L.O.V.E

First of all - Welcome to my new followers :) We are up to 83 which is totally rockin' my socks off right now.  Thanks to all of you 83 who tune in and follow my random-ness :)

It's Monday - again - which instinctively blows because it's Monday.  But it also means, a new training week and one day closer to my ultimate goal NOLA 70.3....Oh yes - it's Valentine's day also.



Happy Valentines Day :)

I'm so thankful to have Bill.  I'm not typically all lovey-dovey on here.  But I am so grateful for the love and unconditional support he gives me.

He deals with me when I'm extremely grumpy - usually stemming from hunger or fatigue.  He supports me in all of my crazy ideas (#1 this 70.3), he showers me with I love yous, kisses, hugs and more laughs than you can possibly imagine.

I think that's one of the things I love most about him - his innate ability to  make me laugh until I cry or puke.  Yes I've puked because I laughed too hard.  Actually it was last week.... I was drinking water; he said something funny, I choked, spit water out of my nose and then upchucked.  It was awesome and one of my finer moments for sure.

He surprised me this morning with a pearl necklace....get your mind out of the gutter - not THAT kind.  A real extended strand, freshwater, pearl necklace that has it's own pretty little case that folds open like you see in the movies.  It is gorgeous.  I changed my outfit so I could wear it today.  It is amazing..... he always picks up on the little things.  I had mentioned once that I wanted a longer pearl necklace b/c the one I have was my grandmothers and it's almost choker style.... he remembers which is also another reason why I love him.

We are going out to dinner tonight after we workout.  I have to swim 2500yds and he has weights and cardio.  My weight training is getting done during lunch so we can finish at approximately the same time at the gym, shower, and head to dinner.

In case you are wondering, I surprised him yesterday with his present.  I had our friend come over and hang the TV on the wall in the living room.  We bought a new TV right after the holidays (55inch 3D LCD) ... it looks great on the wall and makes the sound so much better.  Amazing what a little lift can do.  He was so surprised when we got home yesterday from my nephew's bday ... stunned actually.  It was great to see his face.

His 30th is on Friday - I can't wait to celebrate :)

In training news:

I had a great training week this week.  This was the first time we've stepped up my running since WR b/c of the issues I was having with my shin/calf.  I ran like the wind last night in my six miler.  In 1 hour and 1 min. I ran a hilly six miles through North Dallas.  I felt a little tight last night in my shin and IT band but did some stretching and felt good this morning.

Saturday was a BRICK (biking and running in combination) workout.  20ish mile bike ride and then a 2 mile run.  I rocked it.  Bill thought so to and treated me to our favorite Greek place for dinner (Zorba's) and then we went and saw The King's Speech. (go see it - it is a great movie).  I didn't have popcorn or soda either.....or butterfingers...which are my true weakness....along with Reese's peanut butter cups.  I like candy can you tell?

Like I said today is weights/core at lunch then swimming tonight....and then a night on the town with my honey....wine will be included :)

What are you doing for Valentines Day? Training, spending it with loved ones, trying to forget it's Valentines?????

showing off....

I wore my new cowboy boots to work today....
Thanks Mom for a totally AWESOME Christmas present



Also I totally forgot to mention that I got This baby for Christmas too...Remember HERE?
I have a totally rockin' boyfriend who knows exactly how to make me happy!



That's it for now...... working on another post but it maybe for tomorrow.

4 mile easy run tonight :)

Looking backward, forward and inward.....

As 2011 is on the horizon I'm sure it is to bring many great accomplishments for you and for me.  I have been thinking A LOT the past few days about 2011 and what I really want to accomplish...... As most people do, I  make resolutions that I probably have a 50/50 shot of keeping.....

I make more than I know is feasibly possible so when I cross off 50% of them on my list I can actually feel like I attained something...rather than making two and keeping true to one...make sense?

Looking backward in 2010 it was a significant year of growth for me; personally, athletically, and professionally.

Personally

Bill and I found our way back to one another, and all though, the road has not been "smooth" over the past 12 months it is sure to be paving out nicely now.  Like every other relationship that is "rebuilding" we have our ups and downs - but we are in a good place and continue to grow together.


I continue to grieve the loss of my best friend, Jessica.  She was truly my heart and soul...it may sound weird to say that about a best friend, but she knew me better than anyone.  I miss her everyday and still cope with the fact that in our earthly world I will not see her again.  It is a struggle every day when I think of her......but it also puts an enormous smile on my face.  To have something make you so sad yet so happy all in one breath is something I can not explain.

My relationship with my family has grown tremendously over the last 12 months.  I love my family and without them; well I wouldn't be here.  They continue to support me in every decision I make and are always my biggest fan.

Of course, it wouldn't be a good post without mentioning all of you!  My blog has been a tremendous avenue for meeting (virtually) new friends that support me and continue to be non-judgmental.  It is a brave act to put yourself out on the web; and with that comes the opportunity for criticism.  I think I have the best readers in the world..... you never judge, you always listen, and I appreciate all the sweet sweet comments and emails you send.

