tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13770632016200463982024-03-13T01:56:40.250-06:00BUT I KNOW IT, Happenings of a Girl on the MoveI was born knowing I was hot stuff. When I was little my parents would tell me things and I would say "But I know it!" My Pops even named a piece of art I did "But I know it." So there ya have it, the legacy continues.....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.comBlogger354125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-39980614216297912932013-04-20T21:05:00.001-06:002013-04-20T21:05:22.116-06:00Best Advice Ever<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I asked my Pops how to use a circular saw.</div>
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His reply, "Keep your fingers out of the way."</div>
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Well, after finding where the hell the safety was, I did it. A little nervous at first... but it got done.</div>
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A few cuts made, a few screws put in with my handy-dandy mini drill... and bada-bing-bada-boom. </div>
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Project done.</div>
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And, all my fingers are still here.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-6233444785500698542013-04-07T22:37:00.000-06:002013-04-07T22:37:05.975-06:00Memories of Dirt, Sun, Work Gloves and Wranglers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't know what it is, but the country life has been on my mind a lot lately. I don't know if it is all the yard work, how broken in my work gloves are getting, the sun, this time of year.... I don't know why, but memories are hitting hard lately, and it's hard not to get sentimental.</div>
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Tonight I watched the last 20 minutes of the Academy of Country Music Awards and Garth Brooks sang The Dance.... immediately I was whisked back to that El Paso County Fair -- Friday night dance. I think I snuck in because I was too young; and before I knew it I was pelvis to pelvis with Tim Ellison two-stepping around the big event tent, the smell of dirt and beer hung heavy.... and I was on cloud 9.</div>
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Let's be honest. That boy could dance, his hat was big, he was tough, he was the King of the 4Hers and I was more than happy to be pressed up against him all night. Eat your heart out girls.</div>
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Songs like this.... memories come every time.... Strawberry Wine. Makes me close my eyes and smile by the very first chord.</div>
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It makes me think of all the memories I had with friends, animals and family. All the shit I had to deal with, literally. All the crazy days of weigh-ins when none of the animals were truly halter-broke and were dragging us around and getting out of pens left and right. Denting brand new pickups and hiding under cop cars. Wow.... now THAT should have been a reality show.</div>
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Makes me think of sneaking into the camper grounds and how "forbidden" things were. Oh the days of being a teenager again.</div>
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I remember selling my 4H animals, and how Damon and Derek Glover would take my animals to the slaughter truck for me so that I didn't have to. Just coming back to the barn and seeing the empty halter wrapped up neatly and sitting on my tack box would make be sob every time.</div>
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Then the water fight that always happened on the last day of fair. The wet wranglers, soggy roper boots and dirty water buckets. The screams and hugs. The day we all said bye and packed up trailers for home. </div>
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Those were good days. Those were the nights memories were made. Such a different lifestyle than now. Part of me misses it. I often wonder if I want to live that life again.... life would be different. It's something I couldn't do alone.... but.... it makes me wonder.</div>
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I want to write a book. It's on my bucket list to write a book, but I've never known about what.... the more I think about country life and my experiences there the more I realize that might just be it.</div>
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Gleaning steer food from the nearby dairy farm, collecting it in old trash cans to take home for my steer. Sitting in the pig barn at fair and slapping wrangler patches with the pig bats, but only on the boys you wanted to flirt with. Learning that baby pigs are literally born running. Doing chores in blizzards so bad you had to follow ropes to get from barn to barn. Laying in bed and listening to coyotes, hoping they aren't as close to the barn as they sound. Staying up all night dressing out a pig that unexpectedly croaked. Wow, the list goes on and on and on.</div>
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We could talk about this for days, and maybe some day we will. Until then, let's be grateful for pandora and all the memories it can bring with just the first few chords of an old country song.... and maybe one day I'll find a man who can two-step. Then the world will be right once again.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-1152463700823847622013-04-06T12:28:00.000-06:002013-04-06T12:28:11.042-06:00Bed Hog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It took three years, but it has finally happened.</div>
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I woke up the other morning and realized that I was smack dab in the middle of my queen size bed.</div>
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Three years ago I was back to sleeping by myself, but for some reason I always still slept on my side of the bed. Porter has enjoyed having a side of the bed all to his chihuahua self... but no longer little guy. For some reason three years has been the magic number, and I have taken over once again.</div>
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It took me by suprise a bit, but has also made me really content. Until you've been there I'm not sure you will ever understand. Just like that semi-annoying Taylor Swift song.... </div>
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Until you have made the epic mistake of being under someone's thumb, you will never understand the true elation of realizing that you have freed yourself of it.</div>
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It has taken a long time, probably still will for other small battles.... but in some strange way I'm grateful for the lesson... and due to that I've learned that I can't keep my mouth shut about it.</div>
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I work with so many young women who need to understand this, that need to understand that even the strongest of women can get stuck here, that it is something that needs to be fought against, and that they aren't alone....</div>
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So here we are, supporting each other and being sooooo incredibly stoked to once again be a self-proclaimed</div>
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BED HOG!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-89316242956562821722013-02-19T01:37:00.001-07:002013-02-19T01:37:29.999-07:00Late night ramblings....It's 1:37am, and there is nothing on TV. The dogs and I are snuggled on the couch catching up on lovins.... and I can't sleep.<br />
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This happens sometimes. It comes in waves, and lately it's been double-overhead.<br />
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I try to sleep when I think I'm ready.... I head to bed, leave my phone alone and meditate. I try to make myself comfortable and create a quiet place in my home.... sometimes it works, and sometimes I lay there for hours. Awake.<br />
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I've learned that after a few hours it's better to just get up and do something productive than lay there and get frustrated.<br />
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So I'm awake, and trying to process through some things....<br />
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1. Do I race again this year? I've loved racing the past two years. I've come a long way and actually hit a few podiums last year, but training takes a LOT of time and dedication. And racing takes a lot of time and money during the summer. I have decided that this summer I want to explore more. I haven't explored in years, and I want that to change this year..... so do I have the time and energy to do both? I don't want to give up a camping trip to be in town for a race..... And then the whole question of if my knee will hold up to run training or not. I know I'm not going to give up crossfit, so now we are talking about workouts twice a day. Do I have the motivation for this? I might just want to go camping instead.....<br />
