What Would You Do if You Had 6 Months to Live?

Thank you all so much for the prayers and well wishes.
They are greatly appreciated!

Here is a brief update: My grandfather has pancreatic cancer; we expected this. There isn't a great possibility of having this tumor removed. The chemo-radiation therapy that is available for this form of cancer is not a cure; it simply "buys" more time. The doctor told my mom and me the typical life expectancy of someone his age and with this form of cancer. We hope he has many more years of life but the reality is that it may be months.

So here's the question. If you had 6 months to live what would you want to do?

Of course I would want to spend ALL OF IT with my husband, family and friends. During those 6 months I'd love to travel as a group to Europe and/or Africa. I would also love to spend a very long and extended time at a beach with my loved ones. But in the last several months I would like my life to be similar to what it is now. I would want to continue to teach and/or work with children. I would want to do service, run, pray a lot, tell stories, laugh, cry, worship, eat great foods, and experience all the wonderful emotions experienced in life. And I would like to die with a smile of my face and the contentment knowing that everyone I love knows that I love them.

Ran Stairs and Saw a Monster

Today was yet another day spent at the hospital. I am discovering how important it is to make the best out of a bad situation. My grandfather is in the hospital and that stinks but I can enjoy this time together. My days are spent in a hospital and that is frustrating at times but I can look for ways to challenge myself by finding different ways to exercise and eat well.

We left for the hospital at 5:30 this morning. I didn't want to eat breakfast before leaving because that would have meant less sleep time so I enjoyed an apple while going down the road. I try to make myself always eat within an hour of getting up. Once at the hospital and having made sure my grandfather was ok, my mom and I went for breakfast in the cafeteria. I found a big bowl of oatmeal and added some raisins and brown sugar. Yum-O!

The morning was spent reading, checking on my grandfather, eating my typical banana and almonds, talking to doctors. By late morning I was ready for some physical activity. Instead of running I did stairs. I walked up and down 10 flights of stairs. I did this 6 times. What a workout! My calf muscles are now tight!

For lunch I returned back to the cafeteria with my brother who came to visit. I chose a grilled chicken sandwich, cantaloupe and honeydew. I noticed that there was a posting of the calorie count of desserts. I am loving this cafeteria! This would make me second guess my dessert choice.

After lunch I spent some time working on Operation Beautiful. I felt so sneaky! After running around the hospital, jumping in and out of bathrooms and elevators I became sleepy so I returned to my grandfather's room and made a make-shift bed. Besides being awoken by the doctor I slept well. Again my afternoon featured reading and some computer time.

By 6:00 my mom and I had made sure my grandfather was settled into bed and was resting. We left and came home. Once home I wasn't hungry but wanted to eat something. Instead I enjoyed a Green Monster. This is my first! It was very good. Even Husband thought it was good.

Now I am going to shower, relax and fall asleep! Back to the hospital tomorrow. Tomorrow my grandfather should have his procedure to determine if the mass in his stomach is cancer. Pray!

Greetings From the Hospital

Greetings from the Hospital! I was preparing a post about my adventures yesterday around Winton-Salem: the hospital, running around Old Salem/Salem College and my first Whole Foods experience. This post was going to include pictures too. For some reason the interact access isn't allowing me to publish pictures from my computer so I gave up.

Please continue to pray/send good thoughts to my grandfather and family. Today is DAY 5 (total not consecutive) in the hospital and everyone's patience is wearing thin. Everyone is also pretty nervous about his procedure today which will let us know if he has cancer or not. After this procedure we'll all have a better idea of what is going on and what will need to occur later.

On a good note... this hospital has a lot of healthy options so I am enjoying that part. Since Sunday I've enjoyed the healthier options of the salad bar, frozen yogurt and oatmeal and the unhealthier option of a hamburger. Have a great Monday!


Question: I've observed many styles of scrubs during my visits in the hospital this week. I personally think I would love wearing scrubs -- comfortable and bright. Do you wear scrubs in your job? Would you like to wear scrubs?

Old and New

The following post is about my Sunday. It was written Monday morning but not posted until Monday evening due to technology issues.

The majority of my day was spent in a hospital (new) with my grandfather. A good period of my day was spent in Old Salam (old). Here's a look at my day.

It began early with breakfast and hitting the road to the hospital around 6:30. Breakfast was my normal oatmeal, blueberries and yogurt. Once at the hospital (with the below view) I enjoyed some almonds and a banana.

After a few hours at the hospital talking to doctors and getting medicine straighted out I decided I was in desperate need of some running. I decided to run around Old Salem. Old Salem is an area that was preserved to look like life in the 1700s.

I went to graduate school at Salem College so it was nice to run around some of the buildings I had classes in.

It was a great and sweaty run.

After running I returned to the hospital to have lunch with my mom. I enjoyed a wonderful salad from the salad bar. This hospital has a lot of great, healthy options.

Following lunch I was so tired and knew if I stayed in the room I would try to nap. I really didn't want to allow that to happen since I didn't have the most comfortable chair so I decided to go in search of Whole Foods. Before yesterday I was a Whole Foods virgin and now I am a fan. Look at all the goodies I got. I will probably return to the store again with my "hot/cold" bag and get some different meat and dairy products.

Once back from Whole Foods I was ready for some sugar, in the form of frozen yogurt. This was the best $1.87 I have ever spent on frozen yogurt. It hit the spot!

