Just Me and the Ones that I Love

kinda loving

2012-01-31T20:38:00.014-05:00

Right now we are intermixing two different sport seasons and I'm kinda loving it. As much as I love watching basketball games, soccer is so much fun too. In basketball we are almost to playoffs and then the season will be over. The boys have learned a lot and have had a great season only losing to two different teams.
Two weeks ago Alex started an indoor soccer season and it's been a ton of fun already! They won their first game 4-3 and lost their second 6-7. Both were extremely close and exciting games. The indoor stadium makes it extremely difficult to take photos.

And I absolutely love Alex's big smiles before, during and after!

on a sunny January afternoon

2012-01-30T16:18:00.004-05:00

Today I had a half day because I worked this past Saturday. So, I took the time to "run" an errand...literally! I wanted to run, but also needed to take a package to the post office. So, I clipped on my iFitness belt and put my cell phone and debit card in it. This belt is awesome! It is so comfortable! And their claims are true, they do not ride up on chafe! I'll be so happy that I have this in the summer to hold my fuel :)

The weather was nice enough today that I didn't need my ears covered so I was able to try out one of my new Chica Bands! And let me tell you...I'm in love!

I threw on a sweatshirt and off I went!

And...the verdit...LOVE these bands! I've had some other active type bands before that I wore and half way through my workout the band had ridden half way up my head...Chica bands are different! After a 5 mile run in the wind my band is exactly where it was at the beginning of my run!
And during the run it kept my hair off my face. My hair has all kinds of layers in it so a ponytail doesn't work. These bands kept my hair from bugging me during my run!
I'm a happy girl getting a good run in on a Monday!

Lovely

2012-01-30T07:55:00.003-05:00

This weekend I took some time to start some Valentine decorations in my home. A candy jar got a little update. Inspire Lovely tag, Amy Tan heart stickers and twine. I put it on a knitty bitties rug mug.

The one side of my mantle got a little refresh.
An older family photo with an Amy Tan embelly. The pink paperweight was a gift from my Grandmother. The pig photo holder is something I bought to remember her and I gifted one to my sister's and my Mom. It is holding an Inspire Lovely postcard.
And, I also had some scrappy time. I started a page, but I'm a little stuck on it... Happy Monday!

do you tabata? + virtual race

2012-01-29T10:12:00.004-05:00

This morning I knocked out two challenges...after a whole week of not working out it felt SO good to be active even though I must have blew my nose 16 times while running! This sinus infection still has a hold on me.
First up...the race.

I bundled up a bit, but it really wasn't overly that cold out this morning.
I decided on an out and back and headed out. turnaround I'm not a fast runner at all...at my fastest during this run I was around an 8:30 pace. at my finish line! I love virtual races because they push you to get out there and do it! (Even maybe when you shouldn't due to illness, but it's all good!) And it is nice to feel some accomplishment since I usually run around 10 miles on Sundays because it is my long run day.

I came home and headed to the basement to knock out the new to you cross train challenge.
The plan? 12 new cross training experiences in 2012. One a month. I put on exercise tv and browsed through. I have to say...I've done a lot of different types of exercise so this is a hard challenge, but I was intrigued by one workout...tabata intensity. Do you tabata? I have to admit I have done bits of this in bootcamp, but never a full tabata workout. What you do is go all out for 20 seconds and then you rest for 10 seconds. And then you do it over and over again. The video that I did started with a quick warm up and then started...some of the moves were squat jumps, jumping jacks, burpees, mountain climbers, etc. I was a huffing and puffing in my basement. I think this is a great workout if you feel like you need an extra cardio boost. And now for a very unflattering photo.
Squat jump.
I'm excited to continue this through 2012.

not so fit and INstaFriday

2012-01-26T20:21:00.009-05:00

so...a whole week and all I've got to show for it is a 5 mile run!
Sunday I ran hoping for 8 miles, but my stomach was giving me problems and the roads were icy so I packed it in at 5. The rest of the day I felt ill and by Monday I had the full body ick, chills, sinus pressure...everything! So, I went to the doctor and spent two days in bed. Thursday I had to go back to work and felt slightly better. Here's hoping I'm on the mend. I need to get some workouts in! I haven't gone this long without exercise in a REALLY long time. My restless leg syndrome is acting up...it's awful! I think it is managed with all the exercise I do. I hope I can make up for this sick week next week.

Here are a few photos from my week:

On Friday before his basketball game and then party Alex curled up on the couch and took a little nap.

Alex had a bowling/pizza/slumber party and the next morning I made fruit salad and we had donuts.

Alex had his first indoor soccer game and they WON!! :)

Don't you just love HAPPY mail!?
Happy Friday! I wish I didn't have to work tomorrow or I would really be celebrating!
I'm linking here.

What I Love Wednesday

2012-01-25T08:50:00.005-05:00

mail!
Ever since I was a kid and had penpals and subscribed to magazines like Teen Beat (HA!) I have loved mail! I would go into stationary stores and pick out pretty papers and write letters to people. I guess it is no wonder that I started scrapbooking. This week I've gotten quite and few happy packages.
I love buying things off of Etsy. The way things are packaged makes it a gift!

I bought some fun stuff for scrapbooking.

My chica bands arrived. Can't wait to try them out on a run!

birthday party

2012-01-22T21:32:00.002-05:00

Friday night after basketball we had 4 boys over for a bowling/pizza/sleepover. It was a ton of fun! Alex has a great group of friends. We started at bowling and picket up pizzas on the way there. After the boys played two games they went to the game room and played some games. We then picked up frosties and brought the kids back to our house. It of course took awhile to get the to go to bed... but, in the morning we had birthday donuts and fruit salad and the boys played until it was time to go. I hope he made a great wish! It was a fun party!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2012-01-19T21:32:00.003-05:00

If you missed it, check out my first half marathon race report here
Wednesday I went to my new usual mix of power hour and core and more. I'm loving this combo and I'm totally seeing differences in my body so it is so worth it!
Thursday morning I ran a 5K and I hope to run another today.
I've been signing up for and checking out many more races to come for this year. 2012...my year of STRONG! I love the beginning of a new year...so many possibilities...Bring on the STRONG!

And now for some photos of my week:

anyone else get a hand when they are trying to take a photo of their angel child?!?

Alex and I had a breakfast date last Saturday...it helped my carbo loading before my half. I had chocolate chip pancakes and he had french toast. Dan helping to warm the kids up before their basketball game. and then watching the game. Alex making his foul shots. the scheduled race list is getting longer.
I'm linking here.

I miss this

2012-01-17T11:15:00.002-05:00

From 6 weeks to probably about 5 years old Alex was my running buddy! He usually loved our runs together. Once he was old enough he'd snack and we would sing songs or read books together. And sometimes he would fall asleep.

the loft

2012-01-16T09:05:00.005-05:00

This weekend I did some organizing and rearranging in my loft. This loft has been rearranged countless times in the past and each time I feel like it is better yet. I just love a change I think! This most recent redo though really opens things up...I think it will stay this way for awhile. The walls I'm not happy with, but I have some plans in the works to pretty things up.
When you walk up the stairs this is what you see. The door on the left is Alex's room and the one on the right is another bedroom. The other bedroom is my project for today. It is clutter mania.
The view from the opposite corner of the room. Door on the right is the bathroom and the one on the left is a large storage closet. The dresser holds scrapbooking supplies. The chalkboard was a Ruche buy...haven't figured out the perfect thing to write on that yet. The photo holder with the clips was a Pier 1 find. Here's a closeup:
Another corner view.

Messy, messy...desk and bookshelf. The bottom shelf on the bookshelf has scrapbook idea books. The middle shelf has my collection of Sex and the City books, my December daily supplies. Top shelf my laptop mini.
pleated poppy and Adriane Looman pillows. I took everything off of my bulletin board and only added back a couple of items. The scrap page is actually my runner number that I made for my 10/10/10 run. I need to add a photo to it. I'm going to add some other race photos to this. I love this basket holder. It was another Pier 1 find. I need to clean it out a little (purge) and it will be perfect. my stamps. my JoTotes camera bag and some photography class info.
So this is my room in process. I hope to share some updated photos soon of some better organization and pretty things. You'll have to excuse me now. That extra bedroom needs cleaned out before horders annonymous is called. Anyone else sick over the amount of scrap items they've collected over the years? Here is a view of when I had my desk in our living room. Here is a previous room view.

Nike + Women's Half Marathon

2012-01-15T10:17:00.007-05:00

This morning I ran the Nike + Women's Half Marathon. This is the first of many half marathons for 2012! It is a very cold day today. I bundled up and was out the door just after 6AM.

(A very tired face, I didn't sleep much at all last night!)
It was dark so I used my reflective vest. A half mile in I met up with my Mom. She paced me the whole way. We headed over to a neighborhood and ran some easy loops around. At five miles we left there and I was feeling good. We ran that in under an hour which was a pretty good pace for me. Facing into the wind was hard. It was REALLY cold!

