8 - Media room - Bill already has an old timey popcorn machine.... I think a media room would be the perfect place for it.  Completely outfitted with a projection screen, recliners, and a beer fridge.

Other things not identified in pictures:

4 bedrooms (Master, 2 kids rooms, guest room)

A garden...that I can pick and subsequently cook from

That's it... not too much huh???

Today I have a 1/2 day at work - booya!  Bill and I are going to go for a run and then go shopping for Thanksgiving..... Excited to spend the afternoon together :)

Have a lovely weekend..... say a prayer for me as a run my 9 miler tomorrow! 

Day 15 - Half way through the challenge....

Day 15: A Bible Verse..

Oh Jeez.....I could go on and on about my favorite bible verses.  I grew up in a Southern Baptist church

with my family. Where I was expected to be in church every Wednesday night and every Sunday morning

unless I was dying or dead. Even if I spent the night at a friends house my mom and dad would either make sure I went to my friends church or they would pick me up and take me to our church. 

I was involved in "Bible Drill" - it's just like it sounds.  It's a competition in which you stand in a line (with other church goers your age) the preacher calls out a verse and you thumb through your bible until you find it and when you do land your index finger on said verse and then you step forward. {I google imaged to try and find pics but no such luck}

I made it to state one year...... true story. 

Anyhow -

I could rattle off verse after verse....BUT - my favorite (most meaningful) verse is Jeremiah 29:11

Jeremiah 29:11 I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

This was the verse that Jessica relied on while she was sick.  She knew that God had a purpose for her life.  And although, I think, her life was too short... I know that when her work was done here on this earth God called her home.  She touched many lives through death that I never though were possible.  She inspired many people while she was alive - but so many more when she passed.

I love her to pieces each day.  I miss her each day.... I continue to pray that her family find strength and peace with her passing.  17 months ago I lost my best friend, my partner in crime and the one person that literally knew EVERYTHING about me.... we had no secrets, no regrets during our friendship and I am proud to say she was my BFF.

I know not everyone is religious, spiritual or whatever.  I'm not naive enough to believe that every person on this planet will believe what I believe or believe in anything... but I hope that you have something that inspires you...that you can turn to when things are tough and find peace.  I find it in prayer everyday, I find it in conversation {sometimes out loud} with Jess.  I know she is watching over me and all her beloved..... God gained an amazing angel the day he called her home.

In other news.... today is 11.18 which means that it is the eleventh (11th) anniversary of Aggie Bonfire.  Not familiar?  Let me share....

Aggie Bonfire was a long-standing tradition at Texas A&M as part of our rivalry between UT (in Austin).  Our biggest college rival is UT (or t.u. as we call them.. because they are NOT THE University OF Texas… they are texas university … we don’t like them can you tell)

For 90 years, Aggies built and burned Bonfire on campus each fall. The annual event symbolizes all Aggie s “burning desire to beat the hell outta t.u.”,
Bonfire burned the night before the t.u. A&M football game, which traditionally was held the Friday after Thanksgiving.

A&M students, former students and the like all helped to cut, stack and burn Bonfire.  It was a thriving tradition at A&M since November 18, 1907.

On November 18, 1999 some 92 years after the first Bonfire burned, at 2:42am Bonfire collapsed.  Of the 58 students working on stack that night 12 students lost their lives and around 27 were injured.

I was not on campus at this time – as I had forgone my acceptance to A&M my freshman year to stay home (I wasn’t ready to leave); but most of my now best friends were there that night.  They have recounted to me their stories and experiences of hearing the never-ending sirens blare throughout campus and down the main drag to the hospital.  The eerie silence on campus that day which coincidentally was Aggie Ring Day (another large tradition at A&M – ask any Aggie and they will show you their Aggie Ring).  They recounted the vigil that took place for the fallen and how A&M forever changed that day.

I remember I was sitting at home folding laundry (at 3am – who does that); when I saw a breaking news story that Aggie Bonfire had fallen.  I had dated a guy in high school who was at A&M and in the Corps of Cadets.  I knew the possibility of him being out there was great – but I hadn’t talked to him in a few weeks and didn’t know when his outfit would be there.  I remember thinking “Oh God he could be there”.

I stayed up the rest of the morning as the news reports rolled in.  I tried calling all of my friends that I knew at A&M to try and get an update; but as you can imagine the phone lines were jammed packed and couldn’t get through.  At that time land lines was all we had as most of us didn’t have cell phones.

It was scary for me … but I didn’t understand the true meaning of the tradition until I was myself a student at A&M.  I finally "got" the history and tradition and all that stuff because I loved A&M but the true root of the bond that Aggies have is unreal.  I love Texas A&M and I love being an Aggie and today I will remember the 12 people who lost their lives on stack that day.  I will say a prayer for each of them along with their families.