The remainder of the afternoon was spent reading Julie and Julia and talking to doctors. It is amazing how tiring it is to just sit and wait. My energy was completely drained my this point in the day. After my grandfather had dinner (at 5:00 -- his last meal before his procedure) and was settling in for the night, my mom and I hit the cafeteria yet AGAIN for dinner. I might as well accept the fact that the majority of my EATS for the next few days will come from this hospital cafeteria. I am so glad they offer healthier options. Dinner consisted of a hamburger and baked chips.

Around 7:00 my mom and I decided to make the hour long drive home. Although the sun was still out it felt so much later for us. I think it may be due to the lack of natural sun. I will be making sure to step outside more today.

Please continue to pray as we find out today (now Tuesday due to hospital schedule issues) if my grandfather has pancreatic cancer and decide on a plan.

Sweating, Painting, Cooking, Primping and Snacking

Happy Saturday! Today was a great and busy day. Husband and I slept-in until 8:45, which is pretty late for us. I am not sure if it was the note in the bathroom but I woke up just feeling pretty.

Once breakfast (my typical oatmeal with blueberries and yogurt) was digested we hit the gym. I did the step-climber for 15o floors. By the time I was done I was completely gross and sweaty. I love the way this machine really produces the sweat.

After coming home and snacking on almonds and half of a banana we changed into our paint clothes and began painting. We put some second-coats of paint on some walls and trim. I love how paint just changes a room so much.

Lunch came a little later due to wanting to finish up our current project. But even though lunch was tardy it was still a hit in my book! I warmed some cheese over some slimwich buns and then added spinach and tomato to it. It was really good, simply but very good. The sandwich was accompanied by the other half of my banana and some Kashi fire-roasted crackers. These crackers have a really good and interesting flavor.

Between lunch and returning back to the house (4 hours after leaving -- painting drying time) I worked on organizing the bathroom closet. There are times when those kinds of projects don't bother me and I almost enjoy the process. Sometimes it feels therapeutic to throw things out. I spent some more time this afternoon blogging and relaxing. Later we painted some more and took down the painter's tape. Now the dining room is DONE!

I rushed back to the house to begin working on dinner. I made home-made pizza featuring 2 vegetables grown in my mother's garden (a banana pepper and an onion) and Bobbi of In Her Shoe's recipe for dough. The pizza also included a green pepper, articoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, pasta sauce and turkey pepperonis. I paired my piece with a salad and an orange.

My evening featured the following: root-touch up hair dye (I found my first grey hair at age 16), an application of sunless self-tanner, an at-home home manicure, and the DVD Nights in Rodanthe. I enjoy doing these types of primping type activities. They make me feel like a girly-girl. While writing this I snacked on my new FAVORITE snack, Sunsweet Plum Sweets (chocolate-covered little prunes).These things are fantastic. They are so yummy! I am now happily sitting on my bed with Husband and once this post is published there will be some snuggling. I so love watching movies with my head rested on his chest. I apologize if that is too lovey-dovey! Goodnight!

This Doggie Paddles

Last night Husband and I decided to take Ella to a friend's pool. Last year was her first experience in the pool but yesterday was the first one for this summer season but hopefully not her last. She did really well. She loves to drink the water so that meant many potty breaks during the night. We are trying to get her off the float. We would like for her to be able to doggie paddle but in a non-scared to death way.

Pardon my very white skin, I am not tanning this year

and desperately need to reapply my sunless tanner.

I Am the Owner.

I came home this afternoon and was tired. I spent 7 hours at the hospital and an hour at the grocery store and feel drained. After unloading groceries I sat down at the computer to read blogs and relax with a little alone time before Husband comes home. I turned on the TV and Oprah was on. Immediately I was drawn into the show. It's a rerun but it's about families of obese teens. Before I knew it I was crying crocodile tears. I felt so sorry for the teens and identified with them. Now I am neither overweight or a teen. I am a mid-twenties lady who is a normal weight but I know how those teens feel. But I have been an overweight teen.

In the past I have worried that this period of being focused on a healthy weight and diet will be a fleeting portion of my life. I have also worried that I won't be able to keep on the right track. A huge worry of mine was that I would experience the horrible feeling of failure in that I gained back the weight; I assume this feeling is like winning a million dollars and having it taken back. I am so proud of everything I've accomplished. At times it feels too good to be true. I so badly want to remain the fit and healthy. I know that the difference between maintaining the weight loss and re-gaining it is up to ME! I have the power. I know that. I have to claim this power and not let the worries take over. This is my body. I am the owner. I make things happen.

This is my first contribution to Operation Beautiful! I will use the next trip to the hospital as an opportunity to spread the gorgeous words.



Tonight I think Husband and I are going on a run, coming home eating and changing, then going swimming with our pup. I am hoping to do some exercises in the pool but having Ella with us may take a lot of my attention. We shall see!

Therapy

It's my therapy. Running has been that for me, especially today. I feel that with running I gain clarity. My mind becomes clearer and I always finish a run feeling better. I ran 2 miles this morning around the track at the hospital. Later this afternoon I ran 2.5 miles of intervals on the treadmill (2 min @ 4.5/2 min @ 8.0). It's interesting to me how my attitude changes when I am running faster. I feel more aggressive when I'm running faster, like I have to prove to myself that I can do it. Color affects mood. Speed affects mood.

Here are my goals for running:

• Run many more 5Ks: I ran my first 5K in May and am planning on running another in August.
• Run an 8K. This race is held each year in Husband's hometown so it may become an annual race for us.
• Run a 10K. I would love to run the Cooper River Bridge Race in Charleston, SC... maybe March 2010??
• Run a half-marathon. I think this would be so cool, especially for a girl who never saw herself as a runner. I'd like to do this before having a baby, so within the next 3 years.
• Continue running/walking while pregnant.
• Continue running as a mother.