We headed to the University track hoping to pick up the pace some and do a couple of miles, but with no protection from the wind I didn't last long there. We only did a mile. The cold affected my water bottle too. Even though I was constantly shaking it it was frozen! We ran around campus a bit and then did another loop around town and finished up at my house. 13.1 miles! It's a great feeling! To do it with my Mom was special...my first half...here's hoping I'm able to complete at least 11 more this year!

I came home and turned on the news just in time to see the weather forecast...yup, that's why I was so cold...feels like 7 in the wind is pretty darn COLD! A hot drink was a necessesity!

Official time: 2 hours 41 minutes.
Not fast for many, but that is a 12 minute mile pace and for me for a long run...that's pretty good! And look what I have to look forward to getting in the mail...

Fit and INstaFriday!

2012-01-12T21:34:00.009-05:00

This week was interesting. On Saturday I ran a 5K. My whole body hurt the whole time I was running. I was feeling like I was coming down with something, but Sunday morning I woke up and felt ok so I ran 8 miles. I debated on how many miles to run. One week until my first half I knew I needed to taper, but wasn't sure exactly what that meant so I cut it to 8. Monday and Tuesday I felt horrible so each night I just did some yoga. Wednesday I went to power hour and core and more. This has become a Wednesday night ritual. I'm loving these classes and I'm really seeing the differences from it. Thursday I took off and today I'm going to go for a short run. Tomorrow another short run and then Sunday is my half marathon!
A strange week...I guess if I'm going to get sick though what better week to do it than a taper week. I'm sure the 12 for 2012 will help me figure this all out! I'm not happy with all the rest days this week, but the days that I did exercise I went all out so I'm happy with that!

And now for some photos of my week:

Alex's team played an amazing game last Friday night!

I started a list of races that I'm totally in for this year. It will fun to see how long this will get.

a wish list of half marathons.

We're planning Alex's 9th Birthday party! We made some cool goodie bags (soccer themed pencils, water bottle, plastic bracelets, tatoos, and koosh balls)
I am so ready for the weekend!!
I'm linking here.

loving basketball

2012-01-11T07:26:00.004-05:00

At the beginning of the season I wasn't sure about basketball. I missed soccer games...being outside, watching Alex play a sport that he absolutely loved and was good at. Basketball was different, but it is growing on me. Alex absolutely loves it and his team only lost one game so far this whole season. They are really playing together well and it is fun to watch. I'm amazed at all the opportunities that there are for kids that weren't available when I was young. At his age I wasn't playing soccer and basketball on a team. Sure, there were some Saturday morning events, but nothing like there is today. I think that it is great that even at the high school level there are rec teams so that all kids that want to play can!

first step to strong

2012-01-10T11:08:00.003-05:00

Sunday I will run my first ever Half Marathon. I've made a big commitment for 2012. In an attempt to up my running and along with my quest to become strong I'm attempting 12 half marathons for the year. Now I know that I won't find 12 road races near enough to me to do, but I'm hoping with some virtual challenges and maybe even one or two on my own I'll complete this goal. And I've got company too which will keep me motivated and accountable! :) Here's to the first step towards strong...it's a pretty big one...maybe I should say leap!

one little word

2012-01-09T13:28:00.003-05:00

I am embarking on this journey again...this time I'd like to follow through with an album of sorts. Last year I chose a word (blessed) and I really feel like even though I didn't keep up with the class I got something out of the fact that the word was in the back of my mind at all times. It made me stop and think at times which is a good thing! Last year I wanted to focus on all the good things in my life and be thankful for them. This year is my year to focus on being strong. I want to continue with my workouts and build the strongest me possible. I also want to be strong willed to resist temptation in the eating department. Who knows where I'll be at the end of 2012, but I know this for sure...I'll be a stronger and better me!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2012-01-06T07:32:00.007-05:00

First Fit Friday of 2012! You can see my December recap here. It was a pretty good month. I'm anxiously awaiting my Nike + 2011 recap to compare it to 2010. I know I blew 2010 out of the water! :)
Friday I ran 6.3 miles.
Saturday I took off.
Sunday I welcomed 2012 with a 12 mile run!
Monday I ran 4 miles.
Tuesday took off.
Wednesday I went to power hour and core and more and I'm still sore! :)
Thursday I ran 4 miles.
And today is looking like a good yoga night, but I might run too.
I'm getting really excited for my first half on the 15th!
My goals for the rest of the month are to keep moving and to try and incorporate a new type of cross training workout to my mix.

And now some photos of my week:

Alex had a playdate and we took the boys to Friendly's and then Dan took them bowling.

I used my Christmas money at Kate Spade and got a clutch, small wallet, and ipad case :)

motivation reading :)

water just tastes better when you sip it out of a pretty cup!

Monday I had a holiday day at work, but Alex still had school so I scheduled a spa day. I got my nails done, had a massage, and got my hair colored. It was the best day!
I'm linking here.

last of Christmas

2012-01-04T07:25:00.003-05:00

our last stop on Christmas Day is to Dan's parents house. They aren't really into taking photos so I don't have a lot to share, but we open gifts and hang out for a little while dinner is finishing up and then we eat with them.

Again, I love how patient Alex was while others opened gifts. It was the best thing watching him enjoying what others were opening.

We took our tree down on Sunday and this was the first year in a long time that I wasn't happy to see it go. The Christmas season is so fast and stressful. When it is over it is a let down. But, good thing for us Alex's Birthday is this month so I need to get working on that!

December recap

2012-01-03T08:28:00.003-05:00

(image is Rhonna Designs)
Oh what a month! Busiest month of the year and I managed to work out more than ever! I'm proud that I met my goals!
I ran 100 miles in December!
I ran a cross country 5K race!
I ran 11 miles to say good-bye to 2011.
I increased my speed on my short runs to a consistent 10 minute mile.
I continued with my Y workouts:
I went to boot camp 2 times.
I went to power hour 4 times.
I went to core and more 4 times.
I went to total body blast 1 time.
I did yoga 3 times.
I am seeing changes and I will continue this in 2012!

December daily complete!

2012-01-01T22:47:00.003-05:00

(Don't forget my giveaway here)

35 pages completed...and in a timely manner too...I cannot believe it.
Here is the last of it:

(If you'd like to see more, click on the scrapbooking tab at the top)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

One of my Mom's gifts this year was a Per Annum MyBook Planner I asked both of my sister's for photos and customized it for her really simply with paper, washi tape and photos. She loved it! Here are some of my favorite pages.

I bought two because I was going to gift another, but Dan didn't think that his Mom would use it, so I have one to give a way. If you would like to be entered in the giveaway, please first become a follower of my blog, and then leave me a comment with your email so I can contact you if you are the winner.
Happy New Year!

more December daily

2011-12-31T11:03:00.003-05:00

Last night I got some scrappy time in and created a bunch more in my December Daily 2010 album. I just love this album, but as fun as it is...I'm ready to be done. I'm kind of glad that I started taking these photos in front of the tree because it forces me to have this done by the time the tree goes down which is tomorrow. Guess that means I'm scrapping tonight :)

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-12-28T13:54:00.007-05:00

On Friday I ran 4 miles.
On Saturday I ran 11 miles...good bye to 2011 run!
On Sunday I took off (Christmas!)
On Monday I ran 4 miles and did core intensity yoga.
On Tuesday I ran 4 miles and did total body blast.
On Wednesday I ran 4 miles and went to power hour and core and more.
On Thursday I ran a treadmill 5K.
And today I will run again...
I'm busting out the workouts this week to end the year right and meet my 100 miles for December goal. I'm 6.25 miles shy of my goal right now with 2 days left.
This month I added the power hour and core and more to my mix and I'm really seeing some changes in my body...love that! With being off for a couple of days it gave me the chance to get some more workouts in and go to total body blast which I'm only able to do when I'm not working. That class is absolute KILLER! So, here is a peak at what I'll be focusing on in the New Year...
2011 was all about the workouts and I didn't drastically change the way I eat. 2012 I'm going to put more focus on that and see where it takes me...hopefully it turns the scale to the left!
Did you do a good-bye 2011 run? Mine actually came out to 11.02 which I thought was super cool! And Sunday I'll be running 12 to welcome 2012...are you with me?

And here are some photos from my week:

Christmas day football

my sister's on Christmas dancing with their red headed babies :)

Alex fell asleep in the car after we took his friend home after a playdate.

My first pair of uggs.
I'm linking here.

more Christmas

2011-12-28T08:29:00.002-05:00

as soon as we were finished unwrapping at our house it was time to head to my parent's. Both of my sisters and their families were already there and had opened some of their gifts already. We joined in and had a great morning with them.

Alex with his big cousin, Ethan.

