Wednesday, December 16, 2009

CHEERS!

So, over half way done with technical at school. Learning all about color, and perms and all that fun stuff! I'm loving every single minute of it! Making some amazing new friends, who make me laugh and smile all day long! Oh the joys of laughter. I'm truly right where I belong.

Everything in my world is falling perfectly into place. Letting go of drama and the past, and getting super duper excited for new adventures. Rekindling old friendships that could turn into more???? Setting out on a lot of super great new adventures, and living my life's motto to the fullest! I'm completely content in everything right now. I'm beyond excited about who I've become and all the lessons I've learned along the way.

I don't know why I continue to let people surprise me, but they do. And eventually, in time, everyone shows their true colors, and they are not always as good as first expected. All I know is that if you're true to yourself, and real with everyone around you, life is golden.

I'm doing the Rock and Roll half marathon again this year, and training starts this week. I haven't ran since the 15K in September. Life has just been WAY to busy. So I'm adding yet another "to do" to my list! I'm gonna rock the shit outta that half! Hoping to do another run in Eugene this year, seems I like being in that town...hmmmm.

So, Cheers to yet another amazing year gone by...no regrets...no setbacks! No LOOKING BACK! Just keep on swimming!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

EMERALD CITY STATE OF MIND

Finals week!! Yup, I've made it through my first 6 weeks of design at Gene Juarez! It has been everything I've dreamed of and more. I Love every single minute of it. I love all the people in my class, and have made some super great friends!! Next week we start technical which is all the chemical stuff like perms, color, foils, and relaxers. SOOO PUMPED!

Just have to pass my finals now!

I'm loving being in Seattle 3 days a week. Honestly, I really want to be living there right now, but I need to be patient with it. Don't get me wrong, I love Bellingham, and enjoy all my people here, I just really feel it's time for a change. I've got lot's of options, and I'm just really keeping them all open.

Living up to my motto of "JUST LET IT BE" Life is truly what you make of it, and mine is going to be golden! I've chosen to take the path less traveled by like Robert Frost once said and it has made all the difference.

It's amazing all that I've learned about myself in the past 5 years. I'm truly content in the person I've become. I've learned to base my happiness on myself and no one else. I've learned to read the signs and let them guide me. I've learned that if you put good out to the universe, you will get good back. I'm beyond blessed in my life, and I'm thrilled to see all the fun new things this world has in store. Nothing holding me down, nothing stopping me either!

I'm truly living an Emerald City State of Mind!

Monday, September 21, 2009

PATIENCE IS NOT MY VIRTUE

This week will consist of getting all packed up! I'm moving out of my AMAZING condo...it's bittersweet. I'm moving in with my parents...I know...to save some $$$ until the big move to Seattle. I will save a lot, and they will be there to help with Isaiah and what not while I'm working and going to school. I just keep thinking "it's only for a little while"

I am NOT a patient person. I want what I want, when I want it, and that's usually now. I don't like waiting, and I hate when things happen that throw my plans off. I FINALLY have a nice little plan set in place, and it's been a while for me to get that. Someone once told me change only happens when the fear of staying the same exceeds the fear of acting on it. So true in my case.

I'm beyond excited for my new adventure. I'm also beyond scared! Nothing like throwing caution into the wind, and saying F-It, let's get it done! But failure is not an option. It's not like I'm scared of a little hard work. I just don't want to look back and regret what I'm doing.

It's not as easy without you here cheering me on...

Monday, September 14, 2009

BIG CHANGES!!!

Yup, it's official! I will be starting school at Gene Juarez in Seattle on October 6!! Crazy huh?? Honestly, freaking out a little bit, Lot's of changes, Lot's of big changes...

I will be commuting 3 days a week with my friend Anna...for now. I would LOVE to move there, but I think I have to save up some $$ first you know?

Cheers to life...as crazy, beautiful and scary it is!!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

OH HOLY HELL!

My legs are on fire! They are sooooo pissed at me for kicking some major A on the trails yesterday. I had a GREAT run, 3.6 miles, at a 9.36 pace. Not too freaking bad if I don't say so myself.

