Post-DINK

Thus Noted...

2012-02-13T23:24:00.000-05:00

I am repeating the same recipes and food thoughts of the day... mental note- must stop drinking and posting.

The picture is from Las Vegas at the casino NewYork NewYork. We went there our first night there.... and I lost my drivers licence. You know how I hate purses so I thought I would just put everything I needed into my pockets. In went cash, my licence, credit card, and my phone. Thus, as some point, I assume when I was paying for a drink, out it went on to the floor never to be seen again.
Good news- my identity has not been stolen yet. Really it was no big deal except for having to carry my passport everywhere cause you are carded constantly and the time when I thought I had lost my passport. That was bad.

Parsnip Soup

2012-02-13T22:54:00.001-05:00

The overwhelming question everyday, one to cause my children to either scream at me, or call me the best mommy ever is...'Whats for dinner?'

So how do I come up with the answer?
CSA newsletters
Foodgawker
Epicurious
Simply in season

The problem is usually too much choice... but I am limited to what is in the house cause I hate making repetitive trips to the grocery. The thing is I can be creative if we do not have a particular ingredient... Luke, not so much. He thinks he can cook without a recipe and I, who thinks I am better than the current average population, can not do so yet. As well, many recipes call for meat and I do not want meat OR beans, and yep I forgot to soak them again. Regardless of the recipe- even if it is a simple meal I spend about a hour a day dealing with food- oh and I never clean up.

Tonights dinner was:

Creamy Apple Parsnip Soup
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large leek, (white and pale green part only), trimmed, halved lengthwise, washed well, and chopped fine ( I used two small )
• 1 pound parsnips, trimmed, peeled, and cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces ( I wanted to use all of ours up so it was like a pound and a half- Added- LOVE cooking with a food scale)• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 baking potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces ( I used two to make the soup go a little further)• 32 ounces of reduced sodium chicken stock
• 1/2 cup half-n-half
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ( I used 1/2t)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (I used 1/2t)
• Salt and pepper
Directions
Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks; cook, stirring, for about 3 minutes.
Add parsnips, apples, potato, broth, and 2 cups water ( Didn't add the water cause my pot was too small). Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until vegetables are tender, 15-20 minutes.
Working in batches, puree soup in a blender until smooth. ( I have an immersion blender- do not do blended soups unless you have one- JUST NOT WORTH IT) Return it to pot; stir in half-n-half. Season with nutmeg, cinnamon, salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

Sunday Night Dinner

2012-02-12T22:35:00.000-05:00

Celeriac and Potato Gratin
From the CSA newsletter

1 celeriac, peeled and cut into thin slices

1 large potato, peeled and cut into thin slices ( I added half a turnip and an extra potato)

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

250ml chicken or vegetable stock

250ml cream or milk ( Used almond milk cause that is what was in the fridge)

1 tbsp plain flour

1/4 tsp dried red chilli flakes (optional) ( didn't use)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Start by pre-heating your oven to 375f.

Place your celeriac, garlic, chili, flour, salt and pepper in a large bowl and toss around with your hands until well combined.

Layer the celeriac and potato into a heatproof 8" x 8" dish. Don’t worry about being neat or about separating the celeriac / potato. Leave a couple of cm at the top of the dish so that the sauce doesn’t bubble over the sides.

Mix the chicken stock and cream together and then pour evenly over the gratin, then place into your oven for approximately 90 minutes or until golden brown and the celeriac is tender.

The last time I made this I used cream and the the hot pepper and it was better- but the cream is needed for the morning.

Easly Korean Spinach and Cabbage Salad
1/2 lb fresh spinach
1/2 head of cabbage, sliced thinly
toasted sesame seeds
4 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic or 4 garlic scapes, minced
-I added hemp hearts

Blanch spinach in boiling water for 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, lift spinach from water, rinse well with cold water and squeeze dry. Add cabbage to spinach blanching water. Blanch for 1 minute. Drain cabbage. Cut spinach into bite-size pieces and toss in a bowl with cabbage.

Mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic . Toss well with blanched spinach and cabbage.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve!

Surprisingly yummy- but really anything with seasome oil you can't go wrong with.

And no my kids didn't eat much of this, they had filled themselves up with junk food at a party earlier.

Dreaming of someplace warm..

2012-02-09T23:14:00.000-05:00

Life could be worse

2012-02-09T17:44:00.000-05:00

Apparently there was some discussion about the contents of this blog and the food we eat in our house... and basically it was determined amongst some people that basically the worst thing in life could be eating they way we do..... well all I have to say is have fun in your fat pants.

Candy Salad

Well I call this candy salad, from the CSA newsletter.

Easy and Delicious Chinese Cabbage Salad

This recipe is sort of like the candy of salads. A little bit sinful with the addition of crumbled ramen noodles and sweet. But, well, it’s sooo yummy!

1 (3 ounce) package ramen noodles, crushed ( I buy ramon noodles in bulk to I just used a bunch)

10 ounces cashew or peanut pieces

1/2 chinese cabbage, shredded or sliced very very thinly

1-2 carrots, rinsed and grated

1/2 red onion, minced

1/2 cup sugar or 1/4 cup honey ( I used maple syrup due to my minor honey allergy)

1/2 cup olive or safflower oil ( I used 1/4 cup)

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tsp sesame oil
- I added some hemp hearts

In a preheated 350 degree F oven (175 degree C), toast the crushed noodles and nuts until golden brown.

In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw, green onions, toasted Ramon noodles and cashews.

To prepare the dressing, whisk together the sugar, oil, vinegar and soy sauce. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss and serve.

Random food thought- If you are not hungry enough to eat an apple than you are not hungry.

21:35

2012-02-05T14:00:00.000-05:00

I really can't recall the last 5k race I did, but I do know my PB was 22:18.....and now I have lowered the bar to 21:35. So basically 1:35 has to be taken off until I am happy.

Yesterday did the Groundhog jog in very un- February weather. 2010 was when I last did this race. 2010 was a bone chilling windy snowy weather. I actually think I got some frost bite on my face. 2012 saw the wearing of carpi's and short sleeves.

I should have done a bit of a warm up..but I was more concerned about my garmin finding satellites, and I knew if I had my garmin I could hand off my watch to somebody else who needed one. No chip timing here. At the start line I was one of two female who wanted to be in the front- so I knew who my competition was..... and she passed me almost immediately. Which was fine, I'm good with second- it has become my new fourth, and it stayed that way until the end. Was watching my garmin hoping to stay under 4:30ks and really realized at 4:13k point I was going to beat my previous PB.... I was working and it hurt and I am thankful for the treadmill cause that is where I get my speed work done. I almost threw up at the end. But I did worse but I will keep the story to myself until I tell it to you when I am drunk.

Been sick since in bed. In bed now resting quietly for work in the night. Missed my LSD and really don't know when to fit it in this week. It is a good thing I am training for nothing.

Carb-0-lish-ous

2012-02-01T23:01:00.000-05:00

I like to refer to Wednesday night dinners as
junk food dinners. It is the night Ever has a sleep over so it is just Luke, Maya and I.
So we usually have junk food or go out.
Tonight as Maya has been needing some special love as of late- well since she was born we had one of her favorites- Nachos.

This is Maya's plate. The rule was she has to have something green and the beans- then she can have whatever else she want else.

Luke always forgets to put the green, and I have just noticed no beans. So basically Luke had nothing good tonight. I swear if I wasn't around to mother him he would be 400lbs.

I over loaded my plate so half is in the fridge for later.
I had
-Multi grain chips- I don't even like the plain white ones anymore. I need the Na in them.
-Spinach
-Beans
-Pine river cheese
-Mexico out of season tomato's
-red peppers on sale
-onion
-saugeen country yogurt
-avocado.

Food thoughts
Tonight's dinner is the opposite of what I am about to say but...
Eat seasonally locally. Thus, think about the little label at the grocery store about where your food comes from. If you chose an Ontario apple over one produced in Washington State, you are keeping farmers in business at home. If you buy Pine river cheese or Gay lea butter, that farmer stays in business and has Luke service their computer. Spend the extra money if it local and ensure the farmer gets a fair price for their work. If you cherish Ontario strawberries in June they taste all the sweeter then. Don't try to eat strawberries in January- well unless they are from the freezer. Get to know what is in season locally when and ask at your local grocer for local produce. Or go direct to the farm. Learn about what keeps, and how to keep it. Join a winter CSA.

Stew Again!!

2012-01-31T21:58:00.001-05:00

Food thought of the day...

If you are not hungry enough to eat an apple you are not hungry. North America is an overfed, under nourished population.
Credit i'm sure goes to Micheal Pollan of whom I love.

In the winter we eat alot of stews and soups. Mostly it is paired with bread saved in the freezer for such an occasion from the Big Dipper or the Bakery. If I am slumming it I will get Ace bakery bread from the grocery. On occasion, we pair i will tortilla chips- and tonight was that night.

BLACK BEAN + BUTTERNUT SOUP
1 Tbsp. coconut or extra virgin olive oil Coconut if you have it- smells divine.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 a small head of cabbage, chopped (heaping 2 cups)
3 cups cubed butternut squash (sweet potato would be good too)
3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. cocoa powder Apparently I am out so I used some 60% dark chocolate bar. I think the cocoa would be a reall2w1y nice contrast to the hot peppers- too bad I didn't have any. pinch of chipotle powder or cayenne pepper I used some dried hot pepper from the CSA
2 cups cooked, black beans (about one can, rinsed and drained)
salt to taste

In a heavy bottomed pot, warm the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and saute until just beginning to brown, about 6-8 minutes. Add the garlic, cabbage, squash and broth. Turn the heat down to a gentle simmer, cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes for the vegetables to cook. I shut if off for an hour at this point to take Maya to dance. Add the spices and the beans and stir. Let everything continue to cook another ten minutes for the flavors to blend. Salt to taste. At this point, I did a few pulses with my immersion blender through the soup, because I wanted to thicken up the broth a bit. This is optional, but makes it seem a bit thicker. You could alternatively, run just a bit of the soup through a blender or food processor, and add it back in to the pot. OR a sprinkle of cornmeal will help thicken it as well.
I used the immersion blender for the count of 10

Dinner Tonight!!