My Dad opening his gift from my sister. My brother in law built a set and we posed for photos for my Dad.

his reflection is covering my Mom in the photo.

boys with my Mom.
And we even got outside and enjoyed some football.
my sister, Allison with her youngest.

my sister, Melissa with her son, Parker.

chaos

me and Parker

dance party

sisters

all the boys and then it was time for family photos.

and more chaos:

and then more family photos

Alex with my parents.

and then sadly, it was time to move on to Dan's parents house. I always hate to leave the fun of my parent's house and time with them and my sisters, but there is one more stop for Christmas...Dan's parent's house. More photos to come...

December daily

2011-12-27T10:44:00.002-05:00

is still being worked on. My goal is to have it done this week because I've been taking all these photos of the pages in front of my tree. Here are four pages that I completed last night.

Photos are blurry, but you get the idea. I love that the December daily always gets me excited about scrapbooking after a slump. I can't wait to have this finished so I can start on something else!

Christmas morning

2011-12-26T10:11:00.022-05:00

All the packages were under the tree around 1:30 AM. Alex actually woke up and Dan had to quickly get him back into bed before he saw the gifts! Once I was finally back into bed and asleep I heard Alex getting up. He was sick. After being up with him for about an hour we all tried to get some sleep. I am pretty sure I saw every hour on my alarm clock. I was up early waiting on the boys. Once they were up the fun began!

Alex was so excited about the gifts for Dan and I. He surprised us by being so patient and wanting us to enjoy the morning too. He didn't rush through his gifts and waited while we opened something to see our expressions.

Alex reading his note from Santa.

The look of pure amazement.

Not sure what it is.

Best.Christmas.Ever!!
After all that we went to my parents house and then to Dan's parent's house. More photos to come...

finally

2011-12-24T10:23:00.002-05:00

some gifts under the tree!

Alex brought home that nut cracker today. He was so cute with it!
The last couple of days it has been a mad dash to get all the wrapping done and there is still so much to do, but at least we finally have some gifts under our tree!

I've always wanted to be a little crafty with the gift tags and this year I finally did it. Here are a couple that I did:

Merry Christmas Eve!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-12-22T22:37:00.004-05:00

Sunday I ran 10 miles.
Monday I ran 2.25 miles and went to bootcamp.
Tuesday I took a rest day.
Wednesday I went to power hour and core and more.
Thursday I ran 2 miles outside in the morning before work and then ran 3 miles in the evening on the treadmill. I did a cross country loop on the treadmill which was kind of fun.
And today I hope to run between 3 and 5 miles.
So, a pretty good week. I'm really proud of what I've accomplished this month. Especially with how busy I've been. I have a ton of holiday to dos...but, I've worked out consistently. Sundays are usually my long run days, but with Christmas on Sunday I am going to switch it to Saturday and run a good-bye to 2011 with 11 miles. And then my plan is also to run 12 miles next weekend for 2012. Want to join me? I did this last year too and it is a fun way to ring in the New Year.

And now for some photos of my week:

Alex played against a friend on Friday night.

Alex likes to play an arcade game at Red Robin.

I picked up some gift cards and of course got a coffee for me. Plus I couldn't resist this bracelet:

I finally sent my Christmas cards and got a little crafty on the back of the envelope.

and Alex played another basketball game.
I'm linking here.

Merry Christmas!

helping and gifting

2011-12-22T09:19:00.002-05:00

Last week I helped out in Alex's class. They were having a Christmas around the world celebration. There were six different stations. At my station we made Christmas ornaments. The shot above is one that another helper took. The child in front is one of Alex's good friends. Alex and I are in the back. It was a lot of fun!
And last night we wrapped some gifts and made some more pretzels for gifts and a fruit salad for a holiday potluck at my work.
I got this idea from some blogs that I read. I took a Starbucks card and filled it with candy pretzels. And then tied a gift card to the top. Super simple.
I cannot believe that Christmas is only three days away! I still have one gift to buy and LOTS of wrapping to do!

#32

2011-12-21T07:21:00.002-05:00

So, I mentioned that we were on to basketball and Alex's team has now played 4 games. They have won 3 and lost 1. He is having so much fun!
I love watching #32!

tradition

2011-12-20T08:29:00.002-05:00

Making candy pretzels has become a tradition for Alex and I. We make a bunch and then give them out for gifts. They are so easy and fun to do! Last week we made some while still in our pjs.

These were plain kisses with peanut butter m&ms...yummy!
And last night we made some with caramel kisses and plain m&ms. Equally yummy!

And as you can see a pretty coffee cup is a must to hold the m&ms...and a mug rug doesn't hurt!
If you haven't made these before...
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
Line cookie sheet with a layer of pretzels.
Find a cute helper to unwrap the kisses.
Place a kiss on top of each pretzel.
Put in oven for 3 minutes.
Kiss will still be formed.
Place a m&m on top.
Refrigerate until cool.
Give to your friends...they will LOVE you!
(Note...if you use white chocolate or caramel...decrease the oven temp or time in the oven)

my cards

2011-12-19T07:33:00.004-05:00

My cards are finally in the mail and since they were printed and not crafty I had to make the envelopes a little special so a little washi tape and stamp and done!
I was also happy to buy this card because the proceeds went to an adoption charity.

more December daily

2011-12-18T10:21:00.007-05:00

I got quite a bit of scrapbooking time in yesterday. I still have a ways to go on this album and since I've been taking photos of the pages in front of the tree I need to get this done before the end of the year because the tree will come down. This album is a lot different than last year's, but I'm loving it. Last year's was lots of white with touches of color and this year's is all color!

Jingle Bell

2011-12-18T09:47:00.002-05:00

This morning I put on my jingle bells, had my Christmas mix on the ipod and ran the Jingle Bell Hell run.

Mother Nature had a little surprise for me. We got just a dusting of snow which made the roads slick in some spots, but I got 10 miles in. I added some hills to my normal route and made myself sprint to the top of each one. I even got a good chuckle in at the top of each one per the rules of the race!
A little slow going, but it was a great morning run!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-12-15T22:04:00.005-05:00

Friday I did 8 minute abs.
Saturday I ran 4 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Sunday I ran 9.25 miles.
Monday I ran 1.5 miles and did bootcamp.
Tuesday I did yoga.
Wednesday I ran 3 miles and then went to power hour and core and more.
Thursday I ran 2 miles.
And today I ran 2 miles and will do an ab workout later.

I'm working hard to stay focused this month...it is VERY hard. I'm feeling like I cannot win. I have so much on my plate and feel like not much is getting done. I am craving January's calm, but I'll finish this month strong and think about my HBBC goals and my goal of 100 miles this month!

And some photos of my week:

I got my bangs trimmed and eyebrows waxed on one of my lunch breaks this week.

Making a list while Alex practiced basketball. This wasn't the whole thing :(

Alex had a playdate.

We made Christmas candy pretzels :)
I'm linking here.

What I Love Wednesday

2011-12-13T16:40:00.004-05:00

online shopping

finding the perfect sentimental gift for my parents and sisters

Christmas music

running

Y Classes

scrapbooking

being able to help out in Alex's class today

being done with 75% of my shopping

craving January's calm after the storm

Big Picture Classes 12 Days of Christmas

Maggie Holmes December Daily Photo Prompts

What are you loving right now?

December daily

2011-12-11T09:52:00.005-05:00

Last night I caught some scrappy time while the boys played wii. Here is what I created:

I pulled out an old Scarlet Lime kit for these two pages instead of using items from my December daily box. I felt the need to mix it up.

basketball

2011-12-10T11:26:00.006-05:00

Last night Alex's team played their second game. They played against some of Alex's soccer teammates. It was a great game and they won! I just love watching him do what he loves!!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-12-08T17:01:00.005-05:00

Time again already for another fitness roundup...
Friday I ran 2 miles.
Saturday I ran a cross country 5K race.
Sunday I ran 9 miles.
Monday I ran 3 miles.
Tuesday I did some yoga.
Wednesday I went to power hour and core and more.
Thursday I ran 4.25 miles.
And today I hope to do some yoga or some other at home workout.
Not a bad week. The race was a ton of fun! And I was super jazzed to make it to power hour and core and more on Wednesday. I was bummed to miss boot camp on Monday, but the 3 miles is almost a fair trade. I'm moving...it's the busiest month of the year...I'm happy!
The challenge is over so I slacked a bit this week, but I plan to keep going with the core work. I'm seeing a difference and that is motivation! I've had a good start towards my goal of 100 miles this month too. And the HBBC is going good!

And now for some photos of my week:
I tried these on my last two long runs. I liked them. A little hard to chew while running, but they gave me a little kick. I'm doing pretty good on the leader board for one of my challenges this month. I tried to take a photo of the time at the finish line at my race and it didn't come out :( Super bummed about that! Alex's team ready for their first game.
I'm linking here.

Bring on the weekend...I'm excited for basketball, shopping, a long run and relaxation!!

Reading Theater

2011-12-08T16:59:00.006-05:00

Today Dan and I headed to Alex's school for a third grade reading theater. They read through/acted out four short plays for parents and grandparents. It was adorable!

