Things have been rollin' along around here at Tri and Finish.... We started our week(s) of travel.... Want to see what it looks like??
I was gone Tuesday/Wednesday in OK for work, came home last night (Wed) we leave tomorrow (Fri) for Houston for a baseball tournament...return home Sunday.
Following Wed (July 6) Bill leaves for a work trip to TN - the Jack Daniel's Distillery...rough work trip I know... and I leave Friday (July 8) for MS for my Aunt and Uncle's 50th wedding anniversary party. Bill will meet me there on Saturday (July 9) and we return home Sunday (July 10).
I leave Monday (July 11) for Wilmington, DE for work and will not be home until Thursday (July 14) - then I have a tri on July 17 ... I'm tired just typing that.....
Have you missed me?? I've been kind of MIA on here (not just posting, but commenting too - but trust me I've been reading...can we say lurker??) and on Twitter.... but you know what, LIFE is CYCLICAL and you have to ROLL with the punches...
I have a HUGE idea in my head right now - that's really really really really really really really really hard to keep secret - but I can't let it out JUST yet... in case you know it doesn't come to fruition... but think of an epic idea and times it by 100.......not that I can take credit for the WHOLE idea b/c I can't .. .but darn skippy it's a good one....
Trying to get back on track to regularly blogging (and blogging about good stuff)..... training is semi-halted right now just b/c of the schedule. Oh - yes - I didn't tell you....
I'm in the process right now of getting on board with Lifetime Fitness as a cycle instructor AND the Cycle Club coordinator. Which would mean 1 indoor class per week (maybe 2) and then 1 outdoor ride per week. I'm super excited about it and I hope it all works out - I think I will love putting my passion into a paid (albeit small) position....what a way to earn some extra cash though :)
So as you can see - things are movin' and groovin' over here... house is still on the market... grrrrrrrr...
and I'm counting down the days until we go here:
approx. 75ish days......
ALOHA!!
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
Foto Friday
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| The new ride.... sorry for terrible pic |
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| The inside....front (it has two more rows of seating....can we say Mom car??) |
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| Kitchen painting project.... It started lime green and was painted the khaki color on the right |
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| Finished.... |
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| Anna even made my chalkboard wall cute :) |
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| Breakfast area |
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| a triathlete's cup holder.... two bottles of water, honeymilk, power crunch bar and body spray! |
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| Ran this morning at 6:30am with Courtney.... I love my 4all for Jofit running skirt I won from Karen and my CEP socks I won from Felice over at Happy Runner |
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| My favorite post run treat/second breakfast!!! |
Monday, May 2, 2011
Confession Monday
- I was so overwhelmed last week with over 500 posts unread in my google reader - I hit "mark all as read"..... I've never done that before...but I started fresh today with 153...I will get through them
- I took a starbucks coffee into a wedding on Saturday - I was exhausted..... the wedding lasted one hour and twenty minutes - my guilt subsided when I realized had I not had that coffee I would have surely fallen asleep and snored...and THAT would be embarassing
- I slept through Masters Swim today b/c I was up too late watching the news on Osama bin laden's death.....
- I laughed last night when fox news made a typo on their ticker and instead of OSama bin laden it said OBama bin laden..... freudian slip
- We watched Little Fockers last night - definetly the worst of the triology
- I only worked out twice last week.... need.to.get.my.groove.back
- I started this post at 9:40am - it is now 4:53pm
- I started mixing a box of what I thought was brownies last night - it ended up being a cake - I was disappointed when I took it out of the oven and realized it....but I ate a piece anyway (and some of the batter)
- I really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really want a new car
- I really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really need to sell my house first
- I really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really want you to buy my house
- I really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really love my new curling wand!!!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
NOLA by numbers
947: race number for NOLA70.3
69.1: actual miles completed on 4.17.11
617.84: number of miles on Dolce during training
268.05: number of miles ran during training
30: number of miles swum during training
4: number of miles walked (Jess’ Brain Tumor Walk)
2: number of half marathons completed during training (3 if you include race day)
Immeasurable: memories over the last 29 weeks
597: number of blogs that remain unread in my Google reader
53: mile at which I wanted off my bike immediately
12: mile on run which I met Lori (more to come)
3: number of people that came to NOLA to support me
Countless: number of people that supported me from home
2: number of hand grenades I had on Bourbon Street after NOLA70.3
4: time my alarm went off on race day
1,400: number of miles driven to, around and back home from NOLA
1: number of plane crashes that occurred on the bike course less than 24 hours prior to race
2,000+: number of racers at NOLA70.3
2,000+: number of racers that were pissed the swim was cancelled at NOLA70.3
2: number of tennis shoes worn out during training
1: number of bike shoes worn out during training
763: estimated number of single socks I have sitting at my house at any given period
120: pounds at which I feel I would look somewhat acceptable in spandex
18: number of dollars I paid to spray tan prior to NOLA70.3 – tan chub is hotter than pasty chub
53: number of dollars spent at the NOLA70.3 expo
10: number of dollars spent on a kick ass polo that was on sale at the expo
4: number of water bottles taken to NOLA
5: number of water bottles that came home to Dallas with me from NOLA
89: average dollars spent per night at our hotel - thank you priceline
2: number of NOLA police officers I almost took out during mile 11 of the run – by “take out” I mean beat up.