2012-01-30T23:03:00.000-05:00

Food thought of the day....
You put your money in what you value. I value what I put in the only body I am going to get soo I spend lots of money on food. There is no food budget.
Thus, if it is healthy and good for me I really don't care what the cost is. That goes for chocolate as well- cause really cheap chocolate is disgusting, as is cheap food.

1. Fresh from the CSA greenhouse spinach- just cause I wanted something green on my plate.

2. Leftover salad from a potluck. I didn't have any pistachio nuts cause Luke ate them. Didn't have any fresh herbs to add so I didn't. So instead I added sea weed cause I found it in the cupboard and hemp hearts cause I like them.

3. Celeriac and Potato Gratin- From the CSA newsletter
-1 celeriac -Peeled and sliced thin
-1 large potato-Peeled and sliced thin
-2 cloves glaric minced
-250ml each chicken or veggie stock and milk or cream
-1Tflour
- Na and pepper to taste

Mix it all up and cook for 90min in 375 oven. 8x8 dish uncovered.
I used half a celeriac and instead used rutabaga cause I love them.

Food

2012-01-29T22:56:00.000-05:00

I kinda get the picture that people don't really know how to cook. I have read that the cure for childhood obesity isn't gym class but home economics class.

Nor do people really know what to eat, especially not involving meat. When I am in conversation with people it comes up that we don't eat really alot of dead animals but at the time I can never really convey what we eat, so I thought I might just blog about it.

Anyways, here is dinner tonight.
Main Course
It was 5:15 before I even thought about dinner sooo it was a quirky thrown together from fridge contents.
$5 for 500g spinach and cheese ravioli
'Sause'
-CSA onion
-CSA spinach
-50% off red pepper for a minor blemish
-75% mushroom cause they looked slightly off

Saute with olive oil and white wine vinegar. Would have used real white wine but I didn't have any.

Muffins
From The Loonyspoon Cookbook gifted by Robi. Page 287 -Pumpkin Spice Muffins

1 1/4c flour
1/2 Whole wheat flour ( I used a bit of spelt, white, and coconut to make 1 3/4c total)
2 t pumpkin pie spice ( I used a little of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger)
1 1/2t baking powder
1t soda
1/2t salt
1c pumpkin ( We had cooked squash on hand so we used that)
1/2c yogurt
1/2c maple syrup
1/4c melted butter
1 egg
1t vanilla
1c grated carrots
1/2c mini chocolate chips ( We had some high quality chocolate orange chocolate that Maya was desperate to use)
1/2c walnuts ( Used those or pecans)

Mix wet and dry separate then mix. Add in carrots, chocolate chips and nuts. Bake 20-22min. at 375. Makes around 12.

Song of Delight

2012-01-24T20:37:00.000-05:00

So in love with this song, if I was a singer I would sing it with anguish from failed past relationship, but alas Luke is my only love and we all know what kind of a singer I am.
Actually, being a bad singer hasn't stoped me yet.. again apologies all round for those you have to listen.

Sale

2012-01-22T22:05:00.000-05:00

There was a sale last week at the grocery.

$1 for a 113gram box of Crunch N' Munch.

That wasn't a good thing.

The Help

2012-01-21T23:38:00.000-05:00

Recently read The Help and watched the movie tonight with Maya.

Well that was a teachable moment.

I am currently encouraging her to form a resistance movement against all the 'safety' rules on the playground at school that are designed to crush imagination, proselytize compliance, and fatten all the children up.

Fail

2012-01-17T10:23:00.001-05:00

So Luke when did you last change the Furnace filter?

And yet another job falls on Anne.

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Coffee

2012-01-11T10:05:00.000-05:00

This morning I woke to Luke telling me we were out of coffee filter. I moaned and said "What am I going to do.' Luke just shrugged and replied that he was busy today.

I hope he enjoyed his Tim Horton's. As for myself, I retrieved yesterdays coffee filter from the garbage rinsing off unknown debris and re used it.

Maya's mind

2012-01-10T22:53:00.001-05:00

As thought up by Anne .-candy-fashion-not sleeping-'want to watch something'-'I'm relaxing, just let me finnish my Archie comics'

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Anne's mind

2012-01-10T22:47:00.001-05:00

As thought of by maya.-heathy food-tidying up-running-sleep-'you have to be productive'- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Run4rKids

2012-01-09T20:10:00.000-05:00

Cause I have no self control and and a sucker for peer pressure and really am nuts I ran around a 232metre track for six hours.
Thats 227 times. fro 52k. I should mention I have not done any distance since October. It hurt alot. In fact it was easier birthing Ever.

But I did it. I am stronger for it.
I sang alot- public apology here for me being obnoxiously loud. I have really good lung capacity.
Feels good to have done it, on no training, Like I have a base in there somewhere, and I know now that 50 miles will not be that hard.
Monday... feel fine. Guess I am getting a hang of this going long.

Writings

2012-01-09T14:59:00.002-05:00

i just wrote this to Evers teacher and thought it was funny... enjoy.

Yes to the sound book and library book. Not to the report card. I am sure it somewhere but it has fallen victim to too much paperitis.
As well the plastic zip locks are not welcome in this house as they always end up out of the back pack and someplace where I have to put them away. Thus is due to the inability of people in my house to close zippers. Thus I am simplifying my life and getting rid of what I hate. I can sew a fabric catch all if required but really I would rather if the endless papers just get crushed up in the backpack, seemed to work fine in my childhood.

I just took some cold medication thus rambling. Hope you enjoyed.
Thanks,
Anne

Christmas Drama

2012-01-03T00:12:00.000-05:00

So I really don't go to church much. Mostly cause I have a job that feeds us that requires me to work many Sundays. And sometimes I go races on Sundays and some days I just go running instead. Hence a certain disconnect with the church as a community. I do try. I read the bulletin online, make an effort to chat when I am there but well. You know when you are the odd person out.

One way to connect is to be involved. And again I try. We were involved in a small group that folded. I had hopes for the kitchen ministry team. Been called once, couldn't make it. Honestly, I am loud, and have way to many opinions. Sometimes people don't want me there. To be honest I hate kids ministry so I don't do that even though people have looked down on me. I do like drama and as I wasn't working Christmas this year I wanted to be involved with whatever the church was doing for Christmas. So I read the bulletin in hopes of reading a call for volunteers for those who wanted to be involved in the Christmas production.

Long story short, there was no call. Luke mentioned to somebody I wanted to be involved and thus I played a role in the walk through Bethlehem. Mainly, I was cast for my personalty. I was glad to be involved but what about everybody else?
What about the newcomer who has no connection? Are they stuck being always an observer because they are shy? Because nothing was in the bulletin.

I have made another observation. As Luke is on ministry counsel I do hear him say that there is a lack of people being involved and it is hard to get volunteers for things. The people I saw also at the drama were the usual crew. What I am thinking is it is the same people are always being asked to do things and then those people are the people who are getting burnt out and then quiting but there is not another crew of people coming up.

I thought being part of a community is sharing the jobs that have to be done. Making connections. I know i don't fit in. I don't know how to fix it. Really I am just about at the point where I don't want to try anymore. Maybe the church is too big, maybe I am to be someplace else. A friend told me of her grandparents who through out their lives attended different churches, doesn't sound pleasant but where I am at isn't pleasant either.

I think more communication equals more belonging, and thus community which most everybody wants, and other than that I don't know.

The thing is I feel I am getting community, I have a great crew of running friends whom I have shared many good/bad times. But I do feel a void, lack of spiritual connection with those who share the same Christian values i have.

A little heavy for non emotional me. Well aware.

Thoughts, perhaps from a person south of me?

Oh the picture is Christmas related. Our tree from the sketchy tree farm out of town. A handy long term investment if you got a bit of land I think. The bike was Maya's Christmas from Kijiji.

Resolutions 2012

2012-01-02T16:48:00.000-05:00

First a check up on 2011....

Drive less Ongoing- see below.
Surf the Internet less Fail miserabley
Spend more time at work doing work related reading/ note taking. 50/50 Success/fail
Attend more concerts Somewhat a success. Attended more plays. Actually didn't go to any concerts. I need more friend to go with. Friends??
Clean and organize the basement 100% Fail.
Blog more Really I don't know what more I have to say.
Run 2011km in 2011 Success!
Run with people more Success, but always room for more improvement.
Volunteer at races Fail
Don't do races that I really don't feel the love for/ have done really well at before. Win
Become a OAT Triathlon coach Fail

2012

Be more generous.
Be really intentional about the races I do. Think before I register. Think in advance so I don't have to pay last minute fees.
Drive less. try to do more walking/running to the store. Don't let the nagging kids get to me with their laziness.
Run more frequently- even if it is even for 2k- just get out and do it. Don't be afraid to drive to a location if I know I will get a good run in.
Be more intentional about doing good to the earth. Consume less. Really try to concentrate on what I already have prier to new purchases. Ie. fabric.
Read more.
Less Internet. The iphone isn't helping this at all. Maybe there is an app for this.
Blog more- I am sure I will think of something.
Volunteer at races.. maybe at the races I don't want to do.
Clean, organize and save for renovating the basement. Marry a handy second husband for success.

Skiing

2011-12-29T16:07:00.001-05:00

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Sewing

2011-12-27T20:18:00.000-05:00

Most people know that I can sew. I call myself a beginner...and really I am. I get alot of help from a co-worker when I am working on specific projects but honestly I could use a few good home ec classes.
I also have serger envy, soo many projects would just look better if I had a serger.