What I Love Wednesday

2011-12-07T07:11:00.003-05:00

We are doing things a little differently this year. Usually we don't get our tree right away so I decorate the house first and then the tree comes in. This year we got our tree super early (for us) and I've slowly been bringing out my decorations and since we already have a gorgeous tree I'm not feeling the need to bring out every single decoration. And you know what? It is making me really happy because it is feeling much less cluttered!

This spot might get some more decorating, but I love this old family Christmas photo and music decoration.

My mantle with our stockings, (I'm looking to replace these in the next year) a favorite print I bought last year, nut crackers, and a jingle ornament I made a couple of years ago. Here's a close up of the print:

and my December daily albums of years past...

(waiting on the album to hold the pages I'm doing this year...)
And last night I created this:

Sorry it is blurry, but I'm kind of loving taking these in front of the tree.

HBBC updates

2011-12-06T10:22:00.002-05:00

I had a pretty great week last week. My marathon bike ride and lots of running and Y classes helped my points. You cannot forget the 8 mintue abs too. Also, getting in my 7 fruits and veggies per day. Here is how I normally do it:
Breakfast...fruit on the bottom oikos greek yogurt (1) + mixed berries (1) = 2
Lunch...salad (2) = at least 2
Dinner....salad (1) and steamed veggie (1) = 2
Add in a fruit snack (1) and a veggie snack (1) = 2
And you get your 7 :)
It was fun to see my name on the leader board this week. I hope I can keep it up!

December 4th

2011-12-05T07:16:00.003-05:00

After a long run (9 miles) I relaxed all day. I did laundry, some cleaning, some decorating, some family time, and some scrapbooking. It was a nice restful Sunday.

(remember I scrap the year before...so this is 2010)

5K

2011-12-04T19:10:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I ventured out on my own for a 5K Cross Country Race. This was new territory for me. Not only have I never entered a race on my own, but I had never run cross country. I was so intrigued about this race though that it didn't stop me that no one wanted or could run it with me. I arrived about a half hour early and got my chip. As I hung out waiting for the start I tried to keep warm...it was so cold. The National Anthem played and then we were off. This race was a mix of grass trails, fields, macadam, and road. There were some steep inclines and rolling hills. It kept me moving not knowing what was next. As I crossed the finish line I had a mix of emotions...part of me was happy with my time and wished someone was there to see it and part of me wished I would have ran just a little faster to get that under 30 minute 5K that I so wanted. My time was 31:35. I headed to get some refreshments and then sat for a moment and started to tear up...it is kind of depressing to run a race and not know anyone or have anyone there to cheer you on. But, then I thought...I'm not doing this for anyone else...I do this for me and today I was also running this for Ashlyn...and her Mother who wrote, "Hope Endures 5k ... its for anyone who has to endure life after something they think they cant. Its about just enduring life each day when we are down. Its a celebration of change and a celebration of never-ending love".

2 and 3

2011-12-04T09:11:00.014-05:00

The 2nd was filled with work, picking up my race packet, a short run, a basketball game and putting up some Christmas lights outside.

The 3rd started with an awesome 5K race (more details coming) and then a day of family fun getting our tree, eating out, a nap and decorating the tree.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-12-02T07:17:00.003-05:00

I had a great week.
Last Friday I went to the Y and did the bike and buff marathon challenge after already running just under 3 miles. I also did 8 minute abs.
Saturday I did 8 minute abs.
Sunday I ran 8 miles, did 8 minute abs and then went to the Y for Power Hour and proceeded to be sore for the next four days!!
Monday I did 8 minute abs.
Tuesday I ran 3 miles.
Wednesday I ran a mile and went to Core and More.
Thursday I ran 3 miles.
I'm doing pretty good with the 21 challenge. I haven't been able to do ab work every day, but almost is pretty good in my book!! :)
Here is my November in Review. It was a pretty good month! And I have some great goals for December!

And now for some photos of my week.

Happy Mail!!

Practicing double knots :)

yummy breakfast

winter clinic soccer

dinner out

coffee in the morning.
I'm linking here.

Hello, Friday...I love you!

December 1st

2011-12-01T22:26:00.007-05:00

How can it be December already? My day started with a run and then some coffee at my desk.
After a morning of working I met Dan for lunch and then went to Lowes and got some Christmas lights. Back to work for the afternoon and then went out to eat with the guys for dinner. Home for homework and some relaxation. Also it was early gift time. Alex had a Christmas Bazaar at school today and not one to keep things a secret he gave them to us today. He got me a necklace and bracelet. I love my thoughtful boy!
I went through my December box. It is a great box of old and new stuff.

I'm so excited to start my album!

November in review

2011-11-30T18:48:00.004-05:00

Days worked out 28 out of 30.
73.44 miles ran.

Longest run: 10 miles
3 boot camp classes
3 core and more classes
1 bike and buff class (biked a marathon)
12 8 minute ab workouts
1 yoga class
1 power hour
November was pretty great!
Goals for December...keep up with the extra ab workouts...try and make it to at least 2 or 3 power hour classes...yoga...continue with boot camp...and run 100 miles? Can I do it? I'm sure going to try!

What I Love Wednesday

2011-11-30T07:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Mail!
Who doesn't love happy mail? And lately I've gotten quite a few packages from etsy due to shopping for my December Daily. It started with the Evalicious Journal.

And then I couldn't resist Tara Anderson's goodies from her shop Citron Faire.

And then lastly I stumbled upon Inspire Lovely and couldn't resist.

I'm always inspired by the way that etsy merchants package their items. It is a present in every package!

family photos

2011-11-28T11:00:00.016-05:00

I finally talked the boys into taking some family photos and I think that they turned out great. Two weeks ago we met at a pretty spot and Cindy Frey Photography took some shots of us. Here are some of my favorites.

I cannot wait to get these printed!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-11-24T17:58:00.007-05:00

I had a pretty good week. The online challenges are helping to keep me motivated. Week one of HBBC and I did well with eating well and moving.
Saturday I did my 8 minute abs ... still going good with the 21 challenge.
Sunday I ran 7 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Monday I went to boot camp.
Tuesday I took off.
Wednesday I ran 2.5 miles and went to core and more (holy moly...30 minutes doing abs on the ball...it was killer this week!)
Thursday I ran my own turkey trot with my Mom. We ran 7 miles and I did my 8 min abs.
And today I ran just under 3 miles, did 8 minute abs and I'm going to the Y for bike and buff...today we are biking a marathon :)

And now for some photos of my week:
Friday we spent time outside enjoying the fall leaves. and then Alex had basketball. after having a playdate. Saturday we went out to eat and had to wait a bit. By the time we sat down Alex seemed a little tired... my daily berries out my kitchen window more basketball excited to start my December daily happy mail salsa chicken

turkey trotting

enjoying Grandma's special applesauce!
I'm linking here.

I have off until Tuesday! I love long weekends!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T10:27:00.002-05:00

I'm excited to have a long weekend to spend time with family. This morning I started the day right with a 7 mile run with my Mom...our own turkey trot! It was great! And now to get ready to enjoy a delicious meal, time with family and maybe even a movie later. Have a wonderful day!

Thankful

2011-11-23T07:14:00.005-05:00

I'm so very thankful for this little family of mine. This past weekend we had professional photos taken. This was the first time we had ever done this! We went back to the spot that we took wedding photos after our ceremony. It was a gorgeous day. I have two to share as I wait for the CD filled with our session.

Happy Thanksgiving!
(Sorry these photos are so tiny!)

virtual challenges

2011-11-22T12:06:00.006-05:00

I've found some great virtual challenges to keep me motivated through this holiday season.
1. I'm doing the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge.
2. Daily Mile is doing a virtual turkey trot. I'll be running with my Mom. I decided not to sign up for the local race because I can run further on my own...so, my Mom and I are going to warm up and then do 5K as fast as possible and then cool down with another 5 or so miles...I'm looking forward to it!
3. I'll be running the Hope Endures Virtual 5K.
This one falls on a weekend of a cross country 5K race in my area that I would love to run. I'm hoping to sign up for it!
4. Another is the Jingle Bell Hell Run ... it's a 1/3 marathon race with some fun rules.

5. And to finish it up...on January 15th I'm running the Nike + Women's Half Marathon.

Do you know of any others?

late yesterday afternoon

2011-11-19T13:56:00.013-05:00

we took a few moments to get outside and take some fall photos. It was fun, but didn't end well. Alex kicked his soccer ball and I was standing on my driveway still in my work shoes and moved fast to go after it and ended up flat on my back on the driveway :( Luckily my back is totally fine, but I somehow hurt my ankle. I iced it last evening and today it hurts just a bit so I'm trying to stay off of it so that I'm able to run tomorrow morning. But, I think the photos turned out well :)

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-11-17T18:59:00.005-05:00

It was a pretty good mix this week of some running and Y workouts mixed with a bunch of abs. Didn't make it to yoga or a long run though :(
Friday I ran 2.4 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Saturday I ran 3 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Sunday I ran 6.75 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Are you seeing a pattern here? I'm doing pretty well with my 21 day challenge!
Monday I ran 1 mile and went to boot camp.
Tuesday I ran 2 miles and did 8 minute abs.
Wednesday I went to bike and buff.
Thursday I did an ab burn workout.
Still moving...

