I've Finished!

...not a marathon... not a 30K... not even a short 327 yard fun run like my daughter recently...

instead, what I refer to is ...

Harry Potter!

I loved the whole series - and like those who've finished before me - I vow not to reveal the ending or other details.

I can say, however, that it is certainly good to have closure. A great story. I'd love to sit with J.K. Rowling and get to know her on a personal level - get to know how she came up with the story. Did she have the entire 7 book series mapped out before she began to write The Sorcerer's Stone? Or, have the subsequent books developed over time?

Like with all trilogies or series books, I am sad that they've come to an end. But, for me, I know I'll get to relive the journey when my own children become avid readers themselves. :)

Rockin' Out ~ CHBM Photo Friday

I don't recall what music she was listening to but I caught the princess one day shakin' her booty in front of the mirror. :)















Speaking of rockin' out, fellow blogger & crazy hip mama Stephanie Lenz is going to be on O'Reilly tonight. She has a hot lawsuit going on related to a recent video she had posted of her son Holden rockin’ out to Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy”. A copyright infringement complaint was filed on the part of Universal Music Publishing Group and her family home-video was pulled. I can't imagine that Prince himself would have issue with her son enjoying his music. I have to giver her kudos for fighting for what she believes.

Moon ~ Illustration Friday

I desperately desire to participate more regularly in the Illustration Friday challenges.... I can never seem to think 'outside' the box, however. And, even more so, seldom seem to have the time to sit down and actually draw. Illustrating takes so much more time than creating a scrapbook page in Photoshop. I think it's because I'm not very good at it and I'm a perfectionist. I get frustrated when I can't get the image I'm trying to protray to look just right. I spend a lot of time erasing... but more frequently, I don't even get started.

I have several 'nature journals' but few pages are actually done. I love the look of natural journals and suppose I don't work in mine because I fear I'll make mistakes. That it will look sloppy. Urgh. I really need to overcome this.

This week's theme is "Moon" - I first thought about the moon journal I started when I was teaching my 6th graders the moon phases and how the moon and sun's battle with earth causes our tides (it was a big unit that integrated many subject areas and incorporated a field trip). But, my sketches are rather dull. Mostly showing the phase of the moon in black and white. I'd love to create a new one with watercolor... hmmm.

So... I decided to go with Polinices lewisii or Moon Snail. A Gastropod that can be found in the low intertidal-subtidal region in sand/mud substrates along protected bays.

I found this one during my summer at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology in Charleston, Oregon in 1997. They plough forward with their foot just below the surface of the sand or mud. When extended, their foot is much larger than their shell (up to 4x volume of their shell). Their large, muscular foot serves as a stable platform on shifting substrate, provides a large surface for locomotion and can fold into a grasping organ to hold prey.

They are a keen predator and can locate their prey (primarily clams and other snails) by scent. They hunt in a zigzag pattern and once prey is located, they grasp it with firmly with their foot while drilling a small hole in the shell of their prey.

When a Moon Snail approaches a clam, the clam will attempt to escape by extending its own foot in rapid succession and in effect leap across the substrate in one direction or another as fast as it can. I love demonstrating to classes of children how clams attempt to escape capture by these monstrous snails. I pretend to be a clam and sit hunched up in my shell all peaceful like. I have another student pretend to be the moon snail and approach me rather slowly. When it gets close, I spring into action and leap sideways across the room. The kids always erupt in laughter. I'm sure it sticks with them. :)

[Edited 30th July 2007 - image removed to conserve space]

Just Logging My Runs

Mon - Swim @ Masters: 650 w/u; 2x300m free, 2x225m free, 2x150m free, 2x75m free
Tue - Rest
Wed - 5 miles easy, average 9:44 pace w/ jogger and temps in mid 80s
Thr - 9 miles: 1/2 mile w/u; 4 miles @ 8:00; 5-10 min RI (water & restroom); 4 miles @ 8:18; 1/2 mile c/d

The 2nd 4 miles of my tempo run today was a little tough. The temps were in the low 80s and I was sweating so much! My tempo runs should be done in about 8:08 so I'm very pleased with doing the first a little too fast and the second a little slower. :)

The Fray

DH and I had a long-awaited date night last night. We went to a concert at the outdoor amphitheater and listened to The Fray. It was a great concert! They played several new songs and of course, the crowd favorites, How to Save a Life and Over My Head (Cable Car). They even spoofed Shakira's Hips Don't Lie - very funny. :)

Artist Site

More Videos

Magical Fairies

DD loves anything with fairies. She has about a dozen tiny little fairy dolls (she prefers the small ones rather than the larger Barbie size dolls). Whenever we travel, the fairies are the one toy she insists to bring along (as well as colored pencils, a notebook for drawing, her fleece blanket with Princess Genevieve of the 12 Dancing Princesses, and her unicorn huggie).

Of course, she wants to have a fairy themed birthday party. I'm having a great time gathering ideas for her party and planning her costume. She wants to be Sunblossom from the Fairytopia Magic of the Rainbow movie. We've gathered a few things already (magic wand, an orange 2-piece bathing suit)... we just need wings, a tulle skirt, and a tiara.

Here's a rough draft of the invitation:

Could it be that I am having more fun than she?

As Requested

Here are a few of the scrapbook layouts I've done recently. I've been on a roll - partially due to a little challenge I have going with a girlfriend. Who can create the most layouts in one month? She is a traditional scrapbooker and uses paper product - whereas I create my pages digitally. Generally, in this manner, I am much faster so my handicap is 3 basic digi-layouts = 1 traditional paper layout.