We will never forget...

Day Something Or Other....14 I think

First of all - I ran 4 miles yesterday at a sub 10 min. mile pace...boo-ya!  I think the mid 50 degree weather is my ideal temperature.  It also felt like it was mostly downhill but whatever...it counts.  Again, let me say BOO-YA! I was super stoked....after I ran I watched Bill pitch an amazing baseball game.  Seriously he is so cute in his baseball uniform....I should have taken a picture.  Next time......

This morning was Master's Swim - I got in 1800 yds.  Not showing off - not falling behind.  I'm supposed to stay within the 1800 - 2000 yds range....  I felt strong today.  Maybe it has something to do with my good run yesterday. 

I've decided I"m going to wait on the Garmin..... I know I know but my polar is working just fine and the bike shop price is outrageous.  Thank you Lesley, Amber and Crystal for your recommendations - I'll be sure to check out those places! (Plus it gives me a reason to go to Costco)

Day 14 of the Challenge - A picture I love......

I love this picture because this was the first time Bill saw me race.  It was a great race for me but more importantly I loved crossing the finish line and seeing his face.  He gave me a BIG SWEAT HUG AND KISS and I melted instantly.  I would race everyday to see that look on his face of pride and instantly knowing that he believed in me.  I could find more pictures that I "like" better (as far as how we look) but this picture takes the cake for me.  In 2009 when we were broken up and I had started triathlon I always wished he was there.... I had waited a long time for this moment..... I love him and although being apart was probably the best thing we could have done at the time - being back together now is so wonderful.  He is my best friend, my rock, my companion, my love....I love you honey :)  Thank you for always supporting me, always believing in me (even when I don't believe in myself), always kissing hugging and telling me you love me (sweaty and non-sweaty), you are the best and I couldn't do this without you!

Goals...

I'm goal person - but I guess by this I mean I'm a list person - which can be used as goals right?  Short term goals in the form of a to-do list - yea that's me.

I love this challenge by the way - it makes me think about things that I wouldn't normally on a daily basis. 

Today:
Finish SBJ's Super Surprise
Run 4 miles
Cook Dinner
Close one new business deal (this is looking less and less attainable today)

Next Month:
Run a 1/2 marathon
Finish Christmas Shopping BEFORE Christmas Eve
Make New Year's Resolutions (Does it count to set a goal in order to set your goal?..hmmm)

Next Year:
Complete my first 70.3 distance
Run a marathon
Finish my ARM Designation


Goals without a set end date:
Get Married
Have babies
Sell house - buy new house
Buy new car
European vacation
**seems like all of the goals deal with alot of money**

I'm super stoked about my 9 miler this weekend Jason and his wife Karen are going to meet up with me at WRL and run their last 9 of 22 with little 'ole me!

Jason is a pretty cool dude; although we have never met IRL I read his blog every day (sometimes more when their are multiple posts) and am super stoked that he is organizing a bloggy meet up of DFW folks for the White Rock Marathon and 1/2 Marathon weekend.  If you are running it let me know!!!

Tomorrow: A picture I love......

Day 10, 11, 12...oops I'm a bit behind

I have a ton of catching up to do.  For one I left work early on Friday so Bill and I could head to Childress to visit Amber and her family..... which leaves a ton of un read/un responded emails.  I totally intended to blog while I was in Childress...but Amber and I ended up having so much fun it just didn't happen.  So not only do I have three days of the challenge to catch up on... I have over 100 blog posts to read and subsequently comment on.  SHEESH....

Plus this next weekend is SBJ's bachelorette party so I have a TON of things to get done for that. 

1. Shopping for decorations, plates, forks, cups, etc.... shouldn't be that difficult but it's one more thing to the to-do list.

2.  Putting together a SUPER surprise for her...she may read this so I can't go into detail.

3.  Shopping for a dress for the party

So all and all I have a lot to do.... oh yea - throw training in their too.... did I mention I have my first 1/2 marathon in 19 days? 19 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I ran 8miles this weekend... it was not easy but I did it...and I did it at a relatively nice pace.  10:15/mile.  I'll take it.  This weekend I have a 9 miler... it's scheduled for Sunday but I think I'm going to flip flop and do the run on Saturday and the bike on Sunday.  It works better for my schedule that way.

9 miles...... 9 freakin' miles....that's one loop around White Rock Lake...so if you are in Dallas - I will be chugging my ass around WRL on Saturday....feel free to join.


DAY 10:  Something you are afraid of

I'm afraid of very little to be honest. If you asked me five years ago what I was afraid of I would have said dying.  I'm not afraid of DEATH - but I would have said DYING...but considering I've lost so many people over the last few years I'm not really afraid of that anymore.