9: number of race pictures I actually like from NOLA70.3
6:44 – hours/minutes it took me to complete 69.1 miles
**Race report coming soon - with LOTS of pics; you know how I roll***
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Random thoughts....
- 37 days until NOLA..... this isn't really random as it stays in the forefront of my brain about 99.9999999% of the time. Including when I sleep, eat, work, watch tv, go to the bathroom, workout, read, drink a beer, shower, etc
- I was inspired Jim's (50after40) mantra - "Be Great Today" - so today I was great - I ran 4 miles at lunch (no worries I showered)
- I'm really freakin' hungry and because I was great and ran at lunch I don't have time to run out and get anything. Since I sucked and slept in and didn't run this morning I didn't have time to pack anything; which means I'm stuck with four icky choices for lunch. The crap deli across the way from my building, the other crap deli down the way from my building, the crap pizza place across the street or the overpriced Japanese place across the street....none of which sound appetizing at all.
- Bill's going to the Maverick game tonight..... in a suite....I'm a little jealous
- BUT b/c I'm not going I'll be able to get in my hour trainer ride....and catch up on Survivor and Brothers&Sisters.
- I will be exhausted when he comes home....he will be full of good food and beer.
- One of my best friend's from college Grandma died Tuesday - her funeral is tomorrow and I'm sad. She was the sweetest lady and best pseudo-grandma ever. We will miss you Grandma Jane.
- That same friend just told me she is pregnant - she is due Oct. 21 and I'm super excited for her!
- Cayla and I are going to Austin this weekend..... Her 30th bday is tomorrow so be sure you follow her on Twitter (@cayalaann03) and wish her a happy birthday. If you follow her you will be able to read her crazy work stories...she is a high school assistant principal and always had good stories.
- I had another showing at my house yesterday...no feedback yet - but hope to hear some today
- The first showing feedback was:
- My kitchen is too "loud" - as in too green....it's paint - it's easily changed.
- The kitchen could be "upgraded" - I'm not sure what else she wants but I have brand new appliances, a new sink, a pretty kick ass faucet, ceramic tile, large amounts of cabinet space, an eat in breakfast area AND a good size pantry. Besides granite counter tops it isn't missing anything.
- The yard is overgrown - it was a LITTLE high - but it was scheduled to be mowed today anyway.
- I'm too emotionally attached to my house and need to remove my emotions out of it.
- this is hard to do.
- Pics from my house... I'll take more (and different ones to show all rooms) but these are from the listing:
- I have no idea how to read a course elevation map.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
ABC, 123.....
I was going to write two open letters to two different women I saw at the gym this morning - BUT I just read Lesley's post and she basically called me a loser.... I don't want to be a loser... I strive to be "one of the cool kids" - For instance, the cupcake marathon.... all the cool kids are doing it..in fact 150 cool kids are signed up for it - you should too...and buy a shirt!
So without further adue - as if you care to know random things about me..... I give you...... the ABC's of me
(A) Age: 29.... until June 22.....
(B) Bed Size: KING! I never thought I wanted a bed that big until Bill got one...now I love it... we can suuggle up or stay on our own sides...it is sleep perfection.
(C) Chore You Hate: Cleaning bathrooms....ICK!
