SUSAN'S WORLD A BLOG ABOUT NOTHING

MY FUN ADVENTURE TO ALBUQUERQUE

2009-09-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

Some of my Runnerworld peeps were heading on an adventure

to Albuquerque and Colorado springs to do back to back

marathons and half marathons which I think they are crazy

but I do admire them for it. Bobby & I really wanted to go

with them but declined because it was alot of driving and

alot of stuff crammed into such a short labor day holiday

weekend.

Ken & Dana left earlier in the week to go to Colorado to visit

some friends before they headed to Albuquerque to meet

up with those flying into the airport there. Lisa & Jason

left early also on Friday to go to Taos first to do some

whitewater rafting before they came to Albuquerque.

Friday morning my brother Russell called me and told

me that him and Christin had decided to drive to Albuquerque

to cheer everyone on and my brother had decided to do the

half marathon. Well I jumped on that bandwagon and said

wouldn't it be fun to just show up and surprise everyone

because they aren't expecting us even though they kept

trying to talk us into it. I called Bobby and asked him

if he wanted to go for an adventure and cram a trip into

a 3 day weekend and he said oh why not. So my brother

and I headed for Runnersworld so he could get him some

new shoes and we decided to let Kathy & Brian in on our

secret and swore them to secrecy.

We loaded up my brothers jeep and away we went at

8 p.m. friday night and Christin drove all the way until

we hit the New Mexico border and my brother took over

driving.We arrived with no sleep even though Bobby & I

snoozed just a little in the back seat but we arrived safely

there around 6:30 Saturday morning. WE had time to kill

since no one else would be there until about 1:30 that afternoon.

WE were so tired and tried to check into our hotel where

everyone was staying but our rooms was not ready so so

much for getting a little shut eye until everyone arrived.

We decided to go to Sandia Peak with elevation of

over 10,000 feet but it is so gorgeous up there and

breathtaking views you have to see it if you ever go there.

WE trekked the trails there for several hours and Ken &

Brian and everyone else would really love running on some

of these trails.

WE finally got to check into our hotel room about noon

just time enough to wash our faces and revive before

time to go to airport to surprise Sandra, Ken & Dana.

WE found our way to the airport and got there in time

to hide out and surprise them all. The looks on their

faces were priceless.

We went to the expo where Christin and myself decided

to sign up for the 5K since I haven't been running much

since April and my heart dr. wants me to take it easy for

awhile I just did the 5K to get ready for my 5K in Greece.

WE all had fun hanging out at dinner that night before our

race the next day.

Lisa & Jason finally made it in later that evening and I

texted Lisa and told her I would see her at the finish line.

She was shocked that we showed up to do this race since

we told her we couldn't go.

The morning of the race the marathoners had to leave earlier

to catch their bus to the start line so I didn't get to see them off.

Bobby, Russell, Christin, Sandra & myself got to where we were

to meet the busses that drops us off at our start point. Bobby,

Russ & Sandra left first and Christin & I had an hour to kill

before our bus left so we sat at the starbucks and enjoyed

some yummy drinks while we waited. Finally we got to load

up on the bus and we were dropped off and I kept thinking that

the bus ride seemed longer than the 3 miles we were to run.

I prayed he wasn't taking us to the half marathon start line.

WE finally got started on our race and it was a nice straight flat course

which I loved, no hills yeah! We finished in 48 minutes which is good

for me since like I said I haven't been running much at all since April.

We got to then watch everyone else come in and cheer them on.

Russell PR'd in his half marathon with 2 hours 14 minute finish.

Way to go Russ! Brian came in next with a strong finish.

Bobby & Sandra came in next doing an awesome job.

Bobby told Sandra he was there to run with her and to make sure

she kept on going. They had an awesome finish.

Rachel Mitchell (London as everyone calls her)came in doing her

first marathon in 4 hours which is so awesome! Patty Powell came

in then Coach Kathy made it in with a strong finish and doing good

for not having ran much since her injury Way to go! Then there

was Jason who came in shirtless so if you see him ask him what

happened to his shirt LOL.

Lisa was next followed by Ken then Kathy Fleig they too did an

awesome job. Kathy Fleig was injured so she had to power walk

most of it and was hurting by the time she finished but kudos

to her for making it all the way.

We all were pretty tired after that so we went back to our

rooms to freshen up and rest a bit before heading to applebees

to eat our hearts out since we were all starving after our run.

Then it was time to bid farewell to everyone that was leaving us

behind to head to Colorado Springs to do their next race the

next day. It was hard to see them go without us tagging along

but we couldn't go on that trip because Bobby, Russ & Christin

had to go back to work on Tuesday. I think everyone thought

we would show up and surprise them there as well but sorry

guys we couldn't.

So after they all left we headed into old town to do some shopping.

I just love old town Albuquerque it is so neat and filled with

lots of shopping and this old church which is awesome

to see the inside of. We were so tired by the time

we were done with that we headed to our room to

get some sleep since we had to get up and try to be on the

road toward home by 4 in the morning. WE made it up in time to

head out early and my brother drove us all the way home 11 hours

maybe 12 hours before we pulled into our driveway. Thanks Russ

& Christin for letting us hitch a ride and join in on your anniversary getaway.

Happy Anniversary to you both for 5 years of wedded bliss.

I can now say I traveled to another state like some of my

other crazy running buds do to run a race now I am ready

for my adventure to Greece then who knows hopefully I

will be going to Scotland in May with them also.

I am so glad I got to go on this trip even though I am

tired but it was all worth it :)

Where we all stayed at in Albuquerque.

Looking out on the peak you can see the city

of Albuquerque which is so tiny looking

from that far up.

Yes I think we trekked the whole 10K.

Bobby & I standing on one of the peaks.

Good thing he was being nice I might

have knocked him off J/K LOL.

Russell & Christin the happy anniversary couple.

The surprised look on Ken & Dana's face as

we snucked up on them at the airport.

Sandra looking really shocked to see us.

Our Runnersworld family after we all finished

the race. We are such a goofy fun loving bunch.

I loved this huge pot. Boy do I need to go on

that diet.

We found out what Ken does in his spare time.

He runs a Kraft store in old town Albuquerque.

Hmm wonder what kind of Krafts he sells.

For those of you on facebook please be sure and

check out my video I posted of our Albuquerque

Marathon. I couldn't get it to load on here for some

reason.

I FEEL LIKE A BEACHED WHALE !!!!!

2009-08-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well back by popular demand I am finally posting
on my blog again. Are you happy now Trail Zombie?
My life has been in turmoil since after April when I did
probably my last half marathon which is hard to say :(
After my half marathon I know alot of you know that
I passed out probably from dehydration plus overworked
my heart from the heat. I kept having issues from that
for quite sometime and my heart dr. wasn't being too helpful
and I kept pushing him for answers until finally he sent
me to a heart dr. that specializes in the electric part of your heart.
He really listened to me and knew exactly what I was talking about
and told me that I was on the wrong kind of meds for what I had.
I had been telling my other heart dr. that I thought my meds weren't
working for me and he kept looking at me like I was crazy so HAH! on him.
My new dr. changed my meds and they aren't as strong and seem to be
working for me.
Also while this is going on I have been having other health issues going on.
I have had to go to so many dr.'s in the past several months it is crazy.
I had started having anxiety and panic issues which started after I passed
out in OKC. I was starting to panic everytime I went out in fear of passing
out again. I also have been dealing with the health of my parents. My dad
is now bedfast and me and my siblings have been taking turns helping my
mom take care of him and my mom has been dealing with health issues
herself she has been in the hospital off and on with congestive heart
failure. My dad is now in a nursing home for the time being until my mom
regains her health and strength to have him home again. So in turn
dealing with that as well was putting more stress and anxiety on me too.
My family dr. as well as my heart dr. thought it was in the best interest
of my health to put me on meds to control my anxiety and panic issues.
they have definately helped.