If there is one that jumps out at you as particularly interesting or well done, please leave a comment to let me know. I will be selecting one to enter in our county fair next week. :)

An Emotional Long-Run

I didn't really feel like running this morning. I had set my alarm for 5 a.m. but didn't hear it... I awoke at 6 when DH's cell phone chimed with some reminder. I dragged myself out of the comfort and warmth of my bed and my 2 year old son (he always crawls into bed with us at night and is just like an electric blanket as he snuggles up to me and caresses my face).

Not feeling 'into it' this morning I decided to bring along my iPod to help provide some motivation. My plan was to do 14 miles and I told DH I'd be back in about 2 hours.

I listened to Phedippidations #63 (Running Legend: Bill Bowerman) ). I made a couple stops (one for a nature call and one to watch the start of one wave of the Deschutes Dash - a sprint triathlon that I'd love to do next year, and one a while later to refuel with a Clif Gel).

At about mile 7, I started a new podcast, Phedippidations #85 (Running Legened: Steve Prefontaine). As Steve talked about the death of Prefontaine ... I was overcome with emotion. I actually started to cry (just a little) as I thought about the impact Pre had on the world of running... what he accomplished in his 24 years and what he could have accomplished if only he hadn't driven on Skyliner Road that fateful evening. If only...

I started to think about how lucky I am to be able to run. To be able to get out everyday (if I choose) and push myself to the limit. I thought about my coach & lifelong friend, Paul. The one coach who truly believed in me and pushed me to always do my best. He took his own life two years ago. I think about him a lot actually. I run for him.

The last 2-3 miles were really tough - I wanted to stop. I just felt drained. I switched over to Matchbox 20 on the iPod and that helped me through ... the last couple songs I listened to were slow and I matched my tempo to the music... just kept moving forward.

I finished the 14 miles in 2:13:08... an average 9:30 pace. Not great. Not bad.

Jumped into a cold tub, ate breakfast, got started on dinner (home-made pizza), and sat down to blog and do a little digi-scrappin. DH is going to see Harry Potter this afternoon with a friend (lucky him - I couldn't find a sitter at the last minute). :)

The Instigator

I haven't posted any of my scrapbook layouts lately .... and a recent visit to my girlfriend, Lilli's blog inspired me to do so. She posted a fabulous layout she did of her niece. If you like Harry Potter, you'll love her page. Check it out!

My daughter and I each filled out 4 entries for our county fair coming up the first week in August. My entries are for the following:

1. Scrapbook Page
2. Digitally Altered Photograph
3. Pine Needle Basket
4. Photographs - Storytelling Category

I haven't yet settled on which scrapbook page I'll use... but this one is a strong contender. I'll post a few more and ask for your vote. All votes received will be entered into a random drawing. The winner will be awarded a 12x12 scrapbook page. :)

Rock Chuck Ramble ~ Race Report

We went into Redmond again today for another race - this time the Rock Chuck Ramble... a 327 yard fun run. When we approached the registration desk, the race organizer tried to convince us to sign-up the entire family. He was a great salesman and had we brought more cash along, we would have taken him up but as it was, we had only enough cash to register the princess and a few dollars left over to entertain the kiddos in the inflatable play structures in the interim.

After a brief warm-up to "The Hokey Pokey", the race was underway. Runners ran west for 2 blocks and then turned right. They continued for another block and then turned right again. They finished close to the start line essentially making a small loop around 2 blocks in downtown Redmond.

We don't generally stick around for the after race party and prize drawing... DH always wants to 'get it over with' and prefers to head on to other activities. Since this race was so short, I guess he didn't mind so much.

I don't recall ever winning anything in a drawing before... I even commented to DH as everyone was gathering under a tent that it wouldn't be likely that we'd win. There were well over 100 participants... with just one entry, our chances were slim. DS was beginning to get a little squirrely and hard to manage when they got down to the last couple of prizes. He started to run off just as the grand prize number was being read... "Seventy...." a brief pause and my hears perked up as I was running the little guy down. "...three!" OH MY GOSH!! She won $504!

I couldn't believe it! Proof that sticking around for the after party and prize drawing is well worth your time...even with little ones pulling all the leaves off the maple tree and kicking divets in the bark mulch. :)

We asked if she wanted to put the money away to save for college and she said, "Yes." That a girl! :)

As we were driving home she asked if we had ever won before and we said that we hadn't. She said, "You need to drink more Gatorade. It makes you go fast. I am fast. Gatorade helps you go fast like me."

Camping ~ CHBM Photo Friday

An old favorite ... July 2003

Our Abbreviated History ~ Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things About Us

1. We both grew up in Coos County, Oregon.

2. We met during the summer before my junior year in high school. We were both working at Safeway. He was starting his fresman year in college at SWOCC.

3. He asked me to go steady with him on the 18th of November 1988... just 3 days after my first concert... Prince's "Lovesexy" tour in Tacoma, WA.

4. He would frequently pick me up after school in his yellow dune buggy. I loved the attention it brought us. :)

5. When he would work the night shift, he would leave me notes hidden all over the store... a scavenger hunt with clues to the next note. The final note would often have little surprises like a flower or chocolate kisses.

6. When I graduated from high school, my family moved to Lane County. I attended LCC and he transferred to the UofO. Two years later, he graduated with a BS in General Science. I transferred to OSU for a degree in education and he started a Post-Bacc in Pharmacy at the same university.

7. In 1994, I earned a BS in General Science and a BA in International Studies. I then started the Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education) program while he continued his degree in pharmacy. We both finished our respective degrees in 1995.