Pretty sure I'm still not ready for the 15k this weekend. But it's through Fairhaven, and the Bellingham waterfront, so it will be a nice route either way. I think I will be slowing down on the runs this next year. Oh, I will still run, but I don't think I'll be signing up for near as many. It's exhausting! Maybe I'll have a new romance to devote my attention too? Maybe I'll be too busy saving the world? Maybe I'll be walking a new path toward my goals?

Patience is NOT my strong point. I'll just throw that out there. I'm more of an impulsive person, act now, think later. Not always a good thing. But I have been mulling over some changes for some time now, and it's finally ALMOST here. I was pretty determined that I couldn't do things on my own, well, with a sudden monkey wrench thrown into my plan, I'm learning that I can, and will do things on my own.

I've recently learned how strong you are when strong is your only option!

Cross your fingers for Saturday!!!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

UGH

So, big Fairhaven Waterfront 15K this weekend and I'm NOT READY AT ALL!! I've been such a slacker! It started with pretty much breaking my big toe on my left foot. (I dropped a drawer on it) it was painful, and crappy! But I think that's doing pretty well now.

Last weekend was Girls Camping Extravaganza at Lake Pearrygin in Winthrop! And because it freakin rained ALL WEEKEND, all we did was eat and drink, oh and play games. If there is a professional league for Mad Gab, I'm pretty sure I'd run that shit! =)

Today is Tuesday, and I am running tonight. I have to get in at least 4 miles or I'm going to be dying on Saturday! I figure if I get a few 3-5 mile jaunts in, I should be okay...right?

Oh well, not like I'm trying to break any records right?

Also, some really HUGE changes coming my way. I will know more this weekend after my Seattle trip! Looking like a new zip code, and a new profession. I'm excited and terrified at the same time!! This has been a long time coming, and really, I'm totally due for something new. And really, crossing my fingers for some really good things to come my way.

I think, when you put out good, you will get good back. I've been sacrificing myself for the sake of others far too much lately, and it's time to do what Erin wants! And I'm ready to do something a little selfish, and good for everyone around me in the long run. So, next week at this time, I will have some new and exciting news to share...HOPEFULLY!!!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

LET IT BE

Yup, my life's motto keeps reminding me that it is such a good motto. Just let it be. There seem to be a zillion little reminders lately that I'm not in charge. That I need to be patient, and not push too hard. There are some very significant changes coming my way...

Everything is for the best. Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes things are taken from us to remind us to hold on loosely.

Fairhaven Waterfront 15K is looming ahead! September 12! I better get on it. I've been running, pretty progressively, and I'm still loving it. I'm loving the stress release for me, the weather, and the feeling of accomplishment. I'm just waiting not so patently for the runner's body to come with it.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

NEW DOG...OLD TRICKS

Can I get an Amen for total slacking?

...NO?


Damn you!


Well, running is still commencing, just at a less consistant rate. Boooo me! I could go on and on about all my awesome excuses, but those hold no water. Point being. I suck ass.

I feel like I'm training all over again. I've been working on my speed, which currently is a little less than snails pace. I still feel like a total moron when I run, and the visual of Pheobe on Freinds is still pretty fitting. But my speed is getting way better! I did an awesome (for me) 9 minute mile (best time ever) last week. But I can really only keep that pace for ONE MILE!

I've learned that I am just WAY too busy to run at night. With the tempatures being in the effing 90's (not complaining, I freakin loved it) last week I couldn't really run at night without getting heat stroke. My answer to this conundrum is to run in the morning. I'm talking like getting up at 5:30 a.m. (on purpose) to lace up my sneaks and run. I did managae to do it once this week. I am planning on doing in again tomorrow morning. And now that I posted it in writing, I HAVE TO do it!

My great friend Melissa is holding me accountable. =) We are doing some 5Ks in August which will be super fun...trust me running is fun!

Monday, July 13, 2009

GLUTTON FOR PUNISHMENT

So, since I am a glutton for punishment, I signed up for another run. This one sounds SUPER fun to me. It's the Fairhaven 15K. It starts at Boulevard Park (one of my favorite places in the world) and goes to downtown Bellingham and back. It's 9.3 miles, which kinda seems like a cake walk to me... hee hee. Not even a little. It will still be challenging but do-able. Info and sign up for this run are at www.fairhavenrunners.com. I'd love the company!