These jammies are the kids Christmas jammers. Minor problem with the neck. In fact and to use my little ripper friend for their heads to go in. Think I might have to completely re -do the tops as related to non- stretch properties of flannel.

Lusting over at the years best Burda sewing.
Shirt
Top
Dress
Party Dress

Motivation

2011-12-26T11:30:00.001-05:00

Admittedly I have some problems getting anything physical done this time of year. Thus I am in the first third of a 30day running streak. Basically I must do a run every single day -no breaks. Ok it doesn't have to be a long run, in fact the shortest distance can be 2km. That's the standard I set for myself. Not always easy but at least it is something.

Oh and I thought of a great trail running quote they other day...

..If I can see where I'm going, I don't want to go there.

Happy Hanukhah

2011-12-24T10:45:00.000-05:00

And here is our family photo in front of the Christmas tree. One really should notice the phallic looking pig angel ornament. Ever has his cape around his neck. Luke refused to take the picture when we had people over to take the photo so the camera was balanced on a pillow and a book on top of a rolling chair. Meanwhile, Maya was crying cause she wanted to to be in charge of the whole operation and pose us in artful positions. Luke's goatee is getting greyer by the day. AND if the bags under my eyes and the craters around my mouth get any bigger the locum Doctor that's does 'restorative' medicine on the side will do me pro bono.

For those who love me last minute... yes all one of you.

2011-12-21T05:28:00.000-05:00

Sexy new jogging pants.
Cookbooks- Looneyspoons Collection, Fresh, Canadian Living International

China

2011-12-20T14:24:00.001-05:00

I am always telling Maya of the evils of things produced in China, and how the Dollar store is the pit of all evil as everything there is produced in china.

Thus I hastily peel of a sticker of a present purchased not in a dollar store but an upscale store that bears the mark of the beast... MADE IN CHINA.

Secret Santa

2011-12-14T11:30:00.000-05:00

Over at Runners Mania there is a Secret Santa operation that I love to participate in. I think there is to be a $20- 25 limit but generally I go over. Super fun stocking your person to find out miner details to expand upon.

The other day I received mine in the mail. I had asked for running music play lists and boy did I get them! Current favorite playlist, cds of all time favorites, and even an itunes gift card. Apple will not know what to think of me, buying stuff...Unheard of!!! Also got a lifetime of Christmas letters (my kinda person!) Chocolate- long gone, a buff ( which I really needed.) And a head warmer- re gifted item. (LOVE re-purposed stuff)

Now all I gotta do is send mine out...after I get it organized...after I stock my person some more.

Strip at Night- Las Vegas Half 2011

2011-12-13T22:21:00.000-05:00

There is a group of us who run training runs together, start races together, and some random chatter came from someone who thought it would be fun to run the strip at night, and it actually happened cause somebody was organized enough to see that it wasn't just random chatter. Sooo if I was going to Vegas, I didn't want to go without Luke and if Luke wanted wanted to go, he had to run a race while he was there. Initially, I wanted to run the full marathon but as they only allotted 6000spots for the full, it sold out back in September. Thus, I was running the half with Luke. I committed to running the entire 21k with him.

There were seven of us running the race, one volunteer and one spectator. We all went to the expo on Saturday morning. Us and about 30 000 other. I had been looking forward to seeing some products that are hard to come by in Canada, and was hoping for a few American prices, but it was crazy insane time. I did manage a desperately needed new bra and met the author of this book, made an idiot of myself and bought a signed copy.
Was hoping for a fully stocked swag bag....umm not to much. There was a cheapo headlamp and we were lucky and actually got a shirt, as I hear they ran out later in the day.

So Sunday evening came, and we suited up in our matching caveman/ flint stone/ Tarzan and Jane costumes. I knew it was going to be a little busy when at 2:30 there were a ton of people already at the race site. Due to a little logistical nightmare that almost ended our marriage we were trying to park our car at the race site- North end of the strip and could not get a spot, nor could we get a spot at ANY parking lot. All casinos and parking lots were closed and locked tight. ...and thus begins the problems we experienced at the race.

We arrive back at the race site a couple hours later and for this little country gal from Bruce County... I have never seen so many people, and I have been to a Billy Graham Crusade. Between the half and the full there are around 44000 people. Of course we have to pee, and actually have no trouble finding a portapotti- we just looked for the non obvious location and there wasn't even a line . Felt sorry for the poor suckers waiting 20deep.

This race had an honer system of corrals at the start line. Basically when you registered you indicated your expected finishing time and you were assigned to a corresponding corral. I had put down a 1:45 time thus was to be in the fourth corral. Luke had put around 2hours and was to be in the 13th. However as a group from Hanover we all wanted to start together so we all seeded ourselves in the slowest of the group 2:30 or the 22nd corral.... and that was our mistake. The main issue was we were soooo cold waiting for the waves to go off. I had not thought at all about throw away clothes and I like to run almost naked so it was pretty cold huddling in 5degree weather in shorts. I was desperate and I called out to anybody wanting to get rid of mitts I would be happy to take them. A fellow in front of me gave a hot pocket and I was in bliss. Eventually we started moving towards the start line and I had a practically wrestle a volunteer for a jacket thrown on the ground they were cleaning up so fast.

Once we crossed the start line I thought things would open up a bit, ummm nope, once we went 5k I thought things would open up a bit, ummm nope, once we were past 10k...ummm nope. It was ridiculous. I mean we were supposed to be around 2:30- there has to be running at that pace! Sure there can be 5-10:1 but there has to be some running!!! Unfortunately, the majority of the race we were surrounded by walkers. It was ridiculous, walkers from the get go right in front of us. And the sure mass of people. I am sorry but the race course just simply could not have handled anymore. We were packed in their like sardines. It was so crazy, I just wanted Luke to be able to open up and run- instead he was on the defensive the entire race trying to go in between people and not lose each other. Sure we should have started in a higher corral but all over people are saying that even in the upper corrals there were walkers from the get go. Luke's time ended up being 2:31:19- which is dramatically slower than what he is capable of doing. I think in an open course he could have done 2:05- 10.
We started slow and finished fast, at the end Luke was doing 5:15ks and we were flying by people....and I was along for the ride. I ran ahead to get water for Luke and bring it to him. I told him when to take gels. Just as an after thought I brought some. Thank goodness I did as there was no sugar drink on course- apparently they ran out. Nothing new on race day eh, why not try a untested gel. Anyways, I also was the comic relief. Made a race out of the port a potty visit. 14 seconds. Seriously what are people doing in there???? Yelled out random stuff, "All right mile 8, whatever that means," "Yippee,it is a tattoo parlor beside the Lily of the valley wedding chapel
Now I know lots of people got sick from the water, we were fine but my major issue had to due with the lack of music on course. That's right, a rock in roll marathon was stone cold quiet. Luke even wished he had his ipod! Honestly there were not that many bands, and when we did see a set up nobody was playing.

We cross the finish line, immediately grind to a stop. We did manage to get medals apparently they ran out, and I took over for Miss Alabama and put Luke's medal on myself. Then there was anger, Luke started yelling cause he couldn't move, and cause I had temporary put my iphone in my bra. I am trying to calm him down while possibly holding up the line cause 'gasp' I wanted a space blanket and a green banana. Was so intensely cold and desperately trying to hold on to stuff, and to keep Luke from freaking out. Apparently, when I finish races I am quiet and frustrated and Luke is loud and angry.
We didn't even think of going into the host Hotel where all the drama happen, we just wanted to get back to our hotel....which was 3.5k away...and it started raining...It was raining in the desert and we were there for it. Less than ideal for Luke's first half marathon, notice I didn't say last. He wants to try again, but maybe not in Vegas.

Christmas

2011-12-12T16:01:00.000-05:00

Usually I don't like anything the masses do...but I love Oatmeal.
Here is his take on Christmas.
This photo is a festive display from Vegas.

Dinner

2011-11-24T16:57:00.001-05:00

The children are having convulsions of sadness due to squash for dinner. There is no room for pickiness in this house, more for me I say and I hope they enjoy empty bellies.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

What will come

2011-11-23T22:03:00.001-05:00

Jammie jammers!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

It's 2011

2011-11-23T10:46:00.001-05:00

Luke would not share nicely. so what he buy me an iPhone for ass I am testing it out using the microphone this is extract who I hope to utilize all the apps at work and at play and organizing on like hopefully it works.

So we have a few bugs to work out with the microphone.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Ankle

2011-11-22T13:10:00.001-05:00

Today while running to twisted my ankle. The normal rational person would think"....oh crap guess I'm out of it for awhile." Meanwhile I think, "Great that should break up some scar tissue, I could walk for a bit, until the crying stops."

Note- this picture is from the some when I was convinced I had some odd swelling. Those are your old joggers Annie.

Knees

2011-11-20T22:22:00.000-05:00

Upon hanging up laundry in the basement this evening and inspected the boys knees in all of his pants, it is decided.
If a new pair of pants are to be purchased they should be purchased at the Sears store. Apparently they have a program where if your kid wears out of an item of clothing before they outgrow it, it is replaced free.
Bet they didn't know about my child, the boy wonder who does not grow. Well his trunk seems to grow a bit but his legs will be just like his Daddy's, short. As evidenced by the continual wearing of size 2 pants.

Another reason to hate smokers...

2011-11-16T19:24:00.000-05:00

... their sense of entitlement about littering. Like the law does not apply to their cancer sticks.

Names

2011-11-11T14:04:00.000-05:00

Maya is going to Brownie camp this weekend.

She is Luke's daughter thus everything down to her socks and cutlery is being branded with a large Bellamy. There has been numerous threats about about losing anything.
She is responsible but I have to keep her honest. She is Luke's daughter.

Why? Well his Nana tells stories of his family leaving from a gathering without shoes, and currently Luke has lost his running shirt and he isn't really allowed to take a towel to hockey anymore.
Bellamys.
And i'm not funding it.