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2. What I want to do around the house this year. This warm weather is getting to me... I'm ready to repaint the porch, add in raspberries and blueberries on the back fence, trim up the tree, build a bar to cover the AC unit, redo the flooring on the back deck, build and start the greenhouse, add onto the raised beds.... my list is growing and I want to get started! But I just saw on the third re-run of tonight's news that snow is coming in hard on Wednesday and staying all week, so looks like I have plenty of time to make my list.<br />
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3. Am I doing enough to build my career? I have had some fun things happening lately.... but should I be pushing it more? I am pretty much just letting things come to me as the world sees fit, but maybe I should pursue it a bit more aggressively. There are always feelings of self-doubt, especially after midnight.... Maybe that is why it's so hard to be awake at this hour. You never feel good enough.<br />
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And as soon as you start to doubt yourself that creeps into everything... and all the sudden you aren't smart enough, pretty enough, successful enough, lovable enough, skinny enough.... and that is when it's time to get up and do something productive, because laying in bed in that state of mind will ruin you quick.<br />
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So here I am, Ike laying on my feet, Porter snuggled at my hip. Drinking warm tea, reruns of the news on TV, and typing to you guys....<br />
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I have on only one light, my Moroccan lantern, and it's colorful glow makes me grateful for my house, my haven. I am thankful for the warmth and safety this house provides, not just physically, but emotionally. I am safe here. I feel comfortable here. I am content here... and that is important. That is crucial.<br />
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Thanks for listening, thanks for supporting. Thank you for your positive energy that you send me through this crazy, complicated, wonderful world. These late nights can get askew, but it is also in these nights that I can open up and know I am supported.<br />
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Love you all, I hope you are sleeping tight.... and hopefully I can join you sometime soon.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-21290213629477828482013-02-09T15:05:00.000-07:002013-02-09T15:05:03.268-07:00Website recommendations. SAY WHAT?!?!I'm in Jackson, WY with my snowboard team and last night we are sitting at dinner, talking about how gorgeous this place is. I mention my goal to buy a cabin/land by the time I'm 35 and the conversation turns into...<div>
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One of my male snowboarders, about 18 years-old... long blonde hair, chiseled features, quick laugh... you know, snowboarder..... Anyways, he leans across the table and looks me dead in the eye and says, </div>
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"Have you looked at Free Cabin Porn Dot Com?? It's awesome."</div>
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Say What?!?!</div>
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I died laughing, the coach next to me died laughing, the girls on the other side of me died laughing.....</div>
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Sure enough, he was serious.</div>
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www.freecabinporn.com</div>
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A website of gorgeous cabins from around the world. I was stuck on that site for about two hours last night.</div>
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The kid knows what he's talking about. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-24574430436756617972013-01-24T23:05:00.001-07:002013-01-24T23:05:06.060-07:00As the Clouds Race Over the Moon....I tried to sleep, but it didn't happen. I put in my iPod, and that didn't help.<br />
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Instead, it encouraged my mind to wander, and very quickly my energy seemed to be trapped in my body and I felt I would burst out of my skin if I didn't get moving. Anywhere, and now.<br />
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So I did the only logical thing. I got up, put on my sweats, wrapped myself in the extra blanket from my bed, went outside.... and snuggled myself down into the snow.<br />
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Being on the road in Sun Valley, ID gave me what every country girl yearns for, plenty of fresh air to cleanse her soul while staring up at the moon and listening to the song that seems to bring meaning into just about anything.<br />
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So, here I lay, in the snow, watching the clouds race across the full moon, fully pulling into me the fresh mountain air and listening to this....<br />
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The song that I instantly fell in love with at a small intimate concert in downtown Salt Lake City. The song that is on every single one of my playlists, no joke. The song that seems to refocus me and make me want to grow beyond what I think I am capable of becoming. The song that gives me the courage to keep going, to dream big.<br />
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And I lay here, cocooned in my little mini recliner of snow. My hair flowing wildly around my shoulders and the mountain breeze kissing my sniffly nose.<br />
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And magically I feel completely present. Content. Alive. Driven. Confident. Satisfied. Grounded.<br />
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And here I lay, watching the clouds race across the moon, counting stars.... the ones you only see when you escape the hustle-bustle.<br />
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And suddenly my eyes are closed, I'm breathing confidently.<br />
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I notice the song changes, and for the first time in the past thirty minutes I don't start the song over.... I let it pass to the next. Another favorite.<br />
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And I'm swaying, wrapped in my little snowy cocoon. Eyes closed, grooving.<br />
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The song ends, and my moment is over.<br />
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So I climb out of the snow, back onto my master bedroom porch, shake the snow off and come inside. Teeth chattering.<br />
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It's all I needed. A reset.<br />
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Every now and then a girl just needs to come back to basics and recharge. Nothing a little music and fresh air can't fix.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-5254175904793373452013-01-21T07:49:00.002-07:002013-01-21T07:49:40.418-07:00Eight years, It feels like just YesterdayEight years ago... the last two minutes of the second period of a hockey game, it changed everything.<br />
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I still remember the smells, the times, the faces....<br />
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He dropped to block a shot, came to the bench, and only made it half way over the boards. As the guys were celebrating a short handed goal I was tugging on coaches leg.... "He isn't breathing and I can't turn him over, I need help."<br />
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The rest is a story that is told in hushed tones, usually with tears welled up on my lower eye lids.<br />
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I lost him, we lost him. It wasn't due to a lack of trying, that is for damn sure. He had everything he needed, and fast.... the timeline of things is actually quite impressive.... but the finality of it is, it just didn't work.<br />
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It made me question everything. And I mean everything.<br />
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I questioned that night, our actions, my career, my life, my relationships. I questioned my hobbies, my dedications. I questioned it all.<br />
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In the end I came out of it with the reassuring understanding that we did every little thing we possibly could have done that night. I decided that my career was one that I loved, even if it gave me such a stinging experience as this. I decided that my life was one that should be lived, and fully....<br />
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We have a lot of pictures of Jaxon, and all of them are him absorbing every bit of life he can. I have tried to adopt that, to soak up that piece of him and carry it with me. He was fearless, and I've tried to pull a piece of that with me. I've tried to conquer life with the same tenacity that he did.... to not let fear stand in the way. And honestly, in the past eight years, I've had a lot of amazing experiences because of it. Sometimes those tiny battles turn into little conversations, just him and I, and in the end it always turns out magical.<br />
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Eight years ago today, has it really been that long? The night that changed my life? The night I will never forget? The night that put a ring on my right hand that I wear constantly, that means so much to me and represents such specific determinations?<br />