I've taken a little week long hiatus from running as last week was kinda crappy out. I need to get out there this week and pound some pavement! I'm currently working on my speed. I've got a little of the endurance down, so now I have to work on running like a runner, and not some social derelict who is "attempting" to look like a runner.

I'm currently reading The Complete Book of Running for Women By Claire Kowalchick. I'm LOVING this book. Not too far into it, but it's full of tips.

I just finished Runner's World Complete Book of Women's Running by Dagny Scott Barrios. Pretty good book. Informative and what not. It has a few different training schedules, and illustrations of stretches and some strength training moves.

I also LOVED The Non-Runners Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On With Your Training by Dawn Dais. This book was super funny. She has a very dry, and cynical sense of humor with totally resonated with me.

So, if you need some great reading and training tips all of these books are great reads!

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

FIRST HALF MATATHON 2:46:38



Well, Alayna and I completed our first Half Marathon in Seattle on June 27, 2009! We were blessed to be apart of the Inaugural Rock and Roll Half Marathon! 13.1 miles. Yes, we are slightly crazy, and gluttons for punishment. But now I can mark that goal off of my "to do before 30" list.
My time wasn't as good as I wanted it to be, but let's just say I was ill prepared for the hills. The down hill of about 5 city blocks killed my right knee, which has given me problems in the past. But all bitching aside, I DID IT!!! Today is the first day that I can walk normal, I'm no longer aching all over. I was a little surprised at how sore my entire body was. But, I will do another one. I'd love to do the Rock and Roll one again next year. I'm still planning on the Run Wild 5K at Northwest Trek with my friend Melissa in September. That will be a fun one=) And a 5K might seem like a cake walk for me now=)

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

LITTLE LIFE SAVERS!





These are the Cliffs Shot Bloks! My little mile 5 life savers! I tried the orange ones with the Caffeine yesterday on my 8 mile run. AWESOME! I had such great energy, and the weather was just perfect (not too hot, not too cold) I felt like I could go forever. That is until mile 6.5 when my knee really started hurting. I think I need to ease into the longer runs.

New shoes are totally KICK ASS!! LOVE THEM! And they are super cute and orange and all aero dynamic and stuff.

Also, I start every run with an Emergen-C, either on my way home from work in the car, or a quick shot before lacing up the sneaks. I truly think they work wonders. Even on those days when I'm totally draggin ass, they are the perfect pick me up.

I've ordered 2 new running books. I'd like to learn what I'm supposed to eat for best results before and after the race. You know, the important stuff. Also, hoping to get a few more races in this year. There is a big one in Bellingham that I'd like to do, I think it's 12 miles. And I'm going to the the NW Trek Run Wild in September! If you know of any more races, let me know.

Monday, June 15, 2009

ON A MISSION, AND I'M WISHIN', SOMEONE COULD CURE THIS LONELY CONDITION




These are the totally kick ass new sneaks I picked up from Fairhaven Runners today! Let me tell you, if you need running or walking shoes, this is the place to go! The awesome Marisa had me walk across the store, and she watched my walk, how I placed my foot, and the arches. She said I was "pretty normal" (told you guys!!!) She then asked what I'd be using the shoes for, (marathon running) and asked what shoes I currenlty own. Nike air+ Bowerman series (which I LOVE). She picked out 5 pairs for me to try. I got to run around on the sidewalk outside. (felt a little funny in my work clothes, and "sensable shoes") And I fell in love with these. I'm going to give them a whirl tonight with a little 8 mile jaunt.

I also picked up some Cliffs Shot Bloks. These fun little pieces of gummy goodness are electrolyte chews with caffeine that are supposed to give you a little boost on longer runs. I will also try out these bad boys tonight and let you know the verdict. Picked up some sweet socks too-trust me, VERY IMPORTANT!

So, T-minus 12 days and counting till the big Run. 13.1 miles from Tukwila to Seattle. I get to run on I-90 without having my car break down! That's exciting. Me and Alayna might be dragging each other across the finish line. And let me tell you, we are going to celebrate like ROCK STARS that night!