What are your health & fitness/running/other exercise related goals? Above anything I want to be a healthy lady now and in the future.



And in closing I want to say thanks for the kind comments/emails about my grandfather. We found out today he likely has pancreatic cancer, a very ugly cancer. On Monday or early next week we'll go to a research hospital (an hour away) to have biopsy of the mass done. From there decisions will be made.

New Ring, Sitting at the Hospital and Looking for Workout Opportunities

Last Tuesday Husband was enjoying some time in the ocean and lost his wedding ring. :( Today, with his new ring, we exchanged wedding bands. Thanks to wonderful suggestions from the lovely ladies who read this blog I decided we should do it in a special place. Husband was fully willing to do it in a special place and not just put it on his ring once picking it up. We decided to exchange rings in the field where our "forever" house will be built in a few years. On this ground we will build a house, a family and life. I am so happy that he has a ring back on his finger.

My day prior to this was exciting but not in a good way. I spent the morning painting. Yawn. But then got a phone call from my Mom that my grandfather, her dad, was being admitted to the hospital. So I put down the paintbrushes and came home and got cleaned up. I spent the rest of my day (1:00-7:30) at the hospital with him. He isn't a very good advocate for himself and isn't very cognizant so it's better for someone to be with him when doctors and nurses come to ask questions or have tests run. Tomorrow, I am planning to spend a good amount of time at the hospital with him. We will get some results from tests and that will indicate the treatment that will then follow. The type of news will likely determine my day. So tomorrow I am going to the hospital prepared for long day. I am going in gym clothes and running shoes; there is a track around the hospital I'll run between visits from doctors. I am also going to take our laptop to use to work on our picture book from our wedding (almost 2 years ago and just now really working on it). I also have a new library book that I am excited to read, Julie and Julia!

One thing that I have noticed about myself on this whole crazy fitness and health route is that I crave working out. I didn't get to today. I also realize how much I look for opportunities to workout; before I would have looked for excuses not to workout. What are changes you've noticed about yourself as you work to become healthier and fitter?

A Thank You and a No-DVD workout

Thank you for all the kind words about my lose. I truly appreciate the support!


This afternoon I really did not feel like going to the YMCA. I didn't want to run because I'm planning a longer run tomorrow and I didn't want to do my planned time on the step-climber. I simply wasn't in the mood. Due to what today is I decided to be kind to myself and not force myself to go. Instead I decided to do my own workout at home. I had read Healthy Tipping Point Caitlin's post of her at-home workout. I wanted to do something similar to her's and the 30 Day Shred type format. Here is what I did:

• jumping jacks -- 2 minutes
• chest flies with 8 pound weights -- 1 minute
• double-jump jump ropes -- 1 minute
• military press with leg extensions -- 16 on each side
• oblique twist -- 1 minute
• shadow boxing with 5 pound weights -- 1 minute
• skaters -- 1 minute
• shoulder raise (weights at sides of body and raise to shoulder height) with 8 pound weights -- 10 on each side
• butt kicks -- 1 minute
• standing oblique crunch -- 25 each side
• mountain climbers -- 1 minute
• bicycle crunches -- 25 sets
• dead lifts with 8 pound weights -- 25 each side
• push-ups (girl style) -- 12
• cool-down stretches with foam roller

I am really proud of this workout. I was sweating and my face was bright red. I really liked doing my own format. I decided what moves I wanted to do and I pushed myself to do more strength training since I worked at an exercise until I was tired; on the 30DS I do the move until Jillian tells me to stop. I also felt more mentally engaged, which was great.

This was the first time in a long time that I did an at-home workout with strength training on my own. Usually I don't feel confident that I'll be able to do a good workout without being at the gym or using a DVD.

What's your favorite at-home strength training moves? Do you do many workouts at home without using a DVD?

25 Years Ago

I am struggling with this actually being a post. After my Father's Day post I don't want to be a "downer". However, this is my blog and this is the place that I can express my feelings. Today is the 25th anniversary of my daddy passing away. It is a rough day for me. It's so weird to know that he left the world so long ago.

My dad died suddenly when he was 28 years old; I am 26. At the time my mom was pregnant with my brother. I can't imagine the pain she went through. She is without a doubt the strongest person I know. At times I feel so sorry for my dad. I feel sad that his life was cut so short. Who would want to leave this world at 28 with a young daughter and your wife pregnant? However, I know that my daddy is in heaven with God.

A few days ago I googled my dad's name. I really had hoped to see something online with his name. Sadly nothing was there. In the technology world he doesn't exist. In my world he does. As I posted on Sunday I have no memories of him. And yet he lives on in my life. My dad lives on through my brother and me. We are what he left in this world. At my wedding we left a seat empty in memory of him. My brother, mom and I all observe this day in different manners. I'm sure I'll find my way to his grave today in order to pay my respects. I feel that it is my job to continue to remember and honor him.

On this day I ask that you take a moment and really appreciate at least one person in your life. Life is so precious.

It's Like Watching Paint Dry

My life right now is not really exciting. All weekend (Saturday and Sunday) and today I have been painting my grandfather's old house (Husband and my wonderful Mom have been helping). Husband and I are buying it and 2 acres. In 3-4 years we will build our dream/forever house behind the existing house. Once our dream/forever house is built we'll move in and tear down my grandfather's house. It is transitional housing. Basically I am painting and making it livable for my peace of mind. The first room we are tackling is going to be our dinning room. It had old wood paneling that we have painted over in cream. The ceiling and walls are now done and we will begin working on trim in brown tonight and tomorrow. Basically this is now my life. It gives me something to do.