Swears

2011-11-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

Just FYI

If your speech is riddled with swear words. I think less of you.
The occasional, when situational appropriate is fine, otherwise please keep it to yourself.
This is especially true in a professional working environment.

Lunches

2011-11-10T10:03:00.000-05:00

I remember once being at my sisters house and there was a discussion about what was for school at lunch that day, and I thought why not just make it it home- it has to be cheaper, more nutritious, and less wasteful.
Now isn't hindsight 20/20.
I was so wrong. What I wouldn't do for school lunches now.

It is a chore in this house we hate. Making the lunches. There is just so many restrictions on what to take, what they will take/eat and lack of cooking/ heating facilities at the school. I mean if I had to take what they have to take on a daily basis I would starve....and I think sometimes my kids do based on what comes home.

So here is out there on what my kids take on their lunches:
-Hard boiled eggs.
-Chick peas from a can.
-Beans from a can.
-Hummus and something to smear it on.
-Laughing Cow cheese and something to smear it on. I should mention I got into a huge fight last year with a teacher and ended up hanging up on her. Why, cause Maya bought a butter knife to school. She was an idiot who thought one could dip bread into crackers. We also fought about her telling children should not use utensils in general at lunch.(Insert bad word here)
-Pasta in a thermos
-Soup in a thermos
-Leftover bean and squash wraps
-Leftover salad
-Yogurt in a container. We don't buy those individual ones full of sugar so there is always a worry about leakage.
-Sandwich with meat. I don't like meat so we don't have this often.
-Meat sticks- Like hot rods.
-Carrots.
-Cucumbers.
-Green beans so not local nor in season.
-Any fruit except bananas.

What else??
- We can't send granola bars cause the only ones I think are good ( larabars- and are too expensive) have nuts in them.
-Our standard fill up snack is nuts- so foiled again.
-Even when I want to be nice and send a treat... it has nuts in it.
-Some people are all jacked up on sending 'other butters'. BUT they contain canola oil and are not nutritious and actually may be dangerous. ie. Soy. So really what is the point?
-Most crackers have to many ingredients so I think they are junk.
-Some people send cereal but it is too expensive and that is to many grain products in a day.

But here's the thing, on any given day one of them can decide they don't like it anymore and that is off the list for months. We are not going all out and making custom lunches.
Due to my influence Maya has expressed concern about her classmates lunches. At one point she asked me to come in to talk about healthy lunches, so my point is we are not going to trade nutrition values for convenience.
I just think it would be easier if we could send nuts... and I am not just saying that cause I sent a peanut butter sandwich once after I had working the night shift.
If anybody has healthy easy lunch suggestion please do pipe up and let your voice be heard.

It is ok to take candy from strangers night!!!

2011-10-31T22:47:00.000-04:00

Maya wanted to be a sparkle gitter princess, which is so boring she might as well broke my heart and gone as a Disney princess. However after some intense Internet research we negotiated to agreeing upon Cleopatra. Still royalty but not so commercialized. On the plus side I think there is little to no chance Disney will ever rape her story as there is no way to celebrate her incestuous marriage to her brother.
Mayas costume breakdown. Bride costume from last year repurposed. Gold belt repurposed from angel costume two years ago. Excess fabric from the basement for the neck and cape thingie. Jewels and headband from the dollar store. Sinful.

Ever is a knight. He wanted to be a superhero, but there wasn't anything in the dress- up truck to use. So I just kinda told him what he was going to be. Don't worry he put his two cents in, to the point we had to show him what knights wore before he would actually put on his costume.
The cape was a skirt I wore when I was 22 and lined with given to me fabric. The rest of the costume is thanks to the McCutcheon- Cutting Family. Those are Kyles helmet and sward... and the armor is Courtney's old fish-hook purse.

Luke is a Pirate- Bear. There is nothing to say about that patheticness.

I'm a gypsy. The costume was inspired by my lack of shower in five days and dirty hair. Who goes well with a head scarf- gypsy costume of course! It was decided that perhaps Hanover should see a revival of the Bohemian look just so we can dress like this on a daily basis.

Post trick- er treating spoils. Plan- eat as much as possible before the kids notice it is gone.

Horror

2011-10-30T21:57:00.001-04:00

Just cause I have not done enough distance races this year, and I wanted some pizza, and I really liked the race shirt I thought it would be a good idea to run in circles and do the six hour race at Horror hill.

This race wasn't about anything in particular. I wanted to get 50k in but if I didn't I wasn't going to care to much. I just wanted to go out and run. A lady from the tri club was participating in the three hour and I was really interested in seeing how she did.

The one thing that I did want to work on was spending less time at the aid station, and somehow I figured that meant not eating much......and you can pretty well figure out how that worked. Fail.
By the time I realized my error it was way to late. It took two laps to get down my sandwich. Then I just sat for a bit. Didn't work so just go up and started going again and kinda hoped I would puke so I could start again. The sensation was similar to pregnancy- so nauseous cause I was hungry but I was so nauseous I couldn't eat. I also though maybe I was dehydrated and to kill two birds with one stone I thought it would be smart to drink some Gatorade. It wasn't. Finally I was moping along and Barb G told me to drink some coke. At that same moment a woman had fallen and I stopped to assess her. The son who was in the race didn't want me to stop but quite frankly I was looking for a reason to stop. She was fine so I had to keep going. So when I got around to the aid station I sat down and drank some coke and ate some pretzels and basically for the next 90min kept pretzels in my pocket and munched away.

Cause I am not really trained for six hours like the other girls were who were racing I was cool with the end result of 53.3k. Less than last year actually but I finished with way less fatigue and muscle pain than last year. Although, when later that evening when I walked Maya to a friends house she did express concern about me getting home ok.

Another joyous moment was telling Ron G that no I am not interested in having sex with him on the trail as I am only interested in monogamous relationships and I am already in one. He said I am only the second who has ever turned him down, good times.

Next up, strip at night- VEGAS!!!!!

Bruce County Hip

2011-10-30T21:25:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Grammy, Maya is sporting skinny jeans and a Bench sweater.
She is decidedly hipper than I.

I will be going to the grocery store shortly in my jogging pants just to make it official.

Done and Done!

2011-10-24T22:39:00.000-04:00

In November of 2010 somebody asked me what my plans were for 2011- in reference to sport/ races and impulsively I said, " Oh I think I might just stick to the trails next year."
And it seems for me the best decisions I make are the ones made on the fly with no thought nor insight. I am really fun to go shopping with.
I decided I would do the OUSER trail series with the aim to win it. It is a nine races series, your best five races count towards the Brian Hutson Award. For the reccord I do not know who Mr Hutson is. The distances are 25-32k which I knew I could handle with out falling apart and manage to keep my distance where it needed to be. I ended up doing six of the races that counted towards points. I did have competition from another girl who did four of the races and if she would have done the 25k at Vulture bait instead of the 50k she would have won..... and thats OK cause she is the faster runner. But she didn't and I am so blissfully happy. I knew there was a trophy for the other series in OUSER but I had no idea I would have a trophy to take home on Saturday. I was super happy that the man who shall remained unnamed and his wonderful wife hung around to see me get my trophy and act as official photographers. Thanks !!!! Now the trophy is on my sideboard and anybody who comes to my house has to see it. I even took it to work the day after I got it.

There is something to be said about setting a goal ans working towards it that gives a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Even when my ADD brain was thinking about a ton of other events I focused and did it. The only one I planed to do but backed out of was the ITT, for the simple reason I didn't want to drive to Burlington.

So now onto next year. I have been giving more thought to Boston qualifying and as I find it easier to train in the winter I could get a ton of mileage and do a 100miler...but I think I better think on that for bit.

Vulture Bait

2011-10-24T22:28:00.000-04:00

ahhhhh Last OUSER race of the year. At last a rainy day. I waited all frickin year to run a trail race in the cold and rain. I would have really preferred it in July, even September but I will take what I can get.
Got to London in good time and spent about 40min in my car trying to decide what to wear. In the end I went with the two layer combo of short and long sheves. And in the end of the race I was too hot, should have had a long sleeve and pulled up the arms as needed.
Met some Owen Sound peeps prior to the race, then at the start line asked all the girls who knew me where I should be and that's where I found the man who shall be unnamed. Wore my garmin just so I could keep track of my kilometres. The one fault of most trail races is you could be at km 5 or 15 or 18 and really have no clue. I also find it helpful to coordinate my numbers with the courses just so I know I am on course correctly.

Really liked this course, perfect fall location. Minor complaint being a long road section with a bridge where the wind wiped from all directions. I tucked in behind a fellow who was over dressed and rode it out. Major complaint (Not really) was the water crossing. Seriously I thought? In October? Am I really on course? My choices were try to skip along the rocks that were submerged or barrow though. In any event both choices would result in completely wet feet. Seems simple enough, but strangely I must have lost at least a minute making this decision.

Really was done about 20k in. Nagging left leg injury that I swore on the course I WILL be seeing physio about was causing serious issues. Should have taken more calories in, and perked up after getting some at the last aid station. The funny thing about this course is its lack of hills. In most trail races I usually don't run up alot of hills I just get low and walk. The benefit of this is conserving energy and actually getting a bit of rest and recovery from running. I found my self twice walking for the count of ten just to get a break. All that got me through the last bit was thinking about the line for massage and I had to run fast to beat the line. I was super smart and stashed a dry sweater at the building so as soon as I was done I got rid of my wet top and jumped right on the table.

Very happy to see the finish line in 2:09:58. Was quietly hoping for sub 2:15- but with this bum leg was thinking maybe 2:30. I think this might be a PB for this distance actually. Good enough for third place and a free pair of Montrail shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OK one more thing to say. Whats with all those girls who look really fast but in reality are not?