Friday, June 12, 2009

YOUR ANSWER IS THREEVE...SUCK IT TREBECK

Running is going along swimmingly. I've been keeping up (for the most part) with my weekly jaunts. I have to do 7-8 miles on Saturday, kinda freaking out about that one, but I'm sure I'll be fine. I'm still borrowing my friend Wade's running mantra "Not dying, Can't quit" which seems to be working out pretty well for me. I've also learned that running on streets where people I know might drive by, makes me run harder and faster, and longer. I mean, how dorky would it be to be walking and/or crawling down the road if someone I knew was passing by? answer: TOTALLY DORKY!

Now that the running and exercise seem to be in place, I HAVE to get better about my eating habits. The weight isn't "falling" off like it first did. And low and behold, a good 15 lbs of the first 25 have crept back on. DAMN IT! Totally my fault. I got cocky and thought I could just eat what ever I wanted to and as long as I ran a few miles, it wouldn't even count. I've also learned that 'calorie free' means "here, have a bunch of calories...for free!!"

So, today, my buddy Debbie and I have stated that we would help each other. I always need someone to hold me accountable. So, after today (one last hurrah) I will be starting a food journal and writing down EVERY SINGLE THING I put in my mouth. I will be logging how often I run and or exercise in general. I'm hoping this will jump start some more lbs falling off.

WISH ME LUCK!! Also, any tips you may have are greatly appreciated!!

Monday, June 8, 2009

T-MINUS 19 DAYS AND COUNTING

Soooo....19 days till the Rock and Roll Half Marathon! Really feeling the pressure. I have been a total slacker lately! BOOOO. I've been busy, tired, busy, working, being a mom, being a freind! I know...Melissa would say "this is the worlds smallest violin playing just for you!" I'm done whinning and making excuses now.

Work is slower this week (both jobs) so I will have more time after work to lace up the sneaks. Which reminds me, I really have to get into Fairhaven Runners and get me some new ones. Mine are getting a little sad, and my knees are really feeling it.

I can tell how the lack of running has affected my mood lately. I tend to get a little bitchy when I don't get my "ME" time. Running is that time for me lately. Nothing beats the runners high, and the awesome feeling of accomplishment when I beat my time, or run farther than I had planned on. I love the wind, the sun, the rain, and my super sweet running mix my awesome boyfriend put on my I-Pod!

There are some great new and exciting things coming my way. Can't really get into much detail right now...but stay tuned. Things are just really starting to fall into place. I might have to be a little patient for the next year...but things are looking good=)

Oh, and PS. I've been a total blog slacker lately too. I promoise to be more dilligent.

Friday, April 24, 2009

VENTING!

Let me preface this by saying, I'm in a really bitchy mood today!

That being said. I'm effing sick of working 2 jobs, having zero time to spend with my son, my boyfriend, or to myslef, and not getting ahead at all! I feel like I'm working towards nothing, getting now where, and quite possibly moving backwards.

It's not exactly the time (economy) to throw caution to the wind, quit all my jobs and hope for the best. I have failed at my attempt to marry rich, and be a kept woman. Stupid dating for love anyway.

I have no time to even go for a run today because I leave early from one job, to go to the next. Crossing my fingers that I'll get home before 11 tonight. Just to wake up and do it all over again.

I'm done venting and bitching now. I'm just really ready for a change.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

SUNSHINE!

I am sooo loving the sunshine these past few days=) Perfect running weather. And since I'm a total over achiever, I have lot's of run's I'm planning on...well...running. I signed up for the Haggen to Haggen 5K on May 9! That should be a fun one=) I'm pretty sure I'll be doing the Burien 5K On June 22. And let's not forget the Rock and Roll Half Marathon June 27!

I often ask myself "Am I effing nuts?" Truth be told, yeah I think I am. I went for a little 4 mile jaunt last night. BEAUTIFUL sun shinny night. With the sun and the heat comes Erin Red-Face! My face gets bright red and stays bright red for at least 2 hours after my run. I think it makes me look super hard core. My son thinks it makes me look like a Tomato.

My lovely 29-year-old knee started acting up a few weeks ago, and again last night. Kinda irritating me. Both in the physical sence and in the mental sence. I'm pretty sure I'm going to just power through. Besides it has to carry me through a few zillion miles of running. Maybe I need new shoes? Yeah, I think I'll get new shoes!

Thursday, April 2, 2009

I'VE GOT THE BUG

It's official. I'm totally addicted to running. I don't necessarily think I'm that good at it, but I'm addicted. I like a nice 3 mile jaunt at least 3-4 times a week. Thinking I might have to kick that up a little here soon.