Before beginning my 9 hours of painting, I hit up the gym. I ran 2 miles in a little over 17:30. I was so happy, tired and sweaty when I was done. I get excited when I run under a 9 minute mile. A 10 minute mile is more of my normal pace.

There are some positive aspects of painting -- it keeps my hands busy (no mindless eating) and time goes by quickly. I am also sure that I am burning more calories painting than I do normally.

Have you ever tackled a big project like this? We're going to paint at least 5 rooms and two hallways in the near future. Do you enjoy painting? In my opinion you either love it or hate it. I generally hate it but did enjoy seeing some progress today.

Father's Day

Today is a very bittersweet day for me. My father passed away when I was very young and so on this day it is a reminder of what I don't really have. Growing up I had a super grandfather (my dad's dad) but nothing can replace having a dad. I have no memories of my dad but I know he has given me many things. He gave me my dark hair that became curly when I hit puberty. He gave me long legs and a respect for hard-work. Half of me is him.

I guess this day will remain a sad reminder always but I feel certain the day will bring more joy when Husband and I become parents (of human children -- Ella is our fur child) and we celebrate the day for him. I am guessing he is going to be a SUPER dad! He was willing to pose with our pup on her first birthday! Now, that's an awesome man and dad.

eHarmony for Couples

I really wish there was an eHarmony for Couples... Husband and I need a dating service to find other couples that we can do things with. Wait! That didn't come out right. What I mean is that we do not have couple-friends. We don't have other couples that we do things with -- movies, dinners, road-trips, etc. That has been the one big area of our marriage that is lacking. We simply don't have many friends. I grew up in the area where we live but the majorty of my friends have moved away.

We have found a group of like-minded people, our Young Professionals Group, that I have begun using as our "couples dating pool". Last night our Young Professionals Group had it's Summer Gala (think Wedding reception with no bride, groom, gifts or cake) so we went. It was so nice being surrounded by other couples (our age, who live in the area). Now I just need Husband to get things rolling. He is on the leadership council of the group with the husbands of two couples I would like to do things with.

I never imagined that making couple friends would be so difficult! How did you find your "couple friends"? Do you do much with them? Does anyone else find this as a challenge?


Note: I teach at a school where most people are 8-15 years older than me. Husband works in an office with 5 people (all older). Until recently we were going to a small church where we were the token "young, married couple". I have tried to use the gym as a pool but it just hasn't happened.

I Love Goodies :)

My wonderful Simple Life Challenge buddy Kristin of ChasRunner sent me a wonderful package. Look at all the goodies she sent!

backrow (left-to write): Z-Ridge dog bone for Ella, beautiful freshwater pearl earrings, a cookbook containing recipes from many fabulous restaurants in Charleston, SC (my favorite southeast city), organic flaxseed

front-row: Pure Bliss Acai Coconut bar, Pure Bliss Naughty But Nice (peanut butter chocolate granola) bar, Clif MoJo Mountain Mix bar

As I write this I am trying admiring the beautiful pearl earrings and thinking of many cute outfits I can wear them with. I am also flipping through the cookbook, making a mental list of all the recipes I want to try out. At my feet, Ella is chewing on the treat Kristin sent for her! We are a very happy pair!

THANK YOU KRISTIN!

Day 1 of Summer Break

Today is the first weekday that I've been home since school and workdays ended. Once Husband left for work around 7:30 I decided to hit the pavement and run outside before it gets too hot. I so enjoy running in the morning. I feel like I've accomplished a lot when I am done with a big portion of my workout by 9:00. Yesterday our "his and her" Road-IDs arrived. I felt much safer running this morning knowing that if something happened to me, the First Responders would know who to contact. Husband and I both got the Shoe ID. If you exercise (bike, run, etc.) outside I highly recommend that you get one.

After coming home I decided to get to work. My main goal today was to clean the house. Well I took on a little bit more than the typical cleaning. I did a major cleaning job. I washed sheets, towels, mattress pad and bed-skirt. I dusted every ceiling fan in the house (those things get dusty!) and the blinds. I vacuumed the couch and cushions. I vacuumed and cleaned every room in our house. I was sweating, especially as vacuuming. It was a workout!

Although the day was full of cleaning (not my favorite activity) it included a really nice lunch. What I mean by really nice is that I didn't have to eat my lunch in sub-20 minutes. I was able to prepare my lunch and enjoy it all at home. What I noticed is that I really like to eat my lunch in parts. I ate my wrap of turkey bacon, spinach and light Caesar dressing around 12:30 and then about 45 minutes later I ate a few baked chips. It is so nice to eat lunch and not be rushed! This is so new to me and a definite highlight of summer break.

My afternoon has included finishing cleaning, picking up a few cleaning supplies, and ordering Husband a new wedding band. We decided to go with Stainless Steel for him because it is really durable, polish-able, and cheaper. About 2 years ago we bought our wedding rings (white gold -- his was plain, I have diamonds in mine), since then they have doubled in price.

My evening will include some organizing and relaxing. It's all about balance!

Served for an Over-Weight Man

A few days ago Meredith (not me but another Meredith) posted about her portions vs. her husband's portions. I try to keep my portions smaller than Husband but some days don't do really well. I like to eat! :)

Well today as I was regretting the fact I ate everything on my plate at lunch (grilled shrimp wrap and sweet potato fries) her post came to my mind. I sometimes forget that when portions are served they are served for an over-weight man. I came to this opinion/idea by the considering that the cook (and/or owner) doesn't want a person dining at the restaurant to comment that they didn't get enough food. That diner wouldn't be likely to return to the restaurant. So I am guessing that I should really only enjoy 2/3 or less of a typical plate that is served. As a female I don't need to eat as much as a man. My body doesn't need as many calories.