(D) Dogs?: 3 - Shakes (8), Deuce (almost 7) and Lyla (1 1/2 - we think)
(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: toothbrush & toothpaste
(F) Favorite Color: For clothes: Black - for nails: pink - for shoes: any
(G) Gold or Silver? I prefer silver - but my fav piece of jewelry so far is gold (my aggie ring)
(H) Height: 5'5 but I like to pretend I'm taller with really high heels during the work week
(I) Instruments You Play: ah-hem; I fake played the flute in sixth grade...other than that I brief stint with the recorder in elementary school and minor role in handbell choir at church during elementary. My musical talent is limited to downloading music to my ipod.
(J) Job Title: Production Underwriter
(K) Kids: YES PLEASE! As in I love them, I want them one day - but for now my neices and nephew suffice my need for babies
(L) Live: Dallas, Texas
(M) Mom's Name: Patti, Patti-Kay, Patti-Kakes, Patti-Mayonaise...... oh and mom, mommy, and mother.
(N) Nicknames: Al, Allie, Allie-cat, tri-al, fal-lison (don't ask Cayla gave me this one)
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? none that I know of
(P) Pet Peeve: people not turning in the right hand lane
(Q) Quote from a Movie: "if you don't have anything nice to say then come sit by me" - Steel Magnolias
(R) Right or Left Handed? Right all the way
(S) Siblings: 2 sisters, Anna and Paige - 2 brother's in love - Randy and Nick
(T) Time You Wake Up? Depends on the day - somedays 4:30am, somedays 5:30am and somedays 6:30am...
(U) Underwear: most of the time
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: green beans out of a can
(W) What Makes You Run Late: stress, inability to fit a workout in during normal hours
(X) X-Rays You've Had Done: starting from the head and going down. teeth (multiple), shoulder (multiple), knee, ankle, and toe
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: everything! I love love love to cook - being in the kitchen is one of my most favorite places...besides the beach
(Z) Zoo, Favorite Animal: I really don't like the zoo.... I know; sue me.
So without further adue - as if you care to know random things about me..... I give you...... the ABC's of me
(A) Age: 29.... until June 22.....
(B) Bed Size: KING! I never thought I wanted a bed that big until Bill got one...now I love it... we can suuggle up or stay on our own sides...it is sleep perfection.
(C) Chore You Hate: Cleaning bathrooms....ICK!
(D) Dogs?: 3 - Shakes (8), Deuce (almost 7) and Lyla (1 1/2 - we think)
(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: toothbrush & toothpaste
(F) Favorite Color: For clothes: Black - for nails: pink - for shoes: any
(G) Gold or Silver? I prefer silver - but my fav piece of jewelry so far is gold (my aggie ring)
(H) Height: 5'5 but I like to pretend I'm taller with really high heels during the work week
(I) Instruments You Play: ah-hem; I fake played the flute in sixth grade...other than that I brief stint with the recorder in elementary school and minor role in handbell choir at church during elementary. My musical talent is limited to downloading music to my ipod.
(J) Job Title: Production Underwriter
(K) Kids: YES PLEASE! As in I love them, I want them one day - but for now my neices and nephew suffice my need for babies
(L) Live: Dallas, Texas
(M) Mom's Name: Patti, Patti-Kay, Patti-Kakes, Patti-Mayonaise...... oh and mom, mommy, and mother.
(N) Nicknames: Al, Allie, Allie-cat, tri-al, fal-lison (don't ask Cayla gave me this one)
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? none that I know of
(P) Pet Peeve: people not turning in the right hand lane
(Q) Quote from a Movie: "if you don't have anything nice to say then come sit by me" - Steel Magnolias
(R) Right or Left Handed? Right all the way
(S) Siblings: 2 sisters, Anna and Paige - 2 brother's in love - Randy and Nick
(T) Time You Wake Up? Depends on the day - somedays 4:30am, somedays 5:30am and somedays 6:30am...
(U) Underwear: most of the time
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: green beans out of a can
(W) What Makes You Run Late: stress, inability to fit a workout in during normal hours
(X) X-Rays You've Had Done: starting from the head and going down. teeth (multiple), shoulder (multiple), knee, ankle, and toe
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: everything! I love love love to cook - being in the kitchen is one of my most favorite places...besides the beach
(Z) Zoo, Favorite Animal: I really don't like the zoo.... I know; sue me.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Surprises and Swimming
Currently my laptop has burned the inside of my leg b/c I am catching up on 296 blog posts. Yes 296. I haven't read a blog in quite some time. Last week at work was crazy (we closed our month on Thursday) and then Friday the peeps started rolling in for Bill's surprise party.