I'm doing the Haggen to Haggen 5K in Bellingham on May 9. I'm also hoping to get in a few 10Ks here soon. Also, I'm contemplating signing up for the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Seattle at the end of June. CRAZY?? I might just be. Can I really train to do 13 miles in the next 3 months?? I'm trying to enlist a few other crazies to run with me. It starts in Tukwila (my bi-monthly weekend home) and ends at Quest Field. There is a band playing every mile. We get to run along Lake Washington, and I-90. It sounds pretty kick ass to me! I've got Baby Bird on the hook to run with me. Trying to get the boyfriend on board, but really, that's not likely=)Check it out at rnrseattle.com

I will start training. And I will kick those run's asses! And I will do awesome. And all that fun stuff. And I will have the super cool t-shirts to prove it. Because really, it's all about the t-shirts!!!

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

I DID IT!



OKAY...so my first 5K-actually it was a little longer than a 5K it was 3.7 miles to be exact. I finished in 42 minutes, which to me is such an amazing accomplishment. I average a 10 minute mile. Way better than I thought I was going to do. I was one of 15,000 people to brave the snow and rain (super dramatic huh) and run in Seattle's St. Paddy's Day Dash!

I ran with my good Friend Sheri who was blessed with mile long legs. I think I slowed her down a little, but she was such a great sport. She encouraged me, and pushed me and made the laugh the whole time.

The last 300 yards, I honestly thought I was going to die. But a Friend let me borrow his running mantra, "Not Dying, Can't quit"

Thanks to Tony who made me the worlds best Jogging Jams for my I-Pod that kept my mind of the snow, and rain, and my wet shoes, and feet, and pants and head, and everything else on me that got wet, and frozen. What a trooper to drive us to the run, drop us off so we wouldn't miss the start, find parking, and wait at the finish line to give me a huge hug, kiss, and good game nice hustle slap on the ass.

I have never been more proud of myself. I trained for this, and I worked really hard at it, and I am beyond pumped that I finished something I started. I will for sure Do MANY more runs. I think I've already got one scheduled for April 5.

Wish me luck!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

TOTAL SLACKER

First and formost, I must appologize for being a total slacker lately with my posts. I had the flu last week, the ex-boyfriend is now the Boyfriend again. (That's great news)Life is busy...blah, blah, blah, Excuses, excuses!

So, it's now 12 Days till the St. Paddy's Day Dash! Honestly, kinda freakin out because I don't really think I'm ready. I have a week and a half to totally kick it in the Ass!

My goal is an honest one...finish without dying. I'd also like to run the whole thing. NO WALKING!

I have a new addiction to add to my training program. Emergen-C! I'm in LOVE with these! It's been proven than when I take one before running, I go at least a half mile longer! Whoop Whoop to me. I've also enlisted the help of the BF to put together a super sweet running playlist! I'll get that posted as soon as I get it.

The songs on my I-Pod make running so much funner (it's a word!!) So, a great playlist is key.

Cheers to more running...Hope I don't pull a hammy.

Friday, February 6, 2009

CHANNELING FOREST GUMP

Last night I successfully completed a whole mile and a half without stopping and or dying! I KNOW! I was beyond excited to realize what I had done. I was so into my play list (that a great friend had put on my Nano-thanks for that)that I was just bopping and running along. Lo and behold, an entire mile had gone by. Another kick ass song came on (Limp Bizkit-In The End)and I just had to keep going.

I honestly think I could have done 2 whole miles, but my gym running time had to be cut short because I had to hit up a first grade basketball game.

I was sweating like a whore in church and my face was bright red when I exited the gym. I felt AWESOME, and accomplished, and exhilarated. And I left with an extra little dip in my swagger. So, the plan of attack for the next few weeks is to add another lap or two to my running schedule. I want to be able to do 4 miles without dying before the 5K.

Wish me luck!

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

TO MOVING ON...

I had a very long, much needed, great conversation with a person I now consider an amazing friend. The advice I was given was truly taken to heart, and I feel a weight has been lifted off my shoulders a little. They are one of my favorite people in the whole world, and I wish them nothing but all of life's BESTS!