8. We were married, just week before graduation, in Corvallis, Oregon. June 3, 1995. We honeymooned in Newport that weekend. Our 'official' honeymoon was post-poned to December of the same year in Cancun, Mexico.

9. We returned to the coast where he began his career as a hospital pharmacist and I, an elementary science specialist. I taught in this position for four years and was then transferred to a 5th grade classroom when the 2 science specialists were cut from the budget. During this time, he earned his MBA in Healthcare Admin. from the U of Colorado, Denver and was soon promoted to Pharmacy Director.

10. In September 2002, we were blessed with the birth of our first child.... a girl. I 'retired' early to be a stay-at-home mommy (at least for a few years - I plan to return to the classroom when my kiddos start school themselves).

11. In October of 2003, just one week after a whirl-wind 2 week tour of the New England states, we moved to Central Oregon.

12. In February of 2005, we were once again blessed with a child.... a boy.

13. DH was promoted again and is now the hospital administrator.

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Striving ~ CHBM Carnival

We all strive for something in our lives. Maybe you want to keep a cleaner home, climb the corporate ladder, save the baby whales, or just raise productive members of society. Whatever it is you strive for, we want to hear about it.

Those that follow my blog likely know what it is that I strive to accomplish. As a mother of two, I of course want to raise productive members of society. But much more than that, I want to raise children who are healthy and active. Children who enjoy life and seek to challenge themselves in their endeavors. Children who are not afraid to try something and fail. Children who pick themselves up, brush off the dirt, and try again.

One of the biggest things that I have learned about myself is that in order to be happy, I need to always be learning new things, pushing myself to do more, expanding my horizons. While teaching, I pushed myself beyond the day to day demands. I sought out projects whereby students could help make a difference in the community… a difference within themselves. I applied for and achieved National Board Certification.

Now, as a stay-at-home mom, I continue to push myself by volunteering, teaching myself how to design webpages, and learning Photoshop. These projects, while at times difficult, enable me to continually grow and improve.

A year ago, I set out to run a marathon. It was a big decision that ultimately demanded a number of compromises in order to accomodate training. I had to decline social invitations so that I could get to bed early and thereby rise with the sun for my long runs. When I was successful in October, I immediately started to look beyond simply finishing.

I want to see just how well I can run a marathon. I want to push myself to do the best that I can. I want to run a marathon fast enough to qualify for Boston. I want to run 26.2 miles in under 3 hours and 45 minutes... an average mile pace of 8 minutes and 30 seconds.

Most importantly, I want my children to be motivated to follow their dreams just as I follow my own - by setting goals, working hard, and being dedicated. It's only when we do this that our dreams can and do come true.