I did not take many photos this week, but here are a couple:

did you know that Dove makes peppermint bark? OH MY!!

Alex went to laser tag with his soccer team.

and Dan and Alex all decked out in their Vikings gear :)
Happy last weekend before turkey day!
I'm linking here.

What I love about the December daily

2011-11-15T21:29:00.004-05:00

I've completed a December daily for years 2007-2009. I do mine a little different though...for me I'm not so worried about getting it done within the month. Sometimes it can actually take me all year to finish it and I'm ok with that. What I do is keep everything up on my blog and make sure that I blog everyday of the month and then I work on it when I can. So this December I will be working on December 2010 as far as the actual scrapped journal, but I'll be blogging all that is going on in 2011. This works for me because I don't print photos at home and it takes the pressure off because I have the time to blog every day, but I don't have the time to scrapbook every day. So, below is my 2009 December Daily and don't tell anyone, but I just finished this over the weekend...

Bring on December...

the 21 challenge

2011-11-15T15:25:00.003-05:00

are you participating in Rhonna's 21 challenge? I've done this before and it is such a fun thing to do. In the past I have done creativity boosting activities, but this time I wanted it to be exercise based and it is so funny because I actually picked the same activity that Rhonna did. So for the next 21 days I'll be focusing on making time for core training. I recently started taking a new class at the Y called Core and More. It is a 30 minute class that focuses on core training. I really admire the instructor. She doesn't just motivate and make you work...she educates you in the process which is great. She really knows her stuff! I also love that in my weekly bootcamp class we always start with a 5 minute plank (which I CAN DO!!) and also work our core a lot too. So that is two days a week where I'm taking classes that focus on core work and for the other 5 days I've been doing an 8 minute ab video that I found online. And you know what?!? I've been doing this for a week and am already seeing results...crazy!
So I'm happy to be focusing on this problem spot and will continue to do so for as long as I can (at least the next 21 days!)

What to join me? It's never too late!

the man cave

2011-11-13T19:59:00.005-05:00

We've been working on our basement ... making it our man cave for the boys. I'm hoping that they'll hang out down there more now that we've spruced it up a little. We didn't use it for so many years and it was sad that we had spent so much money to finish it and get nice things down there... but, we had some water damage and that took some time to fix. So we out to breakfast this weekend and Dan was wearing his jersey so of course Alex had to get his on too. Too cute not to take a photo... And after breakfast they then spent most of the day down here watching football and watching fantasy results and playing on the ipad. Alex was sick all weekend so this was the perfect relaxing activity for him.

I love my Minnesota loving boys!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-11-09T19:44:00.009-05:00

here I am at work checking out my Nike + challenge.
SO...this week wasn't bad.
Friday I ran 3.1 miles.
Saturday I ran 2 miles.
Sunday I ran 10 miles.
Monday I went to boot camp.
Tuesday I did 8 minute abs and ran 2 miles.
Wednesday I ran 1.5 miles and did Core and More (a 30 min class at the Y)
Thursday I ran 5 miles and did 8 minute abs.
And today...I'm hoping for a run + maybe a Y workout too :)
I ran a lot this week. But, I'm struggling. My short runs are getting faster, but my long runs are getting slower...what is up with that?! I can't figure it out. I would also like to get back into yoga at least once per week!

And now for some photos of my week.
a PlayDate on Friday

And we took a second to take a photo together:

Ready for a cold day soccer game.

My coworker and friend, Denise's wedding:

Another playdate

Birthday Roses...still looking pretty!

Reading in the car on the way to the Y

I'm linking here.
Bring on the weekend...I'm ready!

it is with mixed emotions

2011-11-08T17:02:00.005-05:00

that we say good-bye to fall soccer 2011...this past weekend was the last game weekend of the season and due to weather issues the previous weekend, Alex's team played 3 games in two days. Saturdays game I missed (first miss for me this season) due to going to a friend's wedding. They tied the other team 2-2. And then they lost both games on Sunday. They played their hearts out this season. They learned a lot. And they improved each week...it was amazing to watch. I love watching Alex's intensity and his love of the game. It's been a great season. So...what is next? Well, next week we'll find out which basketball team he'll be on and then in January he'll start indoor soccer...we are looking forward to spring though to have the full team back together and more great games to watch. I love being a soccer Mom!

weekend wedding

2011-11-07T11:54:00.003-05:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of attending my coworker and friend, Denise's wedding! It was a beautiful fall day and they got married in a very pretty Catholic Church. Afterwards the reception was at Landis Valley Museum...in a very pretty setting. Here is a photo of me with my workmates:
and me with the bride
It was a fun day!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-11-03T17:41:00.003-04:00

First off....what do you think of my blog makeover? All thanks to Life Made Lovely Designs. So, I have LOTS of photos to share this week, but hold tight...let's first talk fitness...did you have a good week? This is how mine played out:
Saturday I took off. My shoulder was still giving me problems and it was SNOWING!!
Sunday I ran five miles. I had to cut it short because I was slipping and sliding everywhere. I was also sore for days. Have you ever ran over ice? My legs must have been tense the entire time I was running...made me super sore!
Monday I took off for trick or treat (can I count the over mile trick or treat walk?)
Tuesday I ran 3.3 miles.
Wednesday I did yoga.
Thursday I ran 3 miles.
And today...I'm hoping for a Y workout...fingers crossed!
So less than steller week! But, I did move some...a story I forgot to tell last week was during my 10 miler I was listening to a Jillian Michaels podcast and totally balling my eyes out while running because what she was saying to the person that called in was totally hitting home for me...I don't know if it was PMS or long run emotions...but, it totally got the better of me! I'm looking forward to running some 5K races this month and next month and my first half in January!

And now for some photos...
Friday I did some lunch break shopping.

and got some starbucks

crazy weather forecast

Alex making us an Anniversary card

and my gift to Dan

Saturday it snowed!

Alex was an Argentinian soccer player for Halloween

After trick or treat night I needed a coffee the next day
Birthday cards and flowers from my coworkers. They also got me lunch :)
and Birthday flowers from Alex

I'm linking here.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T18:08:00.002-04:00

We will never forget Halloween this year. This past weekend it snowed so for the first time there was snow on the ground for trick or treat! And during the day there was a gas leak and then a home exploded in our town so they shut off our electric for hours. So usually you find the houses to trick or treat by the lights that the home owners leave on for you...this year there were no lights with no electric so it was a little tricky. We headed out early while there was still light and met up with some friends from our neighborhood. We didn't last long due to it getting way to dark, but Alex came home with quite the loot!

weekend of family time

2011-10-31T07:51:00.004-04:00

Friday was Dan and I's 11th wedding anniversary. I had a gift on the counter for Dan and Alex asked if I had made him a card. When I said no, he urged me to do one and wanted to make one too. Saturday we woke up to SNOW! Snow in October?!? Doesn't usually happen around here. We got quite the storm. My sisters, Mom and I gathered that morning in my brother in law's studio for some photos for a present for my Dad for Christmas. My brother in law does black and white photography. So he created a background and we posed for some shots. I'm excited to see the finished result. And then that evening we gathered for some Birthday celebrating. My Dad's Birthday was the 27th and my Birthday is on November 2nd. It was a fun night. my younger sister Melissa with Parker Sean. my Mom with my older sister Allison's youngest Andre. group shot. my Dad, Melissa and Parker. Allison with her middles...Rocco and Tre. Trout family my Dad and I eating cake Andre

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-10-27T21:26:00.006-04:00

I don't have many photos to share from this week...I slacked big time. Here is my breakfast just about every morning... On Wednesday night I took Alex to basketball tryouts. Basketball...already?!?! and a photo of me and my buddy.
I'm linking here.