They told me to "do what Erin wants" I have a tendency to lose myself when in relationships. I get all caught up it the excitment, and love bubbles that I forget all the awesome things that made me, me. They reminded me all the good qualities I possess, and that those are never a bad thing.

I'm not sure if they read my blog, but a little piece of me will be hoping that they do, and that they will continue to check up on me. I know that if I ever needed anything they would come to my rescue.

So to you...my amazing friend. Thank you for all your advice, guidance, words of wisdom, support, strength, love, and laughs. You will forever hold a very important place in my heart, and I have been truly blessed beyond words to share a piece of my world with you. You will always be thought of fondly, and our inside jokes will make me laugh and smile EV-ER-RY time!

Thank you...for all of the memories, and to make moving on so much easier!

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

CHASING PAVEMENT

My ass is officially getting smaller! I know right! Someone at work pointed that out to me...thanks for that. My clothes are officially getting bigger. A little bitter sweet considering I really don't have the funds for a whole new wardrobe, and I like nice things. Mainly a very high affirmation to designer jeans, they are SOOO worth the price.

Training is going great! I'm dying less and less on the treadmill at the gym. People have accepted my "unique" form of running/dancing and are not as scared to be on the treadmill next to me anymore. I did a LOT of hiking this weekend, and felt the repercussions after, it's the good sore though.

Wednesday I'm going to hit up the high school track with a friend to correctly log the 5K. Running outside is WAY different than on the treadmill. So, I might be dying after that one! My dad said he'd pay my entrance fee for the fun run If I didn't die.
He's a giver.

39 Days till the run! I feel like I have to kinda kick it into high gear now. A great friend gave me some great advice "Not Dying, Can't Quit" So that will be my mantra during the run. All the while rocking out to White Stripes-Seven Nation Army, and Icky Thump, two of the best PUMP you up songs! Let's not forget Saliva-Click, Click, Boom, Disturbed-Down with the sickness, and Mario-Stutterin. Kinda all over the board huh?

Thursday, January 29, 2009

THE STABIN' CABIN'




This crafty fine piece of machinery/housing graced us with it's presence in our office parking lot yesterday. Being a Real Estate office, I thought this was a great thing. I had to stop, stare, scan it, and walk completely around it to bask in it's greatness. Not only was it a brilliantly constructed form of camping quarters, but it's TRANSPORTATION!

Smoke stack on the top, to allow for fine camping cuisine. Propane tanks strapped to the back to allow for maximum cooking capabilities. I can only imagine what fine appointments decorate the interior. I'm thinking bean bags, velour walls, and disco balls, lots and lots of disco balls.

When the Stabbin' Cabin' is a rockin', Don't come a knockin'!

Monday, January 26, 2009

SUCCESS

I used to think that my success was measured by how much money I had in the bank, or by the title of my profession. That my success was linked to the type of car I drove, the shoes I strutted around in, or where I laid my head.

Can you get anymore superficial?

I have learned (the hard way) that those things really mean nothing to me. Don't get me wrong, I would NOT turn down a nice car if given to me, I think you pay for quality, and hard work looks good on everyone.

It's our 5Th Year of Relay For Life Cancer Walk in Lynden. It will be my 4Th year participating. My 2ND year on Committee, and my 1ST year of NOT being team captain. It will be my 6Th year CANCER FREE! In years past I have walked with my Grand father, who will be celebrating his 6Th year CANCER FREE! Yea! We got to go through it at the same time! I have walked with a friend who is going on her 2ND year CANCER FREE, and I have walked with kids that couldn't even walk yet.

I have seen the tears, the smiles, the laughs and the hugs of family's at the event. I have heard, and given the prayers for strength. I have witnessed the strength of one 17 year old girl who reminds me every single day, that we are stronger than anything that can happen to us!

I am blessed beyond words to be apart of such an amazing event. I am encouraged every single day to smile and thank my maker for every single thing I have.

I now know, that success is measured in what you do for others, not what others do for you.

Check out our Relay Video!

http://www.vimeo.com/2845699

Friday, January 23, 2009

I AM A MECHANICAL GENIUS

Really, I can fix anything! Today, I single-handedly fixed our office bathroom door! True story. The lock was not "engaging" and we had a few little "misshapes" or peep shows if you will. Being the initiative taker that I am, I got out my little tool kit, and went to town.