I also am dealing with the old lady issues. you know hot flashes,
moodiness, and all the other stuff that goes along with menopause.
The hot flashes were causing problems I found out with my heart
and was partly to blame for my fainting spells. So now I am on
hormone meds for that which has helped as well. I also had to have
yet another sinus surgery for the third time. I don't know why
my sinus keeps plugging up and my dr doesn't know why either.
I still have sinus problems even after surgery but least I'm not
plugged up. I am dizzy alot but I don't know if it is from my sinuses
or the crazy meds I am on or combo of both but I don't drive anymore
because of this. I hope soon I will be able to drive again. I don't know
what I would do if I didn't have my good friend Sandra to take me
to all of my dr. appt's. I will never be able to repay her what I owe
her but she is very appreciated by me. I can't even begin to express
how much her friendship means to me and how much it has meant
to me that she was my sounding board and let me vent to her
whenever I needed too. I also want to thank my good friends
Ken & Dana who's kind and encouraging words meant so much
to me and are my inspiration to never give up. I am truly
blessed to have so many friends that always asked about me
which meant alot to me.

The title of my post is I feel like a beached whale which is truly
what I feel like these days. My new meds that I am on which the dr's
all told me that they will make me gain weight. I have definately
done that and fast. I am struggling now to lose the weight which
makes it hard when the meds make you gain so I feel like a blimp
now and since I am on limited exercise it makes it even harder.
I think I need to just wire my mouth shut. I am sure Bobby would
like that ha ha.
I am feeling very unattractive right now even though I wasn't
attractive to begin with ha ha. I am just thankful that Bobby loves
me for who I am not how I look. Maybe eventually I will lose some
weight and feel good about myself again I hope.

I am finally able to be out with all my running friends again which
I am loving. I really enjoy seeing everyone again and socializing.
I am back slowly walking with just a little running mixed in. I am
sticking to doing just about 3 miles for now until my dr. says I can
do more which he doubts that will happen but least it is something.
I am slowly biking again which I enjoy doing. So I hope now with me
being a little active again it will help me lose back the weight I gained.

I am so looking forward to my trip to Greece in November and I think
I am going to sign up for the 5K race. I might as well do it so I can say
I ran a race in another country. A few months ago I was saying I didn't
know if I could make the trip or not because of how I was feeling but
thanks to the meds it has helped put my life back in order and I know
Bobby has seen the change in me and has made comments about it.

This last Saturday I even enjoyed volunteering at the mud run.
I had fun seeing everyone having fun getting muddy which
I am such a girly girl I don't like getting dirty but I did manage
to get my hands dirty from having to touch all the muddy
race numbers having to punch their tag when they got beers.
Yeah me!

here is a video I took with my new Flip Ultra HD video camera.
I just love this little video camera which is the size of a camera
and it takes good quality video. It is so easy to use even my
mother in-law could work it ha.
this video is of the mud run.
It is about 7 minutes long so I hope you have time to watch it.

Hope everyone has a blessed week.

I AM BANNING MY HUBBY FROM TURKEY MOUNTAIN!

2009-07-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to watch all those running in
the Barkley bookfair at Turkey Mountain. Kudos to Ken
and Brian for a great job on putting it together.
I enjoyed myself but only stayed for the day run.
Bobby told me he wasn't going to stay late just long
enough to watch the night runners take off. Thanks to
Sandra for taking me home. I thought I would stay up and wait
for Bobby since he wasn't going to be late and plus I had
the housekeys so he wouldn't be able to get in the house
when he got home. I waited and waited and still no Bobby.
11:00 came around so I thought I would doze on the couch because
he surely will be home soon. Who am I kidding I should know better when
Bobby hangs around all his running buds he gets sucked up into all
the hoopla and ends up staying longer than planned, which I don't
mind. I woke up at midnight and still no Bobby and then dozed again
and woke up again at 1 and guess what no Bobby still. I dozed again
and woke up at 2 and still no Bobby! I was getting a little perturbed
by now and wondering if A) should I send out a search party for him
B) Call someone because I couldn't call him because he forgot his phone
at home or C) just lock the darn door and go to bed and forget about him
and let him figure out how he was going to get into the house.
Finally at 2:30 he comes dragging in. I did jump onto him for being so late
and not call me atleast to let me know what he was doing. He preceeded
to tell me he couldn't call because he didn't have his phone. I said that
was hogwash because someone I know has a phone he could have used.
Like I said I don't mind him hanging around having fun with his buds
but just be considerate enough to let me know what is going on.
(ok Ken & Ed did my B**ch meter just go up from 15% to 45% LOL?)

Bobby has now started on Tuesdays run follow once again his buds
to Turkey Mountain to do trail running instead of going out on
the regular path run. Last Tuesday night he came home all dirty
from running the trails that they ran in the Barkley bookfair.
I told him he better not have brought any of Ken's buddies
home with him since Ken's tick meter is going up already
from Turkey mountain. I had him to hurry and clean up after he got home.
Well this morning when I was in the shower I discovered
one of those friends of Ken's lodged in a place which shall
remain undisclosed. I flipped out and did get it finally
out and flushed it down the drain. I haven't had
ticks on me in a long time so I was not a happy camper.
I called Bobby and told him thanks alot and said
it was all his fault for bringing it home with him from the mountain.
So that my friends is why I am banning my hubby from Turkey mountain.
I know he won't listen to me and that's ok he can just sleep
over at Ken's house the next time he runs on Turkey LOL.

SLEEPING LIKE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS

2009-05-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Well since I have been having issues with my heart

and complaining to the dr. about my fatigue he decided

to send me for a sleep study. I have been reading about

how people with heart arrythmias like mine are susceptible

to all sorts of other disorders and sleep apnea is one of them.

I first met with the dr. doing the sleep study and he

talked with me and told me what to expect when I

came back to stay all night for the sleep study.

I made my appt. for my fun filled sleep over.

Before I had to go I had to fill out this long questionaire

about my sleep habits and had to chart a week of my

sleep pattern showing all the times I wake up in the night.

I arrived at the sleep center at 9:30 at night with my pillows

and my overnight bag packed. I was a little anxious about

sleeping in a strange place and bed. They finally called me

back to my room and I had to change into my pj's and get

comfy in a chair for the hour long hook up with all the

wires and straps. I felt like Hannibal Lector in the movie

Silence of the Lambs.

I asked them how in the world am I suppose to sleep with

all these wires hooked to me and it was hard to get comfy

in the bed. They had me take an ambien sleep pill to help

me get to sleep. Now I am not one that likes to take sleeping

pills and especially ambien because I have heard stories

from people how they did weird things in their sleep when

they take it. I told the nurse that if I start doing funny things

in my sleep like say maybe dancing around the room then

I hope they would wake me up or something instead of

just sitting there laughing at me. She assured me I would

be ok and just relax and go to sleep. I was still thinking

about how hard it will be to sleep with all these wires

attached and also having someone watch you sleep

all night that is kinda creepy.

I finally got to sleep and before I knew it they were waking

me up saying I did good. They finally unhooked me which

took almost as long as hooking you up. I had alot of sticky

goop in my hair where they stuck electrodes in my scalp

to monitor the brain waves while you sleep. I wonder if

they could see what I was dreaming LOL?