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I write to him on his website often, www.rockonjaxon.com, and I always end with the only thing that seems appropriate. "Thanks for everything..." because honestly, that is the only thing that seems to summarize my tears. He has taught me so much, and ironically I learned more through his living than through his dying.<br />
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I still remember, the freshman that skated up asking me to tape his wrists so his black fabric on his elbow pads wouldn't touch because he was allergic. I thought he was crazy. But his older brother (whom I had been friends with for years) gave me a nod.... well, that started it, and I completely adored that smiling freshman for the rest of the semester. December came, his brother graduated and moved away saying, "Take care of my little bro...." and then a month later I called him, late on a Friday night. He didn't answer and all I could choke into the voice mail was, "Dustin, I'm so sorry.... call me."<br />
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The rest is a whirlwind of grieving family, team, league, school and community. The support we received was staggering. Letters from around the world, people that never knew this spunky kid. We did everything we could, and I still do.... his energy lives on, and always will.<br />
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Rock on, Jaxon. I adore you, always will. Thank you for teaching me so many things, not only through your death, but mostly through your life. January 21st. Today will always be a day of remembering, a day of memories, a day of re-dedication to be fearless and attack life with a gusto that you harnessed so well.<br />
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Rock on, Jax. Thanks for everything....<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-66551321713504668692013-01-14T11:31:00.003-07:002013-01-14T11:31:56.301-07:00Buzzin.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week my coach reviewed my food journal and told me to go buy protein so I could get in my recovery meal faster that I have been.... So off to GNC I went and bought two of these bad boys.</div>
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The guys that work at GNC are always such Muscle Heads... but they helped me out and I walked out with lots of protein shake and a few free samples that they threw in my bag.</div>
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One of my samples was a thermogenic fat burner pill.... so I thought what the hell, I'll try it.</div>
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I took it four hours ago and I'm still buzzing, HARD.</div>
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I can see how people get addicted to these things! I've power cleaned the entire training room, disinfected my desk, done two loads of laundry, replied to all my emails, updated multiple facebook pages and speed chatted... seriously, rapid fire chat responses. LOL (Hi Dana. hehe)</div>
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No wonder you lose weight on these things! I can't stop moving!</div>
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I feel like the effin Energizer Bunny, on speed.</div>
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Oh, this stuff seems to make me cuss too. Weird.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyGZxWs5nxZ-Vg6LpQpbgAwWme6CHbgpO-2ixVZm75Qyb3No_PceWWXwQc_VG3oOYDyr4W0hNiaqahugMxhfHTjavU26BbkqfjxvqvEs2upka5JMxnd3rskc6BHPCVgtuuKVpwjPiPLyq/s1600/1359994_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyGZxWs5nxZ-Vg6LpQpbgAwWme6CHbgpO-2ixVZm75Qyb3No_PceWWXwQc_VG3oOYDyr4W0hNiaqahugMxhfHTjavU26BbkqfjxvqvEs2upka5JMxnd3rskc6BHPCVgtuuKVpwjPiPLyq/s1600/1359994_300.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-70428118093661208152013-01-06T17:32:00.000-07:002013-01-06T17:32:06.374-07:00Vegetarian Dog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunday is a day of food prep. I headed to the pool today right after I woke up and by the time I got home I was pretty stinkin' hungry... so into the kitchen I went, followed closely by my vegetarian dog.</div>
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He knows that if I'm cooking he will get the scraps that come from the cutting board, so he waits patiently, about six inches from my feet, sitting like a statue, but that stare.....</div>
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Today he feasted on broccoli, carrot ends, and a bit of pineapple just because I took pity on him.</div>
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I am really starting to love using my organic coconut oil... and produced this delicious meal of sauteed pineapple, broccoli and carrots and pan fried talapia. YUMMM.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbLTrSRUIbcwsDurzqukw-DucnteeCU8CFptWHgywj-IjPvodqPOpOm_T9o6b5sQ2E5hQBHacmg7lPzhu6vfa6ed0QFze948fLhmEAhQTyz7b3GavYnrmkDnyY3Ys7ZOjWYvc3_4aEwnX/s1600/2013-01-06+13.18.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbLTrSRUIbcwsDurzqukw-DucnteeCU8CFptWHgywj-IjPvodqPOpOm_T9o6b5sQ2E5hQBHacmg7lPzhu6vfa6ed0QFze948fLhmEAhQTyz7b3GavYnrmkDnyY3Ys7ZOjWYvc3_4aEwnX/s320/2013-01-06+13.18.02.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Then this afternoon I did some more food prep and Ike once again waited patiently and quickly feasted on celery ends, cucumber ends and some red pepper.</div>
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He's crazy, my Vegetarian Dog.</div>
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I'm feeling pleasantly prepared for this coming week. It's always easier to eat well when you have yummy things at the ready.</div>
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I am getting sick of a few things that we were eating last week, so I froze the two servings that are still in the fridge, and I'm making a few more things for this week.</div>
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Currently in the works are shrimp/cucumber salad and some carne asada in the crockpot for salads and tacos using lettuce as "shells". Sounds yummy....</div>
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And, I'll tell ya, my knee is still FREAKING OUT when it gets wheat.... yesterday was a doozy.....</div>
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And my body is liking how I've been eating. I can feel that I'm a little leaner this week than last....</div>
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Happy Monday Ya'll!! May you battle the "Revolutioners" successfully.</div>
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p.s. Kale chips are now out of the oven and really good! To date this is the only way I have found that I can eat kale.... Coach James says eat kale, so kale chips it is!!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-54593654307751296512013-01-02T09:06:00.000-07:002013-01-02T09:06:22.920-07:00The Dog Days are Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The dog days are over... done with the days of being able to snuggle with my pups for the majority of the day... like below, yes BOTH of them -- over 100 pounds of pup -- on my lap relaxing.</div>
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Love those crazies, and they love me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHehDGvhDqAW0M4T-XcbaaW7N_3ekfK3uoWhyphenhyphenzB7sueSN4aFWnUMtSKqhoSJzCdzawqNlOMT2aC2_AJMopVsFfz0ubi6XlX0PVD5-beXt21CPEafP1PDgxe8Wd024RR2-SbqBxPT4yxwA/s1600/dogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHehDGvhDqAW0M4T-XcbaaW7N_3ekfK3uoWhyphenhyphenzB7sueSN4aFWnUMtSKqhoSJzCdzawqNlOMT2aC2_AJMopVsFfz0ubi6XlX0PVD5-beXt21CPEafP1PDgxe8Wd024RR2-SbqBxPT4yxwA/s320/dogs.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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They know break is over, and so do I.... </div>
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LifeFlight today and the college tomorrow. Five more crazy months... </div>
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Last night I got the Christmas decorations put away.</div>
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Today I'm making a list and heading to the store to try to stock up on some good food options.</div>
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Today, working hard. Tomorrow, working harder.</div>
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Phew, time to get back at it....</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-70609274538961164912012-12-28T16:58:00.001-07:002012-12-28T16:58:13.222-07:00High five?Today I told my coach that in six weeks of being with him at Crossfit I've gained 10 pounds.<br />
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He gave me a high-five.<br />
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Then he felt my guns.<br />
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Then we had a very heartfelt talk.<br />
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Do you know what a "come to Jesus" talk looks like between two agnostic/atheists?<br />
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Well, I'll just say it ends in a meal plan, a promise to produce my food journal for review every two weeks and the words "NO EXCUSES" written on the white board.<br />