I couldn't mention anything on here b/c if Bill read it then the surprise would have been a bust - but for the last month I have been secretly planning a kick ass surprise party for him at our house...fully equipped with 30 of our closest friends and family, catering, drinks, and debauchery.
We had an awesome time and Bill was so very surprised. It warmed my heart when he was genuinely surprised and not just surprised as to not hurt my feelings. I was so busy during the party I didn't take any pictures so I don't have any to share on here....but it was full of this...
If there is one in your area you should hit it up immediately. This little taco shop started in Ft. Worth next to the campus of TCU and has now franchised and expanded into six states other than Texas. Delicious.
As for training - last week was an epic fail. After my terrible swim on Monday I rode my trainer twice (once on Tuesday and once on Wednesday) and the rest of the week was a bust. Seriously bad. But maybe a few rest days was what I needed. Today I went to the gym and banged out 2600yds in the pool with 1600 yds of that being a self imposed mile time trial. 42:22 was my mile time. I'm ok with that. I believe if I keep that pace in NOLA I should be able to meet my goal of one hour in the water.
I've been thinking about my goals for NOLA lately. So far I've set my swim goal......bike and run are still TBD.
Tomorrow I'm traveling for work to New Mexico (Albuquerque and Santa Fe) and then it's back home Wednesday/Thursday and then it's back out of town Friday for a wedding.
We have 4 weddings so far this year --- 3 of which we have to travel for.
It was natural that since training was an epic fail that blogging would be too. So my blog fell off the radar last week. I'm back - so don't fret.
I'm enjoying the rest of my day off today for President's Day and gettin' my hair did.
Off to get the roots died so I don't look like hooker....
I couldn't mention anything on here b/c if Bill read it then the surprise would have been a bust - but for the last month I have been secretly planning a kick ass surprise party for him at our house...fully equipped with 30 of our closest friends and family, catering, drinks, and debauchery.
We had an awesome time and Bill was so very surprised. It warmed my heart when he was genuinely surprised and not just surprised as to not hurt my feelings. I was so busy during the party I didn't take any pictures so I don't have any to share on here....but it was full of this...
If there is one in your area you should hit it up immediately. This little taco shop started in Ft. Worth next to the campus of TCU and has now franchised and expanded into six states other than Texas. Delicious.
As for training - last week was an epic fail. After my terrible swim on Monday I rode my trainer twice (once on Tuesday and once on Wednesday) and the rest of the week was a bust. Seriously bad. But maybe a few rest days was what I needed. Today I went to the gym and banged out 2600yds in the pool with 1600 yds of that being a self imposed mile time trial. 42:22 was my mile time. I'm ok with that. I believe if I keep that pace in NOLA I should be able to meet my goal of one hour in the water.
I've been thinking about my goals for NOLA lately. So far I've set my swim goal......bike and run are still TBD.
Tomorrow I'm traveling for work to New Mexico (Albuquerque and Santa Fe) and then it's back home Wednesday/Thursday and then it's back out of town Friday for a wedding.
We have 4 weddings so far this year --- 3 of which we have to travel for.
It was natural that since training was an epic fail that blogging would be too. So my blog fell off the radar last week. I'm back - so don't fret.
I'm enjoying the rest of my day off today for President's Day and gettin' my hair did.
Off to get the roots died so I don't look like hooker....
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
I could get used to this....
Staying home that is......
Spinach and Feta stuffed Chicken with roasted asparagus and quinoa for dinner..... delicious :)
I LOVE FOOD!!!!
Full update tomorrow - early swim in the a.m. with a dear dear friend!
Spinach and Feta stuffed Chicken with roasted asparagus and quinoa for dinner..... delicious :)
I LOVE FOOD!!!!
Full update tomorrow - early swim in the a.m. with a dear dear friend!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Thank you for laughing at my sinus' and phallic math humor yesterday....seriously it means a lot. :)
I'm feeling almost normal today..... I actually slept last night (and subsequently so did Bill)...waking up rested and finally feeling like I'm on the road to recovery is a wonderful thing.