I was thankful they did let you shower there to wash the

goop out of your hair. I asked them if I did anything

strange in my sleep from the sleeping pill and she said

no I slept good.

I had to wait a week for the results and the dr. called

me and said I had a mild case of sleep apnea which

he said that I stop breathing about 10 times an hour

briefly and I wake myself up about 15 times an hour.

He said since I have heart issues that I would need

to wear a cpap breathing machine at night to help me

to sleep better. I was assured that by using this machine

I will feel so much better during the day and not be so

fatigued. We shall see about that.

I had to return to the sleep center again last week and

be monitored while I slept with the cpap machine. So

now I will have trouble sleeping there with being

hooked up to all the wires and also hooked up to

this breathing machine with a face mask which is hard

for me since I am claustrophobic and being watched again.

I had to take another sleeping pill so I could fall asleep and

it was hard getting used to all that air being forced in my

nose all night. They assured me I would get used to it

when I sleep at home with it. I am now waiting for the

medical supply place to deliver it to me. Hmm I wonder

if those face masks come in pink or purple LOL? might

as well add some color to my night look.

We found out that they will be sending Bobby soon for

a sleep study and I know that he definately will need

to have one of those cpap machines to sleep so we

will be a sight at night with both of us hooked up with

breathing masks on our face. I think we might just

scare the dog.

Here are a few pics of me at the sleep center.

me waiting to go to my room.

starting to get sleepy waiting.

all hooked up and ready for bed.

I didn't get a pic with my cpap mask on but when I

start using one at home I will take a pic of that.

I hope that it will make me feel some better during the day.

SIDELINED ONCE AGAIN

2009-05-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

Well as alot of my running buddies know that after my OKC half marathon
I passed out at the restaurant some of us were eating at in OKC.
One minute I was sitting at the table finishing up my meal then
suddenly getting consumed with hot flashes (yes I am getting old)
and lightheadedness so I got up to go to Sandra's car to turn on
the A.C. to cool off but before I made it to the door I blacked out
and the next thing I knew I was waking up with people standing over me
and asking if I was ok. I told them I was alright and that I just had ran
a half marathon and was probably still tired from that. They did call an
ambulance for me and they went to find Bobby and tell him what had
happened. Fortunately Dana (Ken's wife who is a nurse) took charge
and started making me drink lots of water thinking I may be dehydrated.
When the ambulance came they checked my BP and did an EKG on me
since I told them I have atrial fib. Everything checked out ok and they
asked me if I wanted to go to the ER anyways to be further checked out
but stubborn me refused saying I was ok. Dana told Bobby to keep making
me drink on the ride back home. Bobby doesn't make a good nurse, so
I wasn't expecting much from him on the way home. I slept alot which
might not have been a good idea since they told me I hit my chin and chest
pretty hard on a wooden desk as I fell. I tried to have some sympathy for
Bobby as well on the way home since he was sore from his long marathon.
Since this all happened a week ago I have been dizzy, nauseated, bouts of
weakness, headache and just not feeling good. I am bruised on my chest
where I hit it when I fell and it is very sore with any kind of movement
or pressure from laying down.
I decided that I should go to the dr. to get checked out and see what was
going on still with me. I went and my dr. is a little puzzled as to what
might have happened. He is running blood tests and hopefully it will
tell him something.
He suggested I go back to my heart dr. to see if something is going on
with my atrial fib. He said I possibly could be going in and out of afib
quickly and if that is the case it won't show up on EKG unless they catch
it at the right time.
He told me to rest and take it easy and not drive until my dizziness
gets better. He also told me to eat soup and drink lots of fluids just
in case I am still a little dehydrated which he is checking that in the blood
tests as well. He also got onto me for not going to the ER when it happened.
So once again I am sidelined from running. I probably won't be at any
of the group meetings for awhile until I get over this dizziness but I will
be thinking of everyone and cheering you all on from the sidelines of
my couch. I will recoop and hit the path running as soon as I can. I will
take a break from running long distances when I return but watch out
for me doing the 5K's. Someone should start a 5K maniac club because
I am thinking this might be my cup of tea with my health. Now hopefully
this won't put any hitches in my trip to Greece.
See you soon.

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR A TRAIL RACE!

2009-04-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

Dana getting to the race to start cooking
those yummy hamburgers.

Ken telling us all where to go
( I know he gets a kick out of doing that LOL.)

Michael & Chrissy waiting for the race to start.

Enjoying the race with my hubby.

Running the hard trails.

My sister in-law Christin did an awesome job
taking care of us at the aid station.

Big sis trying to hold up brother Russell.

Lisa is still smiling.

Jason keeping up a good pace for a great PR.

Brian hogging the trail.

Jeff (Ken's nephew) posing for a pic.

John (Ken's nephew) giving a wave for the camera.

I think Jenni & Vicky are trying to see if they
could use their arms to fly through the course.

LeeAnne, Sandra & Myself showing off our bling
after the race.

I finally got my trail shoes dirty just for Ken.

Brian trying to see how many beer cans he
could fit in his mouth.

What a beautiful day for a trail race!
I was looking forward to running in the Lake McMurtry trail
race that was held in Stillwater. Our friend Ken (A.K.A. Trail Zombie)
hosted this race for the first time this year and I thought he did
an awesome job despite one grumbly runner (no it wasn't me).

Bobby, myself, my brother Russell & sister in-law Christin left
our home at 5:30 that morning to meet up with Sandra to caravan
to the big town of Stillwater anxious about running in this race.
When we finally arrived Ken & Brian were working furiously to
get it all going.

First Ken sent out the 50Kers at 8 a.m. followed by the 25Kers at 8:30
then finally us 12Kers took out at 9. Bobby, myself, Sandra, & LeeAnne
were among the 12Kers trying to tackle this unfamiliar territory.
I started out going just a little too fast for me and it wasn't long
that I was out of breath and had to stop and walk for a bit.
I could have kicked myself for taking my heart pill right before
I started because I think that is why I was partly out of breath.
The terrain was rough and lots of climbing up small steep hills.
I decided to take my time and enjoy this beautiful trail with lots
of walking with a little running mixed in. I was determined and
thanks to my wonderful hubby for staying back with me and
keeping me encouraged to finish. I enjoyed seeing everyone
as they passed by us. I was trying to take all the beauty in
and forgetting about all the stress that has been going on in
my life. I know you all know what I have been dealing with
lately with my mom needing to have heart surgery and my
bedfast invalid dad going to be put in a nursing home for
awhile so my mom can recover when she has the surgery
and then eventually making a big decision whether my mom
can continue to take care of my dad or not so if that is the case
then he will have to be placed in a home for good. Anyways as
I was saying about taking in all the beauty that was around me
to help forget about my troubles did the trick. I had a day without
worries and truly enjoyed myself. Thanks Ken for talking me into
doing this race.
I was welcomed by the sight of my sister in-law Christin at the
aid station. I was needing water and refueling with some yummy
snacks. I thought that it was a good setup. Christin was doing an
awesome job at making sure all of us was taken care. We finally took
off again and did another 2.5 miles before we returned back once
again to her aid station to refuel for our last leg of the race.
We set out again to do our last 2.5 miles before we finally
came across the finish line. I made it and I had alot of fun doing
the race even though I told Ken he was in trouble for talking me
into doing this hard race.
There was some poor lost soul that complained for hours on end
that they took the wrong turn because of it not being marked good
and they went several miles out of their way and that cost them from
not placing in second in their age division. For the record I would like
to say that the course was well marked and if you took the wrong turn
or got lost it was your own negligence for not paying attention.
I have one word for that person who I have never seen before
it is called what Coach Kathy always says is BONUS MILES!
So what if you came in third instead of second this was a fun
well put on trail race not a Boston qualifier! I understand to the
avid racer that it is important how you place but you can speak
your complaint but you don't have to go on about it for hours.
I know I probably offended someone but this is my blog and
I can speak my mind on it and you don't have to read it. I am sorry
that Ken had to get an earful from that person for many hours
because he did an awesome job of putting this together.
When we were done Dana was hard at work cooking some
yummy hamburgers & hotdogs for us hungry runners to eat.
She did awesome for all the hard work she did in getting that
ready for us to eat. I am thankful for what she did.
Bobby & I then helped at the finish line tearing off the race number tags
and writing everyones finishing time and handing out the neat bling
that we all got. I liked the engraved compass that was our reward
for finishing. I enjoyed cheering all the rest of the runners that came
in that was doing the 25K & 50K race.
I missed getting a picture of Rock Star Ed. I heard he did an awesome job
at another aid station for the long distance runners. Kudos to you Ed.
When everyone got done with the race Ken, Bobby, myself, Ed, Lisa,
Jason, Brian, Russell, Christin, John & Jeff cleaned up all the remnants
of the day that was now a big blur. We then decided to go eat at Mexico
Joes in our grungy running gear and dirty faces & I think the waitress
thought we stunk because she seated us all outside to eat. Brian
decided to go back to his campsite instead of going with us so we
missed him being there. We had a good time there reminiscing of
the fun filled day. We finally said our goodbyes and headed home
to a welcome shower and bed.
I am surprised I am not that stiff and sore the day after the race
but I feel pretty good and think that doing a little trail running
might become addictive ( I know Ken is smiling big about this.)
I think if I keep this up I need to come up with a nickname for
myself hmmm maybe it could be "I don't want to get my
trail shoes dirty Susan" LOL.
I did feel though the race was just not the same without
Kathy, Roman & Candice there. We did miss you all.
Maybe next time.