I know I have been horrible (HORRIBLE!) about commenting lately on YOUR blogs, but I do read every day and I promise to comment more in 2011 :)



Professionally

I changed careers in July 2010 and it was by far the best decision I have made in my professional life.  The opportunities I have at my new company widely surpass those of the past.  I found out today I am getting a bonus on 1.7.2011 - that can't come fast enough!

Athletically

Where do I start here?  Although my race count isn't very high this year I have made LEAPS AND BOUNDS in endurance, stamina, and believing in myself.  I never thought I would run a half marathon or have the desire to complete a Half-Ironman; but low and behold I have finished the half marathon and well on my way to achieving the half-ironman.  I have met so many amazing people through my multi-sport lifestyle as well as my blogging, I'm so appreciative for each and every one of you.  You let me share my neurotic, random, rambling stories - post un-Godly amount of pictures, and just accept this blog for what it is - me on paper.

In 2010 - I PR'd a 5K, 10K, 15K and a half marathon.  I made huge strides on biking capabilities and even larger strides on my running.

I look forward to 1,000 mile challenge in 2011 with Tall Mom - Hoping I can get a jump start over the first 4 months with my 70.3 training.

All - in - all 2010 has been one HELL OF A YEAR.

What do you want your 2011 to look like?  You can mold, shape, dream it to be anything you want it to be....

Semi-Wordless Christmas......

It's been crazy around here.... I'm on vacation this week which totally rocks my socks off.  I love not having anything to do this week besides take the Christmas tree down and clean up around the house.  I can sleep in (and not feel guilty), play with my pups, and workout whenever I want to.  Oh yes and make sure dinner is ready when Bill gets home from the gym :)

Christmas was awesome at the compound!  Shall we review in pictures?  They speak louder than words anyway...

Kaylee and Cooper Making Christmas Cookies

 The table set up

 Coop helping me make the cheesecake

A good glass of cab

 homemade oreo truffles - by yours truly!

 My mommy and me!

 Lyla picking up crumbs

 A 17 pound, 7 rib, bone in prime rib - DELICIOUS! Marinated Christmas Eve...consumed Christmas Day!

 The spread on Christmas Eve

 Oh yes there was wine...

 Opening the goods...

 My sisters!

 Youngest niece Shelby (terrible pic of me)

 Shelby got a new gymnastics outfit from Kaylee

Freeze Dance Tag!

 The gang (minus Bill he was working)

 Coop and Shelby

 Me and my oldest niece Kaylee

My precious little loves

 My three little loves in our Christmas PJ's.

 The girls...

 Tracking Santa...

 All of the crazies...

 Part of Christmas morning...

 21 stockings were hung by the fire..... (all animals included...dogs, horses, etc)

 Coop was giving Bill a back massage...

 Me and my Pappy

 Pappy, Kaylee, and Coop

Who will get the wish from the wishbone?

 Christmas day...

And my favorite of Shelby........ Instead of saying Cheese....she was saying yelling "DONUTS!!!"

Christmas Traditions

Now that I'm not feeling like death.... I can actually look forward to the next two days of Christmas festivities!

This is my ABSOLUTE favorite time of year!

Today we are out early from work - which is GREAT considering I have one lingering Christmas present to purchase..... once I get that completed it's home to wrap all the gifts.

We have the same routine every year for Christmas...... Christmas Eve I spend the day at my mom's house helping her cook and get ready for family that comes over on Christmas Eve night.  Bill works all day and all night (until 9pm - people like to buy liquor on Christmas Eve) and then he joins us for our traditional drink/eat fest at The Compound.

I should explain The Compound....

The Compound is my mom's house....the house I grew up in..... we have 20 acres in the middle of the city.  When I was growing up - it was a two lane dirt road and you didn't come out there if you weren't coming specifically to our house.

It was an awesome place to grow up... my grandparents lived next door.  I had horses, cows, pigs, chickens.... it was all country but still close to the city.

Now the city has built up around us.  We still have all of our land (including the cows, horses, chickens, goats, etc) but the road that used to be dirt is now four lanes and paved.  There is HUGE community activity center across the street, fully equipped with baseball and softball fields.

Currently my mom, one sister, her husband, their two kids live in one house.... my grandpa and a family friend live in the other. = THE COMPOUND.

It's one of my favorite places to be....with my family.

Christmas Eve we always go there. My mom has made a ton of food - the wine is flowing and we get to open one present.  It's ALWAYS our Christmas PJ's.  Usually matching...but not this year...this year they are "coordinated"....

We sit around drink, laugh, and have an all around good time.  Bill and I spend the night over there and do Christmas morning with the kiddos and then head to his brother's that night.

What are your Christmas traditions?

Now off to finish work, finish Christmas shopping, hopefully work out, and start a mayhem of wrapping......

Monday Giveaway!

Happy Monday Y'all!

I woke up yesterday morning with NO VOICE! AHHH - I've been sick all weekend and yesterday my throat said "THAT' ENOUGH"......... So here I am today with no voice at all.... Bill likes it.  He hopes that I do not get my voice back for sometime - he gets tired of hearing "Honey, can you help me?" haha!