Submitted to Crazy Hip Blog Mamas Carnival 18th July 2007.

~~~

Monday OSN:

400m w/u

100m kicking on side

5 x 300m (odds: straight, evens: 3x100 medley)

Tuesday: Rest

Wednesday ORN:

1 mile w/u (10:50)

1 mile @ 7:53 (5 min RI)

1 mile @ 7:50 (5 min RI)

4 x 800m @ 3:47, 4:00 (someone walked through playground where DS was napping in jogger, so I moved closer for proximity), 3:44, 3:44

1 mile @ 8:10 (5 min RI)

1 mile @ 8:27 (5 min RI)

1 mile c/d (10:22)

**all miles with jogger except the 800m intervals

Circle the Bay - Prerace Jitters

As the Circle the Bay race gets closer... I am getting more and more antsy. More nervous.

It's a challenging course from Ferry Road Park in North Bend through Coos Bay and Eastside to East Bay Drive. The course winds around the bay and returns south on Hwy 101 across the McCullough Bridge back to Ferry Road Park. I was able to create an elevation map on America's Running Routes:

My training plan calls for repeat 800s today (which I'll have to do tomorrow) and again on Thrs (with 3 miles GP & T on either side of the 800s). I should have a sitter for Thrs so I'm going to tweek the plan a bit and do hill repeats instead of 800s. I'll do a 15 mile long run this weekend and then begin a 2-week taper. I'll do my best.

Is Coffee Bad for You?

Growing up, I remember adults telling me that 'coffee would stunt your growth' whenever I would sample my mother's.... not that I was a big coffee drinker, mind you. But it was a thing that stuck in my mind.

I like coffee. I drink a cup or two every morning shortly after I get out of bed. On occasion, I'll get a latte or mocha at Starbucks or Dutch Bros. But that's it. I wouldn't consider myself addicted. I can give it up - I did so twice for 9 months.... mostly because it made me feel nauseous. :) I think I drink it more out of habit than anything. It is comforting to read the newspaper with a cup of joe in hand... or to blog and read the blogs of others while I nurse a cup of coffee.

But here is my concern:

.................

This little guy loves coffee. After Mama, it is the first word I hear him say each morning when he awakens. He'll drink my entire cup if I'm not careful. He'll even drink it black (as was evident while camping and he stole Papa's mug). He'll get into the refridgerator, open the Coffeemate creamer, and drink it straight from the container. I think it's the creamer he likes best.

What is a mom to do?

Race Place & My Long Run

Yesterday, my training plan called for an 18 mile long run... as I am not training for a full marathon but a 30K... Coach Bob said 2/3 of that distance would be sufficient. So, I headed out with the intention of doing 12 miles. Once I was underway however, I realized I was a little tired out from the 15K race on Saturday... more than I had expected. I therefore decided to do 9 miles - with the intention of doing another 6-9 in the evening if time permitted. My pace averaged about 8:48 per mile. I'm very pleased with that considering it was just 24 hours after a 9 mile race and it was my long, training run (generally run about 30-40 seconds slower than goal pace).

Following the run, I sat in a cold bath for a short time to cool my leg muscles... I think one reason I was so tight & fatigued from Saturday is because I hadn't had the opportunity for an "ice bath" so to speak. I had just jumped into the car and headed home (a 30-40 minute drive from the finish). I then showered and headed out for DH's company picnic with the family. A fun day.

The newspaper listed all the finishers and their times... I was 29th overall out of a field of 116. I was the 12th woman of 72 and was 4th in my age group (35-39). I'm very, very happy with my race. I just hope I can continue to build on it and hit my goal for the 30K, my 'A' race for this year. I'm starting to second guess myself a little because the Circle the Bay course is very hilly.

On a related note - these are a few of the pictures the photographers captured during the race. How do you decide whether to purchase them?? Since this wasn't a 'big' race for me, I opted not to buy them. If the image is good, should I?

Smith Rock 15K Sunrise Summer Classic ~ Race Report

Early to bed, early to rise, makes a (wo)man healthy, wealthy and wise. Something to that effect anyway.

DH and I got up at about 4:45 a.m. ~ I somehow got it into my head that the 15K started at 6:00 a.m. so we were en route just before 5:30. About 15 mintues outside Redmond, as I re-read the race brochure, I discover that the race doesn't start until 7:00. We therefore elected to turn back home... 1) I had forgotten my camera and had hoped DH could take some photos and 2) We decided to grab my wallet to get my FM rewards card and thereby stop for gas.

DH kept giving me a hard time about 'getting it together' and actually reading the brochure ahead of time... I told him that I could have been better prepared had I not had to get 3 people ready... the conversation proceeded a little and was actually quite humorous, but unfortunately, most of it was an inside joke and would be rather lengthy to try to explain here. Anyway...

We arrived at the start with about 15 minutes to spare... just enough time for me to make a quick stop at the restroom. Shortly thereafter, I lined up at the start and within a few minutes we were off. It was a small field and for a mile or so, I could actually see the leaders ahead of me.
I was very happy to have a Garmin - it certainly helped to keep me on pace and not go out too fast. At the first mile marker, my split was 7:44. Too fast to start so I slowed up. At each aide station, I stopped long enough to take 2-3 sips of water or PowerAide (I alternated) and then I resumed pace. I tried hard to maintain a consistent, even effort. I figured that I could slow up a little if necessary but I really wanted to stay at an 8:00 mile pace (give or take a few seconds). My plan was to pick it up for the final mile.3 if I had anything left.

Here are the remaining splits:

Mile 2 - 8:06
Mile 3 - 8:20
Mile 4 - 8:29
Mile 5 - 8:15
Mile 6 - 8:12
Mile 7 - 8:14
Mile 8 - 8:01
Mile 9 - 7:44
.3 - 2:48

Totals: 9.36 miles / 1:15:56 / 8:06 per mile

I am very pleased with my performance. Going in, I had hoped to finish in about 1:19 if all went well. In my dreams, I hoped for 1:12. Splitting the difference feels great!

At about mile 5-6, I leaped frogged a guy in black T and shorts a couple of times. When he passed me the last time, I tried hard to not let him extend the distance between us and kept him within 1-2 tenths of a mile. Then at mile 7 or so, another guy passed me... as he did so, he turned to acknowledge me and said, "Good job." Although there had been a handful of others who'd passed me since the start, I made up my mind that I wasn't going to let these two beat me. I don't know why. As the mile 8 marker came and went, I began to question whether that would happen. My mantra became, "Run your race. Don't get caught up in this." I started to feel a little fatigued but somehow managed to hold on.