In closing, I am back home from the beach and happy to have control of my schedule and food. I forget how much of a control-freak that I am about food when I don't have control.

Swimming With the Fishes

I am so sad to report but when Husband was swimming out in the ocean his wedding ring came off. It is now swimming with the fishes. After he came and told me (I was sitting my the pool) he went back to look for the ring but of course it wasn't laying with the seashells. What bothers me is that if/when it is ever found, people will assume some soon-to-be divorcee threw it into the ocean before signing divorce papers (I have an active imagination). We have a really happy and wonderful marriage. It makes me sad that when we celebrate our 60th anniversary the ring on his finger won't be the one I gave him on our wedding day. I know the ring is trivial and an outside reminder of our union, but I am still a little bummed. I guess we'll be hitting up the jewelry store in our hometown when we get home on Thursday.

I think in this picture I'm giving him his ring,
the ring that now floats in the Atlantic Ocean.

Balancing My Day

I am currently at the beach. However, the weather isn't the best so I am trying to make the best of the day by spending some time in the gym and the in-door pool (once Husband gets out of his last session).

I had hoped that the hotel would have a good, typical continental breakfast where I could pick up some fruit and yogurt. I brought some oatmeal to eat but wanted something else to go with it. Sadly, the breakfast being served was eggs, hash browns, bacon, biscuit, gravy, etc. Normally, I would have enjoyed the breakfast that was served and eaten light the rest of the day. However, tonight is the big social at the aquarium with lots and lots of good food and drinks. I am saving my calories for tonight. So I enjoyed a banana I brought from home and headed to a grocery store to pick up some other items for breakfast and lunch. The below are what I bought:

Since coming back I have exercised, had a late breakfast (Simple Harvest oatmeal and yogurt), and exercised some more. While in the hotel's gym I did the following: treadmill -- high incline walking and elliptical time. Sadly, the run that I was planning this morning was canceled. At 5:30 (my alarm was set for 5:50) I awoke with a terrible cramp in my right calf muscle. I took that as a sign from my body that it needed rest. I am going to blame the cramp on the fact that Husband told me to slow-down on the water on our trip. I was needing a bathroom break every hour before I slowed the H2O intake.

Now I am about to enjoy the Luna bar and cantaloupe. I hope my afternoon consists of some time in the pool (in-door), perhaps another walk on the beach and any other fun things Husband and I want to do together. I am planning on enjoying some more light snacks (peach, apple, almonds) this afternoon before going to the social. My plan for the social is to taste everything and enjoy the first bit and not go back for seconds. I really want to enjoy my time tonight and not worry about calories. I have already posted on The Nest asking for help with cocktails for tonight. If you have any other suggests, I would appreciate it. I don't like beer. Last night I had vodka and cranberry juice. I want another option or two for tonight.

Where I bELONg

Husband and I both went to undergrad at Elon University. We are "college sweethearts". We both (collectively and individually) have wonderful memories of Elon. We graduated 4 years ago; that is so hard to believe!

So today we had planned to stop by Elon on our way to the beach; Husband has a work-conference and I'm going for fun. Our trip was going to be about 6 hours of driving so we were both happy to have something to break the trip into parts. We left home early so that we could stop, run and then Husband wanted to take pictures of the beautiful campus. Husband helped me use MapMyRun to find a track that we wanted to run. We basically ran around the majority of the campus. It was so beautiful. There are SO many new buildings and changes being made. The school just gets better and better. While running we even saw a couple of friends. Our total distance was about 3.5 and we ran it in 31 minutes. Neither of us were trying to run fast, simply enjoy the run. Yesterday I bought a new sports bra (see Wish List) at Dick's and was able to test it out. It was wonderful, so great I forgot I had it on. Usually I "feel" my sports bra. That's one item off the Wish List. I bought one more item but I'll post about that later.

Below are a few pictures Husband took.

After leaving campus we drove about 4 more hours, with stops for lunch at Subway and a couple potty breaks along the way. Since arriving we have unpacked, walked on the beach (my favorite), and registered. Now we're about to go to a social and then out to dinner. I'm hoping the evening won't be too long, I would love to go for a run early tomorrow morning. I can sleep by the beach later in the day!

Easy Like a Sunday Morning Run

Today Husband's parents were going to drive through town on their way back from a trip. We decided we wanted to spend a few hours with them. However, Sunday afternoons are generally spent relaxing and exercises. But with the in-laws arriving we had to re-arrange our day. We got up this morning and went running before church. It was a really nice run, although a little humid from last night's storm. The hardest part was figuring out what to eat when I got up. I ended up eating a half a banana about 45 minutes before running. I tried to drink a good amount of water but didn't want it sitting in my stomach as I ran. The timing was tricky.

I plan to run a good bit this summer in the mornings. Please give me your morning run routine. What time do you get up? What time do you eat breakfast/light morning snack? What do you eat? How much water do you try to drink before the run? How long between eating and drinking and hitting the pavement?

Making Waves in the Pool

Most of the time when I go to the pool at a friend's house I get a float and float. Only my mouth gets exercise. Today my friend wasn't there but she's always told us (Husband and I) to swim even when she's not home so we did.