Tobermory Turkey Trail Run

2011-10-11T14:45:00.000-04:00

Very pleased with this first year event. Two EMS based there used this event to fill the down time planning it. Benefiting a planned local fitness park. Incorporating a track with a play structure in the middle. Quite frankly at times in my own life I would have drove there to use. Progressive.

I did the 10miler, a mix of gravel roads, snowmobile trails, long lane ways, Bruce trail and a golf course. The only thing I have to complain about is the heat. Hot for October. Sure there was course marking questions, but what trail race doesn't have them?

At the start line I had my usual freak outs- one female I know is faster so that's ok. LOTS- (ok like 5)- of skinny looking, LuLu girls who I figured were holidaying in the area. I figured i could pull off a top 5. Right away Joan pulls ahead- which is fine- she is faster, and surprisingly she stays in my sight for a large portion of the race. When you could see further than five feet for the trees. I was motivated by three things:

There was a woman with a dog running behind me, I hate dogs, I especially hate dogs I do not know.
The winners got chocolate apples. I like chocolate apples.
Luke gets mad at me if he does not think I tried my best.

In the end I was 1:25ish for 16k. 2nd female, and I beat the male 39and under male. I usually am not competitive with the runners who have testicles but he seemed upset I passed him.

Great chili meal post- with the option to buy for the family. most people stuck around for the endless door prises. I got a $50 gift certificate for a local gift shop that was having a 50% off sale. I didn't buy the bongs.

Helmet Heads

2011-10-11T13:40:00.000-04:00

On Saturday we rode our bikes from Meaford to Thornberry. A distance easily covered by the kids.....unless you forget the first 3k is uphill. Many tears for that section by Ever , resolved shortly there after.

Mental note- when riding with the kids go east to west on the Georgian trail.

Cross Country

2011-10-11T13:32:00.000-04:00

Ahhhh my favorite, so excited this year to have my baby girl participate.
Problem is I don't know who's little girl she is.
The thing is she is as non- competitive as they come. There was intense discussions about running just for fun vs. running to win. We settled on trying our best and feeling like you left it all on the course when you cross the line.

The school elected to not really push the kids to fulfill their potential. I strongly feel if you want to see any result you need to run five times a week. The kids would be amazed at the progress they make. However my suggestion was ignored and they ran three times a week. Repeatedly the teacher would give the kids misinformation and Maya would repeat it back to me and repeatedly I had to inform her that no, as her teacher is not a runner she is wrong. Now it is not as if I am complaining and didn't try to do anything about it. I volunteered to come everyday I wasn't working/sleeping to run/coach the kids. I wasn't wanted. It is not as if I am the only one though, other runner parents have asked to help and they were turned away as well.

I am very proud of Maya, I think she gave as much as a person who hates competition can. And team sports isn't really her thing either as evidenced by her intense dislike of the team shirt. I don't think she dislikes running, but I do think she doesn't like races. However, this is one of the activities this family does for physical activity so she is doing it.

Need New Underwear

2011-10-10T22:31:00.001-04:00

I kinda want these. How much of a run geek am i???

Congratulations!!!!

2011-10-04T20:56:00.000-04:00

I am so happy and proud of Andrea for having a vaginal birth post cesarean with midwives.

Baby Boy Vanderkooy was born at around 4pm, weighting 7'14.

Can't wait to meet him! Name to follow.

(This photo was taken on her way into the operating room with her first child)

Jesus Christ goes Stratford

2011-10-04T20:42:00.000-04:00

And guess who has tickets for next week.

All of a sudden I'm cultured.

FOUR!!!!!

2011-10-03T22:57:00.000-04:00

Sweetness

2011-10-03T19:52:00.001-04:00

My wonderful friend/sister Andrea,
Where ever we go we are mistaken for sisters , I don't think it is because we look alike but because we share such an emotional connection.

And tonight when I think she is about to break I will take her frustrations and run them out, and pray.

And here is to baby Archie coming soon.

Run4health- Walkerton.

2011-09-28T02:07:00.000-04:00

Interesting fact- this is the second race of the year I have done going by the title run 4/for health and they were both timed by the same company.

June 10k- 47:20
Sept 10k- 47:53

Apparently I am getting slower as the year goes on.It was hot, and I am losing the weight loss battle. Why do I do these things?

Really they were both bad days. The entire race I hated as it was on road. Road that I actually train on all the time- read BORING and sick of. OK enough negativity.

First year event put on for the Walkerton Hospital foundation. I actually made an effort and raised money -$303.00 worth. Excellent organization. By far the best first year event I have ever been to. Long sleeve tec t-shirt. Chocolate finishers metal. No door prises which is sad cause I love door prices and really who doesn't?

Maya did the 1k family fun run. My only beef with the day was there was a one size fits all cotton t-shirt for her. Well we didn't take it. She doesn't want it, it doesn't fit me. Frankly just a waste. I am sure they will be filling the racks of the local thrift store in the next month. She made me run it with her. So she moaned and complained the entire thing that I was running to fast and her legs hurt. Misery loves company so I'm thinking this has got to stop and I can not run with her. I didn't want to, I wanted to cut the apron strings but she almost had a panic attack thinking she would have to go by herself and all the other children. She got a kinder egg at the finish line- best prise ever. Oh and a ribbon. She cared way more about the egg.

Happy Day

2011-09-22T22:26:00.001-04:00

It is official, now that Ever is in school Luke and I can have 'date' days. I hate when couples who are long married using the term 'date" but anyways for lack of a better word- and suggestions are welcome- we spent the day together.
Spent a very challenging four hours MTN biking at Kolopore. It is rather depressing to say how many kilometres we covered in that amount of time so just know I could run it faster than I biked it today. Wow biking over rocky, rooty and hilly terrain is challenging.

Then we stoped at the bakery and the Lestleville chesse shop. Happiness all round.

What makes me happy on night shift...

2011-09-21T07:16:00.000-04:00

From the Toronto Star...

"Pack 20,000 men into a confined space and no good will come of it — either it’ll end in a brawl or, worse, the creation of the Promise Keepers."

From Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

"I had just come to accept that my life would be ordinary when extraordinary things begin to happen."

And here's to hoping my superpower will manifest itself or a great windfall of currency of epic proportions will occur.

Halibution Forest 26k

2011-09-13T14:12:00.000-04:00

This picture is for a man who does not want to be named but requested specifically to have his picture on the dink site.

Well from the photos one kinda guesses that if I am in possession of a Haliburtion stool, I must have won the race, and indeed I did. I just kinda feel like I am not worthy of it.

This was my second running for the forest. A little anti climatic over last year when it was all a big unknown. The mystical Haliburtion which a raced on two weeks notice. This year I have had some strong training, earlier in the summer, however, for the past month I have been working tons, have had a injury and just have not made fitness a priority. Thus just wasn't sure about Haliburton. I took a quick glance at the start list for the 26k and didn't see any obvious fast names, the thing is you just never know who you don't know. At the start line the man who shall be unnamed looked around and said 'ohh there is a lots of fast girls here'. In particular I was eying up a skinny girl with a iron man Canada visor and a woman who looked muscular fit- and had a matching lulu lemon shorts and bra. As well two friends from Hanover had travelled up with me- and if the one trained regularly she could definitely beat me. I knew that course was the driest anybody could remember but.....

I lead the race from the start to the finish. I like to go out hard, which I know isn't the best practice- that's why loops and out and backs are hard for me. I just stop pushing for some reason. Ran with the same guys I always do at ouser races. All though the first half I was looking for Grant who was running the 50k. I was praying that he stayed on course cause ummm he has a little problem with that. Not so effective as he did go off for 2k BUT that is far better than another guy I talked to who was 10k off. When I did see him I gave him a quick hug and kiss and then I got in trouble for wasting time. Last year I was so focused on the mud I just didn't notice the hills but this year they were overwhelming. I didn't feel like I walked alot, but I must have. At the the turn around I was 2-3minites up on second. As I didn't want a repeat of last year so there was alot of glancing over my shoulder for a female presence. Didn't really care about the men, they have testosterone and I don't. It is a really pretty course and I focused on that and the stool waiting for me. Spent some time feeling sorry for myself and my hamstring. Lots of emotion knowing that I was leading this race again, and how it was mine to lose like last year. Knowing that if I could pull it off it would be my first win EVER in a race.

When it felt like I was dragging too much I took a gel. Four in fact. Last year I remember just searching my fuel belt for anything cause I was so done. Don't know if I physically need them but mentally they do give me a boost. Glad I had my fuel belt cause those aid stations just feel so far apart. I found it to be a warm day.

When I came into aid station two the volunteers I don't think really realised I was in the 26k and didn't understand my haste just to dump water my my head and go. I had a strong finish, the gate was open but I went around the edge just as the course was marked just so I know I did the right thing. Felt good knowing I was the winner but I was feeling pretty loserish about my time. ON the insane muddy course last year I was five minutes faster!!!

I think last year the stars lined up ( not that I care about astrology but I think it is a good saying) and it was my day. Even though I came second last year I feel better about that race.

This year I was struggling with an injury and stress knowing that I needed a strong finish to get back on top of the OUSER points. I have felt like I am buying my time all summer until the magic of cooler fall temperatures and Ever going to school happens. I know I should be blissed about my win but if I look back at other years and see winners times of 2:50, 2:45, 2:47, 2:31 and I feel lousy about my 2:59.

I think I have an inferiority complex.

Re- Fashioned

2011-09-13T10:05:00.000-04:00

Maya, my fashion obsessed little girl. The little girl who aspires to be a fashion show organizer. She has never seen a fashion show.

This little girl came to me and asked if we could cut short this long skirt. Of course I did for her. However as this is the child who grows it is actually to small to begin with, before she even made it to school she split it up the back. So I sewed in a panel. Really she needs side panels but I just don't think it is worth it. She got her short skirt for the first day of school and that is going to have to be enough.

To School!!!