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.... and then it ends with a hug and the words "We are in this together, and it's the last time you will ever have to do it....."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-61243266152499305152012-12-27T12:56:00.006-07:002012-12-27T12:56:51.757-07:00FAIL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcKJniE_S0KQZAG6EYEG0nBzu_gKjB3YlTemg9n42Ond4dvCailN6qKjVliHZFzqPAcN9ddMSuju6WWGv22hk_TNMEiiNdSo_NVnZZQZHVnkoVOTrBrhMOcG_8EYDk-Nj5oxfLJEXgZag/s1600/Indian-Chinese-Noodles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcKJniE_S0KQZAG6EYEG0nBzu_gKjB3YlTemg9n42Ond4dvCailN6qKjVliHZFzqPAcN9ddMSuju6WWGv22hk_TNMEiiNdSo_NVnZZQZHVnkoVOTrBrhMOcG_8EYDk-Nj5oxfLJEXgZag/s320/Indian-Chinese-Noodles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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First Gluten-free fail of the experiment... although first success in a way too.</div>
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I've been gluten-free for about a week now, until last night. I gave in and hand Chinese-pan noodles. I LOVE these things.... and I quickly regretted it.</div>
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Immediately after eating them I was exhausted, nauseous and SORE everywhere. I have been working out hard for a few days, with lots of squats, but my knees have been feeling great.... until the noodles came.</div>
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It was insane how quick it happened, as soon as I tried to stand up my knees were KILLING me! It kind of freaked me out how fast it happened.... even today my knees are sore, my feet are sore, and I'm overall achy.</div>
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So, I guess it's a good thing, I'm seeing how wheat effects me in an inflammation sense... but it also sucks, because this means that I should never have those delicious pan noodles again.... </div>
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Give and take I guess. :(</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-10373265386571881472012-12-22T21:57:00.001-07:002012-12-22T21:57:26.108-07:00Relax, Relax and Relax some more....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've needed a vacation... and so has Tuff. So off we went, Lava Hot Springs in Southern Idaho. </div>
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A little town of just over 400 people. Three restaurants, we ate at all of them twice.</div>
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Once I asked Tuff what his favorite part of the trip was. He immediately answered, "The food."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTh6xkunfsmO9JcvlgXq5KL8ZBySZsnKtfHGnSU1aqjnbzHQaEVRrxNOCitlR-q7jkMFuu43Xy31YZiuOb6BOoAd6nNT9J2tAnk702alJcfVOXsikeZwpts1IJMP2jdDWdtsaSmisl3Iuu/s1600/2012-12-20+10.52.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTh6xkunfsmO9JcvlgXq5KL8ZBySZsnKtfHGnSU1aqjnbzHQaEVRrxNOCitlR-q7jkMFuu43Xy31YZiuOb6BOoAd6nNT9J2tAnk702alJcfVOXsikeZwpts1IJMP2jdDWdtsaSmisl3Iuu/s320/2012-12-20+10.52.04.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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It was quite cold our whole trip, usually around 14 degrees during the day and around 5-9 degrees at night. The only place to escape was in the amazing, soothing water....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaA_tS9rY-zSv_RbYNDNTC-X9OIPHubB4Rp-oSTc1njWg4uMrkgyh3RT5JlUBuLLOL7KRJzcI5ndfiRp1AO5mjW1iezga-q_jOIG5KmcMujqhZNt2dt12o388Su0nt6mTiTuCO26u83g2/s1600/IMG_9080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaA_tS9rY-zSv_RbYNDNTC-X9OIPHubB4Rp-oSTc1njWg4uMrkgyh3RT5JlUBuLLOL7KRJzcI5ndfiRp1AO5mjW1iezga-q_jOIG5KmcMujqhZNt2dt12o388Su0nt6mTiTuCO26u83g2/s320/IMG_9080.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We stayed at a hotel that pumped the mineral water straight from the hot pools into our shower and bath... so I took the Spud Mud that I got for Christmas last year and did my best to get all spa like. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82v2qUf5HljvRb21nFiPnFvcMBb5133EkjzjqcydEniD2Lt-OUiMhiqMBpca1ukIQiNPmKVGZZd-rM3eYSnNZRmLxexWhoQKZINqXqwrIrM9OjWxexSq33tJpd4kqO0tRFCly14ZUuBeO/s1600/IMG_9109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82v2qUf5HljvRb21nFiPnFvcMBb5133EkjzjqcydEniD2Lt-OUiMhiqMBpca1ukIQiNPmKVGZZd-rM3eYSnNZRmLxexWhoQKZINqXqwrIrM9OjWxexSq33tJpd4kqO0tRFCly14ZUuBeO/s320/IMG_9109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The steam would freeze everything in sight... including hair. Tuff got quick a kick out of that. I told him stories about when my hair would freeze while I was walking to the school bus on the farm.... he looked at me like I was from another planet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAYXWfgjLCopendBP6ZLZrvkmL3nRV1Q6vs52ugUG9dOEf1txhkTA2-6SDkP_oY8JfPFqjkGhFmMsKG8DkNpmsVB3B2FRBHiQsfBW7B45HpxZ9Jjw126tlH9BLCQHYEmesBZA-1ZDwKLI/s1600/IMG_9138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAYXWfgjLCopendBP6ZLZrvkmL3nRV1Q6vs52ugUG9dOEf1txhkTA2-6SDkP_oY8JfPFqjkGhFmMsKG8DkNpmsVB3B2FRBHiQsfBW7B45HpxZ9Jjw126tlH9BLCQHYEmesBZA-1ZDwKLI/s320/IMG_9138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Overall we had a blast... just the two of us. It was just what we needed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGtnGW90ow1CcZFKWn_zmFYoMjjcVp-WtC7qj2BGo1xXCwIG_0c2uxraOJ4J4NOO7WeLj4fizlPgJXMGP53xyv6bL6QsKH8ftWRO3XkIQpYBH8iCuZh0TZ9C4iQEA1EX88ESxPgHP814S/s1600/IMG_9153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGtnGW90ow1CcZFKWn_zmFYoMjjcVp-WtC7qj2BGo1xXCwIG_0c2uxraOJ4J4NOO7WeLj4fizlPgJXMGP53xyv6bL6QsKH8ftWRO3XkIQpYBH8iCuZh0TZ9C4iQEA1EX88ESxPgHP814S/s320/IMG_9153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And even tho this place isn't anything to write home about, the water and the hot springs definitely are!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjudmBv3HqqJyOSbkEUQAdIK2d0ozWzbWr2qkODBnvCl83YER4USdG4KRV0OL896LP6z0PU60AYVCZbsL6-Lb8vmb-9WnY0itq0b7458ylc9QHO17rAJ-6ArK2TYcjkgp1ql0ZafoB89N8V/s1600/IMG_9155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjudmBv3HqqJyOSbkEUQAdIK2d0ozWzbWr2qkODBnvCl83YER4USdG4KRV0OL896LP6z0PU60AYVCZbsL6-Lb8vmb-9WnY0itq0b7458ylc9QHO17rAJ-6ArK2TYcjkgp1ql0ZafoB89N8V/s320/IMG_9155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's till next time T-Dawg. Love ya!</div>
<span id="goog_13488570"></span><span id="goog_13488571"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-66149771544631110302012-12-18T19:43:00.000-07:002012-12-18T19:43:52.795-07:00Wheat-free till Valentines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been working hard, crossfit and swimming have been a daily thing for over a month now and my body is feeling awesome.</div>
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Today I took this photo of the calluses that are showing up on my hands. All the olympic lifts and kettle bell work is really taking a toll on these lady-hands.</div>
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haha..... I've NEVER had "lady" hands, but I also don't think I've ever had calluses like this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7jQMEhciX7Ma9M78U84m_6m2Xu_Yz451nkc8gFURIjeN3ncTS3zV9aUo_AjxOsrWqXX2rdHstx3uoEK5ItuKHChcl0gZD_rpkdmvT6sbCYrnRvklDwylSPtRe5EBa2W7u3gxlUNgx2Zp/s1600/2012-12-18+11.16.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7jQMEhciX7Ma9M78U84m_6m2Xu_Yz451nkc8gFURIjeN3ncTS3zV9aUo_AjxOsrWqXX2rdHstx3uoEK5ItuKHChcl0gZD_rpkdmvT6sbCYrnRvklDwylSPtRe5EBa2W7u3gxlUNgx2Zp/s320/2012-12-18+11.16.27.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Today my coach had me use a 20 kg kettlebell for my kettlebell swings and my hands felt it for sure! He knows how to push me and I'm feeling it tonight! It's part of the reason I love it so much at that gym.... we are doing things with my body that have never been done before. It's great, and really empowering.</div>
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I gained four pounds the first week I was there and still haven't lost it. My inches are falling off in amazing amounts, but not the weight yet. I know it's improvement, but I'd like to see the weight finally start to fall.</div>
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Last week one of my best friends came into town and at dinner we talked about her new gluten-free lifestyle. She talked about a book called "Wheat Belly" and I started reading it the next day. I felt like I was reading a book written about me.... the person who works out and eats healthy and can't lose weight for anything. The person who the healthier they eat the more weight they gain, sore joints, high inflammatory markers in blood work (remember all that blood work I was having done earlier this year???), the muscle aches and lethargy.....</div>
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Well, for the past two days I've been wheat-free, gluten-free, and feeling awesome. I decided that I'm going to try it for two months. In two months I should be able to tell if my body is benefiting from no wheat. Hopefully I'll see a weight difference, but I'm also hoping a difference in my inflammatory issues. It would be SOOOOO wonderful to not have the inflammation I've been dealing with. It makes me feel old, unhealthy and sick. That isn't me....</div>