I took the opportunity to do some exercises in the pool. This is what I did in the 45 minutes were were in the pool:

• 20 leg raises to the back with left leg
• Repeat above with right leg
• 20 sumo squats
• 20 jumping jacks
• 60 seconds of shadow-boxing (in shallow-end)
  
• 5 laps (back and forth) of kicking the float
• 20 leg raises to to the side with left leg
• Repeat above with right leg
• 20 leg raises to the side with left leg
• Repeat above with right leg
• 100 torso twists
• 20 sumo squats
• 20 jacks
• 60 seconds of shadow-boxing (in shallow-end)
• 60 seconds of shadow-boxing in deep-end with feet treading water
• Undocumented number of minutes treading water
• Several laps of swimming (I recorded what I did on an old magazine so I wouldn't forget.)
  

It was a workout! I was definitely breathing hard. I definitely think I'll be doing this workout during the summer. I also want to learn so more exercises.

An Attitude of Gratitude

I would consider today to be in my top 5 or 10 WORST days of my life so far! It was horrible! Because of state budget cuts, our school system is having to cut some teaching positions and some teacher assistant positions. And today the axe got dropped. Three really great teacher assistants at my school lost their job. I feel so bad for those great people and my principal (who is awesome) because she had to deliver the news. I work at a really great school and we truly are a family and it hurts to lose any person. Earlier this morning, before announcements were made, I was very scared that my position may be cut. Needless to say there were a lot of tears shed. I love my job and the thought of not having it sickens me. Thankfully I am still employed but that doesn't mean that I am not still very sad for those who are not.

It is so easy to dwell on negatives things happening. They seem to be everywhere. The nightly news seems to be full of unsettling things which makes it difficult to be hopeful. However, I think in these times it is so important to be grateful for what each person does have. So here is my gratitude list (in no particular order):

1. I am grateful for a having a job worth crying over. I wasn't scared about not having a paycheck (although we do depend on my income too) but not having the purpose and fulfillment that teaching gives me.
2. I am grateful for the warm sun on my skin when my body feels numb from stress.
3. I am grateful for this blog as a place that allows me to write and record my thoughts.
4. I am grateful for the massages Husband gives. I'm getting an extra good one tonight since it's been such a rough day.
5. I am grateful for long, hot showers.
6. I am grateful for the shade tall oaks trees offer.
7. I am grateful for the hummus and crackers found on the salad bar at Jason's Deli (part of my dinner salad tonight).
8. I am grateful for the calm that Saturday mornings bring.
9. I am grateful for the support that Husband and my mom offer. They are the first people I call in moments of stress, panic or joy.
10. I am grateful for flowers. They bring beauty and color to the world.
    
11. I am grateful for the simple-mindedness of my pup, Ella Blue. I've had a hell of a day but she is happy to see me and happy to bring her tennis ball so I can play catch with her and that is all she needs to be happy.
    
12. I am grateful to have a faith in God that allows me to believe things will get better.
    

I could add many more things but this is a good start.

What are some things on your gratitude list?

Wish List

I think one of my favorite things about running is that all you need are tennis shoes and a place to run. With that being said, I have a long list of cool running things that I wish I had. I wish someone said I am giving you X amount of dollars and you have to spend it on all things running.

Here's my wish list

1. New pair of running shoes. I love Asics. I've had mine for almost 6 months and plan to buy a new pair after my next race in mid-July. These look pretty but I'd have to see how they feel.
   
2. Running skirts. Every time I see a girl in one I get jealous. I have a serious crush on running skirts!
3. New sports bra. Mine are old and crappy. I don't care what they look like, but I would love dry fit. They've got to be able to hold the "girls" up! :)
   
4. New running shirts/tanks. I think this one is pretty ...or perhaps this one too!
5. A heart rate monitor. Everyone on The Nest's Health and Fitness board just talk and talk about them. I think it'd be great to have something beep as my heart rate is at different levels.
   
6. A foam roller. When I have pain from running, it is usually in my I.T. band and I would love to do some stretches using it.
7. A treadmill. Husband and I plan to purchase one before we have kids so we can end our gym membership. Husband would also like an elliptical machine so I'd ask for one for him.
   

Now this is just a wish list. I am much to frugal to actually buy all the things listed. I might buy an item here or there but never all at once. Before my race in July I plan to get a new sports bra.

What items am I missing? Do you have a wish list of things related to your health and fitness goals? I would also love a bike but am also scared to ride one. However, if they're being given away, I'd gladly take a pink one.

Gained and Lost

Today was the last day of school for me. I am very happy to have a occupation that has "markers". Each year is marked with a beginning and an end. This is great in that each year I look for ways to improve because I repeat many activities, lessons, room layouts, organizational tools, etc. It is also the way we measure many forms growth for students: What were they able to do at the beginning of the year and what can they now do?

It also allows me to measure my own growth. Professionally, I have completed my third year of teaching. I have gained an additional year of experience and knowledge. I have gained many new skills, practices and tricks. By the end of this month I will have completed my state's beginning teacher phase. Personally, I have also gained many things. I have gained a new sense of purpose in exercise. My focus has switched from vanity (Do I look fat/skinny?) to health (Is my body becoming stronger and healthier?). With this gain, I also experienced a lost: I lost about 12 pound throughout this school year. Yay! I have also started running this year, something I am very excited about and a subject area in which I am eager to learn more. I have gained a lot of confidence in the kitchen. I have found a joy in cooking because I have found ways to prepare food that is healthy and good. I want to experiment with different foods and try new things. It is now something that I don't dread but enjoy (when I have time to enjoy the process). I also believe that I have grown as a wife. As Husband and I spend more and more time together we grow. We learn new things about each other and ourselves. I love being his wife! I so lucky to have such an outstanding and wonderful husband!