I'm not afraid of heights... I jumped out of plane once and would do it again.

I'm terrified of open water swimming.... funny since I love triathlon..... but I hate swimming in open water.

DAY 11: Favorite TV Shows.....

This is an easy post...please re-direct your browsers HERE and then add - Boardwalk Empire and East Bound and Down.

DAY 12: Something I believe in

I  believe in a lot of things…I believe that the sun will always rise and you always have a second chance to make things right. I believe that karma will bite you if you aren’t true to yourself, your friends, your family, and others. I believe that the smile tells everything. I believe in God. I believe that you can make it through anything. I believe that love makes everything better, whether that love is through friends, family, pets, significant others or anything else. I believe life is to short to worry about the petty things and I believe in me.

What do you believe in???

A friend loveth at all times......

Proverbs 17:17 was my favorite bible verse growing up: "A friend loveth at all times, but a brother is born for adversity". 

Friends have always played a HUGE role in my life.  I fully believe I came out of my mothers womb talking and smiling and making friends.  My mom always said she was worried about me as a kid b/c I didn't know a stranger.... I was THAT kid.  I was THAT teenager...and I'm THAT adult.

I love people.... People are fascinating things.  You can learn something new about ANYONE if you just listen.  Although I pride myself (and often define) myself as a "people" person - I have a fairly small group of close friends.  The people below are my girls.... I couldn't get through a day without them.  Many of them I talk to on a daily basis....seriously. 

So please let me introduce you to .....

Jessica, aka: Jess – My best friend since 7th grade.  I lost her in June 2009 to cancer.  I miss her each and everyday and wish she was here to give me advice, do lunch and all the best friend things.  We shared a sisterly bond more than a friendship bond.  She was part of my family and I was part of hers. You will read a lot about her on here as well. She continues to be an integral part of my life. I think about her constantly; remember her advice in every situation; and wish everyday she was here with me.

Here’s a pic of BFF and me on her wedding day:

Cayla - aka CAB -  the absolute best friend a girl could ask for.  We were roomies junior year when I subleased Kristin's (read about Kristin below) room.  We didn’t get along  very well but lived together for 1.5 years.  We reconnected our senior year of college and have been inseparable ever since and I wouldn’t trade her for the world.  I can tell her anything and I know she will give me her honest opinion– whether I agree or not. She genuinely has my best interest at heart and I love her more like a sister than a friend.  She is also my partner in crime in triathlons.  I am so proud of her and am so thankful God put her in my life.

CAB and Me in L.A. in January 2010

Kristin - The friend you can tell anything to, be completely stupid around, and gets my addiction to stupid tv (we watch all the same shows).  We met our sophomore year in college through one of my h.s. friends.  She was roommates with Cayla .  Over margaritas and mexican food we decided that I would go back to school, sublease her apt and be roomies with Cayla, she would move back home to work full time.  Stayed in touch throughout school but it wasn’t until a few years later we developed the friendship we have today. Her and her husband provide me with the kick in the ass, I need in times, well, when I need a kick in the ass.  I’m so thankful for K10 and don’t know what I would do without her.

GW2k10 in NOLA March 2010

Sarah aka SBJ – one of my oldest and bestest friends… she lives Tulsa…. visits occasionally and normally provides pretty good stinking advice.  She loves me and supports me.  We went through the loss of Jess in June of 2009 which made us stronger than ever.  Wet met in 8th grade…Jess, SBJ, and me were inseparable until we all went to college.  I love her dearly and truly have been through the worst parts of my life with her.  I am so proud to be standing next to her in her wedding in January 2011.

Me and SBJ June 2009

NEWBIE – (please note this is NOT her birth name) Her mom named her Jessica.  Newbie was the youngest one of the group of our girls in college and was deemed Newbie by a drunk guy on the quad…it stuck and haven’t called her anything different for ten years now.  Literally the conversation went like this… “I know you, I know you, I know you, You’re a Newbie” … and there was the beginning of never using her birth name again.  She is precious and very near and dear to me.  She has been there through so much with me and I hate she lives six hours away. Again, more like a sister than a friend….I’m lucky to be able to call her my friend!

Me and Newbie at Della's wedding July 2009


Della - aka Smella, Del - Del and I met in college and INSTANTLY became BFF.  We spent alot of time in college drinking tequila and kool-aide (gross, I know!)  She was married in July 2009 and I proudly stood next to her as I watched her marry the most PERFECT man for her...Seriously God created them for each other.  I love Della and constantly thankful for my friendship with her.  She is an amazing friend, woman and teacher and I would honestly be lost without her.