I started by unscrewing the latchy thing (technical name) and wiggled it around a little. I put the screws back in, but not as tight and it works. I'M BRILLIANT! I did this all in 4 in heels! Is there anything I can't do?

After accomplishing this major feat, I proceeded to run around the office, humming the Rocky Theme song, and pumping my fists in the air!

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

ON A MORE SERIOUS NOTE...

marilyn monroe Pictures, Images and PhotosMarilyn Monroe Pictures, Images and Photos

I'm kinda sick of "Life's Lessons" But, here's what I know to be true.

I've learned that no one determines my worth but me. I've learned that you are only as happy as you choose to be. I've learned that I want the honeymoon part of the relationship to last more than 3 months, but that's when true colors usually come out. I've learned that life is a balance of holding on and letting go. I've learned that when things from your past keep coming up, you have more to learn from them. I've learned that actions speak louder than words. I've learned that I'm stronger than anything that can happen to me. I've learned that a smile is the very best form of communication.

I've learned that you don't fall in love with someone because you love to be around them, but because you can't stand to be away from them. I've learned that I love hand holding, and winks, and perfectly placed kisses. I've learned that being yourself if the best complement you can give anyone. I've learned that my interpretation of forever, and your interpretation of forever are worlds apart.

I've learned that life ain't always beautiful, but it's a beautiful ride. I've learned that everything REALLY does happen for a reason, and there is a lesson to be learned in every failure, every heart break, every lapse in judgement and every victory.

Friday, January 16, 2009

DOING MY PART----PHILANTHROPY LOOKS GOOD ON ME

I feel that in these hard economic times, I like to give back....mostly in the form of belittling banter used to tear down the esteem of those who think they are better than me for "actually" doing thing to better themselves. Fortunately in this case, I came across Caity, who selfishness is unparalleled...even to me.

I now present to you...The Caity Needs A Carrera Charity.





If you feel you are deserving of a video interview, feel free to leave your comment.

Donations can be made through me, and I promise most of the money will make it to Caity. (read: she'll never see a cent)

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

LIKE A GAZELLE

In an attempt to follow my 5K training to a T, I decided to forgo the outside running, and take my greatness inside. Yup, I braved the gym last night! Super Duper busy at 6 p.m (for future reference). Ran (not literally) into a bunch of peeps I know-another downside of the gym. Totally raced the girl on the treadmill next to me, unbeknownst to her...she won. Needless to say, my 30 minutes of intense/amateur training went by without a hitch. I didn't drop my I-Pod to have it go skidding across the floor (that may or may not have happened before). I actually felt pretty freaking indestructible when I was done.

I did 1 minute of jogging to 2 minutes of brisk walking for 30 minutes. Pashaw you say? It was hard! Judgers! I have 9 weeks to go from couch potato to 5K.

I find it hard not to sing and dance along to my awesome play list while working out. So, I do it anyway. I did get a few sidelong glances from a couple members of the geriatric AARP work out crew. I just stuck my tongue out and rocked out harder. I might have possibly sang out loud to Alien Ant farm-Movies, and Disturbed-Down with the sickness. I can't help it. I was FEELING it.

After I left the gym with a red face, sweat dripping off my head and down my back, and a little extra hitch in my giddy up. I texted Caity:

Me: I think I'm going to throw up

Caity: EWWWWW

Me: Or Hardcore???

Caity: Nope, still gross.

I think I'll head back to the the gym on Thursday to take up some more training. They have fans on their treadmills--AWESOME!

Friday, January 9, 2009

THE SIGN

My friend, lets call him, Sprian, Martian has an unhealthy obsession with the “Swedish pop lyrical powerhouse with unparalleled dance beats” (his words, not mine) known as Ace of Base. Not a day goes by that he walks/dances into the office singing “I saw the sign” or “All that she wants” arguably the BEST songs produced in the 90’s. He has choreographed dances for both of these amazing songs that he regularly brings out at his house parties. VISUAL!
Go ahead, ask him a fact. He knows them all. He knows that they are the only Scandinavian artist to enjoy a #1 album on Billboard charts, and he knows the name of that album (The Sign).
He knows that before becoming Ace of Base they toured as Tech Noir which was a fast-paced high energy and Techno-oriented group. (I can’t even make this stuff up)
He likes/loves obsessively, the re-make they did of Cruel Summer, a song made popular in the Karate Kid movie. (Aw Ralph Macchio, remember him? What ever happened to him?) I’ll blog about him later.
When you ask him about his day, he often answers solely in Ace of Base Lyrics.