50 YEARS IN THE MAKING

2009-03-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

Bobby's brother Paul is going to be 50 on March 12th so Bobby
had this brainy idea to throw him a surprise party. Well guess
who got the pleasure of putting it all together and getting all
his family together in a weeks time? You guessed it. I had to
get everything organized and you know Bobby will take the
credit for it ha. Bobby's moms birthday was March 9th so
we wanted to honor her as well but make it more for his brother.
Bobby has quite a large family and it wasn't easy getting it
all put together. First I had to decide if I wanted to squeeze
17 people (which that isn't everyone in his large family) into
my tiny house. Bobby & I live in his grandparents home which
is over 50 years old and isn't designed big enough for todays
modern furniture and back in the day when we were younger
and his grandparents were alive and living here we did fit
more than 17 in here and I still can't figure that out but I knew
that it would be elbow to elbow if we had this party here.
So I decided to find a place that would accomodate all of us.
I got on the phone for days calling around to see who could
fulfill this task and be a place that everyone would like. I
then thought of Johnny's because they had a nice private area
for parties so I called them and someone on the phone told
me they just closed down for good due to the highway
expansion and wasn't going to re-open anywhere else.
Well bummer I thought so now back to the drawing board.
I started taking polls from Bobby's sisters because they do like to
give their opinions even when you don't ask ha. So after days
of headaches of trying to decide what to do I then decided
to just pick somewhere and tell everyone this is how it is
and if you want to come that would be great. So Red Robin it is.
I know my daughter likes it and I like it and Bobby's brother
likes it so that is where it will be. The only thing is that they
don't take reservations or even hold enough room for that
many people so they said to call 30 minutes ahead to let them
know that you are coming. I don't know why they want you to do this
because we still had to wait about 30 minutes for them to find
enough room to fit us all at.
During the week of planning everything, there was alot going
on that might hinder me from pulling this all together. I was
just getting over being down with my heart episode and I was
having to help my mom some take care of my ailing dad who
has given up on living and not wanting to eat much. He is pretty
much bedfast and can't do anything at all. We finally got hospice
for him and they provided us with a wheelchair and hospital
bed for him which is a big help. so sometimes if you see me and
I am a little more quiet than usual it is because I have my dad
on my mind.I am a daddy's girl and it is hard to see him like that.
I also appreciate my brother Russ for all the help he has been in
helping with our dad. Don't know what I would do without him.
Sorry I got of my main subject a bit. Bobby's mom we found out that
week was ill also with her emphysema and hopefully would be better
before the party so she could come. I was about to pull my hair out
trying to get this thing put together. The next challenge was
trying to make up something to get Bobby's brother to come without
him being suspicious. Bobby told him that we were going to take our
daughter out to eat for a belated birthday dinner and that we wanted
to treat him to dinner as well for his upcoming birthday. Luckily he
agreed to this.
Finally last Saturday came and we started out with a busy day of
our early morning run. I did wake up with a start of a head cold
and I thought not today of all days. Bobby & I then had to hurry home
after our run because we had a early hair appointment. Then after
that we had to hurry home to meet up with his brother who was
to ride with us. I was trying to make sure everyone was there
before us without him knowing what was going on. Finally
we arrived at Red Robin and when we got in the door everyone
was inside waiting for him and surprised him. I did it! I pulled
it off without him knowing what was going on and everything
else went well. WE had a nice get together and everyone was having
a good time visiting since Bobby's family lives out of town we hardly
get to see each other. Later some of them did come back to our
house and it wasn't that bad at all squeezing them in. I was
thankful the weather was nice so they could go outside
if they wanted. well here are a few pics from that day.

me with my brother Russ and his wife Christin after our run.

Bobby with his mom, brother paul, sisters Steph (black top)
and Joanie (purple top)

4 generations. Bobby, his mom, our daughter & granddaughter.

Bobby & I with our daughter, her husband Josh, and granddaughter.

All of us lined up at this big long table waiting for our food.
I felt sorry for our waitress having to take care of this crazy bunch.

This is my favorite and awesome coach Kathy who
loves cake and so I thought of her when we were eating this

TZ I know reading this blog was like reading a novel
but hope you enjoy anyways.

SETBACKS ARE THE PITS

2009-02-23T07:04:00.000-08:00

Setbacks with my heart is so frustrating and hard to explain
how I feel when it happens. Last Friday, late afternoon I was
on my way home from checking on my parents when I begin
to have that funny feeling I have right before an episode. I prayed
that I would make it home as it starts with a warmth of weakness
come over me and then followed by dizzyness and wanting to pass
out then followed by palpitations. I did manage to make it home
by the grace of God. Luckily these aren't full blown episodes
anymore thanks to the meds. When I have these episode I am down
for several days after with a bad headache, weakness, lightheaded
and nauseated. I hated that I had to miss my Saturdays run with
my two girls Christin & Cara. We call ourselves the 3 musketeers
and our nicknames are : Sonic (Christin, she is called sonic
because she can hear a biker sneeking up on us from afar.) then we
have Mo (Cara, we call her that because she keeps us motivated.)
& then there is me who is called Jelly because I love to eat my
jelly beans when I run long distance. I love running with my girls
but it isn't very often we all can make it together and last saturday
darn it was our chance of running together but I just had to be sick.
When I have these episodes it is hard for people to understand just how
it makes me feel and popping one of my meds is not going to make
me feel any better. I take the meds everyday so I will have fewer
of these episodes and less intense when they happen. There is nothing
I can do that will make me hop back up after it happens but to wait it
out for several days to almost a week sometimes until I am myself once again.
I truly appreciate everyone in my Runnersworld group who is concerned
about me and all there well wishes to me when I am down. Saturday while
everyone was out running I was on facebook and Cheryl was on there (she
is not able to run for several weeks due to her leg injury) she is so sweet
and offered to come over and bring me anything I needed while Bobby was gone.
That is what I love about our group. I bet you don't get that kindness from
any other group(no names mentioned ).
Saturday was also my daughters birthday which I can't believe she is 27
already. I was so very young when I had her at the age of 3 LOL.
My granddaughters birthday is this Wednesday which she will be 7. The
years have gone by so fast and both my girls are growing up too fast.
I did manage to go to their birthday party and also I got to meet
my new granddog, Jax for the first time. He is so adorable I wanted
to take him home. He is a yorkie and is 10 weeks old. He was a present
for my daughter and granddaughter from my son in-law.
I usually take my daughter out to dinner afterwards but since I wasn't
feeling well I had to give her a raincheck :( but I guess it is something
to look forward to.
Today is Monday and I will have to miss running with Bobby's bunch
tonight. I will probably have to not run all this week just to give my
heart time to recover. I want my heart to behave for my upcoming
OKC half marathon so I will take it easy when I need to.
Hope everyone has a blessed week and even though I won't be running
I will still be out there cheering you on. I might do a little light walking
if I am up to it.
Here are a few pics of Saturdays party.