Me and Del at her rehearsal dinner - July 2009

Karen, aka KK, K-dawg etc  – We went to high school together but weren’t really “friends” until college.  She lives like literally down the street from me and we tend to be mischievous together.  She is also more like family and I just don’t know what I would do without her.  She is ALWAYS there when you need her, loyal and pretty damn funny. 

Karen and Me dressed as "Balloon Boy and Tina Turner" Halloween 2009

Amber aka..Lloyd (as in Harry and Lloyd from Dumb and Dumber), Bamber - Amber is another friend from high school.  We lost touch immediately after high school and did not reconnect until  Jessica passed away.  Now I talk to her nearly every day - I love her three kids like my own and frequently call her husband my boyfriend.  (don't judge)  This girl is killer.... I miss that we lost 10 years of our friendship but it feels like we didn't miss a beat... Can't wait to see her tonight when Bill and I head to visit her!

Amber and Me last month when she was visiting

Tomorrow Day 10: Something you're afraid of.....

Day 8

Day 8: A place I've Traveled to....

I've had the great fortune of traveling all over the U.S. for work and pleasure; with one visit to Mexico last July.  Actually I've been to Mexico three times - this last July to Cabo, when I was 18 to Matamores and when I was 23 to Tijuana (with my mom).  So I can't really count Matamores and Tijuana....they are border towns and no passport was necessary.

I loved Cabo when Bill and I went in July.  We were fortunate to have gone on a work trip for Bill so we were only responsible for our play money past $200.  His supplier gave us $200 spending money - that's alot when all you have to spend money on is souvenirs (can we high-five for all inclusive resorts?)

I can't wait for another tropical get-a-way with Bill - or a European get-a-way - or any get-a-way for that matter :)

Update: **It's now 3:48pm and I've been trying to work on this post since 8:30am.... work has been crazy!**

If I had time I would upload super fun pictures... but considering it's taken 7 hours to get three paragraphs written - you may just have to wait :)

Our Mexican vacation was tremendous - it was a wonderful time to reconnect with each other and spend some time with our Republic National family :)

Tomorrow: Day 9: A picture of your friends.... watch out now.....

Versatile Blogger Award and Day 7 of the Challenge

Mandy over at Caratunk Girl (check her out she is super cool and has a precious little pooch, Bailey!) chose me to receive the Versatile Blogger award.  THANKS MANDY YOU ROCK!!!

In an effort to keep up with the 30 day challenge - you get two posts mixed into one.... you are welcome!

Here are the rules to the award:

1. You must thank the person who gave you the award and link back to their blog. DONE :)
2. You must share 7 things about yourself. (here in lies the incorporated 30 day challenge Day 7 - see below)
3. Finally, you must pass this award along to other bloggers.  (Boo -ya - check for your tag)

30 Day Challenge Day 6 - Favorite Movies with 7 Random things about me related to such films (in no particular order)

Movie and Random Fact #1:

I secretly wanted to be Julie Andrews and to have 6 brothers and sisters... Leisel was my favorite and I still love that name.

Movie and Random Fact #2

One summer I watched this movie every day for a month.... no lie

Movie and Random Fact #3

I have a secret crush on Michael Douglas and I'm super sad he is having such a hard battle with cancer.

You should watch this movie....it's wonderful!

Movie and Random Fact  #4



A classic....

Amber and I dressed as Harry Dunne and Lloyd Christmas for a skit in our senior review show in 1999.  I'm Harry - she's Lloyd.  We even made our own shaggin' wagon out of old carpet scraps and a shopping cart from the local Sack-n-save.  True story: we got pulled over in our shopping cart.  I'll tell all about that one day.

Movie and Random Fact #5

My all time favorite Christmas movie (sorry lovers of A Christmas Story)

I still believe that every time a bell rings an angel gets their wings (*sorry for the confusion, I should note, that "every time a bell rings....is from It's a Wonderful Life... but I believe it and it's my random fact - no direct tie to Miracle which is my fav. christmas movie - besides, well, Christmas.  Thanks Christy for the clear up)

Random Fact #6: (I'm out of movies - I'm sure there are more but I'm crunched for time): I dislocated my shoulder rolling down a hill in sixth grade which inevitably led to me tearing my rotator cuff last November and having subsequent surgery last December.

Random Fact #7: I'm driving around with expired license plates - since September...oops...

Versatile Tags: (VISIT THESE PEOPLE)

Mrs. Adventure at Mrs. Adventure

EMZ at If Ican't convince you I'll at least confuse you

Amber - Girl with The Red Hair

Tressa - Training with a Track Coach and his Adorable Wife

Amy - Our Happy Married Life

Happy Hump Day y'all!!!