And now for my fitness...
Saturday I took off.
Sunday I ran 10 miles!
Monday I woke up with shoulder pain so I took aqua cardio blast instead of my usual boot camp and yoga.
Tuesday I ran 6 miles.
Wednesday I took core and more.
Thursday I took off.
And today...I'm hoping for a run.
This week was tough. I don't like being injured (who does?) and I haven't dealt with it well. I probably should be taking more days off...but, I struggle with that. This week not working out two days is killing me...I feel off right away! Thursday night I went to a local drug store and a woman stopped me and said that she recognized me from my running and told me how great I look...that was a huge ego boost...and considering that I was buying icy hot patches for my shoulder I needed the boost!
I did some searching this week and I've compiled a run wish list. There are 4 5K runs that I could do from now until December. One is a cross country run which intrigues me. Two are turkey trots and one is the jingle bell run. I also found a 1/2 marathon in March 2012 that I'd like to run and I signed up for the Nike + Women's Half Marathon on January 15th. What are you working towards?

more soccer

2011-10-26T07:18:00.002-04:00

this weekend I had the pleasure of watching Alex play two soccer games. He had one each day. Unfortunately both were losses, but they played so well and Alex scored a goal...so a great weekend it was! I just love to watch him do something that he loves!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-10-20T14:58:00.007-04:00

Goodness...these weeks just fly by! I cannot believe that it is almost November! Crazy!
So, this week was a little better...here is how it played out:
Saturday I ran 2 miles.
Sunday I ran 8 miles.
Monday I went to bootcamp.
Tuesday I ran 6 miles. Part of that run was the Cupcake Classic.
Wednesday I tried a new class at the Y with a friend. Aqua cardio blast. It was fun!
Thursday I ran two miles.
And today I hope to go to another class at the Y or go for a run...
Not bad...I moved every day so I shouldn't be disappointed. I would have liked to have been able to stay for yoga on Monday after boot camp, but life happens and Alex wasn't up for it. I got some speedwork in for the Cupcake Classic and a long run...so a good week!

And now for some photos of my week:
We love to play hangman when we are waiting in restaurants.

my cupcake run stats:

salted caramel mocha (skim no whip...so diet friendly)...YUM!

Bridal shower thrown for a friend at work:

Bring on the weekend!
I'm linking here.

Cupcake Classic

2011-10-18T14:09:00.006-04:00

last night I participated in a fun virtual event, the Cupcake Classic. To celebrate her Birthday Jess hosted this fun 3.7 mile race! First thing, first...I must show you the amazing new shirt that I purchased for this event to benefit the American Cancer Society!
All decked out and ready to run, I ran my 3.7 miles while Alex had soccer practice.
MILE
TIME
AVG. PACE
1
9:58
9'58"/mi
2
20:10
10'12"/mi
3
30:44
10'34"/mi
My run...3.71 miles in 37:39 with a 10'09" average pace. And afterwards...per Jess's orders...I indulged in a delicious cupcake!
Thanks, Jess! This was fun! Happy Birthday! :)

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-10-13T13:11:00.003-04:00

What we wouldn't do for our kids, right? I didn't get a single workout in this weekend because I was at Alex's first soccer tournament. And then Monday with the holiday I missed my Y workouts. The rest of the week went ok though...
Monday I ran 5.25 miles. I did intervals on the treadmill.
Tuesday I ran 4.25 miles.
Wednesday I did yoga.
Thursday I ran 3.1 miles.
And today I'm hoping for a run and maybe a Y workout.
I feel like I whine a lot about my lack of workouts lately... I was in such a bad mood by Monday after taking three days off...it was ridiculous. I really NEED my workout time! I'm still hoping that things slow down a little soon so I can get back into my Y workouts.

And now for some photos of my week, all from the tournament weekend:
fast asleep in the car after day one. 4th place champs! ice cream party
I'm linking here.

This weekend my house needs some serious cleaning, I have to work Saturday morning and I'm hoping for a long run on Sunday and lots of family time. What are you up to?

first tournament

2011-10-12T07:09:00.002-04:00

This weekend Alex and his team experienced something new...their first tournament. We were up at 6AM Saturday and were on the road by 6:30 to Dillsburg, PA (just over an hour away). Their were 32 teams in Alex's age bracket.
To break down the teams they played three mini games (20 minutes) and then they created four brackets. Between games there was some waiting. and snacks and games. and some watching of other games and pep talks from the Coach. and even some warm ups (that's Dan helping out) There was a long wait after the last mini game and then we played a 40 minute game and won! The score was 1 to 0 and Alex scored the goal! And then we went home, had dinner and were all in bed by 9PM which NEVER happens in my house!
On the second day we rode up with two other families in one of their vans. Dan had his own tournament so he couldn't come for day 2. I had a stern talk with Alex ahead of time to be good in the car which turned out to be unnecessary because this was the boys for the whole ride... haha. She has DVD in her van! Their first game they lost. I think it might have been 4 to 0. Then we played an AWESOME second game and won 5 to 2! And then our last game we lost. I forget the score already :( The boys were so tired! It was such a fun weekend though! They came in 4th place out of 8 in their bracket and each got a trophy.

And to celebrate on Monday night one of the families had us all over for icecream!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-10-06T17:08:00.002-04:00

Saturday I ran 2 miles.
Sunday I ran 8 miles.
Monday I went to boot camp and yoga.
Tuesday I ran 3.1 miles.
Wednesday I did XTreme Yoga and Abs.
Thursday I ran 3 miles.
And today I'm hoping for another run or maybe a trip to the Y.

I wish I would have been able to go further on Tuesday, but I wasn't feeling well so I had to postpone my run and then when I was feeling better I only had time for 3.
I'm loving my Monday nights at the Y. I used to get many more Y workouts in, but these days it is really hard with all the soccer practices and games. I'm hoping to get back into a more than one day per week routine again soon. There was a time when I was going almost every day and loving it!

And here are some photos of our week:
We painted our kitchen walls...and put out some fall candy. Alex's team had their photos taken. We went to fall fest at a local farmer's market. and made our porch pretty: So last weekend was definitely fall, but this weekend we are expecting more summer like temps...I say bring back fall!
I'm linking here.

third grade homework

2011-10-05T18:49:00.003-04:00

Is hard...and we thought second grade was tough...
It's a fight most nights to get Alex to do his homework. With playdates and soccer practice and lots of other more fun things to do...it's hard to get him to sit still and do it!
Last night he had spelling, math and reading to do. We started right when I got home from work and he took a break when his friend came over and then he went right back to it after his friend left.

I love the concentrated look on his face. He tries so hard.
At his age I have mixed feelings about homework. When I was his age I don't remember having as much. I know that it is necessary, but what about giving them time at night with their parents and friends to just be a kid...What are your thoughts on homework?

with cooler temperatures

2011-10-05T07:16:00.002-04:00

come fall sweaters! I love cozy cardigans!

Ann Taylor Loft sweater and pants, Limited cami, Lisa Leonard necklace, and Anthropologie earrings.
Ann Taylor Loft outfit, Ann Klein shoes, Lisa Leonard necklace. First the cardigans...then the boots! Do you get excited to change up your outfits when the seasons change?

Saturday soccer

2011-10-04T08:22:00.004-04:00

Saturday started with picture day and then we were off to another game. This game was so good! We were up 2 to 0 at half...first goal scored by Alex! And then in the second half the other team started scoring. Alex scored again, but it wasn't enough to beat the other team. We lost 4 to 3. Major upset for the boys. They are trying so hard. Losing three games in a row is not fun, but they have improved their game so much. This is the first season for Alex in this league. He is used to being a star player so it has been difficult. It is definitely character building. This last game though was so exciting to watch!
And a note from his coach:
I wanted to send Alex a note to praise his performance at the game. His agressiveness is unmatched and that paid off with 2 goals. His continued hard work will not only help his game but will also continue to raise the level of play for the entire team. I know it was a tough game to lose but we are now on our way to having more fun and being more competitive. Keep working hard and your game will continue to improve. We are going to start working on some one-on-one moves to help you improve your ball control and get around the defenders.

it's beginning to look and feel like

2011-10-03T07:57:00.004-04:00

FALL!

and I'm loving it!

This weekend Alex and I stopped by fall fest at a local farm market. Alex played some games, we had a quick lunch and bought some pumpkins and mums.

and then we came home and made our porch look a little prettier.

I love fall!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-09-29T21:50:00.004-04:00

Hello...another week, another bunch of workouts to share...

Saturday I rested as I was sick.
Sunday I ran 7 miles with my Mom.
Monday I went to boot camp and then I stayed for an hour yoga class.
Tuesday I ran 5.25 miles.
Wednesday I did yoga.
Thursday I rested.
And today I will go for a run and maybe do some yoga.

So, I won't lie...I'm disappointed in myself lately. My workouts have decreased and I feel like I'm slipping into some bad eating habits again...I'm struggling. The good thing is now I can recognize this...the bad thing...it's hard to break a bad cycle. But, I'm working on it. What do you do when you feel like you are slipping off track?

I didn't take many photos this week.

flowers

peptalk from his coach after the game

walking off.

I'm looking forward to another soccer game this weekend, cooler temps and a long run. What are you looking forward to? I'm linking here.

something pretty for Wednesday...

2011-09-28T09:27:00.002-04:00

I heard somewhere this week that you should not wait for others to make you happy, you should go and do what makes you happy. This past weekend I bought myself flowers (not just flowers, ROSES)...and put them in two pretty vases that my sister made me...this is making me HAPPY! :)

What do you do when you need a pick me up? Usually for me it isn't flowers, but this week it was just what I needed!

proud of my little soccer player

2011-09-25T16:26:00.009-04:00

He's learning so much this season.
It's been a tough season though so far...they've lost their first two games. It is hard at this age...but, we are learning sportsmanship and so much more about the game. Right now it isn't about winning it's about learning. Alex is used to scoring multiple goals each game so it is hard for him to understand. But, he is playing with kids that are older than him and it is more challenging. He loves taking the corner kick.