I now have 2 workdays standing between me and summer break! I "lost" 18 students today but gained a good bit of paperwork to be completed before Friday afternoon. Hurry up Friday afternoon!

Giving "Birth" to 18 Children

Today I give "birth" to 18 children. They have lived and grown for the last 9 months in my room (which rhymes with womb). During these past 9 months I have given them all that I can -- love, attention, lessons, opportunities, support, guidance, evil eyes and smiles. Each child took what I offered and applied it in different ways. Some grew more academically, while others in terms of maturity, others gained various social skills and some confidence. Each child has taken much from me but have given me more. They've given me patience, funny stories, gray hairs, smiles and laughs. I have come to know them -- their voices (including their whispers), movements, jokes, smiles, learning styles, weaknesses, strengths, etc. These last 9 months I have "pushed" them much but like in labor the big pushes come at the end of the journey. They are now leaving my womb/room and going out into the world. I am excited for what they will encounter and do. I feel proud to have had a part in their life.


The author of this long analogy is now doing the Last Day of School Dance! :)

Bag Lady

This morning I was heading out the door with SIX bags! I had my purse, lunch bag (goes into fridge), snack bag (stays in my room), gym bag, and two bags of things for my classroom/class. Now most days I don't have the last two bags but on an average day I still have FOUR bags. I have tried streamlining the process but then that doesn't suit the crazy organizer in me. I guess this is the price for planning ahead and trying to be healthy; if I bought my lunch (yummy but unhealthy cafeteria food) and didn't workout I could lose several bags. Everything has it's cost, I have to be a bag lady to be healthy. Bobbi of N Her Shoes also noted today her number of bags.

My purse (white) and gym bag (black)
have been thrown behind my back so they aren't very visible.

Today was the NEXT to LAST day of school. It was the last day I'll have all my kids with me all day. Tomorrow I hope many kids go home with their parents after the assembly, which ends at 11:30. In my classroom today, it was a cleaning day. We cleaned desks and lockers inside and out. I sat during recess but beyond that I didn't sit all morning. I was moving, moving and moving. After a day and a slight headache from cleaning products, I changed into workout gear and heading to the post-office. I mailed my The Simple Life Challenge buddy Kristin, of Chas Runner, her care package. I had so much fun picking out her stuff!

While waiting in line at the post-office I decided and weighed the options -- run outside (90* heat) or run on the treadmill (and have to get back in the car and go to the gym). I decided to run outside. And I picked back up listening to Jillian on my Ipod. She is the perfect running buddy for me. I was entertained the whole time. My mind was engaged and my mind didn't want the 3 mile run to end although my body was tired and done due to the high heat and lack of shade while running. I love having her pod-cast to look forward to. I learn so much just by listening to her.

Are you a bag lady too? What's your daily number of bags? I'm a bag lady today but come next week I won't have to be until late August! Yay!

Sneaky, Sneaky

I had hoped that my afternoon workshop would be cut short but sadly it wasn't and lasted until 5:00. Now I know many of you work to 5:00 everyday but when you're accustomed to leaving work before 4:00 each day, 5:00 seems really late and like my afternoon is shot. Because of the workshop, I decided not to go to the gym with the usual 5:00 business and instead came home to get started on supper. One of my g0-to meal ideas is always a quesadilla. I feel like it is a great meal to just throw together and experiment with. I can throw basically any vegetable into it and I'm happy. I also love having black beans in it too. Today I used the left-over spinach from Friday's homemade pizza. I add beans and some cheese, onions and jalapenos and was set! Yum-o! I feel like sometimes I "sneak" vegetables into my meals just for fun. Spinach is my favorite sneaky vegetable. It appears in quesadillas, pizza, and will reappear in tomorrow's quiche.

After dinner, I really wanted to do something active. Husband and I decided (I strongly encouraged) to go play some tennis with Ella. She loves chasing the ball. Sadly, the courts were full so we opted for a walk. I could have sat at the computer or watched tv but instead I sneaked into some exercise with a nice walk.

What are some ways that you sneak in vegetables? What are some ways you sneak in exercise? Sometimes while waiting in the hall, I'll stretch with my class and we'll do jumping-jacks or jump rope.

A NEAT Day

After church today Husband mentioned that he wanted to clean out the gutters of our house. He really didn't want to but this afternoon seemed like a good opportunity. We also wanted to do some other things around the house so I suggested that instead of going to the gym we stay at home and work on things around here. A calorie burned is a calorie burned. So we first tackled the gutters. I also did some racking and cleaning of the flower-beds. Then we worked on cleaning up our porch area. We were busy for several hours -- bending, stretching, lifting, sweeping/ranking. It was a workout, major NEAT calories!

After coming in and cooling off for a bit, we decided to run to Lowe's Hardware with Ella. Husband and I are planning to "buy" my grandfather's house (he is now deceased) and 2 acres from my aunt; I already own 50%. We plan to live there for 2-3 years then building our "forever" house behind my grandfather's house. Once the "forever" house is built we'll tear down my grandfather's house; it is not in the best condition so we can't remodel in by adding a floor and the space we want in our "forever" house. The location is perfect and the view is a gorgeous section of mountains. Anyway, we went to Lowes to look at some different paint colors. I plan to spend the majority of my summer painting and moving -- fun, fun, NOT! But I know the work will be a workout. Also, it will be nice to make improvements to the house. I know this is a short-term situation so we're only doing the cosmetic changes that I absolutely need to be happy. Paint and new outside doors will be the majority of the changes that will be made.