My cute granddaughter Katie

My gorgeous daughter Alicia & granddaughter Katie

Bobby & Katie with my new granddog Jax.

Me wanting to eat Jax up because he is so cute.

P.S. Congrats to my hubby for becoming a marathon maniac!
He finally joined this weekend and is now maniac #1372
be sure and check his blog out to read about it.

THANKS

2009-02-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

I want to start out by thanking everyone for
all the prayers and phone calls this past week.
I never felt so blessed as I do to have so many
friends with RunnersWorld group.

Those who don't know, last Tuesday my mom
was rushed to the hospital with Congestive heart failure.
We weren't sure and the dr.'s didn't think she was going
to make it at the time. She was actually drowning with
fluid on her lungs. They had a hard time putting a tube
down her to drain the fluid off. They ended up having
to put her on a ventilator. She was in ICU to monitor
her closely. The sight of her on a ventilator was very scary
and they had to keep her heavily sedated and her hands tied down
due to her trying to pull out the tubes not knowing what
she was doing. I have never felt so helpless. When she was
awake she wanted to talk to us but couldn't.
I also had to take care of my ailing father as well. He is
homebound and very feeble. He falls easily and is a diabetic
so he needs constant care. I needed to have 2 of me to be
in both places at once. I was fortunate to have my brother
Russell and my sister to help. I stayed 2 nights with my dad
and spent the days between him and my mom at the hospital.
Russell spent the days and nights with my mom which was
a big help to me. My mom, through all the prayers, got well
enough to come home last Friday evening. My siblings & I
are still having to help when needed.
My parents, through sooner care, is allowed to have assistance
with cleaning, cooking, care, errands, etc. for 4 hours a day, 3 days
a week. I had thought about taking on this task myself but with
my health issues it would be hard to do not knowing how I feel
from day to day but I would if had too. They had someone doing this
but you know good help is hard to find. We are having trouble through
this company that sooner care uses finding someone who is dependable
so if anyone knows someone who is dependable and maybe works through
the company they use (sorry don't remember name of it) please let me know.

I was looking forward to going to DanMan with everyone this past weekend
but since my mom was sick I couldn't go. I told Bobby he should still
go without me so he could achieve his marathon maniac status. He was
torn a little bit about whether or not he should go. We hadn't
seen much of each other that week with me being gone staying all night
with my dad. He would stay if I needed him to plus he was concerned
for my own well being. I reassured him that it was ok for him to go
besides I knew how important it was to him. I would like to thank
Ken, Dana, Brian, Deon, Chrissy, Michael,Lisa & Jason for being there
for him cheering him on, it meant alot to me. You guys are awesome!
I really wanted to be there as he crossed that finish line but you gotta
do what you have to do. Bobby, I am so proud of you.

I never knew taking care of your parents could be so exhausting.
I really pushed myself to the limit, so this week I am taking time
to try and get caught up on my rest as much as I can so Bobby
if the house isn't too clean this week you know the drill
NOT A WORD ABOUT IT!

Once again thanks to all my peeps.

DanMan or bust

2009-02-01T07:12:00.000-08:00

I am totally excited about this upcoming trail race

I am doing this coming weekend. The race is called

the DanMan. This race is put on at this man's ranch

every year. The DanMan Run is held in honor of our

own endurance running hero, Dan Little. Dan has completed

over 120 endurance events consisting of marathons, over

twenty 50-mile races, and three Iron Distance Triathlons.

As witnessed by Dan's accomplishments, endurance events test

your physical ability, but more than that test your mental ability.

The DanMan is designed for all runners to experience this test

of mental endurance.

Bobby & I will be traveling along with some of our

running friends to Madill, Ok. to do this race. I hear

this town is pretty small. No wonder I didn't know where

the heck it was.

I am not much into trail racing but I heard this trail was

easy enough and not too rocky so I thought what the

heck why not join in the fun since I am a Tatur member.

For those who don't know what that is it is an awesome

group of trail runners who belong to this I guess you would

call it a club formed by one of my running coaches Brian Hoover.

Tatur stands for Tulsa Area Trail & Ultra Runners. Brian has

done an awesome job putting all this together and keeping it

organized and putting on his own trail races. They meet at

Turkey Mountain every week to run the trails there. For anyone

reading this and want to know more about Taturs you can log onto

http://www.taturs.org/. Like I said I don't usually run the trails but I do

join the membership to support and help out at the races when I can.

I am doing the 10K run at DanMan and Bobby is going to attempt

to do a marathon so he too can join some of our group in becoming

a marathon maniac. Our friends Chrissy & Michael will be doing

a half marathon, Dana I think will be doing a marathon also so

Bobby & her can hang out together keeping each other going.

I think Deon is also going to attempt an ultra (31 miles) as well.

Ken & Coach Kathy will be doing a 100 miler last I heard unless

they change their minds and do a 50 miler which makes more sense

to me. I hope we can talk Jason & Lisa into coming along for the fun.

I was hoping Russell (my brother) & Christin ( my sister in-law)

was going to come along so I could have someone do the 6 miler with

but their cat got sick and had to be in the cat hospital for several days

so that set them back alot of money so they had to decline the trip.

Since I love to make lists I will be working on my list of things to

remember to take for this trip.

1. hotel reservations ( Made that already at the Comfort Inn in Ardmore)

2. reserve a car rental ( got that done)

3. print out a map ( got that done)

4. my list could go on but why bore you with all that.

I hear that the weather will be awesome for the race. I am glad it won't be

freezing cold. The temps are suppose to be in the 70's for the high that day

which I know will be a little warm for those doing the long distances but I

will take that over freezing cold anyday.

I wish everyone luck that is going to do this fun race and I hear that they

also serve up some yummy grub for us so that's a bonus in my book.

This has nothing to do with my post but I had to share these cute pics.

Picture of my granddaughter Katie who is now

missing her 2 front teeth.

My daughter showing off her new glasses.

I wish everyone a blessed week.

30 YEARS OF WEDDED BLISS

2009-01-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

As you all know Tuesday Jan. 13th is Bobby & my 30th anniversary.
What will we do you ask. We will celebrate with our usual Tuesday
night run and then we will go to dinner with several of our running friends.
Since Kathy has a rule about bringing cake for special occasions like
birthdays or anniversaries I will gladly bring something to share.
Should I bring cupcakes or cookies?