And shooting on goal.

His coach has been great though. He has such a passion for the game and is teaching the kids a lot. He sends them instructional videos and game thoughts. Here is the email that he sent specifically to Alex after yesterday's game.
I just wanted to drop Alex a special note to say that I thought he had a really great game. His intensity is unmatched on the team and he gives it his all. Keep your head up, keep shooting and passing. You'll start getting some goals sooner rather than later. Thanks for your hard work in practice and at the game.

I love being a soccer Mom. Go Comets!

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-09-22T11:41:00.006-04:00

FIT? week...not sure as I got sick and had to take more rest days than I normally do, but it ended up not being too bad...here's what I did:
Saturday I ran 4 miles.
Sunday and Monday I took off due to being ill.
Tuesday I ran 5 miles.
Wednesday I ran 4 miles.
Thursday I ran 2 miles.
And today...another run is planned and/or some yoga.

So...the good? I got some ok runs in.
.....the bad? no Y time and no long run.
.....the ugly? too many rest days...I hate being sick!

I'm struggling lately as my weight loss has stalled...I know I need to be more observant of the calories in because that is what is hurting me. I am struggling though because now that I work out so much when I miss a day I not only psychologically feel bad, but psysically feel bad too. It is hard. I'm also super sensitive to the comments like, "why do you work out so much?" and other negativity surrounding the amount of time I spend working out. It's a hard balance.

And now for some photos of the week:
I organized my closet Alex finally had his first soccer game. Alex playing a car game at Red Robin. breakfast at work after school scootering to a playdate
I am SO ready for the weekend! I'm linking here.

third and last day

2011-09-21T20:49:00.003-04:00

of our end of summer beach vaca and we finally got some beach time. We walked down to the beach and Alex and Dan played some football and then we got into the water. It was the perfect last day. We were sad to go home.

WIWW

2011-09-21T07:01:00.003-04:00

Saturday Alex finally had his first soccer game! I wore my soccer necklace from the Vintage Pearl and Ann Taylor Loft clothes. I love this necklace!
And the other outfit I have to share this week is Ann Klein shoes, Banana Republic ankle pants, Ann Taylor Loft sweater and jacket.
And my new autumn jewelry set from Lisa Leonard. Lately jewelry is making me more happy with my outfits than the clothes. Over the weekend I cleaned out my closet...I was feeling like I had so much I was feeling like I had nothing...do you know the feeling? So, I purged two big bags of clothes and then organized again by type and color. This makes me very happy! Also, in a recent email Banana Republic showed how to take 13 pieces and make them work for 31 days. I might just try this! How is your closet organized?

SOCCER

2011-09-18T14:43:00.004-04:00

Alex's soccer season is in full swing now that they played their first game yesterday. Their first game was supposed to be last Saturday, but with Hurricane Lee and all the flooding that came to our area, it was cancelled.
We traveled to Lititz for this cold first game of the season. here he is walking to the field pregame pep talk captain's meeting. And the game... Alex started as center forward and played offense for most of the game only switching to center mid for a little while. His team played so well, but sadly they lost. The first half the game was 0-0 and then in the second half the other team scored 3 goals. A disappointment to the boys, but they really played their hearts out. I love watching him play the sport that he loves!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-09-15T21:55:00.003-04:00

Saturday I ran 4 miles.
Sunday I ran 3 miles and did an ab workout.
Monday I went to boot camp and to yoga.
Tuesday I ran 4 miles.
Wednesday I took off.
Thursday I ran 4 miles. This run was the best run that I've had in awhile. It was really cool out and I kept a good pace (for me).
MILE TIME AVG. PACE
1 11:12 11'12"/mi
2 22:09 10'57"/mi
3 32:48 10'39"/mi
4 43:28 10'40"/mi
And today I'm hoping for a Y workout or a run.
I'm excited that the humidity and warm temps have left our area (at least for a little bit...) This weekend is supposed to be in the high 60s and I think that I'll really enjoy my long run!

And now for some photos of my week...
Alex getting off the bus. meet the teacher night at Alex's school. He loves third grade and is doing so well! We are super proud of him! soccer practice.
I'm linking here.

End of Summer Vaca, Day two

2011-09-14T14:40:00.005-04:00

Day two started with breakfast at Uncle Bill's Pancakes. Chocolate chip, please...delicious! That afternoon I went for a five mile run

and ran the boardwalk and then ran to the end of the island. Avalon is on an island with Stone Harbor.

They call it 7 mile island. At the end of the island is this area with a sea wall that people fish on. It is really pretty.

And then in the evening we headed off the island to Wildwood for some boardwalk fun and dinner out.

It was a great second day. Very humid and cloudy, but we made the best of it. Day three we actually made it on to the beach and I took some photos with my camera. That's coming up next...

WIWW

2011-09-14T07:41:00.003-04:00

The craving fall edition of

What I Wore Wednesday!
I love fall! It is my favorite season. I love the cooler but not cold temperatures. I love sweaters and light jackets. I love still wearing my sandals or bringing out the boots. Fall is the season of my birthday, my favorite holiday growing up and my anniversary. I just love it. So I had to have this new line of jewelry of Lisa Leonard's. The Autumn's Song collection is my new favorite. I received it on Monday and I cannot take it off! I love it. Yesterday I paired the bracelet with my Swarvoski bracelet. I thought it looked pretty.

And the earrings...

and the necklace...

Ann Taylor Loft dress and cardi. And here I am today

Fossil dress and Ann Taylor Loft cardi. I took this photo at work. And here are my newish fun shoes that I bought on super sale at BonTon for under $20! They are iflex by Ann Klein.

I feel like I wear more brown tones in the fall so the new set from Lisa Leonard and these new copperish tone shoes are perfect. Are you craving fall?

I'm also linking with Lollipops Cards for What I Love Wednesday!

Avalon, Day one...

2011-09-10T09:50:00.002-04:00

First of all my prayers go out to all that were affected by Hurricane Lee. The area that I live in has had some major damage. Thankfully we have no damage, but those around us aren't so lucky. As the rain continued to come down we packed up and headed for our planned get a way to the beach! Alex kept busy in the car hanging wrestlers from the room roof for his royal rumble match. We arrived just in time to grab some dinner at one of my favorite spots in Avalon, New Jersey, Tortilla Flats. We love any restaurant that serves chips and salsa! And then even though it was late we played Alex's favorite minigolf. And then we grabbed some icecream before heading back to the condo. The perfect first night!

beach

2011-09-08T11:16:00.002-04:00

after a long drive we made it to the beach in time to get dinner at a favorite Mexican spot.

Fit and INstaFRIDAY!

2011-09-07T13:11:00.012-04:00

wow! Where are the weeks going?
Time for another week round up! And this week was all about running and little else.
Friday I ran 5 miles.
Saturday I did yoga.
Sunday I ran 5 miles.
Monday I ran 8 miles.
Tuesday I ran 3.1 miles. (Treadmill run that I'm calling progress because I didn't get bored!)
Wednesday was a forced rest day due to traveling.
Thursday I ran 5 miles at the beach!
And today I ran just a short mile and hope to do more later!

And now for some photos of the week...

sleepover!

Breakfast date with my best boy! :)
Number 3 after a good weekend of running.

Breakfast date #2.

dinner once we got to the beach.
We are having a great time! Do you schedule any fall trips? We love spending time at the beach no matter what season!
I'm linking here.

WIWW

2011-09-07T07:06:00.002-04:00

I was getting a little burned out by What I Wore Wednesday, but I did snap a few shots this week so I'll share them! :)
new Banana Republic skirt and top, Ann Taylor Loft belt and Cardigan. Lisa Leonard necklace. Flats are a gift from my parents from their Paris trip. I love skirts. I'd wear them every day if I could. Here's a little close up of the ruffle top: And here is a casual outfit from the weekend: All clothing is Ann Taylor Loft. Lisa Leonard necklace, Silpada ring. Clarks sandals. And a close up of my necklace We are heading to the beach tonight for a couple of days! I cannot wait, but when I return I have big plans to ruthelessly go through my closet! It needs a BIG purge! :)

hello Monday

2011-09-04T18:38:00.008-04:00

hello extra weekend day...oh how I love to have Monday's off!
hello super short week.
hello leaving for the beach on Wednesday night for some much needed time off!
hello muggy morning run...18 total miles ran this weekend which puts me at number 3 for my nike plus challenge.

hello chocolate milk...the perfect recovery drink!

hello fun family time.
and yummy treats.
hello beginning signs of fall. I saw some red leaves on trees this morning!
hello cloudy skies and rain in the forecast.
hello Monday, you always seem to come too fast, but this week it is ok because I'm still off work!