2011-09-13T09:56:00.002-04:00

It has finally happened- Ever has started school! He met his teacher last week, then today was the most anticipated day. We made his lunch, picked out an outfit and then he went to school and we left him there! The day was not without some drama. I had gotten him some shoes and he kept on wearing them so I hid them and now they remain hidden. Can't find them.
Maya reminded us he needed a blanket for quiet time and we don't have a surplus on little blankets, kindly, Maya offered one of her doll blankets. I have some superman fabric I will make a blanket out of.
AND when we got there it was discovered he wasn't going to his classroom but had gym, luckily it was with a teacher who is in the tri club but still, just don't understand.

Luke went in with him and made sure he was mildly sedated. This was after the crying stopped.

Here's our big grade three girlie. Again in a split class. 2/3 this time. I think next year I will insist she be a straight grade as this the THIRD year she has been in a split. I think she spends to much time focusing on the younger kids. Well at least she isn't in a portable. She got a new backpack for this year and a new shirt from me, otherwise I did no back to school shopping as Grammy is mildly obsessed with shopping for her :)

A Dairy Beverage

2011-09-10T22:58:00.000-04:00

Went to get Anne some chocolate milk (great recovery drink) tonight as it was on special a Mac's. 99/c per L
But it turns out it wasn't chocolate milk it was chocolate dairy beverage, which is disgusting (yes we taste the difference).
Seriously, its not milk, its manufactured modified milk ingredients. Its getting hard to find real chocolate milk and I thought in this day and age were were tryng to move away from man-made food like substances.
Oh well, there is always regular milk and chocolate powder, but I know I will be looking at the labels on those closely too.

Dead

2011-09-06T21:01:00.000-04:00

For the official record at my funeral I would like some people to sing I'll Fly Away and I would like Tracy Chapman's song Say Hallelujah played please. I really like her voice so just play it. Maybe with a slide show or something like that in the year 2061.

Great News!!

2011-08-31T22:23:00.000-04:00

I just looking over the rules for Hailiburton and came across this one :

All senior citizens running the 100miler may enlist the use of a pacer for the entrie race. (Slightly paraphrased)

Time to gather all your friends for next year eh Grant. ahhahahahahha

Anne Wins!

2011-08-31T03:05:00.000-04:00

Luke would not let me drive the car with the bike rack on it today. So my bike was chopped into several pieces and I had to put it back together again before I could actually ride. Problem was I had never attempted the bike puzzle before.
Luke patiently showed me last night, I watched with anger and resentment, all the while thinking, Hmmm I'm sure there will be somebody there to help me.
Course there is never anybody there. Premier MTN biking park in the area and the place is always dead. So why would I think that???

Anyways I pull into the parking lot and what do I see???
The CAA Bike Patrol.

The Bayshore Race

2011-08-31T02:55:00.000-04:00

Second year of this local half marathon.. and I have never done it. Had to fix that. Cute course, some hills, some gravel road, some rail trail and a whole lota pavement. Either I pulled a muscle on the pavement or it is from MTN biking either way I'm walking funny.
Goal was to complete in under 1:45. Ended up chatting the race away, strong steady effort. Pleased with the result. Kinda lost all steam around 20k- even let somebody pass. Ran the last 50 or so metres in with the kids which I have always wanted to do.
Find it slightly bizarre that the local newspaper was a platinum sponsor and yet there is no mention actually in the paper. Guess there is too much baseball news. I hate baseball.

Middle of the Pack- Xterra Style

2011-08-26T04:39:00.000-04:00

One of my goals for the summer was to complete a off road triathlon/ dualathlon. However as time progressed it seemed it wasn't going to happen as I was yet to purchase a MTN bike. SO then I kinda decided I should be an adult and save my MTN bike money for like real life stuff. Like a back door, like our dishwasher just broke and the part to fix it is $200, or like my car is too ghetto for African lions safari so maybe I should plan for a new one. BUT then I was driving through Owen Sound and I saw a sale sign at the bike store. I will not get into what I bought cause I kinda obsess over if that was the best bike for my money spent so lets just leave it.

Anyways bought the bike on Tuesday and realised there was a Xterra race to be entered on the Sunday. Got two rides in prior to the race totaling maybe two hours on technical trails. The race was held at hardwood hills near Barrie. I had actually rode there about eight years ago but I certainly did not remember the trails and I was assured the trails had changed since then.
The race was 3.8k run/ 16.2k Bike/ 3.8run. - had a respectable first run in 17:30 6/20 females. As I was doing the entire race in my running shoes I got onto the bike quickly. Took about 2km for the first female to catch me, then it was a steady stream of passing. Spent a far bit of time just pulling over so people could pass, didn't want the stress of somebody riding my back wheel. LOVED the technical single track. Can certainly see the advantage of knowing the trail you will be riding on well. Where as in road racing sure there are some technical skills required but really road is road any where you go. It was a two lap course and by the end of it, after the rain and the resulting mud I was done. Though I think I wowed the race director with my superior dismount. Of course perhaps he was just smiling cause the males had just crossed the finish line before I even started my second run. Bike- Did the loops in 36minites each. The fastest female did them in 26minites each. 12/20.

Second run in 19:45. I ran down one girl but quite frankly just didn't have time to catch anybody else. Seriously the female who came in 8thOA did her second run in 26 minutes and she still had such an advantage over me because of the bike. I knew it would be bad but I didn't think it would be quite that bad. I ended up 11/22. Definitely no metal for me this race.

So everybody wants to know if I wiped out. Yes I did. In fact I think I had sex with my bike during my most spectacular tumble. Part of the issue was my rear brake was a little non functioning so I just overshot the trail on many occasions.
Overall good race experience, the organization was good. The race director looked my OAT number so I didn't have to pay extra, I wasn't supposed to get a shirt cause I signed up soo late but I did, and it is a really nice one. The course was well laid out. Nobody- even an old man could have gotten lost there. My one complaint was you did a 2k section four times!! There was a post race BBQ and there was good honey stingers products in the registration bag. Too bad I am allergic to honey. Somebody will benefit.
All in all I can't wait to do another, just next time I hope not to be soo embarrassed by my bike skills.

Differences

2011-08-23T10:46:00.001-04:00

Love trails...either riding or running. However since I have renewed my love of riding by owning an actual MTN bike I have noticed that..
-Hills- As a runner you don't really notice them. Sure if it is a huge uphill you will walk, but on a bike you are very conscious of all ups and downs as it is completely different riding.
- Roots, rocks, and stumps. As a runner the more of those obstacles the better- well at least in my case. As a rider- please just give me fast trail.
-Luke is faster than me. Ummm whats up with that??

Church Today

2011-08-21T21:24:00.000-04:00

As I am known to do, I didn't go church today in favor of a race. Thus on my way home I listened to 'All worship Sunday' on the radio. Then listened to Sex and the Soul on Tabestry. Minus the fellowship I think I'm good.

Our car is too getto for Afriican lions safari and other sadness.

2011-08-20T11:23:00.000-04:00

Typically summer Canadian family goes to African lios safari for a day trip, tries to go for a little drive though to see the animals. Not so typical in the fact we were turned back.
See we thought we were doing a good thing. Bringing the car that already had body pieces missing. No worries about scratches and dents from the animals we thought. Nope seems it was too rough of shape, the windshield is cracked in two places. Thus the safari earned $20 more dollars from us for the bus. Not that I am complaining- it is a safety issue. Here were some pros, the driver of the bus knew all the insider knowledge that we would have not gotten in a car. Who cares if the buses get scratched and banged up when the driver positions the bus to bloke the path of a rino it is just another photo opportunity. If we had been in our car we would have gone right pass those massive beasts.
The other sadness involves the boy. the boy who does not grow, the boy still wearing size 24m pants, the boy who is 35inches tall. The boy was refused entry onto the water slide tower thing. His sister could go, two years could go, kids in diapers taking a break from nursing could go, but our almost 4year old was left crying. We tried to talk to the person in charge about genetics and physical fitness and his ability pop wheelies on his two wheeler. We lost, and he cried and cried. The thing is I am not going to put my kid in a dangerous situation, height restrictions are great for rides. Mostly I am angry because I paid the same entry fee for Ever as I did Maya and Ever did not enjoy the same privages as her because of genetics.
Oh and afterwards we went to Old Navy for the growing members of the family- Maya and Luke and again we had to explain to him that when he grows he gets new clothes.
Anybody got any growth hormone?

Daughters

2011-08-10T09:34:00.000-04:00

Anybody know why my child is so completely opposite of me? Like can't we like anything the same, want to do the same sort activities?

Well I guess we are both stubborn.

Drinking at 8am and running the Dirty Girls

2011-08-09T23:04:00.000-04:00

I heard about this race way back in the winter, how it was to be a 12hour night race. Night as in, in summer when it would be cooler. I all but signed up then. Of course I procrastinate so I didn't do it. THEN I got the goal of the OUSER short course races so I decided I would pass on it and just do the 30k. THEN the summer schedule came out. Two nights prior to the race.... the decision was made there. I was doing the 12hour.

So back to my short course goal this year. Yep so that meant no super long stuff so really I felt I was trained for 6hours and not so much 12hours. But really that's ok cause I know I can walk for 12hours, so I felt it was all good.

Now I am running. Some people have plans before they start. Me, not so much. My plan on the fly was to do what felt like easy efforts the entire thing. Obviously that means each lap is slower than the last. I'm all good with that.

And now it gets kinda hazy. I really zone out. There isn't alot of intelligent thoughts, just intense bargaining. So we go back to my old favorite- Bullets.