I am sure there will be no surprises for me from Bobby as he is not
the type to make a big thing out of anniversaries as well as birthdays
what a bum. I think giving 30 years to someone calls for a celebration.

I have truly been blessed with a happy marriage and wouldn't change
anything at all. Bobby is truly my soulmate and I knew it from almost
the very beginning when we met when we were 16 years old.

Since we have been married for 30 years I thought I would share
30 things I love about Bobby. I know this is a little mushy but
the girls will appreciate it. This list is in no certain order of importance.

His love for me of course.

For giving me a beautiful daughter who gave us a beautiful granddaughter.

Hard worker and provider for us.

Making me laugh.

Corny sense of humor.

Not being selfish.

Putting my needs ahead of his(I guess that could fall under not being selfish).

Beautiful eyes.

Corny smile.

Being my rock.

Smart.

Driving me crazy with being so anal.

His love for running.

Driving me crazy being a pack rat.

Letting me watch my sitcoms and reality shows.

His compliments he gives me at the right time when I need them.

His loyalty.

Shyness.

Knowledge of the Bible.

Helping me cook when I ask.

Putting up with my quirks.

Never complaining if the housework isn't done.

Understanding when I am sick.

Driving me crazy with everything has to have a reason.

Hair.

His love for our daughter & granddaughter.

His smell ( the good kind of smell Ken).

Keeping me motivated to run.

He loves my cooking.

Wanting to spend all his time with me.

Now that I have embarrassed him and made him blush I want to wish him a happy anniversary and may God bless us with 30 more happy years.

MY BUSY DECEMBER

2009-01-06T06:11:00.000-08:00

I thought since it has been awhile since my last post I would get
caught up.

Since my last post I have had a busy schedule with all the holiday

stuff. The friday before Christmas I was invited to school where I

used to work for Christmas dinner they were having. I enjoyed

visiting with all my ex co-workers and catching up on the gossip.

I was asked many times while I was there if I wanted to come back

and I graciously smiled and said no thank you. I do miss all my peeps

there but I don't miss the stress.

Starting the Saturday before Christmas Bobby had a 16 day vacation.

I didn't know how much of those 16 days we could tolerate each other LOl.

I love him dearly but 16 days together with anyone without a break makes

one crazy. Much to my surprise we managed to get along the whole time

even with him being sick most of the time and now that he is back to work

I have to say I miss him.

Tuesday before Christmas our daughters in-laws hosted a Christmas

luncheon at their place of business which we attended and we always

enjoy. They had rib crib catered in which was delicious and Merritts

cake and cookies for dessert. They always have gifts for the children to

open as well.

Christmas Eve we always go to our daughters in-laws house for dinner

and open our gifts to one another. I always enjoy myself because that is

when I get to see my granddaughter open all her gifts from everyone

and to see the excitement on her face is priceless. I did get to spoil her

just a little as I always do. The girl doesn't want for anything as both

her grandma's gets her anything she wants. My daughter and her

husband surprised Bobby & I with a blue ray disc player which is

awesome and was totally unexpected. Her in-laws, who are

marathoners and triathletes got Bobby & I some cool running things for

winter which I am enjoying using now.

Christmas morning Bobby & I spend by ourselves opening gifts from

each other. Bobby does well in spoiling me as I do him. This year I

brought Bobby into the 21st century by getting him a cell phone.

Bobby is one that doesn't do change well and was always against carrying

a cell phone but I think now he has one he kind of likes it. I told him it is

good to carry one when we are running because you never know when

you might need something. I also told him that if he is ever out running

and I am home and have one of my heart episodes I need a way to get a

hold of him. I am surprised that he is doing good about remembering to

take it with him wherever he goes. I also got him a nice Olympus camera

almost like the one Ken uses so beware of him learning to do the

papparazzi thing too like Ken. I got alot of nice things from Bobby

and he even managed to get me my nintendo ds that I wanted which I think

he had a hard time finding.

Christmas afternoon we always go to my parents for dinner and get

to spend time with them, with my brother Russell & Christen,

my sister and my uncle. We always have alot of good food to eat.

I did manage to run the saturday after Christmas as well as the following

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday at the race into the new year & Thursday

after the polar bear plunge and by last Saturdays run my body was

screaming at me to take a break. I never ran so much in one week in my life.

New Years eve we were busy all day with dr.'s appt and helping

Kathy & Brian get ready for the race into the new year. We then ended

up at my daughters in-laws for dinner and games until it was time to go

to the race. I thought Kathy & Brian did a good job at putting it all together

and the race itself was fun except one idea for next year is to have a port

a pot at the halfway point. I had to go so bad that I didn't think I was going

to make it back without going under the bridge and asking the homeless if

I could use their restroom. I had to walk the last leg of it back just trying to

keep my mind off of it.I barely made it back and rushed quickly to the

restroom. We helped clean up after everyone was gone and then some of

us decided to go eat at Village Inn which since it was 2 in the morning not

much would be open. Bobby & I dragged ourselves home about 4:30 a.m.

New Years day we went to watch the polar bear plunge. I didn't get to

watch it last year so I was amazed how many took the plunge this year.

Talk about entertaining, Brian sure knows how to bring in the new year

with a splash and seeing Ken in his cute bikini was a highlight also.

I joined our group for a 3 mile run afterwards which was a struggle since

I was up late and didn't get much sleep. I did manage to make it though

with the help of Christin who was motivating me the whole way.

Bobby went back to work this week so life is back to normal after all the

hoopla of the holidays. I can finally ease back into my everyday routine

once again. We did meet up with about 8 runners last night (Monday night)

for a 3 mile run in the freezing cold. Michael ran 4 miles and Deon wanted

to get in about 8 miles which I am sure he made it. I think he is in

competition with David and Ken for always running everyday. He may

have to hook up with David in that runners annonymous class. I want to

thank Chrissy for staying with me the whole way. I enjoyed her company

and inspiration greatly.

Tomorrow (Wed.) I finally get my 2 teeth pulled which I am not looking

forward too but I can't put it off any longer. I don't know if I will be able

to do any running Thursday night but I will be there anyways cheering

on everyone else and staying for Brian's class on using our Garmins.

Next Tuesday (13th) is Bobby & mines 30th anniversary so since it falls

on a Tuesday we will be spending it with our runnersworld family. We

wouldn't have it any other way atleast that is what Bobby tells me LOL.

I hope someone will convince Bobby to do something really really nice for

me for our anniversary. I do hope to spend the evening after running with

some of you for dinner. nothing like a romantic dinner with 10 or more

people LOL. I truly don't mind the company. Kathy does that mean I have

to bring cake?

I hope this year will be good to me as far as my health is concerned. I want

to lose more weight and eat better. I am planning on running the OKC half

marathon with a little convincing to my heart dr. to let me go for it. I hope

my running will improve if I don't have any setbacks again. I will try to

keep a positive outlook on that subject.

Well now that I have rambled on enough and caught you up on my daily life

I will now post a few pics taken during the holidays.

Katie with her front tooth missing.

Move over Ed we have a new Rock Star.

My 2 gorgeous girls.

The Quaid brothers. put these 2 together makes for

alot of mischieviousness. Josh (blue shirt) is my son in-law

and Jeremy. They love their guns and their cars.

Boy do I look like a grandma or what?

Me playing with my new nintendo ds.

I will try not to get too addicted to it.

I hope everyone has a blessed week and I will see you on the running path.

I VOTED FOR KEN

2008-12-16T06:09:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone if you haven't read Ken's blog yet please do so.