I glanced at my Garmin as I was passing the guy in black T and shorts, completed distance 8.76 or so (I don't recall exactly). Could I kick it in? I generally have a pretty strong kick. I caught up with the other guy I had my sights on earlier but as I did so, he turned to see me and decided to pick it up himself. We ran neck and neck for about 3-4 tenths of a mile. I was beginning to get a little worried. My kick wasn't as strong as it has been in past races. This was both good (as I knew I left it all on the course) and bad (I didn't know if I was going to be able to hold the guy off). But just as I felt like I was all out of steam, he let up! He started to slow and this gave me a little something extra. I was able to hold on! I crossed the finish line in 1:15 !! Four minutes faster than I had predicted and hoped for earlier. Sweet success. :)

Originally, I hadn't expected to see DH and the kiddos at the finish (there were shuttles to bring us back into Redmond from Smith Rock State Park). I believe, however, that they arrived at the finish at the same time as I did because just as he was parking, DH said he saw me walking back with a water cup and talking with one of the volunteers. I took just a few more steps when I happened to glance at the license plate of an XC-90 and recognized it as our own. They had taken the time to get breakfast beforehand - and therefore they didn't get any photos at the finish. There were a few photographers along the course.... I can hope. :)

As usual, we didn't attend the post-race party so I don't yet know my standings. It will likely be in the paper tomorrow so I'll let ya'll know when I do.

Run long and strong. :)

Rafting ~ CHBM Photo Friday

This week's theme for Crazy Hip Blog Mama's Photo Friday is Summer!! I am constantly taking pictures. I have so many great summer snapshots - it is difficult to choose just one. So... since we recently returned from our annual camping / rafting trip on the Rogue River, I thought I would post a few of my favorites from the river. :)
Clockwise from the upper left, DH (aka BuD), Bar, Kong & Bef, and little ol' me. :)

Skipping Out

I didn't run today like I should have. I had a Roots & Shoots activity planned for the kiddos at 10:30 and just didn't feel like doing a hard run beforehand. The temps the remainder of the day were certainly too high (high 80s/low 90s) to warrant a run. I have a 15K race slated for this Saturday so I figured that would take the place of today's tempo run. I'll try to run the 15K similiarly to what I would have done during the tempo training run, but with slight modification for race conditions.

3.0 miles at goal pace 8:30
2.0 miles at tempo pace 8:00
3.0 miles at goal pace 8:30
1.4 miles at cruise pace 7:30

This should put me at about 1hr 19min to finish. We'll see how it goes.

In the end, my week should work out something like:

Mon - Swim (~4.5 miles running)
Tue - Rest
Wed - Run 8 miles (2x1mile C, 4x800 SI, 2x1mile C)
Thr - Rest
Fri - Swim (~4.5 miles running)
Sat - Run/Race 9.4 miles
Sun - Long Run 13.5 miles
Total = ~40 miles

Reasons I Love Central Oregon ~ Thursday Thirteen

1. Active Lifestyle - I had been athletically-minded in high school, but since then, my life had become 'busy'. At least I thought so. I had occasionally ran a few miles here and there - maybe pedaled around the block with hubby or enjoyed an evening walk. But here - I discovered that people enjoyed outdoor activities year round. Through winter, people could be found at the gym or pool, conditioning for skiing or training for a marathon. Their enthusiasm is certainly contagious. Before long, I found myself regularly going to the gym for an aerobics class. Then I started running again. Now look at me. A marathoner myself !? I can hardly believe it sometimes. Yet, at the same time, I don't want to go back to the 'old me'. :)

2. 360 Days of Sun - I'm not certain that is quite accurate, but we rarely have cloudy/rainy days, unlike the coast where it was seemingly just the opposite.

3. Smells Like Camping - Each morning when I wake up and go out for the morning paper, the smell of sage and pine reminds me of the many summers my family and I would camp in Central Oregon. I love the smells here. There are so many lakes that I have yet to have camped at them all. As the kids get older, I look forward to doing this more frequently.

4. Big City Amenities - Small City Charm The 'old timers' might disagree considering the tremendous growth the area has seen over the past 5-10 years, but I love the amenities that are so accessible here. All the while, it still feels small and not overwhelming or hectic like Portland. I've selected a few of my favorites to highlight here in this list (keep reading).

5. The High Desert Museum - I love the museum. I have had wonderful opportunities there... in the beginning, I was a Bird of Prey interpreter. Now, I do Living History with my children. Experiences I will cherish forever.

6. Friends - When DH and I returned to North Bend (where we'd both graduated from high school) after college, we were a little surprised to find that we didn't quite fit the mold of the typical 20 something resident. Granted, the majority of the population are elderly, retired folk. The population of school-age children had been steadily declining for some time - causing the school districts to close several rural schools in favor the larger, more centrally located schools. But the biggest challenge for us (particularly me) was meeting people with similar interests and mind-sets that were also of similar age. All of our friends were older.... they had grown children. Quite often, I found myself out of the loop, socially. I was a misfit. It wasn't until 2002 that I met my girlfriend, Lilli, with whom I dearly wanted to spend more time. But just as our friendship was beginning to blossom, we had to move. After our arrival in Central Oregon, it took over a year before I started to make new friends. For the first time in my life, I have a circle of women friends that I cherish. Amongst them, I would consider Deb to be my closest. (Hi, Deb! If this doesn't get you to leave a comment, I'll have to hijack your computer!)

7. Buffer Zone - We are about 3-5 hours from most of our friends and family. Seinfeld would call this the Buffer Zone .... too far to just 'drop in' on someone. Just the same, we don't have guests as often as I would like. Most of our friends and family aren't equipped to travel over the pass in the winter. Others simply don't care to travel. As a result, we are the ones that do most of the traveling.

8. My House - I love my house. When we first moved here, we were in an apartment for a few months despite the fact that I fell in love with this house the first time I saw it... only my second outing with the realtor. DH was more hesitant. In fact, he had cold feet! He had believed we could find a great house for the same price or less than the one we had sold in North Bend. He didn't want to leave a stone unturned. We looked and looked and looked. House hunting with my DH is awful. He is so particular.