My favorite day of the week

2011-09-03T11:46:00.005-04:00

is SATURDAY!!! A fun day that is usually just Alex and I because Dan is working. Last night Alex had a sleepover with his buddy Jackson and they actually slept in until 8:50!! Good morning, sunshines! After dropping Jackson back off at his house Alex and I headed for some breakfast at Friendlys. We played hangman while we were waiting. And I reached across the table to take his hand and tell him how much he is loved and the little bugger took off his flip flop and put it in my hand instead...BOYS!! and we texted Daddy with the above photo and said wish you were here XO
Yep, I love Saturdays...it's been a great one so far!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-09-01T17:54:00.007-04:00

Mean Irene messed with my workouts this past weekend.
Saturday I got up early to run. I wanted to do at least 5 miles. I only got 4 in because I wasn't feeling well.
Sunday it poured until late in the day so I didn't get to run until late. I ran 5 miles.
So my weekend goal was a long run plus one or two classes at the Y and I only got 2 not so good runs in. But, I moved and I didn't let the weather totally ruin my weekend.
Monday I went to boot camp and yoga.
Tuesday I finished up my virtual insanity race with a great 5K.
Wednesday I did yoga.
Thursday I took off.
And today I'm hoping to make it to bootcamp.

So my fit tip again this week is to plan out your workouts and get them done early. If I would have been really smart I would have woken up EXTRA early and just did my long run on Saturday. Then Sunday it wouldn't have mattered that it was pouring and windy. Also, Thursday would not have been a rest day if I wouldn't have hit snooze in the morning. I regretted that the minute I got out of bed. Live and learn, right?

And some photos from my week.
homemade pizza. iced coffee...yum! race bib from my virtual 5K. first day of school sleepy boy after his first day of school falling asleep in the car on the way to the Y. second day walking a little ahead of Daddy. spaghetti...need to teach him to twirl :) Looking forward to the long weekend...what are your plans? I'm linking here.

Virtual Insanity 5K

2011-08-30T14:36:00.002-04:00

Recently, I decided to run a virtual race. For your bib number you were to put a running goal. I have two actually,
RUN FASTER
RUN A 1/2 MARATHON
So I put them both on my bib.

Last Tuesday I ran my first of three 5Ks...my goal was to get a baseline that I would hopefully

beat by running again. I ran while Alex had soccer practice on a track near his field.
3.1 miles ran (36:03)
MILE TIME AVG. PACE
1 10:07 10'07"/mi
2 22:06 11'59"/mi
3 34:40 12'34"/mi
On Thursday evening I headed out again with a different course and tried to beat my first time. I succeeded.
3.1 miles ran (35:22)
MILE TIME AVG. PACE
1 10:36 10'36"/mi
2 22:24 11'48"/mi
3 34:13 11'49"/mi
And, finally this morning I headed out for my last run in August with the goal again to beat my time. I succeeded.
3.1 miles ran (33:52)
MILE TIME AVG. PACE
1 10:23 10'23"/mi
2 21:28 11'05"/mi
3 32:44 11'16"/mi
I'm feeling pretty good that I improved each time. I know I can go faster...I know I can go further...I just have to DO IT!!

first day

2011-08-30T10:11:00.003-04:00

was harder on me than him! He was up early...didn't need to be reminded to get dressed or anything...A super easy morning! Bus came and he was off! I was a little depressed all day because I was missing talking to him. As a working Mom I'm used to being away from him, but over the summer months I'm able to call him during the day to chat. We are resolving to be a bit more organized this year so the lunch calendar was printed and he was crossing off days that he doesn't want to buy. And he showed me his new folder and what he is supposed to do each day. He fell asleep on the way to the Y so I think that the first day of school tired him out! He perked up once we got there though and played basketball while I took my classes. After we got home we had dinner and then I helped him with an all about me project that he'll present today in school. I wish I could be there to see him do his presentation!

Fit and INstaFriday!

2011-08-24T19:41:00.005-04:00

An ok week of fitness.
Saturday I ran 3.25 miles. See more about that here.
this week's tip...get it done early...on Sunday if I would have ran in the morning instead of going to the grocery store I would have had my workout in. You see...Dan was leaving for the day and I could run or go to the grocery store. I "thought" that he'd be home in time for me to run later in the evening, but he didn't get home until really late. So, I missed my run. I feel like a lot of times if I use an excuse or pick something else with the thought that it will get done later...it never does. So the tip...do it early! :)
Monday I went to boot camp and yoga.
Tuesday I ran 3.1 miles. See more about that here.
Wednesday I did yoga.
Thursday I ran 3.1 miles. (one minute faster than Tuesday!)
And today I'm hoping for a run or a workout...not sure what yet.
So, no long run this week or extra workouts at the Y...it wasn't the greatest week, but I kept moving and I'll hope that next week is better! I am challenging myself with a virtual 5K. Here is my race bib. I've run 2 now so far and I hope to run one more before the month is over. Your number is supposed to be your goal.

And now for some photos of my week: we scootered/ran to the park:

and ended up at Subway. Alex had a sleepover. and we took them out to dinner at Red Robin.
Alex got a letter from his teacher.
I finished up a photo class that I was taking... we went back to the park Alex took a mid week nap. I went for a run while he practiced soccer. and I enjoyed the pretty view. Our last week of summer! Monday school starts...I'm not ready :(I'm linking here.

the next three months...

2011-08-24T18:27:00.004-04:00

will be all about soccer...Tuesday and Thursday nights you'll find us at practice and Saturday or Sunday each week he'll have a game...it's time consuming to say the least, but he loves it and that is all that matters. This past Tuesday while Alex practiced I went for a run...so we were both happy! Good stuff...people tell me they don't know how I fit my exercise in...well this is how I do it...lots of times it is multitasking...it is taking him to practice and finding a place to run while he is practicing.

so he gets his sprints in

and so do I

do you see the sweat mark on this one? haha
and the bonus about his field for Tuesday nights is that there is a trail track right beside it with pretty views!

day off

2011-08-24T13:41:00.003-04:00

on Monday I took a blissful vacation day off work! It was a gorgeous day so Alex and I headed to the park again, but first stopped at Subway for some picnic food. We sat on a park bench to eat and then he was off to explore the slide again and run around with some other kids. It was a perfect afternoon. <

can't believe

2011-08-22T10:15:00.004-04:00

I actually scrapbooked!! :) It's been so long. I've really struggled lately with wanting to scrapbook, but having no time. I sat at my desk with all my goodies laid out and I didn't even know where to start! I used my August kit from Studio Calico with some add on goodies and some Elle's Studio goods :) And this is what I came up with... Pretty plain...the top kind of bugs me like it needs something so it might not be finished, but it feels good to have actually scrapped!! :) I'm linking with

fun Saturday...

2011-08-20T21:20:00.002-04:00

so Saturday came and Alex didn't want to go to the pool...say what?!? That's a first...so what to do, what to do...The first excitement of the day was receiving a letter from his teacher. Alex loves mail so this was a fun treat even though he says he isn't excited about school's arrival in just over a week.
We decided to take a scooter/run/walk our destination? Why, Subway of course! and after eating we headed to the park for some sliding fun. and then it was time to head home. All in all it was over 3 miles of running/walking for me and the same distance of scootering for Alex :) And now he is having a sleepover with his buddy, Jackson. We just got home from taking them out to eat! A fun day!

I ran and ran...

2011-08-18T10:54:00.003-04:00

“I ran and ran and ran every day, and I acquired this sense of determination, this sense of spirit that I would never give up, no matter what else happened.” – Wilma Rudolph
I love this quote! I saw it on another blog this week and had to copy it down. Somedays I'm tired, depressed, happy, excited, but no matter what...when the run is over I never feel worse than when it started...only better. They don't lie when they say that there is a runner high! :)
So this week wasn't bad...
Saturday I took a much needed rest day.
Sunday I ran 8.1 miles. This was a tough run. I think I stopped three times for bathroom breaks, but I kept going!
Monday I missed boot camp, but I did a mile on the treadmill and then did yoga.
Tuesday I ran 3.5 miles.
Wednesday I ran 3 miles.
Thursday I ran 3 miles.
And today I'd like to run 5 miles.
I'm missing my y workouts, but I'm glad that I was able to replace them with runs for this week! So my fit tip of the week...get out there and run...you'll feel great afterwards!

And now for some photos from our week. Alex finished up soccer camp. He had camp every day from 5-8:30 last week. He was so tired!! But, he learned a lot. message from Dove...I love my chocolate!
Soccer practice. the other day we had childcare issues so Alex came to my work for the afternoon. We were having an event with food and games and Alex and I played some beanbags :) playing hangman on our lunch date. Dan always has off on Thursdays and over the summer he brings Alex to have lunch with me. During the school year it is our "date" of the week. So...one more week and then Alex is off to school! He says he isn't ready. I hope he is wrong and it is an easy transition.
I'm linking here.