I started thinking last night about my race schedule in 2011. I only have two events planned for sure - the Rock and Roll Half In March and then NOLA 70.3 in April. I signed up for the 12 races in 12 months challenge (interested, you can click here) - so last night I was like, "I better start finding me some races!"
So I have started making a tentative race schedule for 2011 - Actually it only includes the two races named above plus a 15k in January. - I'm 1/4 of the way there......
I wanted to shout out to new followers of the blog - in just a few days I've had like 6 new followers. That rocks :) Thanks y'all!!!
I'm hoping to be back on the wagon tomorrow for training. I've missed a lot lately and it's just not sitting right with me. This time of year is so hard - busy schedules, cold weather (except yesterday), etc makes it hard to get motivated. A couch with a blanket, hot chocolate and movies sounds way better. Alas, I will train and I will rock out in New Orleans on April 17.
I would like to take one more day off (today) before trying to get back in the swing of working out. Since this yuck-i-ness moved into my chest I would rather be safe than sorry and not push it too much.
Back to work for me.... I'm sooo ready for vacation next week!
I'm feeling almost normal today..... I actually slept last night (and subsequently so did Bill)...waking up rested and finally feeling like I'm on the road to recovery is a wonderful thing.
I started thinking last night about my race schedule in 2011. I only have two events planned for sure - the Rock and Roll Half In March and then NOLA 70.3 in April. I signed up for the 12 races in 12 months challenge (interested, you can click here) - so last night I was like, "I better start finding me some races!"
So I have started making a tentative race schedule for 2011 - Actually it only includes the two races named above plus a 15k in January. - I'm 1/4 of the way there......
I wanted to shout out to new followers of the blog - in just a few days I've had like 6 new followers. That rocks :) Thanks y'all!!!
I'm hoping to be back on the wagon tomorrow for training. I've missed a lot lately and it's just not sitting right with me. This time of year is so hard - busy schedules, cold weather (except yesterday), etc makes it hard to get motivated. A couch with a blanket, hot chocolate and movies sounds way better. Alas, I will train and I will rock out in New Orleans on April 17.
I would like to take one more day off (today) before trying to get back in the swing of working out. Since this yuck-i-ness moved into my chest I would rather be safe than sorry and not push it too much.
Back to work for me.... I'm sooo ready for vacation next week!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Wednesday Funnies....
So today is super busy at work.... I started at the office at 8, then headed to Ft. Worth for a meeting, back to the Medical District for lunch with a client, now I'm at the office and in a short 15 minutes I'm out again for another meeting downtown.
Oh and yes - I started my day at 4:30am for Master's Swim (which was an awesome workout by the way)
So since I don't have much time for a post, or comments on all of YOUR lovely posts....
I leave you with a sign I saw yesterday at a sushi restaurant downtown across the street from one of my client's office's. Sorry for the blurry pic - I took it on the move......
Notice anything????
Oh and yes - I started my day at 4:30am for Master's Swim (which was an awesome workout by the way)
So since I don't have much time for a post, or comments on all of YOUR lovely posts....
I leave you with a sign I saw yesterday at a sushi restaurant downtown across the street from one of my client's office's. Sorry for the blurry pic - I took it on the move......
Notice anything????
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Pictures to come this evening.....
I had really good intentions of posting pictures last night; but after a 6pm massage I crawled up on the couch with Bill, fajitas and whiskey and diet coke and called it a night.
I've been really good about not drinking...I've tried really really hard to eat clean (except for maybe my one or two trips to Yogurtville) and stay away from the booze. I rewarded myself last night with a whiskey and diet coke. It tasted like I imagine Heaven will feel. Delicious! (Please don't judge that I compared alcohol to heaven)
Sooo - pictures will be up tonight. There aren't that many; I'm probably just getting your hopes up but I love pictures (taking them and looking at them and being in them) so I hope you will enjoy them.