-Another reason I know I'm getting fat is chafing. I have never had chafing like I have had this year. If it was not for Alana's Bodyglyde ( mine went missing) and medicated gold bond, I would have had to stop at 30k.
-There was some darkness when I realised that I would not be hitting 55k on the next lap while I was 35k mark. Just like in nursing you shouldn't do math after midnight while running.
-I was just so intently hot. I did a complete clothes change at 30k cause I was just so sweaty. I just usually don't sweat so much.
-When I was in labour with Maya in the back of my mind I kept on thinking maybe something will go wrong so we can go to the hospital and I can get some drugs. Thus while running in the back of my mind I thought maybe something will go wrong so I can quit and then get some drugs.
- Kept on thinking ...should have trained for this.
- My runny nose magically cleared up after the race.
-I think I could have benefited from some gels but I was going with the real food system.
-I really thought I would be fine during the night. Thanks to those night shifts I thought it would be easy. Battled some real fatigue from 12-3am. I also just felt dragged down by the darkness which I totally was not expecting.
-I think I have learned I am just not that into loops.
- Did 65k. Pretty sure I could have focused and got 70k in. Or at least 67k. Again I will never be happy.
- Was moderately stiff and sore on Sunday. Monday/ Tuesday are surprising fine.Like I could be running fine, but I am kinda busy working on my wine drinking.

All in all it was a good night, and really do I do like running cause why else would I do?? Right??

All Boy

2011-08-09T21:29:00.000-04:00

We were roughhousing the other day and Ever pulls back crying "OHHH you have hurt my brain." Thing was he was holding his genitals.

Me: So Ever, where is your brain?
Ever: My brain is in my penis.

Much laughter.

Suppose I should tell him the truth, but really he will hit puberty soon enough and then really that's where is brain will be.
Boys/Men.

The Brothers Ford are Jerk- offs

2011-07-27T09:13:00.000-04:00

My Rob Ford story- When we lived in Rexdale is was elected to the seat that represented out area. He upset a longstanding councillor who had seems to have passion for the area. How did he do it?? His lawn signs were 10:1 and I think honestly spent every waking moment knocking on doors. When he knocked on door though I had some questions, but he was soo focused on getting to that next door he literally backed away and spewed saygood nonsense and left.
Now the stupid idiot and his brother are on counsel and their fat asses want to get rid of events promoting physical fitness and there illiterate brains want to do away with library's.
I don't want to wish them unwell but really being that fat isn't healthy and things happen when you are that fat. So if something bad was to happen, well would that be a bad thing??

Sushi

2011-07-25T03:42:00.000-04:00

Not to say that I am completely un cultured and backwoods but I always said I didn't like sushi. I always say I like my food hot. I have even gone to a sushi restaurant and ate nothing cause I wanted no part of it.
But...... the other day I was hungry, and hot, and tired, and we were driving past the sushi place in Walkerton and we stopped in and we got some and I ate it and I actually liked it.
Mind you, this is western sushi which I'm told (by wikipedia) that it is practically like eatting burgers and fries.

Nationally Famous

2011-07-24T05:29:00.000-04:00

Thanks to my awesome ability to waste time online which stems from nursing the kids for endless hours in front of the computer I was quoted in The Globe and Mail.
A reporter put out a call on Runners Mania for interviews and cause I waste wasting time online and I was home wasting my time he called and I talked all about it. Basically about me being demanding and my need for liquor but what ever, I'm in the Globe.

(Disclaimer- I actually don't read it but I issue I bought cause I was in it I liked so perhaps when those children go to school I can linger with a morning copy.)

A 'Weighty' Issue

2011-07-24T05:19:00.000-04:00

It appears that the magical ability to eat anything while breastfeeding has finally dissipated. Or it could be that I am not using any sort of restraint but the one thing that is true is I'm becoming portly.
It has creeped up slowly. My wetsuit needs a little extra tugging to be done up, my clothes are a bit snug, and no that isn't all new muscle in my thighs, and the most important is- compared to six months ago a friend who had not seen me noticed a difference.

And why??
I think it is simply I eat to much. I never think twice about a second serving. If it is there I eat it. With a box of chocolates at work I eat eight instead of the more reasonable two. I know I have become more relaxed about eating junk food. I mean if ice cream is on sale I really don't have to buy it. Perhaps I am fueling myself too much for the long runs. I really don't need one supper before a run and one after.

I know people may think I am skinny and I have nothing to worry about but genetics always rule. Sure my mother is a match stick But on my fathers side the woman tend to run a little thick, and I think I could run thick too.

Thus everybody has the permission to act as a community of supporters and remind me that no, that Key Lime pie just isn't worth it.

2011-07-22T16:30:00.000-04:00

Apparently flip-flops and a bathing suit ar A-OK on fighter jets (that randomly land at the wiarton airport when Anne and the kids are in the area) LOL.

Beating the Heat

2011-07-21T23:00:00.003-04:00

Have retired to Lions Head To enjoy the breeze and company. Presently teaching Annie about the Internet.

Cause this blog needs more pictures of feet

2011-07-17T23:21:00.000-04:00

Post Mishawah.

Limberlost 2011

2011-07-17T23:18:00.001-04:00

Another little trail race in the blistering heat. I say little cause I only did the 28k not the crazy insane 56k- not cause the distance is crazy but the heat was intense.

I have been thinking alot about how hard I don't push it in races. How most of the time I am content to say I pushed it but really I don't think I did. I have excesses of why but really I think it comes down do I just don't want to. I think I have really got to want it to push it. BUT to get that point I have to had failures to focus on how I don't want to be feeling at the end of a race. I also need to focus on how good it feels to do well. How I love to tell Luke how good I did. Actually I fear his disappointment most of all.

So I didn't know how I was going to at Limberlost. I am soo not a hot weather runner. My thoughts were simply survival. I knew the winner from last year was coming back and I saw somebody at the start line who beat me at PYP .
So I'm running along about 3k in and I am in 3rd position and I remember Sheldon from running mania describing his race from last year and what his 14k splits were so my first goal was to beat his 1:32 for the first lap. I did it in 1:24. Meanwhile I had attached myself to a man in a blue shirt. Almost literally, when we went up hills I was 5inches from his behind. His clothing had been freshly laundered. My eyes were firmly on is ankles. When he drank water from his bottles so did I. He didn't stop at the aid station so he kept the pace and I caught up to him. Thus during the second lap my goal was to stay attached to my new friend Chris.... and a three hour finishing time. Did it in 3:02:25. Very pleased about it. A interesting highlight was the fact I used four gels. I felt fine which is great. I just know if I don't take in calories I fade. At Hailburtion I used all the fuel I had brought and the aid stations were far apart and I checked my belt several times looking for something so I know I need it..even if it is just physiological.

Great post- race meal.. like MEAL with salads, fruits and grilled chicken. And what made the day was on the drive out to the highway we saw a big black bear run across the highway. Anyrace where I we wildlife bigger than a dog wins!

This race was not without its drama, and I actually managed to get a woman disqualified. But I don't think thats a story for the blog cause I think the race directors handled it very well. Give me some wine and I will talk.

Pool

2011-07-16T21:04:00.000-04:00

It was hot today, and so while Anne was away, the kids and I went out and got a new pool.
Much cool wetness was had.

Creemore Booze Fest 2011

2011-07-14T23:05:00.000-04:00

Ran the Creemore Vertical Challenge July something. Improved my 25k time by three minute finishing in 2:26. Sixth female O/A.
Basically I can remember the heat. At first I thought it was going to overcast and no wind so somewhat tolerable. Maybe even a slight rain but around 6km in the sun came out. So it was sunny and no wind. That's joyful. So hot.... Some aid station had ice and that was bliss. Wore trail shoes which wasn't necessary. Ran a whole two kilometres in the lead and liked it but the fast girls came along, which is ok cause really they are faster. I am slightly (HUGELY) annoyed that the winner has a baby younger than four months. When I had a four month old my uterus would have fallen out and I would have had to keep a hand tucked there to hold it in. Soo anyways i got sixth. Some other people beat me too but I am just bitter about her.
There was exactly one puddle and I stepped in it. Would have really liked to have a lie down in it but I had to settle on the finish line where there is the Mad river. The finish line also had wine. I drank some. On a empty stomach. Ok I had alot and I couldn't walk straight and Luke cut me off and so I was taking beer out of other peoples hand when his back was turned. Soo my words were slurred but the trip to the conservative Christian Camp went quite well.
I still think I can do better on that course. There is just something about it.

Trespassing

2011-07-14T00:15:00.000-04:00

While we were at Camp Mishawah, a super awesome thing happened....Ever learned to ride his bike without training wheels!! It actually took less than 100 metres and it rather alarming now good he is at it already. In fact the three year old was trying to pop wheelies they day he learned. I have high hopes him and I can form a mother son MBX team. Thus to celebrate his new skill we thought he would enjoy an endless strip of pavement to practice.... so we took him to an airstrip.
The abandoned airstrip was 2km and super fun to ride bikes on- even if it was getting overgrown.

This photo of an accident was not intentional, just funny. Maya will get mad at us for saying that when she is old enough to read this blog.

So just cause we thought it would be fun we let the kids also drive on the airstrip. Maya was scarred and couldn't do it herself but felt perfectly fine sitting in the passenger seat while her brother, half of her age drove the car! He actually did quite well did a corner himself. There will be no mother son auto racing team.

Right Again!!

2011-07-13T15:37:00.000-04:00

You know those money making schemes/cults like ACN and Priamerica? Direct marketing? I just didn't get them. Why did people fall for them? But one day my insightful husband enlightened me.

" People just want money and they don't want to work for it."

Kinda like fitness. People want to lose weight but they don't want to work for it. SO they buy those 'toning' shoes. They promise to 'shape you up' while you go about your everyday walking.
Read the research people, they just don't work.

11/7/11

2011-07-11T06:46:00.000-04:00

What a great date today!!!!

Great to write and great cause it is lucky thirteen for Luke and I.
I would write something mushy gushy but well I am on nights so there is none of that going on.

Pop/Soda

2011-06-30T09:25:00.002-04:00

OK I have been saying this for years, and nobody EVER listens to me. Perhaps now that there is a fancy tudy to back it up people will start changing their ways.

Running

2011-06-29T22:15:00.000-04:00

Ok I feel like I want to run but I have too many obstacles lately...