• The house must be single-level.
• It must be 2000 square feet minimum.
• 3 bedrooms + den
• Master suite with walk-in closet
• 3+ car garage
• Great-room with sink in the island (not the stove) - this was my request
• Vaulted ceilings - me again
• It must have a south-facing driveway (to melt the snow/ice of winter).
• The driveway must be flat (no driving up or down to the garage).
• No more than two steps to the front door.
• Wall in great-room or bonus room must be large enough for flat-screen TV. Room must be suitable for Bose surround sound setup.
• Backyard suitable for children (fenced and relatively spacious)

Thankfully, we finally agreed that the Aspen floor plan and the neighborhood was ideal for our needs. We originally thought we would have to have one built from the ground up on a lot that wouldn't allow for a south-facing driveway.... OR wait for the next phase (which would've been at least a year). However, the stars aligned and one that had been 'sold' previously fell through and was available at the exact time we were ready. We moved in just one week before Christmas. It was a very merry Christmas that year. :)

9. Great Schools - The public schools are great. And yet, there are numerous charter & private schools to choose from. Finding the right fit for your child is certain.

10. The Public Library - Offering multiple story times for the kiddos with crafts, fun summer reading programs, and a cozy reading corner.... the kids love to go to the library. For adults, the county-wide reading program, A Novel Idea, is very popular. I've participated in the last 3 of the 4 years and have enjoyed every book selected.

11. Concerts in the Park - Throughout the summer months, there are free concerts in the park with food vendors and live entertainment. We love throwing a blanket down on the grass to take it all in.

12. The Municipal Pool - Newly remodeled, it now showcases an outdoor activity pool for young children, a 50m Olympic pool, and an expanded fitness center and a pilate's studio (mat & machines). There are many, many classes to choose from and the instructors are very welcoming/helpful. On-site childcare and children's programs are a highlight.

13. The Parks System - There are neighborhood parks everywhere... each one unique. The kiddos enjoy exploring parks they haven't visited in the past as well as returning to 'old favorites'. I most enjoy the 48 miles of river trails... accessible just a mile from my front door.

Happy trails, ya'll. :)

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Unusual Speedwork

Today's run was not quite what I had imagined. My plan called for the following:
2x1 mile at Cruise Pace (7:14)
4x800 at Speed Interval (3:27)
2x1 mile at Cruise Pace (7:14)

Pushing the kiddos in the jogger, I did a short 1.11 mile warmup to start off. I strongly doubted that I would be able to hit 7:14 with the jogger, but I wanted to at least be between 8:00 and 8:30. The first mile was 8:00 minutes exactly! Sweet! I took a 5 min walk recovery (covering about 1/4 mile) and then started the 2nd mile. While the 1st mile had a few tiny downslopes, the 2nd mile had a few tiny inclines. The 2nd mile was completed in 8:26. I'm still happy. :)

During the 5 min recovery, I pushed the jogger to the school where I let the kiddos out to play on the structures as I did the 800s on the field. Little did I expect to be dodging the sprinklers! Certainly made for refreshing intervals. :) The first 3 800s were done on the field... 3:46, 3:46 and 3:49. Just before I was to start the 4th, my princess informs me that she has to go to the restroom. With no porta-potty in sight (there had been one at the school last week - assumably for baseball), we had to head home. Thus, the 4th 800 was pushing the jogger towards home... 4:02. Not too bad.

The recovery was a little longer than it probably shoud've been... but I'm certainly not going to complain. The next two mile intervals were 8:18 and 9:18 (both w/ jogger). I was very tired during the last and quite thirsty. I had to stop briefly for a sip of water. I really struggled through this last one but I finished it! :)

Throughout my run, whenever I was pushing the jogger, my daughter was entertaining us with songs of her own invention. The first one was very motivating, "Running is best. Running is best. Running is best. (continual repetition) Running is the best exercise." I asked her to repeat it but she said the song was just in her mind as she was singing and "I don't have it in my mind now." She asked if I ran faster when she sang and I assured her that I did. Her next song went something like, "The best day. The best day. The best day is video game. The best day."

Dodging sprinklers, pushing the jogger, a personalized concert, and making a dash for home to use the restroom... today's speedwork was very unusual.

Grand total of about 8 miles.

An Unexpected Float ~ My Most Adventurous Moment

The Fourth of July brings many annual traditions. Some families go to the town parade and watch the fireworks. Others go to baseball games and enjoy hotdogs and homeruns. For the past several years, my family has enjoyed camping at Indian Mary Park in Josephine County with our extended 'family' of close friends. It is located about 15 miles West (or downriver) from Grants Pass along the Rogue River.

Last years trek to the river was like any other year. As the afternoon heat became a little too unbearable, we all walked down to the river for a swim and to toss the little football around in the shallows. The river is different every year we come and we were surprised to discover that this year the area just around the bend from the boat launch was rather wide and shallow for some distance. This provided an area for children to play comfortably as the adults waded out a bit further for a swim.

Before I proceed, you need to know a little history. Our dear friend, Bef, was given this little 6" NFL football for Christmas several years ago by another friend of ours. Due to its small size, Bef has always packed it in his suitcase when he travels. His work requires him to travel overseas regularly so this little football has been to Korea, the Philippines, Hawaii several times (I have photographs of my daughter doing her end-zone dance in the surf on Moloa'a Beach in Kauai), Las Vegas, Disneyland, Colorado, North Carolina, Alaska, numerous road trips throughout Oregon, and of course Indian Mary.

The children were each engaged in their own endeavors, my daughter, nearly 4 years old at the time, was near the water's edge in the shallow area, assumably looking for small aquatic critters. My 17 month old son, was seated on shore with our friend Bar, stacking rocks and delighting in the rumble they would make as they fell. BuD (my husband), Bef, Kong, and I were standing in the river about knee deep tossing the football to one another.