I'm super excited because I have won a few giveaways lately! I won Holly (Rustbelt Runner) Running Chics giveaway and I'm super excited because it totally fits that I just finished my half! Check out Running Chics when you have a free minute to click around. They have some pretty sweet stuff and since it's the holiday season you can surely find things to add to your wish list (or purchase for your wives, girlfriends, fiance's, etc)
I also won Molly's (I'm a sleeper baker) Amazing Grass Giveaway! I'm super excited to take the two week challenge! This would require me going to my house to check my mail - I haven't done that in almost a week. But no worries - I'll be headed home this evening to pick up some work stuff and check my mail - Hopefully I can start the challenge next Monday!
Other than that I'm feeling amazing today! Back to walking like a normal person - my knees/shins feel great and I'm excited about a recovery run tomorrow. Now it's on to visualize the big end goal for me; NOLA 70.3!
I took down my countdown timer to White Rock and replaced it with the NOLA countdown.... I can't believe it - it will be here before I know it.
Time to get serious about those swims and bikes I've been putting off to focus on the run for WR... it's go time and I've got it!
Happy Tuesday and don't forget to check out giveaways that are going on ----> over there on my side bar :)
I've been really good about not drinking...I've tried really really hard to eat clean (except for maybe my one or two trips to Yogurtville) and stay away from the booze. I rewarded myself last night with a whiskey and diet coke. It tasted like I imagine Heaven will feel. Delicious! (Please don't judge that I compared alcohol to heaven)
Sooo - pictures will be up tonight. There aren't that many; I'm probably just getting your hopes up but I love pictures (taking them and looking at them and being in them) so I hope you will enjoy them.
I'm super excited because I have won a few giveaways lately! I won Holly (Rustbelt Runner) Running Chics giveaway and I'm super excited because it totally fits that I just finished my half! Check out Running Chics when you have a free minute to click around. They have some pretty sweet stuff and since it's the holiday season you can surely find things to add to your wish list (or purchase for your wives, girlfriends, fiance's, etc)
I also won Molly's (I'm a sleeper baker) Amazing Grass Giveaway! I'm super excited to take the two week challenge! This would require me going to my house to check my mail - I haven't done that in almost a week. But no worries - I'll be headed home this evening to pick up some work stuff and check my mail - Hopefully I can start the challenge next Monday!
Other than that I'm feeling amazing today! Back to walking like a normal person - my knees/shins feel great and I'm excited about a recovery run tomorrow. Now it's on to visualize the big end goal for me; NOLA 70.3!
I took down my countdown timer to White Rock and replaced it with the NOLA countdown.... I can't believe it - it will be here before I know it.
Time to get serious about those swims and bikes I've been putting off to focus on the run for WR... it's go time and I've got it!
Happy Tuesday and don't forget to check out giveaways that are going on ----> over there on my side bar :)
Friday, November 19, 2010
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.
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!
Labels:
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tv addiction,
weekend
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
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!
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!
Labels:
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Tuesday, November 16, 2010
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......
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......
Labels:
30 day challenge,
fellow bloggers,
fun facts,
random,
running,
training
Thursday, November 11, 2010
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.....
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.....
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
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:
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)
Happy Hump Day y'all!!!
Labels:
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blog awards,
fun facts,
movies,
random,
tv addiction
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Semi-Wordless Tuesday
Day 6: Something that makes you happy..... Since many, many, things make me happy I have decided to do a semi-wordless post and SHOW you a handful of things that make me happy...
*Also - I will have another post later today- Caratunk Girl chose me for the versatile blogger award!*
Presenting - things that make me happy....(please excuse the quality as most of these came from my iPhone)
*Also - I will have another post later today- Caratunk Girl chose me for the versatile blogger award!*
Presenting - things that make me happy....(please excuse the quality as most of these came from my iPhone)
Pretty flowers...
Tropical vacations (this is in Kona, Hi)
Precious love between cousins... (p.s. HOW CUTE ARE THEY!)
Deuce....
Shakes
Lyla
The Texas Rangers
Random quotes in magazines that apply...
Honoring and remembering my best friend
Vacations with Bill
Bill ....
Amber and Bill rearranging my house while I'm gone...
*seriously I came home from college station to this....
plus my dining room table and chairs in the living room*
Dolce....
My kitchen aid mixer...she doesn't get used as often as I would like
Annual turkey trot in Dallas with Amber
My iPhone
Girls weekends...
monthly massages...
WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY??????
Labels:
30 day challenge,
fellow bloggers,
fun facts,
random
Monday, November 8, 2010
I got all my sisters with me.....