Me: Sprian, how’s your day going?

Sprian: I saw the sign and it’s opened up my eyes.

Me: Really? Huh…What did the sign say?

Sprian: All that she wants is another baby.

Me: Really? What brought her to this conclusion?

Sprain: When she woke up late in the morning light And the day had just begun She opened up her eyes and thought Oh what a morning It's not a day for work It's a day for catching tan Just laying on the beach and having fun

Me: Oh…I don’t really know what to do with that.

Sprian: It's a cruel, (cruel) cruel summer Leaving me here on my own

Me: Alrighty then…have a great day!

I’m worried about him.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

SEE ME NOW?

I like running (read kinda bouncing/walking/dying) in the dark. If you have ever seen the Friends episode when Phoebe is running and Rachel is utterly embarrassed because Phoebe runs like gumby on meth. Well, I feel like Phoebe. I'm sure (I hope) I don't really look that bad, but the cover of darkness makes me feel better. I'm uber pumped that the snow is melting (finally) and the sidewalks are clear to run on. I have a fully functional and paid for gym membership, but for those of you who know how much of a total klutz I am, running on the treadmill not only endangers myself, but everyone within a 10 foot radius of me.

You: Good job on training for a 5K, that's really amazing!

Me: Yeah, thanks! It's really fun and rewarding. really: I must be certifiably retarded to even being to think this was a good idea. Running sucks, working out sucks, and I suck.

You: So, how far can you fun now?

Me: Oh, I'm working on my first mile. I just started training: really: I can barely briskly walk to the end of my driveway without taking a break, and checking for signs of a heart attack.

You: Do you run with anyone?

Me: No, just me and my I Pod and my super sweet Gym Mix Play list: really: This is true! My play list kicks Major A! I'll post it on here sometime. It's a beautiful mess of Linkin Park, Snoop Dogg, Tool, Pink, oh and Michael Jackson! AMAZING! Plus I'm pretty sure if anyone came across me running, they would quickly move to the other side of the road in fear of "catching" what ever it is I have, and seem to be running from.

Lacin' up the sneaks tonight to do a few blocks! Try not to point and laugh if you come across me.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

OLD DOG, NEW TRICKS

So I successfully gained 7 pounds in water weight between the hours of 6:30 and 10:30 this morning! What an accomplishment! I'm rather proud. Normally seeing the number on the scale would send me into a tantrum any 3 year old would be proud of. But seeing as today is the weight in day for Our Biggest Loser Round 2 contest at work, I feel rather...well...inflated both figuratively and literally.
So here goes a big Whoop Whoop to Team Fairhaven! Go big or Go Home!

Friday, January 2, 2009

IF YOU CAN'T BEAT EM...JOIN EM. OR. DAMN YOU SKINNY BITCHES!

It's official. Well, it will be as soon as I sign up and pay my money. But I will be participating in the St. Paddy's day Fun (we'll see) Run in Seattle on March 15 (happy 29th Birthday to me) this year. I'm working on accomplishing my goals and finishing a 5K and half marathon are on the list. So I'll start with a 5K! And since it's on my birthday, what a better way to celebrate. I'd be puking from drinking too much so why not puke from running too much! I am going to log my accomplishments in my blog, and you get to participate in all the drama, whining, and blisters! Lucky bastards! I'm such a giver. That will also keep me accountable! (hopefully)
So training starts tomorrow! Biggest loser round 2 at work starts on Wednesday the 7th. So, it's looking like I've got all my ducks in a row.
This should be rather entreating on your end, as I A: Don't like to run, or really work out. B: think I'm going to die every single time I do. and C: I'm infamous for starting things and not EVER FINISHING THEM!
Alas 2009! I'm bout to kick your ass!!!!

I'll get your name later.

PS. I'm recruting fellow fun runners if you wanna play? Tempting huh?
http://www.stpatsdash.com/ Register here, I'll let you know when I do. Cross your fingers for next week.