Love + Two

We just returned from our Christmas in TX. It was soo great to be on the ranch again. The kids had a few rough patches...but I'm sure it was due to being off schedule/routine and the new surroundings. All in all, they really enjoyed seeing the cows, hens, peacocks, dogs, cats, and frogs. Those two cuties did great one the 4 planes it took to get there and back. My little traveling buddies are the best!

Is this not the best resignation letter ever, written by William Faulkner??  I'm not in a position that I could ever resign from my day-job... but if I could, this letter is a good starting point.  I think it points the finger that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect.  It goes back to the golden rule in the Bible, Matthew 7:12, So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.  I remember a large poster as a kindergardener with that saying (minus the biblical reference). I'm hoping the saying is still taught in today's educational system (fingers and toes crossed).

Sunrise at the 28th Annual Army 10 Miler I figured it best to jot down my race recap before I forget: Mile 1: Did I really just sign up for this race last night? Mile 2: Running over the Arlington National Bridge...crap, my runkeeper isn't tracking me Mile 3: 8 minute miles... woooh baby, time to slow down or I will hurt by mile 4 Mile 4: Water stop, yes please!  Amazing... Army soldiers giving me water...love the HOOAH! Mile 5: Lincoln Memorial.... I will never get tired of seeing these beautiful steps. Mile 6: This one is a blur....I'm still soaking up all the "in honor of" shirts and number of military members racing.  I love the military... every last one...soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen! Super Cool Jumper Mile 7:  Yes... I'm at mile 8 and I know I can go 2 more miles!  Everyone around me seems to be still pushing hard.  I gotta give this race my all... not for me, this one is for the troops and both Grandpa's who served during Vietna...

I just wanted to take a second an update the blog about our new family member, Cammie the Cavapoo. She's already 3 months and busy playing with shoes or anything she can get her paws on.  The kids are doing great with her and LOVE her to pieces! Tyler says "wow Cammie, you are getting big... you are gonna be a big dog. Avery totes Cammie around like her baby. Cammie thinks Avery is the boss!! Here's a picture.

Mounting our bikes at sunrise (Thelma and I), we met a gal named Laura. She told us that her husband, Buddy, was also racing his first triathlon. He was diagnosed with leukemia just 12 months ago and told to say goodbye. Buddy said, no way am I letting go... I have too much life to live. I feel so honored to have met Buddy, Laura and their beautiful daughter, Kelly. They cheered us on during the entire race. As far as the triathlon... The swim was brutal. I had no idea I would basically feel blind folded in the ocean while being kicked a million times in the face. I felt fast, but couldn't move because all the swimmers. The bike start was great...I was ready! The bike ride felt really long, but I kept counting my blessings and passing people. The transition from bike to run left my legs feeling like jello, but after 1/2 mile or so I found my stride. I still think that was longer than 3.2 miles. In the end, it was a beautiful morning surrounded by beautiful people. The chall...

If I could only swim, bike, and run with the kids I wouldn't worry so much. I feel blessed on many levels that my kiddos share the active spirit. Just today, as we were riding around following a trip to the park (I always stop at the park in the middle), they began cheering "go mommy!" I love those little turkeys to the moon and back. Tomorrow we depart for my first triathlon. I'm nervous on many levels, mostly because my recent surgery affecting my swimming. Good, bad, pretty or ugly...I'm going in the water, on the bike and running my little tail for my kiddos! I hope one day they remember watching me race...and they realize the importance of pushing yourself past adversity.

11 May 2012, it's my Dad's birthday. I hope he is looking down upon my little family of four, enjoying a big bowl of mac-n-cheese, and smiling because he's proud of his little girl. Everyday, I do my best to give everything I do 110%. I push myself farther than I feel possible at home and work. On this day, I want to note a few of the several things about Dad: 1.) "If you are going to do something, don't do it 1/2 ass"...so true, this saying often keeps me grounded. 2.) Everyday, when I woke up with a rats-nest hair... he said,"You look beautiful, baby bear"...he always called us the bear family. 3.) My Dad enjoyed a good nap and had a witty sense of humor. 4.) My Dad loved watching 20/20 and 60 Minutes. 5.) My Dad was proud of his military service (ironically, his military time is what caused his Agent Orange related cancer...but, I still don't think he would've taken his time away). 6.) My Dad was strong, physically and mentally... ...

Before I forget, I need to blog this run Awake at 4am Depart home at 5am Mile 1: tons of people Mile 2: look at all the St Pattys day attire...fun Mile 3: National Mall beauty Mile 4-7: did I just pass the White House...what a blessing to be in the city!! I wonder if Potus looks out his window Mile 8: Awesome bands... My legs go in auto-pilot Mile 9-10: I think I blanked and saw a leprechaun. The cheering crowds are uplifting! Mile 11: victory over adversity.... Using the strength and determination. Thinking of everyone who believed in me. Mile 12: where am I... My timing and sense of direction is gone. I'm hungry, but feel great. No soreness, yet. I listen to a mother/daughter team. I hope I'm strong enough to race with my kids one day. Mile 13: I feel strong I feel alive. Just don't injure myself because I know the finish is near. Spectators shoudnt smoke, it's rude to us runners. Mile 13.1: Crossing the finish line with my hands held high. I did it... Life is...

Tyler: Mommy, you are making me sad. Me: Why, Tyler? Tyler: Because you aren't making me happy (aka letting him watch TV while eating dinner)

As I think about what 2012 will bring.... and all that happened in 2011, I simply get filled with utter excitement. Last year we had the honor of witnessing 3 beautiful weddings, 1 vacation to Florida, 1 family trip to New York, several visits from family, lots of miles ran (including a 1/2 marathon) and the usual trip to the zoo. It was a great year! I can't remember my 2011 resolutions, so I figured it is best to document my goals for 2012: 1.) Manage my "stressed" emotions better with the hubby 2.) Get Avery to consistently sleep in her bed (I know, she is almost 2) 3.) Continue working towards Tylers IEP goals 4.) Listen and act better to my friends needs 5.) Improve my muscle tone - decrease my body fat by 4% 6.) Finish the quilt for my mom (small steps :) ) 7.) Train for a full marathon/run at least one more 1/2 marathon 8.) Make the 24 hour day longer :)... okay, that's a fudge goal, but it would be great!