Here are some pictures of Ella going to Lowe's. When we first got ready to go Ella jumped into the front seat. I reminded her that although we beleive in equal rights, she is a dog and she should be in the back of the car. Rosa Parks faught for all people to be seated anywhere on the bus, not for dogs in the frontseat of the car. Once at Lowe's we loaded her in a cart and began looking at colors. She was so good the entire time. I love that Lowe's allows dogs.

Running with Jillian and Plans for an 8K

I wanted to run a longer run today, about 5 miles is the longest I've ever ran; I've only been running since January. The last time I ran 5 miles on the treadmill, I was playing mind games the whole time. I knew I needed a different kind of distraction for today's run. So last night I created a play-list of my favorite up-beat running songs, enough for me to run at least 2 miles, and added a podcast of Jillian Micheal's Sunday radio show to distract me when my focus and energy begins to decrease.

Today I was able to run 2.5 miles to the great play-list. Then for the last 2.5 miles I ran listening to a lady that I would die to be in a gym with. Because I hadn't listened to her radio show before I decided by listening to an older pod-cast, I picked one from March. The podcast was over an hour long so I only listened to about half of it before reaching the 5 mile mark. Now, I have something to look forward to tomorrow on the step-climber. Here is a link explaining how to find Jillian's podcasts.

I am working to increase the distance of my runs. Husband and I are planning on running the Crazy 8s Race in the town where he grew up. The race is in July but it's at night. A TON of people run in the race so I am sure it'll be fun with all the people. It is an odd distance as an 8K (about 4.97 miles) but I am training for basically a 10K.

Does anyone have any tips on going from preparing for an 5K to a 10K?

A Great Workout and Call Me Moses

Today was one of those days where it was just an awesome workout. I entered frustrated, anxious, mind-racing; the end of the school year can be so stressful! After a 3.1 mile run and 15 minutes on the step-climber I was tired but calm. The racing mind and the self-doubt had ended. I had focused on my body so that my mind could rest. I left a sweat-covered lady of peace.


I have been thinking about the ideal "rules" or commandments to living a healthy life for the past few weeks. So, I posed this question on The Nest's Health and Fitness board today: What are the commandments of a healthy lifestyle? And just like The Ten Commandments they are ideals to live up to. I am sure we've all lied or been jealous of others.

Here are a couple posted:

• Thou shall not minimize a workout. I am bad about this (I only ran 2 miles) but it is so stupid to do so because all exercise is good exercise. That was one I included.
• Thou art human and therefore humans are allowed to eat cheesecake! by "Joenali"
• Thou shall enjoy and savor every bit instead of focusing on the next. Adapted from "MrsMary's".
• Thou shall get properly fitted for running shoes! by "Kirkette"
• Thou shall remain calm about small (5-10 pound) changes in your weight. by "LoraBB"
• Thou shall not starve thyself, detox or take a pill to lose weight. by "Shorty20"

Please post what you would like to add to the list.

Cause and Effect

This is not an easy concept to teach students in terms of reading and literature and in terms of behavior. I had a very stressful afternoon with parents who were not happy their child didn't get a Popsicle because of their behavior (cause) did not earn them a popsicle (effect). I have had a great year and my class is great (cause) so the majority of the time I am so happy and pleased (effect). But the end of the year is crazy (cause) so I am ready for the end of the year (effect).

This got me thinking, most things in life are a cause and effect.

• When I am stressed (cause), I eat bad food (effect).
  
• When I eat bad food (cause), I feel bad.
  
• When I run and workout (cause), I lose weight (effect).
  
• When I eat cleaner foods (cause), my body feels better (effect).

The cause and effect that I am most proud of is running the 5K. I never thought that I would run a race. But I worked out, ran, ate well (all causes) and I was able to run and do well (effect).

What are some causes and effects you're noticing in your life? If you think about it the majority of things in your life are causes and effects.

Music for the Savage and the Runner

For the savage student...
I use music in my classroom often. I play classical, film scores, jazz, etc. There is a ton of research on the benefits of music for learning. I also find that when the music is filling the room with sound, students are less likely to talk to feel the void.

For the runner...
It is so hard for me to run or workout without my Ipod. I love the distraction and the motivation it offers. A particular song can re-energize my workout. I need high-energy music and things that I can sing along to when no one is near me on the treadmill. Here is my play-list:

• Shut Up and Drive -- Rihanna
• Gunpowder and Lead -- Miranda Lambert
• Womanizer -- Britney Spears
• How Far We've Come -- Matchbox Twenty
• 4 Minutes -- Madonna and Justin
• Miss Independent -- Kelly Clarkson
• Rich Girl -- Gwen Stefani and Eve
• Fighter -- Christina Aguilera
• Glamorous -- Fergie
• Dance, Dance -- Fll Out Boys
• Single Ladies -- Beyonce
• Since U Been Gone -- Kelly Clarkson
• Hollarback Girl -- Gwen
• Stronger -- Kanye West
• So What -- Pink
• Boom Boom Pow -- Black Eyed Peas
• Toxic - Britney Spears
• My Life Would Suck Without You -- Kelly Clarkson
• Keeps Gettin' Better -- Christina Augilera

And I couldn't write a post about music without mentioning my FAVORITE group! I am a huge Hootie and the Blowfish fan. Please tell me you still remember them! I have loved them since 8th grade. Their music just makes me happy. When Husband and I were on our honeymoon they played along the battery for the CBS Early Show. It was perfect! Neither of us knew they were coming until we were in Charleston. I was able to get 3 authographs. Here are some pictures:

What is your favorite workout song? What is your favorite group?