On a whim, Kong thought it might be amusing to toss the ball over BuD's head just out of reach so that he would have to dive in order to successfully catch the ball. He passed on her attempt to goat him and we all watched as the ball floated over his head landing in the more swift moving water.

At that moment, I was several feet downstream and it appeared to me as though the ball was moving towards the bank as it gently floated along. I yelled out, "I can get it!" as I immediately ran out to retrieve the football. As I proceeded, I could hear my husband yell, "NO! DON'T! STOP!" But all I could think about was how special that little football was to all of us. I had to get it back.

Just before I could reach the ball, I miscalculated the depth and I discovered that I wasn't able to touch bottom. I lost my footing and started to drift down river. I continued to try to retrieve the ball for a brief moment and then realized that I was approaching a small rapid.

I immediately got my wits together, turned around with my legs extended and facing downriver. I spread my arms out to help guide me and to push away from any rocks I might approach. I've floated parts of the Rogue many times in my life-vest alone, but this was the first time I was without a floatation device.

When the water slowed down, I was able to swim to the bank and climb up the 12' steep embankment to the park. A man who had been up on the bank had seen me float by and had ran along the field to assist in some way. He arrived just as I reached the top and he helped me to my feet. He asked if I was okay and I assured him that I was shaken but otherwise fine. I then rejoined my friends and family and we returned to our campsite.

The silence was uncomfortable. Everyone had been so scared and were now so relieved. Nobody really knew what to say. This is when it hit me. When I realized how stupid my actions had been. I had risked everything for a silly football. Fortunately, I am a relatively strong swimmer and was able to stay calm.

When we returned to the river this year, it became apparent how many of us learned the importance of river safety. My daughter,now approaching 5 years, was very adamant about having her vest on, holding hands with an adult, and not venturing farther than her knees. She told her dad, "We don't want to float down like Mommy did last year." Smart girl.



Submitted to July Write-Away Contest on 10 July 2007.

Wanna Cool Tshirt ??

I just created this image for a Tshirt and thought I would share. If you are interested in one of your own (with your own image, of course), let me know.

I've Been Nominated

How cool is this? Mom2Amara has nominated me as a Rockin' Girl Blogger. In turn, I get to choose a fellow blogger to nominate....

We all have someone we look up to and admire. People who motivate us to keep at it and inspire us to push farther. My nomination for the Rockin' Girl Blogger goes to GB at Get Out There & Run Already. Check out her site... don't be surprised if she inspires you to get CrossFit, too. :)

Out Is In

What a fabulous weekend! The weather was hot, the water was cool, the food was delicious and the company was fantastic!

A few of my favorite photos from Indian Mary 2007.

Everyone had a great time and we all did our best to 'Maximize the Fun'. Saturday was a little rough... my little guy had reached his camping limit and was quite cranky and irritable throughout the day. My little princess, on the other hand, was sweet and helpful the entire time. Some of the most memorable moments include: my daughters fascination with a little worm she found (she played with it for over an hour), my sons fascination with a dead June bug, the kiddos interacting with the adults (playing games, sharing stories, etc.), DD floating the river on an inflatable ring, DS eating his weight in watermelon, a bear sighting by my dad (fishing just a few meters upstream from the bear) and our raft flotilla, and me winning Super Scrabble for the first time (with "Zoril" ? for 70 points).

I even managed to get my runs in, for the most part. Wednesday morning, I woke early and did 8+ miles with about 10 minutes TUT along the river trail. Strangely, I discovered a part of the trail that extends uphill a significant distance that I had not noticed in the past - despite the fact that I run this portion of the trail regularly. Now I can be assured of incorporating more hill work into my runs. Sweet!

Kong and I awoke at 5:30 a.m. on Thursday morning. We did an easy 6+ miles at about a 10 min mile pace. I then added an additional 3 at an average 8:18 pace (between GP and T). It is always a treat for me to run with a friend as I don't often have the opportunity. I had intended to get up early again on Friday, but my body must have needed some rest because I slept through the alarm... which was on my wrist! Alas, Kong hit the road without me.

I did my long run on Saturday knowing I wouldn't be able to run on Sunday. I did the first 6+ with D2 (a friend of DH) and Kong. I then did the same loop a second time on my own. I loved running along Galice-Merlin road... despite the traffic. My weeks total mileage was just above 35 miles. I'll continue to build on that for 2 more weeks and then taper for the 30K on the 4th of August.

The view of Hells Canyon and the Rogue River was breathtaking. On several occasions, I was able to stop briefly to watch a pair of Osprey dive for the breakfast. On Thursday, Kong and I even woke a wild turkey from its slumber as we returned to the park. She saw him again (or perhaps it was a relative) right in our camp the next day.

Happy Fourth of July!

I'm really looking forward to this weekend. Since college, we have got together with a group of friends to go camping during the warmer months of the year. As our lives got busier and some of us have had to move out of state (or overseas - the Wilsons), our camping weekends dwindled down to just one big trip...Indian Mary.

We've been going to Indian Mary Campground near Grants Pass annually over the 4th of July weekend for the past 12 years (guys - correct me if I'm wrong). In the beginning, it was just my husband and I along with our two friends Bef and Bar; and my dad has always joined us for a night or two. We've grown over the years and as we've become more accustomed to the 'lifestyle', we've purchased better equipment and have expanded our invitations to all our friends and family.

Over the past 4-5 years, there has always been a core group that rsvps when I make the reservations (generally 11+ months in advance due to the popularity of the park and the holiday weekend); this group includes the aforementioned 5 and also includes our 2 little ones, Kong (Bar's wife), and Bef & Bar's parents for a grand total of 10.