This weekend was a whirl of fun! Friday night Amber was in town so we went shopping (go figure!) and then had dinner with Bill and Karen. Yummy - Chuy's - I swear they have THE best salsa... it's chunky almost like pico de gallo but oh so yummy - I could seriously eat an entire vat of it.
Saturday morning, Amber, Bill, Karen, Meg, Cayla and me went toFt. Worth for the brain tumor walk in honor of Jess. What a great event. Each year the event grows (which is kind of sad b/c that means more people are being affected by this horrendous disease) but with each year and each new person, just that much more money is being raised to find a cure for brain cancer.
I was able to see and catch up with Jess' parents, siblings and other family members as well as friends that I haven't seen in ages. It was so wonderful - but so emotional in the same breath. I don't think loosing someone so close to you ever gets easier.
Saturday Cayla, Karen and I headed toCollege Station for the o.u. game. The Aggies went to beat the #8 ranked Sooners in a great game! What a win for us!!! Hello Top 25 - nice to see you again :) in the BCS poll this week we are ranked 25! WHOOP!
Sunday we headed home (but first made a stop in West - I'll blog about THAT later.....) and I went to my niece Kaylee's cheer competition where she took 1st place. Actually her team has four divisions and they took a sweep placing 1st in all divisions. GO TITANS! After that - Bill met me and the fam for dinner. What a great weekend filled with family and friends! Which leads to today's 30 day challenge subject: My siblings.
But first - thank you RUST BELT RUNNER for my Dry Max socks! I can't wait to run in them - perfect for my 8 miler this weekend!
I am the baby of three girls. (all of us are blonde) :) Paige, Anna and Allison....
We all share the same dad but Paige has a different mom. We are technically half sisters - but our relationship is anything but half..... Anna and I grew up with Paige at family events etc but she was raised by her maternal grandparents . They adopted her when my Dad and her mom divorced.
As we got older the separation grew and eventually the relationship was non-existent. I remember the first time I saw her after being an adult, at our Aunt's wedding a few years before our dad died. It was awkward but I longed to get to know her. The last time I remember seeing her before that was at her wedding when I was in the 8th grade. She is 10 years older than me.
Of course when our dad died we were thrown together like strangers in a locked room. What do you talk about...what do you say? We had two totally different (yet totally similar) relationships with our deceased father...talk about a loss for words. and I rarely have those....like EVER!
I remember walking up to the front door holding hands with Bill to our "family" meeting regarding services for my dad and I looked at Bill and said "Oh by the way I have another sister" - we had been dating 12 months and I never told him about my sister! He was so freaked out.... Is there a need that early in a relationship to air all of your families laundry?
From that moment my relationship with Paige has never been the same. We are so close. I was in the delivery room with her and my brother in love when my precious baby girl Shelby was born. A little over a year prior we hadn't spoken and now I was helping her deliver a baby!!!! It was THE most surreal and amazing moment of my life thus far. Paige and I have become more than sisters...we are friends and I'm super proud to call her both. I love her and her family so much and am thankful everyday that with such a hard situation of loosing a parent brought me a sister. She is my silver lining.......
Anna and I are more "typical" - we are separated by 3 years and 10 months. We had the typical sibling rivalry growing up. She hated me for a period of about 6 years when I wanted to do everything she did. I was always a round bugging her and annoying her and shehated loved every minute of it. She is outspoken, opinionated and fiercely loyal. She is 6'0 - strong and every ounce of dedicated. When she puts her mind to it she can WILL accomplish ANYTHING! She has two great kids, Kaylee and Cooper that I am so proud of.
When we were kids she was so mischievous.... I on the other hand was by the book (more times than not). She was 16 (maybe 17) and had her own phone line...that puts me around 12/13....
I had an old school radio (that played REAL actual vinyl records) - it was plugged into the same wall that her phone line was on. If you tuned the radio to the right station you could tune in her conversation...I'm totally serious - not exaggerating AT ALL. I would listen - get some good juicy gossip and then use it against her when she would try and call me out on something I had done wrong. It took her FOREVER to figure out what was going on - It was golden for me :) Until my parents found out - then I got in trouble.