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So, here is my dinner tonight. Celery, soft cheese and smoked salmon. Quite decadent and I am SOOOO content!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnhR06q3EU6Pqc6f9GCMwojrERBszJwySqcLFVsE1iYbYDpbS90FndBmyJxlcY7CVVcoTqLHSrHjgKkMYwA6WRCaTQZL0Byo8QJ0bRTlEzWww435lilhchLB1EjLAcZxGeuPdgBRRSnz2/s1600/2012-12-18+18.23.26+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnhR06q3EU6Pqc6f9GCMwojrERBszJwySqcLFVsE1iYbYDpbS90FndBmyJxlcY7CVVcoTqLHSrHjgKkMYwA6WRCaTQZL0Byo8QJ0bRTlEzWww435lilhchLB1EjLAcZxGeuPdgBRRSnz2/s320/2012-12-18+18.23.26+(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I'm leaving town for a small escape before the holidays, I am a bit worried that wheat-free will be hard when I'm on the road.... but I hear they have a great Thai restaurant there, and if I stick to rice noodles and rice then I should be good!!!</div>
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Oh, and I'm taking Tuff with me on my escape.... a little Big Sis/Lil Bro bonding and exploring time.... I can't wait.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-48088422577059379302012-11-25T10:00:00.001-07:002012-11-25T10:00:38.603-07:00Time for an updateThings have been different these last two weeks.... and put simply, CROSSFIT.<div>
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I started crossfit two weeks ago, it's insane. For those of you that aren't familiar with it, it's a very high intensity workout that incorporates dynamic exercise with olympic lifts. It kicks my ass.</div>
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Starting two weeks ago I am also keeping very detailed calorie journals and monitoring weight and measurements..... if I'm going to be working this hard I need to know what is working and what isn't.</div>
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Well, after two weeks I lost a little over a pound and gained most of it back this week (in muscle I think). BUT, the really interesting thing comes in the measurements.</div>
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In two weeks, I have lost an incredible amount of inches.</div>
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Neck - no change</div>
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shoulders - down 1.5 inches</div>
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chest - down 2 inches</div>
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waist - down 2.5 inches</div>
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hips - down 1.5 inches</div>
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right thigh - down 1 inch</div>
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left thigh - down 0.5 inch</div>
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right calf - no change</div>
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left calf - down 0.5 inch</div>
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right arm - down 3/4 inch</div>
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left arm - down 3/4 inch</div>
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TOTAL: down 11 inches!! Holy shit! That's awesome!</div>
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So, this tells me that I'm gaining a lot of muscle, which is great because in the end that is going to burn more fat. So, this is a perfect example of not paying huge attention to the scale, but to consider the measurements as well.</div>
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It was really nice to take the measurements today, that helped give me a shot of motivation for sure.</div>
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I'm going to focus this week on regulating my diet, not only keeping my calories in check, but also eliminating things that are known to be inflammatory to my body, mostly gluten and dairy. I know it will be hard to eliminate them completely, so I'm going to work on limiting them as much as possible..... we will see how it goes!</div>
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As I gain more muscle and keep up this level of activity, especially with watching my eating, I will see results.... there is just no way that I won't.</div>
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I've really been working on getting to Crossfit four times per week. My coaches there are awesome and very encouraging. They push me and are really supportive, it has been fantastic.</div>
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I am also dancing twice a week, one tap class and one modern class.</div>
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I am also swimming on Sundays. </div>
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So..... six workout days, with one of those being active rest (swimming) because it is nice and smooth.</div>
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I am really liking how good I feel. I feel strong. </div>
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My energy and appetite have kind of been all over the map lately. Some weeks I have NO appetite, sometimes I can't sleep to save my life, the past two days I've taken naps..... Like I told my Poppa a few days ago, "My homeostasis is all fucked up", but I think that is part of it. My body is trying to figure out what it is going to be, and we are trying to fine tune it now.</div>
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So, today I'm headed to the college to swim. A day in the pool is always a good day.</div>
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Thanks for everyone's support. This is a great thing for me and a CONSTANT battle, especially after my thyroid/hashimotos diagnosis. But, hard work will hopefully pay off. One day I will find the right combo, so far this is looking promising!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-84161998423206875042012-10-10T16:53:00.001-06:002012-10-10T16:53:25.241-06:00All good things must come to an end<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, it happened. Last night my garden got kissed by the death of freezing temperatures. Today I woke up to blackened, shriveled leaves... and it was time.</div>
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Time to gather what was left of my little harvest. Next comes tearing the sucker out and prepping the soil for the spring.</div>
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So I picked what was left.... lots of baby, mini vegis. These little guys are tiny! But oh-so-beautiful. Hopefully they taste good too!! The only ones I am really worried about are those mini-eggplant. We shall see if they are properly developed or not.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJPQ8HEx6zBnbGG_pjXCJuyhGcdRFicPXlsloVhW2dRqlzHWdAknf2EU-gcrfIxx4_aVEibuSxdEPf2aiNlamq4LlOzuloX42uzj6aQgnGEuRNhRhZHRme_CRYn5qyjH8vFH17opep1n2/s1600/mini+vegis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJPQ8HEx6zBnbGG_pjXCJuyhGcdRFicPXlsloVhW2dRqlzHWdAknf2EU-gcrfIxx4_aVEibuSxdEPf2aiNlamq4LlOzuloX42uzj6aQgnGEuRNhRhZHRme_CRYn5qyjH8vFH17opep1n2/s320/mini+vegis.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I tried to save my Fresno pepper and jalapeno plants... and my mint. I moved these guys inside because, honestly, I just love picking these little tiny peppers. They are so cute! I'll have to see how long I can keep them going....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZocgAmKvAc9bWmgYYjNAcb4XNN27upom5aF6Cu2SmtBieVgdyYieumnGqPyjFV0Gqlff_Hia0J1HSEPDYYPkgcUmIbGMFF5FWzmAnd16gIFMZLSoai5M5rT3qk05fLPKGDwOIk8-8zpi/s1600/repots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZocgAmKvAc9bWmgYYjNAcb4XNN27upom5aF6Cu2SmtBieVgdyYieumnGqPyjFV0Gqlff_Hia0J1HSEPDYYPkgcUmIbGMFF5FWzmAnd16gIFMZLSoai5M5rT3qk05fLPKGDwOIk8-8zpi/s320/repots.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Oh, and my mint is awesome. I love throwing a sprig or two in my waterbottle... and my fresh Thai spring rolls. Yummm!!!</div>
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So, alas, my gardening days have come to an end until next spring.... but I have big hopes. I am contemplating a greenhouse off the back of the garage, I want to add a few raised beds along the fence and I need to get some raspberries in so they can root during these wet fall months.</div>
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But for now, I won't have anymore dirt under my fingernails. Unless maybe I keep working on my indoor-succulent garden. Hummmm...... :)</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-75949109535591433092012-10-05T11:02:00.000-06:002012-10-05T11:02:04.092-06:00When all else fails, HIT SOMETHING.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been struggling with motivation to workout lately. Now that my races are done for the summer I need something to get me passionate again.</div>
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I'm dancing twice a week, and that is wonderful... but I need something to motivate me to work hard, to drip sweat, to be sore the next day.</div>
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So, I'm going to go try something I've always wanted to do.</div>
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I just signed up for a Muay Thai Boxing class. It's not until the beginning of next month, almost 30 days away... but I'm already looking forward to it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd25EEYRB9BSAQBJCJAil9y8pEQFyBAj6X1xOvatzxIe05xYAb6KlBiF5iPKJcNU5paEyMfK0yytKmki-ktf-SiKmhyY-ubcUceUSqnEPMjuBlhowHXpXSSVCoK3w5OgNLhk5nfQzgzaMt/s1600/images+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd25EEYRB9BSAQBJCJAil9y8pEQFyBAj6X1xOvatzxIe05xYAb6KlBiF5iPKJcNU5paEyMfK0yytKmki-ktf-SiKmhyY-ubcUceUSqnEPMjuBlhowHXpXSSVCoK3w5OgNLhk5nfQzgzaMt/s1600/images+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