-My feet hurt- like really I have started taking Magnesium in the hopes it helps the soreness.
-I am sick to death of running anything around here. The mental energy to run the same place over and over is dragging me down.
- My ipod otterbox died, then my ipod died. AND it turns out my sweaty hands and the nano we also have does not mix. I can't just buy a shuffle and stuff it down my bra cause I will fry it too. I hate arm bands. I ask what to do on Runners Mania and everybody just me makes fun of me. At present I am thinking touch with otterbox. That's alot of fricken cash.
-I had a really good run with a friend the other day and I think I need more of these.
- I am really bummed it is going to be hot at creemore this w/e. I mean the reason I am doing this year instead of making things easy on our first day of camp is because I wanted to run the course on a non sauna day.

Smarties

2011-06-29T21:41:00.002-04:00

I got Maya aa box of smarties to celebrate the last day of great two.

And WTC why did they change all the colours?? and they don't taste the same as when I was a kid??
Why can't things stay the same?

Hair

2011-06-26T23:14:00.000-04:00

Annie says everybody should cut their hair short once.

When I point this out to Luke he say that will be the beginning of the end and soon I will have a spiky hairstyle.

I still want to.

10k- A race that is now considered to Short and Fast.

2011-06-25T20:17:00.000-04:00

A few years ago I completed the first edition of a race put on by the local flashy gym. A poor put together affair. Today, I saw improvement. Still missing some key components of a race, but to be fair they don't call it a race it is a 'run'. Although they did advertise it being "professionally chip timed" which kinda confused me as it was a girl with a stop watch and tear off portions on our bibs. So do they want it to be fun or competitive? They need to make up their minds. Cause if it is competitive those in the top three would like a metal please.

Anyways you know how your day is either good or bad? Races are 60% good days. 40% bad days. Yep had another bad day. Just had to work every step. Felt heavy which could be related to the chocolate bar sale at the grocery store. Spent half the race fiddling Maya ipod touch cause mine has died. Touch screens and my sweaty hands do not mix. So I didn't get the win but somebody who has always wanted to beat me did so I'm really happy for her.

After the race spent some time sneaking granola bars into my bag to take home and catching up with my kindergarten teacher. This was actually really awesome cause I got to thank her for committing time and energy into cross country while I was in puplic school. It is for that I am a runner today.

Shoes

2011-06-24T15:22:00.001-04:00

I got in trouble by Maya.

She saw a shoe box in the car and exclamied "MORE SHOES?? Another pair of running shoes? You do not need a new pair until you grow out of all yours."

Just for the record I only have five pairs in rotation now. I just know there is that perfect pair somewhere.

End of the day

2011-06-19T19:44:00.001-04:00

You know its getting to be Ever's bed time when he finds a quiet corner to read.

Beach

2011-06-18T21:29:00.001-04:00

We went to Southampton and Port Elgin today for some family fun and to check out bikes for Anne.
It was a excellent day (despite the fridgide water) and the weather was awesome.
We rode about 5km on the trail to Southampton which both kids enjoyed very much. It's sooooo nice that Ever can ride so well on his own now. We just need him off those training wheels....

Circles

2011-06-16T22:43:00.000-04:00

This is Ever's Sun. He is wearing his cape so everybody is aware of his superhero status.

On another circle note, I BP my 400metre time at the track by 10seconds tonight. I think it is a BP, in any event it is the fastest I have ran 400metres this year. 1:28. Fast by my standards.

Bruce Trail Rule

2011-06-15T22:26:00.000-04:00

Take the distance planned for the day. Calculate the amount of time you think it should take you. Double it and add a hour.

And that was my day. 36.38 completed. Time- 7.5 hours!!!!

Ran from Cape Chin to Barrows Bay with the help of best friends husband John. The ability to leave a car at the end point and not having to involve a bicycle or a hitch hikers thumb is most welcome. Very thankful.

Problem was large portion of the trail was not runnable due to the large rocks, boulders and roots. Runnable sections could have gone better if I had not had a empty battery ipod two hours in. Spent maybe half hour total talking and standing/around with other hikers. They were all impressed with me running. I was impressed with the through hiker I met. Although I think he is taking maybe a tad too relaxed approach to the trail considering I came across him while he was having his second nap of the day.

Drank water from the bay, hope I don't get a parasite.

All this Bruce trail running is part of my attempt to complete the Peninsula section of the Bruce trail this year in day runs.

Paddy Dash

2011-06-13T02:31:00.000-04:00

Participated in a little charity duelathlon today. 2.5Run/ 15kBike/ 2.5k Run. Done in around 55:23.
Ended up being 2nd OA, 1st Female.

So I guess I can say I won a race now. Although there was no prices nor acknowledgement of how anybody did so I don't think it really counts.

You know how 'they' say the bike will help you on the run but not in reverse? Well I think that's crap cause I had not been on my bike since last summer up until this week and I still rode well. So something had to have helped.

Sad

2011-06-09T14:45:00.000-04:00

There is is a blog I read about strangers lives. People I have never met.

I have been reading it since 2005, so when that happens you kinda feel invested in these peoples lives.
This couple happen to attend the New Tribes in Durham which prepares people to become missionaries, specifically unreached tribal missions. I have been with them as they completed their two years of training , a year of raising support, and their overseas deployment. I sat on the sidelines as they battled culture shock, shared in the joy of a new baby, and was saddened to hear of a death in the family.

I sensed that all was not well across the water. I read between the lines and wondered if the blog posts were less frequent because of facebook and twitter or something else?

I wasn't really surprised to read that it was over, that they were coming home. That the choice became stay or leave and save the family.

I feel devastated for this couple. Knowing that for half of their lives overseas missions was their dream and their calling and now what? They have invested everything education, money, and heart......and now what??

Nightime Running

2011-05-31T23:18:00.000-04:00

After I had competed my race, I hung around a bit, talked a bunch, had the most amazing shower, and made sure Ron was still running,

See he told me to focus on my race, but I was minory distracted by the fact that Ron was going to make an attempt at 100miles. Shhhhh don't tell him this but I was concerned, like REALLY concerned he would not make it. As I read like 1001 blogs I know the training that is required for a 100miler, and thanks to his blog I didn't know if he was there.
So my job was to run with him through the night and help him however I could. Problem is Ron is a giver- he has a really hard time taking. At times he was more concerned about me then his own incredible misery. He actually felt bad about his complaining!!! Good for him I don't empathise so I just reassured but really I found his moaning funny. I think the man needs selfish training. I mean in the morning another pacer told me how her pacer duties went. She had to be at least 10 feet back so she wasn't breathing down her runners neck, and was not allowed to say a word. If she was to talk about the the importance of staying on pace she got a hand in the face. Odd from a runner who asked for pacers.
Anyways I intended to run/walk stumble 60k with Ron but I didn't quite make it. I was just too done. I got the sudden irrational urge to JUST LEAVE so I did. Kinda like a paranoid convolution. I made it so far as the 401 and highway 6 and I had to sleep.

I woke up four hours later with the lights on and the ignition turned halfway on. Dead car. Got a boust from some big black dudes hanging out in the parking lot. Good times.

For me the pacing duties taught me a few lessons in preparation for my summer night ultra at dirty girls. Some are my own thoughts and some are taken from observation.
- Need a better head lamp. Thank goodness I was caring a cheapo hand held- I would have been totally stumbling around in the dark
- Prepare EVERYTHING well in advance at home. If there is a thought I might need it, bring it. Once I get to the race site I alwasys want to talk so that does not leave time to prepare there. BE ORGANIZED.
- New shoes, new shoes, new shoes.
-Bring many multiples of everything
- Do not pee in the woods in a hurry. Why?? Dribbles make shorts wet which in turn make skin wet which in turn cause some serious uncomfortableness.
- Several types of lube for different areas of the body
- Calories are everything
- Garbage bags have a million different uses. Bring many.
-Many food options are needed for fickle tummies.
- Take the pain medication

I am sure more will come to me and I will record them here.

As for trainning my 12hour nighter, I am going to do some 6 hours runs... do I have any takers to join?? Even for an hour or four??

Shoes Post Sulpher

2011-05-31T16:47:00.000-04:00

I should note that by the point I took this photo I had picked off haf of the mud from my legs.

Sulphur Mud Fest 2011

2011-05-31T16:45:00.000-04:00

In my continued effort to suffer I completed Sulphur springs Trail Race- Version 25k .Walked away with a time of 2:16:20- 9th female overall, which seems consistent with the times of previous years.
I am moderately pleased with my result but of course I want to play the negatively blame game.So why didn't I do slightly better??

- Biggest reason- My ipod died about 8km into the race. RIP. I am a spoiled rotten little ADDer who NEEDS distraction. Screw that one with myself. I want my Lady Gaga!
- Felt heavy- like five pounds off my race weight, which I am.
- I need new trail shoes. I was wearing my asics so I could save my other trail shoes for night running as they are slightly more comfortable. Bottom line- nothing I have works right now.
- I had to pee, and try as I might to pee on myself it just was not happening.
- I didn't feel pretty. I was wearing my fluorescent orange shirt which I like but I need to redo the shoulders. Ones outfit is everything.

I should have done better- the conditions were overcast and MUDDY. I do better the worst it is. Just for the record. I didn't lose a shoe but I think I was the muddiest at the finish line. I have special skill in getting muddy. As I said previous I am rarely happy with myself post race- perhaps twice a year. I have already had a great time at ATB so the next ones coming sometime.

Umm nope

2011-05-25T22:27:00.000-04:00

Got a flashy invite for a facebook for a group inviting me to pray for my husband for 31 days.

Really?? How many sarcastic comments can I come with?? Well lets start with:

Ok well I can't do that with out sounding completely x-rated, totally man hating, and mocking Christianity..... and Luke gets mad if I am too mean.

So lets just say I am not attending.