On the right side of my blog (not left LOL a little inside joke)

there is a link to vote for Ken for a deserving award. I think Ken

highly deserves this award for having the best blog about running.

He is a great mentor and friend. He is always ready to help a fellow

runner out. He gives great advice when you need it.

I think coach Kathy rocks in this department as well but since there is

no smackdown between the two of them then I have to toot Ken's horn

for this award.

I voted and so should you, so please click on the link and vote.

MY SUNMART ADVENTURE

2008-12-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

You've heard all about Bobby & Ken's adventure at Sunmart
now here is my adventure.

Friday, the day we left for Sunmart I enjoyed caravaning with
Ken & Dana. The drive was pleasant and the weather wasn't
that bad either until we hit the dreaded Dallas traffic.

The traffic was horrible it was bumper to bumper and cars
zipping left and right all over the place. I don't know why they
have speed limit signs posted as no one there follows it. I guess
drivers ed there they teach you how to drive like a maniac. I was
a nervous wreck and ended up keeping my eyes closed all the way
through it. Finally we were out of that town thank goodness and
on our way to Houston to pick up everyones packet. When we
arrived in Houston as you all heard we had to go on a journey first
to find Bobby's vespa. I was getting a little creeped out by the area
we were in and wondered if we were going on a drug deal instead.

Now tell me if you would be a little leary buying Vespa from here.
We braved up and decided to go inside of here. The inside was a
little junky and creepy but the guy there was nice and wished
everyone luck on their race. When we left I thought to myself we
might ought to hurry in case the police come and raid us thinking
we were buying drugs. Everyone was out on their porches in this
seedy area and looking at us as if we were some junkie needing a fix.
Oh well I guess that is the fun of traveling and making memories
as you go.

We finally arrived at the Sheraton for the packet pickup and the
yummy pasta dinner. The buffet of all kinds of pasta and salad
were scrumdillyishis. We finally decided to head toward our hotel
and thankfully Roman, Brian & Kathy texted Ken ahead of time and
told him there was a traffic jam on the interstate so thanks to Ken's
GPS in his jeep he found an alternate route to get us there.

The day of the race we all met up at the state park and waited for the
race to begin. I couldn't believe how many people were there and how
beautiful the scenery was. The weather was quite chilly and my hands
were very cold. When everyone got headed out on their race Roman,
John (Ken's nephew) & myself decided we would go sightseeing and
shopping while we were waiting for them to finish. We knew we had
plenty of time for our own adventure. So we loaded up in our rental
car (Roman & I teased John about driving Dana's Jeep but he said she
would get mad since he didn't have a license yet. I don't think she will let
us babysit him anymore LOL.) and headed first to the Sam Houston
visitor center and monument park. On our way to the monument we
drove by the Texas penitentiary and was joking around about stopping
and visiting someone just out of random. WE then passed a tatoo parlor
and joked about getting a tatoo and also joked about seeing if the
penitentiary would let us buy their orange jumpsuits and when everyone
came back from their race we would be there with our orange jumpsuits
on and donning our tatoos. That would teach them to leave us alone
while they were out playing in the woods LOL.

You could go inside and browse in this building but it was closed
when we were there.

Me standing in front of this huge statue.

John (Ken's nephew) & myself standing on a bridge in a wooded
area of the visitor center.

Me standing on the porch of the visitor center.

This cat was sitting on the hood of our car when we were leaving
the visitor center. I guess he was the centers guard cat but he was
very friendly and cute.

We loaded up in the car and went to IHOP to eat breakfast and kill
some time before we headed onward to our next stop.

We drove about 25 miles south of Huntsville to Conroe to do a little
shopping at the outlet mall. I had only been to an outlet mall one other
time in my life and I was so excited on how big this mall was and all the
good deals I was getting. We were having a good time and then Roman
thought we better put a little speed into our shopping since it was getting
close to everyone starting to return back from their race. So once again
we loaded up in the car and we decided to go to sonic by our hotel which
was five miles north of the park. We decided to take this road that we
thought we took previously from the park to head back to the park and it
was never ending and we never saw the turn off for the park. I kept
driving and driving and driving and I told Roman if we end up back in
Conroe I was going to cry because mind you that was 25 miles south of
the park. We finally found a turn off toward the interstate that we
needed and luckily we were only 5 miles south of the park. WE returned
just in time to see Lisa, Jason, Jenni, Janeen, Bob (Janeen's dad), Bobby,
Dana, Ken & Kathy finish. Brian & Jeff (Ken's nephew) had already finished
by the time we got there.

These 2 silly girls decided they wanted to pretend like they were doing
snot rockets while we were waiting for everyone else to finish. You have
to be silly to belong to our group LOL.

We soon feasted on this huge spread of hamburgers, hot dogs, potato
salad, beans and brisket. We decided to head it toward the hotel but first
Dana fell in love with this santa.

They had the park all decked out with Christmas decorations and
at night time it was a wonderland.

When we got to our rooms Bobby & I relaxed a bit while watching
OU play that great game. During half time we decided to join some
of the TATURS at this mexican restaurant that was within walking
distance from our hotel but when we were heading toward where we
thought it was we couldn't find it so Bobby was starting to get grouchy
and demanded that I go inside the dairy queen to ask them where it was.
So I went in and had to wait to ask someone for directions and Bobby
came in all huffy because I wasn't being fast enough. I was getting
perturbed at him and told him not to take his grouchiness out on me
because I didn't make him run 31 miles. I know being a runner myself
that after a long run you do tend to be a little grouchy but your still not
ready to listen to it if it is your spouse that is grouchy. We had to walk in
the busy street with the crazy drivers at night and was getting honked at
so I am sure that didn't help Bobby's mood. We finally made it there in
one peace and still civil to each other and when we got to the table
Everyone was clapping for Bobby so that changed his mood
(thanks to all the TATURS for that help). We enjoyed visiting with
everyone that was there. WE decided it was time to call it a night and
found a closer way to go back to our hotel without having to play in the street.

Sunday morning it was time to head it home so we loaded up the car and
decided to stop at IHOP for breakfast.

We finally hit the road toward home and when we got to Dallas thank
goodness the traffic wasn't quite as bad as it was coming. While we were
traveling along We had the company of John (Ken's nephew) riding with us.
WE really enjoy him and his twin brother Jeff which I have a hard time
telling apart but by the end of the trip I knew who was who. These boys are
a joy to be around. They are very polite and very helpful. I think they take
after their uncle Ken and aunt Dana in that department. I told them I was
going to adopt them since I need a son of my own.

While we were traveling home we seen this huge fire at a barbeque place,
which we figured barbeque was out of the question then. later there was
this car totally engulfed on the side of the road and there were firetrucks
and police cars all around and as we went by something under the car
exploded and threw something in the air toward us and that was a little
scary. I prayed that no one was in the car at the time it caught on fire.
That is the only thing I hate about traveling is that you sometimes see
all sorts of things along the way.

When we finally got into Oklahoma we stopped at one of my favorite
places which is Robertsons smokehouse. They have the best smoked
ham sandwiches. I got some smoked turkey and smoked bacon to bring
home and it too is yummy. So if you are ever traveling toward Texas
and you see a sign for Robertsons it is worth it to stop.

When we finally arrived in Tulsa we had to meet Roman at RunnersWorld
to drop off some of his luggage because they didn't have room in the other
vehicles for it. Roman & Kathy woke Bobby & I up early that morning before
they left to see if we had room for it so they got to see us at our finer
moment of sleepy eyes and bad hair LOL.