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Now I'm hopefully motivated to get some of my cardio conditioning back and tighten up a bit so that I don't get absolutely SLAUGHTERED when I get to the Muay Thai gym.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUtuW_6DmLXQjIMCFk2wL5vjHQzvNt6bHouj9l6LlvD0NMxmRqZQCYsEfom6MvD0gMND3s-Egc0myXnE_s7KUmZp7W7tLZNlyrvBtPq5-RYkMXTKmY2X0aZPV6GP3zWwixy1EHeDxBj-R/s1600/images+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUtuW_6DmLXQjIMCFk2wL5vjHQzvNt6bHouj9l6LlvD0NMxmRqZQCYsEfom6MvD0gMND3s-Egc0myXnE_s7KUmZp7W7tLZNlyrvBtPq5-RYkMXTKmY2X0aZPV6GP3zWwixy1EHeDxBj-R/s1600/images+(2).jpg" /></a></div>
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Honestly, I'm excited to try hitting and kicking something. I know I'm feisty, but I've never translated that to the physical arena. But now, BRING IT! And by now I mean in 30 days.... thank GOD I have some prep time. :)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-24516452382874324942012-09-29T19:17:00.004-06:002012-09-29T19:17:54.745-06:00When Nurturing is in your Nature<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-BjHqpuFVCHLPD6W7bZiWnUitE38WQl25I8dJLKiQSQ2E2fT9xFYYYVnbyCgBGnPJNLeyRchK2yGn2alXBWou7Js7VLzw58GeUQtL5VJtCZ1PeHnB7hrPpePJBpxwBZtCW5QQuQI5-eN/s1600/keep+calm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-BjHqpuFVCHLPD6W7bZiWnUitE38WQl25I8dJLKiQSQ2E2fT9xFYYYVnbyCgBGnPJNLeyRchK2yGn2alXBWou7Js7VLzw58GeUQtL5VJtCZ1PeHnB7hrPpePJBpxwBZtCW5QQuQI5-eN/s320/keep+calm.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
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You know those days that you start to self-analyze, then you start to journal, then you start to make lists.... and before you know it you are wanting to change everything? Yeah, well, today has been one of those days.<br />
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I've decided that I need to dance more.<br />
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I've started tapping again with a class at Westminster. It is taught by a lady that is in a tap company in SLC. After talking to her and having a private class with her, my heart was giddy with syncopated rhythms. The next week I sat down to talk to her and asked her, "Honestly, how far am I away from being at the level of tapping in a company." She doesn't think it is far away, and invited me to come to the company class.<br />
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So tonight I find myself searching for more dance classes, aiming to dance 3-4 times/week during the winter.<br />
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I also find myself trying to find ways to stay motivated for fitness through the winter. It always gets hard when I don't have races coming up and my motivation starts to dwindle..... but then I start finding facebook groups and blogs about all these wonderfully fit and perfectly developed women. It motivates me, and depresses me all at the same time.<br />
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I've been reading these amazing books lately, they have honestly changed my life. I have been doing a lot of journaling and assignments to analyze and address some things in my life and today one of my assignments was to make a list of things that nurture me (other than food) and do at least one of those things daily.<br />
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You know what was the top of my list? Dancing.<br />
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So there ya have it. I need to dance more. I need to let my soul sing. I need to let me feet beat it out.<br />
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Then come home, love on the dogs and take a bath.... nurture, nurture and nurture.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-63397319131743492562012-09-28T18:47:00.000-06:002012-09-28T18:47:04.974-06:00Where did you get all this steak???You know the movie Twister? It has one of my favorite movie lines of all time....<br />
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The tornado chasers go visit her Aunt in middle-of-nowhere, Kansas. They are all eating steak and eggs. One of the guys asks her aunt, "Where did you get all this steak?" She says, "from the cows out front." He says, "I didn't see any cows out front." She replies with a smile and a strange questioning, funny guteral sound. Yep, no cows out front.... steak. Get it? haha. Love that movie.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSyhsW_A6mjicfnOJV-KmJnoaQUcgCjLswVQ-BblH2AxuyMTqm1oOymsNqdCOWb1evkhO0pnc_TJG1hGUyB94PLZ72QgXQzMbKPOzI2Ft5LT3S1Tc8_yv9tMErLoUUPf97OfU49gBm1gY/s1600/twister.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXSyhsW_A6mjicfnOJV-KmJnoaQUcgCjLswVQ-BblH2AxuyMTqm1oOymsNqdCOWb1evkhO0pnc_TJG1hGUyB94PLZ72QgXQzMbKPOzI2Ft5LT3S1Tc8_yv9tMErLoUUPf97OfU49gBm1gY/s320/twister.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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I'm currently in Kansas with the men's soccer team and I tell ya what, it is exactly like it is portrayed in that movie. Twister nailed it. Totally Kansas.<br />
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As we drive around it is all small town. This is one of the larger towns in Kansas, but it's all small town. There are fields in the middle of town, lots of empty lots. All family run stores and restaurants. The cops still wave at you. Everyone is nice for the most part. Everyone seems content. A few people think they run the place, and oddly enough, they probably do.<br />
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There are the wierdys out there. You know the ones. The old lady on the lime-green scooter with the studded leather jacket. No one gives her any trouble, because honestly she is probably related to everyone.... it's just crazy Aunt Jane.<br />
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I've lived in small towns like this, I grew up in them. I know how these places work and honestly it's kinda sweet to spend some time here.<br />
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Being in Nebraska and Kansas in the past month has made me long a bit for the good rural life. It makes me wonder if it's for me again. It makes me think that it wouldn't' be too hard to have a few chickens, a few goats.... But let's be honest. I don't want to be burdened by that, unless I had a Tall-Dark-and-Handsome to make sure that things were always taken care of (including me).<br />
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It's sweet to spend some time here, to drive down the streets and wonder what crops those are growing in the fields.... they aren't the peas, wheat and canola I'm used to from my days in Walla Walla.<br />
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Today we played at a small college in a town of less than 900 people. It was a christian college and the soccer field was literally bordered by a farm field on one side. During the warm-up they played christian dub-step, it was the most interesting thing I have ever heard. Thing Dead Mouze (sp?) with the words "Jesus Christ... Listen.... My heart for Jesus" thrown in the mix.<br />
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Yeah, weird stuff happens.... believe everything Dorothy and Toto tell you.<br />
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With that being said, we are off to dinner at Chili's.... a little bit of normalcy will be nice.<br />
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Oh, and may I recommend Twister for family movie night? It's a good one.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-38484808285926899262012-09-15T20:21:00.000-06:002012-09-15T20:21:00.199-06:00A morning with my Happy Boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We went to the farmers market this morning, just me and my boys. We wandered around, bought a few things that caught our eyes or noses and then grabbed some lunch and had a seat to listen to some local band.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEvWzOiPq4ERkBqGzl1OSIWAAwgCc8XgeQ8HPwPLVYk-iRjQ_u80HHCAaBM9-KC2yP-q1029ID5mjXYJfJJWR8cHFy1_j32Tezd3B9RK93_JqAVtTJ8ILzB72LUEsx6eIY8Cl9ATFFf5e/s1600/boys+FM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEvWzOiPq4ERkBqGzl1OSIWAAwgCc8XgeQ8HPwPLVYk-iRjQ_u80HHCAaBM9-KC2yP-q1029ID5mjXYJfJJWR8cHFy1_j32Tezd3B9RK93_JqAVtTJ8ILzB72LUEsx6eIY8Cl9ATFFf5e/s320/boys+FM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The boys enjoyed the grass, their water bowl and their new bones. I enjoyed some Greek food for lunch.</div>
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While we were sitting there a family came up and asked if they could pet the boys. I introduced them and the boys covered their twins with slobbery kisses. As we were talking the lady said that they had seen Ike laying in my lap while we were sitting there and she said, "It is obvious that they are really happy with you." Let me clarify, yes, all 85 pounds of him enjoys laying IN my lap... it's a sight I am sure. Anyways....</div>