So as promised - I have a SUPER fun giveaway for you today!  MY VERY FIRST GIVEAWAY at that!

My awesome PSIL (Pseudo sister-in-law) Kristi owns her own sewing business, Kristi Kelly Designs (blog); Kristi Kelly (Etsy).  She started sewing 5 years ago when she began staying at home with her oldest daughter Kyndall.  Kristi can make anything - seriously - anything!

Yesterday at our family Christmas her girls, Kyndall and Avery, gave me a very cute apron that their mommy made for me - fully equipped with my name monogrammed on it.  I LOVE IT - and I had I not rushed around like a crazy person this morning I would have taken a picture of it - but since I always rush around like a crazy person - you don't get a picture of it today.  So sorry.... but I'll be sure to have Bill take one of one tonight when I bake like a mad woman.

Last year she made aprons and chefs hats for all my nieces and nephews.  They all still wear them when they help out in the real and pretend kitchens.  Seriously - they are so cute! 

I had Kristi make six key chains for me for my college girls for Christmas.  She made each one unique and monogrammed each girls name on the chain.  Della had a great idea that she is going to double hers as a luggage tag!  Dual purpose - I like it!

Kristi has graciously provided TWO Key Chains for me to giveaway on here to TWO LUCKY WINNERS!  and to make the deal that much sweeter, I have two $5 gift cards to Starbucks for those winners as well.  (don't judge the amount - it's a recession people - and Starbucks isn't sponsoring THIS giveaway - haha!)

*monogramming will not be available on these two that are being given away - but monogramming is available on any that you order*

 

The Down-Lo:

Giveaway will run through 12 midnight Central Time on Sunday December 26.  Winner will be chosen utilizing Random.org on Monday December 27.
MANDATORY -

• Be or become a follower of this blog - leave a comment
• Visit Kristi's blog/etsy shop - look around - leave a comment telling me something you think is SUPER cute or that you would like.

OPTIONAL -

• Become a follower of Kristi's Blog - leave a comment (+1 additional entry)
• Purchase something from Kristi - leave a comment telling me what you purchased (+5 additional entries)
• Leave a comment telling me what Starbucks drink you would get with your gift card (+1 additional entry)
• Blog, tweet, facebook, etc about this giveaway - leave a comment telling me you did so (+1 additional entry)

That's 10 total chances to win!!!

And just because I'm narcissistic - My wrapping choice this holiday season for presents...

Jolliest bunch.......

I passed my test!  I heart immediate results... it really works well for that small trait of "instant gratification" that rears it's head in my life sometimes.

3 days of cramming was just enough to pass my first of three exams for my designation.  I signed up today for my second and should have my official professional designation of ARM by June.  Boo-ya.

I went home yesterday and checked my mail.... you know what I found?  All the yummy goodies I've won on blogs lately. 

I got this....

So excited to wear it to work on Friday :)

and it came with a free one of these....

LOVE REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS!!!!
and this.....

I was planning on starting the two week challenge prior to 2011 but since I know I'm going to be naughty over the holidays I figure it's a great way to enter 2011.  So January 4 I'll start my two week challenge with Amazing Grass.  I can't wait to try it!


Since I've been soooo lucky to win a few fun giveaways over the last few weeks - I'm going to offer a giveaway to YOU on MONDAY!!!!  (just note - it's not athletic in nature)

Training related:

I rode bikes with Cayla and Jason on Saturday.  Although I finished the 32 miles smiling I was secretly cussing (as were my quads).  It was a GREAT ride for hill work but the weather was a beast and let's just say I'm not fashionably prepared for cold cycling weather.  I mean today it's 75 degrees.... I have a hard time spending $1,000's of dollars on outside cycling gear when we get a total of like 15 seriously cold days.  That's why I bought my trainer.........

Anyway - I was proud of myself for the ride and Jason was an awesome ride leader.  He didn't ever give up on me....and my serious lack of ability to climb hills at a steady pace.  Thanks for the ride Jason - looking forward to the next!

I skipped my run on Sunday and my bike/swim on Monday due to studying.  Yesterday I hopped on the treadmill for an easy 3 mile run... killed it by the way (in my terms) and then Bill and I went to dinner to celebrate the passing grade of my exam.  Zorba's... my favorite :)

This morning I went to Master's Swim at 5 and got in 2,000 yds.  It felt great - actually one of my better swims lately.  Coach is doing underwater filming over the next few weeks and I'm excited to get my turn.  I'm sure my form is horrendous but I guess that's what filming is for right.....

Tonight I have our broker/client Christmas Party - so I'm looking forward to kicking back and relaxing with a nice glass of Pinot Noir.  Yummy -

In other news.....

My favorite Christmas card so far this year..... Our friend's kids.... but the quote is the best part.....

"We're all in this together.  We're gonna press on on, and we're gonna have the hap, hap, hap, happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby tap-danced with Danny f-ing Kaye.  And when Santa squeezes his fat white ass down that chimney tonight, he's gonna find the jolliest bunch of assholes this side of the nuthouse." - Clark Griswold

Seriously - I love these friends of ours :)

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!