Anna loved to see me get in trouble... I think it was satisfaction for her in some form.... She is my biggest cheerleader and the best advice giver. You can ask her anything and she will have good advice for you. I thought about entering her into the GMA - Advice Guru contestant but stupid Elizabeth Hasselback won - like THAT wasn't staged.....
My sisters are my best friends... each of them are independent, loving, and special to me in their own ways. Without either of them I would be lost on a daily basis (and not be an aunt -which would s.u.c.k.). I love them more than chocolate cake - and that's a whole freakin' lot.
To my sisters - I LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW!

Saturday morning, Amber, Bill, Karen, Meg, Cayla and me went to
I was able to see and catch up with Jess' parents, siblings and other family members as well as friends that I haven't seen in ages. It was so wonderful - but so emotional in the same breath. I don't think loosing someone so close to you ever gets easier.
Saturday Cayla, Karen and I headed to
Sunday we headed home (but first made a stop in West - I'll blog about THAT later.....) and I went to my niece Kaylee's cheer competition where she took 1st place. Actually her team has four divisions and they took a sweep placing 1st in all divisions. GO TITANS! After that - Bill met me and the fam for dinner. What a great weekend filled with family and friends! Which leads to today's 30 day challenge subject: My siblings.
But first - thank you RUST BELT RUNNER for my Dry Max socks! I can't wait to run in them - perfect for my 8 miler this weekend!
I am the baby of three girls. (all of us are blonde) :) Paige, Anna and Allison....
We all share the same dad but Paige has a different mom. We are technically half sisters - but our relationship is anything but half..... Anna and I grew up with Paige at family events etc but she was raised by her maternal grandparents . They adopted her when my Dad and her mom divorced.
As we got older the separation grew and eventually the relationship was non-existent. I remember the first time I saw her after being an adult, at our Aunt's wedding a few years before our dad died. It was awkward but I longed to get to know her. The last time I remember seeing her before that was at her wedding when I was in the 8th grade. She is 10 years older than me.
Of course when our dad died we were thrown together like strangers in a locked room. What do you talk about...what do you say? We had two totally different (yet totally similar) relationships with our deceased father...talk about a loss for words. and I rarely have those....like EVER!
I remember walking up to the front door holding hands with Bill to our "family" meeting regarding services for my dad and I looked at Bill and said "Oh by the way I have another sister" - we had been dating 12 months and I never told him about my sister! He was so freaked out.... Is there a need that early in a relationship to air all of your families laundry?
From that moment my relationship with Paige has never been the same. We are so close. I was in the delivery room with her and my brother in love when my precious baby girl Shelby was born. A little over a year prior we hadn't spoken and now I was helping her deliver a baby!!!! It was THE most surreal and amazing moment of my life thus far. Paige and I have become more than sisters...we are friends and I'm super proud to call her both. I love her and her family so much and am thankful everyday that with such a hard situation of loosing a parent brought me a sister. She is my silver lining.......
Anna and I are more "typical" - we are separated by 3 years and 10 months. We had the typical sibling rivalry growing up. She hated me for a period of about 6 years when I wanted to do everything she did. I was always a round bugging her and annoying her and she
When we were kids she was so mischievous.... I on the other hand was by the book (more times than not). She was 16 (maybe 17) and had her own phone line...that puts me around 12/13....
I had an old school radio (that played REAL actual vinyl records) - it was plugged into the same wall that her phone line was on. If you tuned the radio to the right station you could tune in her conversation...I'm totally serious - not exaggerating AT ALL. I would listen - get some good juicy gossip and then use it against her when she would try and call me out on something I had done wrong. It took her FOREVER to figure out what was going on - It was golden for me :) Until my parents found out - then I got in trouble.
Anna loved to see me get in trouble... I think it was satisfaction for her in some form.... She is my biggest cheerleader and the best advice giver. You can ask her anything and she will have good advice for you. I thought about entering her into the GMA - Advice Guru contestant but stupid Elizabeth Hasselback won - like THAT wasn't staged.....
My sisters are my best friends... each of them are independent, loving, and special to me in their own ways. Without either of them I would be lost on a daily basis (and not be an aunt -which would s.u.c.k.). I love them more than chocolate cake - and that's a whole freakin' lot.
To my sisters - I LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW!
Thank you for giving me these three babies:
Tomorrow a picture of something that makes me happy - well crap a ton of things make me happy.......
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