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It touched me. I hope they are happy, and I truly think they are, but to have someone else notice it warmed my heart. I mean, honestly... look at this face, he looks pretty stinkin' happy to me!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOe5M9FM4EfKpltBlm_YbMcbZZaWW6feAR62J8GbLzmt-eLZh26UNzduc37AOxRWF2jcygrmJLaV_eEA8GRce7bL4Sv5zFdxN8ihpsmfChSk8uk5X-ra-1sJjkGVNIutuFyqKfkyVQ4CYm/s1600/2012-09-15+11.30.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOe5M9FM4EfKpltBlm_YbMcbZZaWW6feAR62J8GbLzmt-eLZh26UNzduc37AOxRWF2jcygrmJLaV_eEA8GRce7bL4Sv5zFdxN8ihpsmfChSk8uk5X-ra-1sJjkGVNIutuFyqKfkyVQ4CYm/s320/2012-09-15+11.30.33.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here is a pic I snapped of Porter after we got home. One of the benefits of having a "big" brother is all the toys and treats come in jumbo size. So here is Porter with his 8'' inch raw-hide bone. He kept it in his mouth for over an hour and kept hiding it from Ike. These two are true brothers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ77HrvVzdHOANmW1gzxXfFXlc3tCW3AuF1ZQ0jDxqdtDBgaTPAR8hZj1o4S9pc5vNWCfMHhaOv4yjGM-mDMPe1Oe7p4Vom7JVHSNTZ2ZCmEEoyc1voXvp_yxmFb1vOCavWPS5b20kv53E/s1600/2012-09-15+17.15.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ77HrvVzdHOANmW1gzxXfFXlc3tCW3AuF1ZQ0jDxqdtDBgaTPAR8hZj1o4S9pc5vNWCfMHhaOv4yjGM-mDMPe1Oe7p4Vom7JVHSNTZ2ZCmEEoyc1voXvp_yxmFb1vOCavWPS5b20kv53E/s320/2012-09-15+17.15.01.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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My delicacies of the day included having a snack of fresh raspberries and locally-made-raw-milk Edom cheese. YUMM.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-2519258645257696432012-09-02T21:02:00.003-06:002012-09-02T21:02:44.494-06:00MY FIRST REPEAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pT7TMgWKyKEVzMdTnARrTOjhAA4IYBCYvCOkQHMtirAqhnszhEG7wvsUoRSSuPzBnHkdyvrARknjGIeW5cv1J6GJqpb9U498k9VNrELzGAYM14DgWJHTN187TisU6-u0Nk6wOin5ZY0-/s1600/IMG_8098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pT7TMgWKyKEVzMdTnARrTOjhAA4IYBCYvCOkQHMtirAqhnszhEG7wvsUoRSSuPzBnHkdyvrARknjGIeW5cv1J6GJqpb9U498k9VNrELzGAYM14DgWJHTN187TisU6-u0Nk6wOin5ZY0-/s320/IMG_8098.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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Yep, that's me... starting my first repeat triathlon. This same race was my very first triathlon, this same weekend last year.... can you believe that now it is my SEVENTH!! Crazy town!</div>
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Mom, Wint and Brittney came to cheer me on... I always love having a support crew. It makes it fun during the bike to wonder where they will pop up along the course.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidS9NfDvFJTJ4m7OtbSSrW9YKd1Xamb0DIKcSdLeonpgSxhZflJmAvHvIZgEbZDqIDre0VUR5Jb_iIZPNxuHJYh4rWpHltJe9sMQCIlgvj3ntJMjO_Nlcwk_TcXuWRpSKUUKfOgVZQuwXR/s1600/IMG_8131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidS9NfDvFJTJ4m7OtbSSrW9YKd1Xamb0DIKcSdLeonpgSxhZflJmAvHvIZgEbZDqIDre0VUR5Jb_iIZPNxuHJYh4rWpHltJe9sMQCIlgvj3ntJMjO_Nlcwk_TcXuWRpSKUUKfOgVZQuwXR/s320/IMG_8131.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The bike portion was SUPER HILLY. Crazy hills, and lots of them. I conquered two hills standing up, which has always been a struggle for me, so I felt like I had a big accomplishment there. Overall I feel like I did well on the bike course, I am interested to see my time.... it should be a good one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5ak_UwzB-LcQJSJyln_k8jvLzwYhfnzSOthhGmXPdvMDWaUf2mibpl2a2PfYn0HkCiosHmn9C-xN4b5yNhPPkaVk-J_pQvT8rGA5L0opXsUTCwQoKTeDh5ToxTmo_JFiu8eW15XEcBT4/s1600/IMG_8168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5ak_UwzB-LcQJSJyln_k8jvLzwYhfnzSOthhGmXPdvMDWaUf2mibpl2a2PfYn0HkCiosHmn9C-xN4b5yNhPPkaVk-J_pQvT8rGA5L0opXsUTCwQoKTeDh5ToxTmo_JFiu8eW15XEcBT4/s320/IMG_8168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!! Now onto the 5k....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgca2QaiSeh7aGQresAeDJjro4rWcMcxjQkWJkvdJo-7c9Hf6J_HSEqeLiyeFqPUj_vwWteeiBCvCmc0GB2Kkqhai0uchyphenhyphenuQSjt56VuYMYuNBBBohkiPb3aqTLu9MtrZXKY_00FZhdCYq20/s1600/IMG_8194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgca2QaiSeh7aGQresAeDJjro4rWcMcxjQkWJkvdJo-7c9Hf6J_HSEqeLiyeFqPUj_vwWteeiBCvCmc0GB2Kkqhai0uchyphenhyphenuQSjt56VuYMYuNBBBohkiPb3aqTLu9MtrZXKY_00FZhdCYq20/s320/IMG_8194.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I survived the pouring rain, lightining, thunder, another SUPER HILLY run course.... We ran through the State Mental Hospital grounds with are always beautiful, but a little creepy as you run past the razor-wire yard. Too bad none of the crazies were out, I probably would have ran a little faster. haha.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMAz1LmVxCpnugyDL_JiJ41MLTupfMkZ8e6E24U61QTlLXHtN0yLI9q2l9OquVSRvdNw1OO9LLzRz5lkxzHsR2NPO5OJ4L8Ke98xUxjjtYpeDCYZxLx-4ayyxgVCp4zcEtU2u7w_d3cEQN/s1600/IMG_8242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMAz1LmVxCpnugyDL_JiJ41MLTupfMkZ8e6E24U61QTlLXHtN0yLI9q2l9OquVSRvdNw1OO9LLzRz5lkxzHsR2NPO5OJ4L8Ke98xUxjjtYpeDCYZxLx-4ayyxgVCp4zcEtU2u7w_d3cEQN/s320/IMG_8242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The people that take off your chip at the finish line are some of my favorite volunteers, because as I am standing there with my legs shaking and my whole body tingling they bend over to take off my chip, so I don't have to.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2niOtPL_4NGB1jpRwE519ue5czul4ScohbnierNOaDXirnwAT50JrbYKTnwxvEPJKyaHYLqRJG7W36_sY9GYd_qW55-rliWOjUmKnpegqfX9rz7ca_aZ3oGM1h2jizm8vAQfYBWy00Ph-/s1600/IMG_8259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2niOtPL_4NGB1jpRwE519ue5czul4ScohbnierNOaDXirnwAT50JrbYKTnwxvEPJKyaHYLqRJG7W36_sY9GYd_qW55-rliWOjUmKnpegqfX9rz7ca_aZ3oGM1h2jizm8vAQfYBWy00Ph-/s320/IMG_8259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yep, crazy weather, but we survived.... and the brand new shoes got their introduction to mud</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPPUYkRLmQ5vYgOxKLiNAJtMkhObYhzI_wIz7qpYVQdpua-vxJJ_LEOWXCsoui9JwMiIcpolfduKqLPMwbqyYbkA72At2IAo5zLyD9pXRKTGu6sKmmgCju35v77rUVc5d-CxfTbqYVfTi/s1600/IMG_8268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPPUYkRLmQ5vYgOxKLiNAJtMkhObYhzI_wIz7qpYVQdpua-vxJJ_LEOWXCsoui9JwMiIcpolfduKqLPMwbqyYbkA72At2IAo5zLyD9pXRKTGu6sKmmgCju35v77rUVc5d-CxfTbqYVfTi/s320/IMG_8268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yep, that's me feeling good.... Cool, rainy weather, a great conquering bike course, a fun successful run, no swim (due to lightening), but a successful seventh race if I do say so myself! It's always a good day when this smile busts out at the finish line!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dC1vk_upZKS3sZPf4mjdzkOVuDvJAkTEmF9yJkHMuvFxSZ2PnAWMQN1_Ygs7s0EoORzwK-DpEIcZXpOu7OZ_L6zukYKDiiWeCV_xblu-SaZueFl1RgfbYK_TzsPBzC31VrZwxCIZ2nMd/s1600/IMG_8264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dC1vk_upZKS3sZPf4mjdzkOVuDvJAkTEmF9yJkHMuvFxSZ2PnAWMQN1_Ygs7s0EoORzwK-DpEIcZXpOu7OZ_L6zukYKDiiWeCV_xblu-SaZueFl1RgfbYK_TzsPBzC31VrZwxCIZ2nMd/s320/IMG_8264.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-20343545363782615232012-08-30T17:14:00.001-06:002012-08-30T17:14:29.217-06:00Hand over my heart, tugging on heart strings.<div style="text-align: center;">
Seven years, can you believe it has been that long? Seven years since I lost an athlete on the ice, during a game, and it changed my life forever.</div>
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I was thinking of him last Saturday and Sunday, during the national anthem at our collegiate soccer games. I always think of him during the national anthem, because for three years after his death, every time I heard that National Anthem this was my view. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqOaZpL7SECq8zsOlDEE53VcOJHNPjYF7_ePxZ_8QX6UnvQwwOlhQ1Kn4a88B8ubQQ19VCbEuISuK-8uqZ8v8QPyPdGg0ebIh7C209jgfCVfYacfn5VlB2myJmZY4YDRd34Uc-nC6PNCM/s1600/JaxonBanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqOaZpL7SECq8zsOlDEE53VcOJHNPjYF7_ePxZ_8QX6UnvQwwOlhQ1Kn4a88B8ubQQ19VCbEuISuK-8uqZ8v8QPyPdGg0ebIh7C209jgfCVfYacfn5VlB2myJmZY4YDRd34Uc-nC6PNCM/s400/JaxonBanner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We hung his retired number right next to the American flag, and as I looked at the flag and banner side by side the sting of that horrid night came back.</div>
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Now every time I cover my heart and listen to this powerful anthem, I think of him. I'll admit, the memory isn't quite as stinging anymore, but it still comes.... and I hope it always does.</div>
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His death changed my life. It made me question this career, it made me question my life. It changed the way I choose to live.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA73cRmQQnY9Tc_nyRJ7MCRX8PNYo6JnRndwd_7gV_67lWD42QIjdsq8kdv_zoDIkFP1bh9XqT_v3NVbh-Zp6DVmPStWKxgvY9F9BK-3Eqe77bSVp9goA28wsYq7gj8qDkQZR-xrkPhhAf/s1600/ce6e6276-7a24-4c54-a9bd-33f9a9e84871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA73cRmQQnY9Tc_nyRJ7MCRX8PNYo6JnRndwd_7gV_67lWD42QIjdsq8kdv_zoDIkFP1bh9XqT_v3NVbh-Zp6DVmPStWKxgvY9F9BK-3Eqe77bSVp9goA28wsYq7gj8qDkQZR-xrkPhhAf/s320/ce6e6276-7a24-4c54-a9bd-33f9a9e84871.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am grateful for his memory, I am grateful for the love and friendship of his family. I am grateful for how my life has changed to follow his lead to never pass up an opportunity to do something great.</div>