Over the years, we've seen our numbers wax and wane... in 2005, we had over 30 campers spread between 3 campsites! It was crazy! We learned a lot that year and, to be honest, I'm more particular about whether or not I will allow others to use our site. There were friends of friends ... some I'd never met before ... others who had no prior experience camping ... I didn't get to enjoy myself and relax. I was so worried about whether the park officials would kick some of us out (park rules limit each site to 8 campers) and it seemed I had become the official care-taker for those that didn't plan well and needed this or that.

The park offers many popular ammenities (frisbee golf, easy access to the river, a playground, showers, large grassy fields, beach volleyball, basketball, etc.). One thing that makes Indian Mary stand out is The Muffin Man. An older gentlemen that runs a little bakery in Galice arrives every morning in his customized Model T (he used to drive an old VW bus but it broke down) with fresh, hot cinnamon rolls and marionberry danishes. They are to die for! The best I've ever had. He generally gives the kiddos free breadsticks as they wait in line. (He doesn't actually sell muffins, however.)

Our meals are one of the highlights of the trip. If you have ever camped, you know full well how difficult preparing meals at a campsite can be. You are on vacation! You want to relax. But you also want to eat well, at least we do. So, we've devised a system whereby we all contribute and we distribute the burden to each 'family'.

Here is our meal plan for this year:

WEDNESDAY arrival

Lunch - on your own
Dinner - Taco Salad & Bday Cake (Karel)

THURSDAY

Breakfast - Pancakes & Smoothies (Me)
Lunch - Hot Dogs & Deli Salad (Kong) Veggie Tray (Karel)
Dinner - Grilled Salmon (Kong) and Pasta w/Spinach & Asiago Cheese (Me)
Dessert - Root Beer Floats (Karel)

FRIDAY

Breakfast - Breakfast in a Bag & Bagels (Karel) A fun, easy way to do omelettes!
Lunch - Galice Cafe
Dinner - Shrimp (Kong) & Filet Mignon (Bef), Side Dish (Karel)
Dessert - Berry Pie (Kong)

SATURDAY

Breakfast - Fruit Salad & ?? (Kong)
Lunch - Grilled Chicken Breast w/green tom, goat cheese, sage mayo & bacon (Me) and Corn on the Cob & Watermelon (my Dad)
Dinner - CousCous Salad w/Grilled Veggies & Tequila Lime Chicken Wings (Me) and Side Dish (Karel)
Dessert - Leftovers & S'mores

SUNDAY departure

Breakfast - Leftovers & the Muffin Man

My mom (who comes occasionally for a day-visit) has said, "You guys eat better when your camping than I do all year!" One of our most memorable quotes - ahh, a Thursday 13 list idea. :)


OSN: 2050 meters (600m w/u mixed stroke, 300m free, 3x50 breast, 200m free, 5x50 back, 100m free, 7x50 free)

Ratatouille ~ A Movie Review

Animated films are created for children yet, in reality, they appeal to the child in everyone. Disneyland is certainly successful, in part, due to this premise. But Walt Disney Studios is not the only ones in the business of making animated movies. Pixar Animation has brought animation to a new level with A Bugs Life (one of my favorites), Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo and The Incredibles. Their latest joint creation is Ratatouille.

I absolutely adored this movie. It has the sounds, visuals, and story-line to keep kids of all ages captivated.

Remy (voices by Patton Oswalt), the hero in our story, has aspirations to be more than the typical, trash stealing rat his for which his friends and family are most known. He wants to be a chef and is inspired by his human Food Channel mentor, Chef Auguste Gusteau (Brad Garrett) whose motto is "anyone can cook". After Gusteau dies from a broken heart when his 5-star restaurant loses one of its ratings points, a series of wildly exciting mishaps lands Remy in Gusteau's kitchen. And cook is exactly what Remy does... in a very clever, slapstick way.

The story wouldn't be complete without a love interest and a villian. In this case, the romance is provided by Remy's sidekick, a young and clutsy lad named Linguini (Lou Romano) who falls for Collette (Janeane Garafalo), a feisty and assertive young member of the kitchen staff.

Ratatouille is a French peasant dish, a stewlike vegetable concoction with most notably, eggplant. And in a surprising move, Remy and his compatriots, serve their variation of this regional dish to restaurant critic Anton Ego (Peter O'Toole). This is, in my opinion, the best part of the movie. A brief flashback actually made tears well up in my eyes amd a moment later I was whisked back to the present with a huge smile across my face. Bravo!

And what would an animated movie be without a little message? Pursue your dreams with all the gusto you can.

My Long Run

I awoke early today in order to complete my run while the majority of the house continued to sleep. Fortunately, my plan worked out perfectly.

The first 4 miles were completed in 35:49 (average pace = 8:57). Granted, about 1 mile of this portion is downhill (Yes! I'll have to return in this direction when I come home... as described below). Although I was a little tight/sore in the upper body from the previous 2 days of weight training/CrossFit, I felt good. It was great to be out there running with very few autos. I was able to listen to and enjoy the birds chirping... I even heard a few owls hooting nearby. :)


The next 3 miles were completed in 27:32 (average pace = 9:10). I started to slow down a bit here but the last half of these 3 were in unfamiliar territory. I enjoyed the scenery and also had to wait briefly for traffic in order to cross the street a couple of times. When I reached the 7 mile mark, I stopped; I stopped my watch, too. This was the plan when I left - run just 7 miles and then come home. I took a few minutes here to stretch as my back was feeling tight. I rehydrated and walked as I ate a gel packet. I then resumed my pace or at least attempted. I actually brought along my Camelback this time around so there were no worries about water-nappers. :)


The next 3 miles were completed in 28:10 (ap = 9:28). A little slower but I was feeling a little fatigued. I've noticed that I always lag a little in the middle. Perhaps I should experiment more with gels? I hit the split/lap button on the Garmin as I started the uphill climb just after the 10 mile mark. This next 1.52 miles took 16:22 minutes (ap = 10:44). Dramatically slower.... but entirely an uphill climb. So, I am pleased with my effort. At the end of my climb, I stopped briefly to rehydrate once again.


I then hit the split button on the Garmin with the intention of finishing the remaining distance to home, 2+ miles, at a faster pace than I started. In other words, a fast finish. I soon came upon another runner who was seemingly out for a Sunday morning leisurely jog (she was dragging her hand along the chain link fence around the elementary school and had moments before walked about 1/2 block). Having her in my sight helped me to maintain pace despite my fatigue. I finished the 2.1 miles in 17:26 (ap = 8:19). Nearly 40 seconds faster than the first 4 miles. Very cool.


After a cold soak in the bath, we ate a light breakfast (cereal) and went to the movies. The princess wanted to see Ratatouille. I'll save my review for another post. :)


ORN: 13.62 miles completed in 2:05:22 (average pace 9:12).