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So, Jax, yes.... I think of you often, especially as I stand with my hand over my heart. Old habits die hard.</div>
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To read more about this great man, see <a href="http://www.rockonjaxon.com/">www.rockonjaxon.com</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-2498403156165905962012-08-14T07:43:00.001-06:002012-08-14T07:43:34.376-06:00Grilling Solo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39EID054aW8etAZ9480gGN-QHqhLv7i1Mk0Ds79eKTqc3omgkYTgJj1Is-EjaH4gvGVYj4-8NDZH8bvgDPVHwIqvooI0vrAN9hWzZIKXE1UfIEqqhHhMR6qLBoQ5DI3mvD877LYq_roSJ/s1600/porter-house-steak-grilled-peaches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39EID054aW8etAZ9480gGN-QHqhLv7i1Mk0Ds79eKTqc3omgkYTgJj1Is-EjaH4gvGVYj4-8NDZH8bvgDPVHwIqvooI0vrAN9hWzZIKXE1UfIEqqhHhMR6qLBoQ5DI3mvD877LYq_roSJ/s320/porter-house-steak-grilled-peaches.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was talking to my Lil' Sis yesterday and told her that I wished she lived closer so we could BBQ out back and drink chai tea on the porch... that is just isn't the same doing those things for yourself and no one to share it with.</div>
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Well, after a suprise cancellation of soccer practice I found myself at home three hours early. I decided that it's crap that I don't BBQ for myself... I should pamper myself more often.</div>
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So, I grabbed those steaks that were thawing for food prep and threw them on the grill, started some mashed potatoes. Then grabbed some peaches and threw those on the grill as well.</div>
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I grabbed one of my salads from food-prep that morning and whipped up a lemonade/berry/orange rum cocktail.... I was going all out.</div>
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By this time the steaks were ready for a flip and quickly finished. I made up my plate and sat on my back patio to enjoy my feast.</div>
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I will admit, best steak I have cooked in awhile, too bad no one else could enjoy it as well....</div>
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The peaches were great, the mashed pots hit the spot....</div>
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The pups and I enjoyed the warm back yard with it's perfect cool breeze. I sat and made lazy mental checklists of everything I wanted to do in the back yard.... hang the shade canopy, dead-head the roses, next year put the tomatoes at the back of the garden beds, roses along the north fence, blah blah blah....</div>
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Things were progressing nicely, almost too nicely.</div>
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It was then that I stood up to go in the house and realized, that cocktail? Yeah, I was drunk. Wayyy drunk. I didn't realize how big it was when I made it.... but it caught up with me, fast. No wonder I had such a lovely meal alone. LOL </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-86837575881787514772012-08-08T08:57:00.000-06:002012-08-08T08:57:11.555-06:00A COLORFUL LIFE<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
When I bought my house I knew I wanted to do something to the front yard and this wonderful porch, but I couldn't quite figure out what. I went back and forth, even contemplating fencing the whole thing for a courtyard... but then I realized it would look like a compound and no one would be able to see the porch!! </div>
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Well, I've been in my house for five months now (can you believe it?!?!) and I decided that it was finally time to do something. It needed some curb appeal....</div>
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So, here is the before.... </div>
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And after a sweaty Saturday and Sunday this is what I came up with.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtbVJp9-hkvwhDlH2Z_oEZEb1ifOrbylzGNFIumsb7M8r1UGQl79WdvzrENKCazzCM4bRpS6t47oFrREWtl4SmYfv7_WqapIDTJQ7Y7cwpqRNd2m9MSWSdx0m6Wuq5QYKRDJlZ4zbDD1K/s1600/furniture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtbVJp9-hkvwhDlH2Z_oEZEb1ifOrbylzGNFIumsb7M8r1UGQl79WdvzrENKCazzCM4bRpS6t47oFrREWtl4SmYfv7_WqapIDTJQ7Y7cwpqRNd2m9MSWSdx0m6Wuq5QYKRDJlZ4zbDD1K/s320/furniture.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sfb-QVgTa7oIMCYw-ifjBtsmCFeNgRRLrhS5uzMGcChwmlRWeRn-MLBdlXRZU8O4-kUzsfRQJl37FcpQhjCkD-mZF1l5XWlRuqORHj6wMk9XPduKBCNHOx-uGUG2a9MgoYwiTvB24fni/s1600/porch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sfb-QVgTa7oIMCYw-ifjBtsmCFeNgRRLrhS5uzMGcChwmlRWeRn-MLBdlXRZU8O4-kUzsfRQJl37FcpQhjCkD-mZF1l5XWlRuqORHj6wMk9XPduKBCNHOx-uGUG2a9MgoYwiTvB24fni/s320/porch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I knew I wanted color... so here it is!! I think that some of the eves will be purple in the near future... but I didn't get it done this weekend.</div>
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You can't really see it, but the address plaque is this gorgeous glass tile.... that same tile is also on the table top. That was a super fun project, I have been looking forward to it for awhile now.</div>
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I love it. At first I was a bit scared when I did that first stroke of the teal paint... but now that it has settled on me for a few days I am really liking it.</div>
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So, there ya have it. My grey and white house has a little pizazz now. Quite perfect for a girl like me, if I do say so myself....</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1377063201620046398.post-8011191267450399742012-07-25T08:40:00.000-06:002012-07-25T08:40:54.857-06:00Porter's Great Adventure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got the call you never want to get, my neighbor calling to say that my little one is out and is heading towards a busy intersection. I'm at work.</div>
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So I immediately call in backups and run to my car, speed all the way home and call my helpful neighbor on the way. He says, "there is a lady out on her run... she is trailing him. He's running from her though."</div>
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As I get within a few blocks I call again, I get vectored into their location and I park at the curb. As I get onto the sidewalk I can see our helpful-runner coming my direction... as I look in front of her I see it. A little black speck, running his guts out and barely cresting the small hill.</div>
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I yell, "Porter! Come here!" He stops, utter confusion... "What is Mom doing out here in this wierd place? And why is this crazy lady chasing me?"</div>
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After I called him again he came and jumped into my arms, gave me a few kisses and then continued to pant his guts out. He had one hell of a run!!</div>
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I thanked my neighbors profusely and gave out a few hugs.</div>
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My helpful runner-neighbor said that he gave her a good workout! Took her on a new route, hit a hill she wasn't used to, she had to use her arms as she blocked traffic for him to cross the street, etc... and 30 minutes went by so quickly already!</div>
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Maybe Porter has a new career ahead of him, Personal Trainer! Not if I have any say... his cute little butt is only leaving the house when I'm attached to it from now on.</div>
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I got home, he ran for water, I found the warped part of my new fence that he got out through and blocked it with a huge rock.</div>
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I loved on Ike a bit... obviously confused as to what was going on. When I opened the door he was waiting for me, swollen with the expression of, "MOM, PORTER IS GONE. I don't know where he is, and I think that guy next door with the crazy dogs is chasing him."</div>
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I got them all tucked in, left out lots of treats and puzzles to keep them occupied and left... hoping that everything will be ok when I return from work.</div>
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It does make me feel a bit guilty though, he wouldn't be trying to get out if he didn't feel like he was missing something where he was. I need to be home more. Here come all the "guilty-mom" feelings.....</div>
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I snapped this picture before I left... I can't tell if he's longing for another adventure or grateful to have survived the first one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcYM58J3CF3D2RbyMbY0t2y_Nh-WPSb1zVMQn79RdjRijyPQzGQ3cZliI6fDiZALr3Vn4j0zdlvbgP6dBduocGSqrBghyphenhyphenQbMsv3CUVWktFOBF1jTAE9_i9aYpvhOwwbvTGNPYL3JNmMPQ/s1600/porter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcYM58J3CF3D2RbyMbY0t2y_Nh-WPSb1zVMQn79RdjRijyPQzGQ3cZliI6fDiZALr3Vn4j0zdlvbgP6dBduocGSqrBghyphenhyphenQbMsv3CUVWktFOBF1jTAE9_i9aYpvhOwwbvTGNPYL3JNmMPQ/s400/porter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17957994229513553242noreply@blogger.com0