Now you know my Sunmart saga and all the fun I had so with all the eating
I did while there I need to go on a diet and run more.

ED BEWARE !!!!!

2008-11-25T13:20:00.001-08:00

Ed Beware!!!! Today when I opened my front door guess what
those sneaky people left me!!!!
(Drum Roll Please )

That's right they are at it again! They tiptoed quietly to my

front porch so I wouldn't hear them and left these beauties ,

at least they got the hint and changed the color of the bags.

Ed you should like the orange look for the OSU color even though

OU will win this weekend LOL. They were so sneaky even my dog

didn't hear them I guess they knew I would try to make them take it

back. I don't need these so maybe Ed you will take them off my hands

to go with your collection. So be looking for a phonebook coming to your

front porch soon.

MY CRAZY EIGHTS

2008-11-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

Ok. Since I was tagged by Ken here is my crazy eights list.

8 SHOWS I LOVE TO WATCH

Survivor
Dancing with stars
Greys anatomy
Amazing race ( I still think Kathy & Roman should do this )
Private practice
Desperate housewives
Celebrity rehab
Two and a half men

8 PLACES I LOVE TO EAT

Chimis
Golden Palace
Steak and Ale ( I wish they were still in business)
Outback
Charlestons
Jasons Deli ( I love their ruebens, potatoe soup & salad bar )
Napoli's
Arnolds
I would have put at home because I love my cooking but I don't cook much anymore since it is only Bobby to cook for LOL.

8 THINGS I DID YESTERDAY

Showered
Worked in my daughters place since she is sick
Cooked cabbage soup for dinner
Watched t.v.
Loaded dishwasher
Reserved a car for Sunmart trip
Read magazines
Went to bed

8 THINGS I LOOK FORWARD TO

Thanksgiving
Christmas
Spending time with my granddaughter & daughter
Sunmart
My 30 year Anniversary in January
Bobby coming home from work
Running with our group
Going shopping

8 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT FALL

Holidays
Eating more soups & Chili
Snuggling in my blankets
No allergies for awhile
Drinking hot teas
Watching football
Eating more especially at Holiday time but anytime really since we need the extra pounds for warmth.
Not having to do spring cleaning.

It was hard to find 8 things I liked about fall since Fall and Winter are not my favorite times of years. I don't like the cold, I miss all the sunshine and warmth of the sun since I am a person who has to have sunshine everyday to function well. I don't like running the heater because it dries my nose out.

8 THINGS ON MY WISHLIST

For my daughter to get to feeling better
More grandkids but I know that won't happen
Spend more time with my granddaughter
Another 30 + years with Bobby
My heart to be fixed ( I know that God can perform that miracle )
To run better
Go to Greece with Our running group
Quit taking all the meds I take ( I will have to trust God on this one too )

I am like Erin my life is complete and happy so I don't have alot that I wish for. I have a great husband, I have the best daughter and granddaughter and I too get to

stay home ( for health reasons) so what else is there that I should want.

I NOW TAG :

Bobby ( I know he doesn't like to play these games but it is worth a try )
Alicia
Aunt Julia
Deon
Ed
Lisa
Russell
Christin

I hope you all get as much fun from this as I did. Have a blessed week and a Happy Thanksgiving.

ANYBODY NEED A SLIP-NOTZ ?

2008-11-20T06:03:00.000-08:00

I have the greatest multi talented Aunt in the world. I adore her so

much and she is so full of love and positiveness and would do anything

for anyone. She lives in Round Rock, Texas which is a suburb of Austin.

Round Rock is a good place to visit if you haven't been there. Round Rock

has the best donuts ever next to Krispy Kremes so if you ever are in the

neighborhood you have to try them. I unfortunately don't get a chance to

visit my beautiful Aunt very often but I do get so much positive energy

from her when I do visit or even when I chat with her on facebook. Like

I said she is multi talented, she is a fabulous artist, she makes the best

cookies ever and she did have her own cookie business at one time but

now she makes cookies for the firestation in her neighborhood, she is a

songwriter and did live in Nashville for several years and sold her songs

to famous country singers and I am sure you probably heard them. She

moved from Nashville to Round Rock to be close to her grandkids and now

she has just invented and patented the slip-notz.

What is a Slip-Notz? Finally, a product that keeps your dust ruffle in place!

No more shifting, bunching or movement while shoving the mattress back

into place when initially dressing the bed, changing the bedding or simply

making the bed.

This product has just been marketed by a famous store which she hasn't

released the name yet so for now you can go online at

http://www.slip-notz.com/ to order as many as you like.

They would make good christmas gifts or just for yourself. They come in

all bed sizes. I know if I had a dust ruffle I would be buying this for me.

I know how frustrating it is when you are changing sheets and the dust

ruffle moves all over the place.

I know you guys out there think this is not for you but I bet you would

score big time with your wives if you bought this for her alongside some

jewelry of course.

So take a moment and browse at her website it will tell more about it

and how to use it. I will have to go out and buy me a dust ruffle so I can

have one. She always posts thoughts for the day on facebook and I look

forward everyday to reading them and it gives me so much inspiration

for the day. So this is what she posted today.

Thought for the day: There's joy in everything I do.

So I hope everyone will get some joy out of reading this and Aunt Julia

if your reading this I hope you enjoyed it and didn't mind me bragging

on you a bit. I know you have more talents than what I listed so forgive

me for not mentioning them all.

Maybe next time I will post about me being the second cousin to

David Gates the lead singer in Bread for those that are old enough

to remember them.

QUARTER MARATHONERS UNITE !

2008-11-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

I am truly proud of us Quarter marathoners for running a good race at the
Route 66. We set out to run a good race and break records for ourselves
and we did. I wanted to do atleast a 1:30 but did come in at 1:35 so I am
happy since I did break my last years time of 1:49. I don't think that was
bad for this old lady with all the health issues I have. I felt good during the
run keeping myself in a zone and happy that I got to have my music to keep
me going. I enjoyed seeing Candice, Joye, Glen & Christin along the way
cheering for me. I also was happy when I spotted Coach Kathy cheering for
me as well because when I seen her that gave me the inspiration to keep
going and try hard to push myself to my goal. When I was coming into the
finish line and I looked over in the crowd and seen Kathy there cheering
and smiling at me I knew I had accomplished my goal (even though I
missed my time by 5 minutes) with her help and encouragement.

I enjoyed visiting afterwards with Meg who did awesome also in the Quarter.
I tried to find Sandra also afterwards to give her my congrats but couldn't
find her so last night at our run I seen her and gave her a big high five. She
is so inspiring to me as well.

I enjoyed the lovely delectable undercooked hamburger (Yummo) that they
were serving to us. Did anyone else get to try these yummy selmonilla on a
bun? I like my hamburger a little pink but it was a little too raw for my taste.
I later seen people with pizza and thought man I wished they would have
had that for us quarter marathoners instead. I guess I should be thankful
for what I did get.

I was so proud of all the halfers meeting their goals and of course all the
marathoners as well. I had fun getting to cheer all of them in but the
straw that broke the camels back in the emotion category was when I
seen Bobby coming in and how alot of the group united and ran in with
him and when I got to cross the line with him. I was so proud of him.

Back to the reason why I titled my blog "Quarter Marathoners Unite!".
You know after all the hoopla is over with and you start to settle back
into your everyday routine some people including me start having negative
thoughts (which I try not to be negative) about their accomplishments and
that voice in your head tells you that since you have done the half before
then the quarter is not that big of an accomplishment but I quickly shook
that feeling off because it is a huge accomplishment for all of us that did do
the quarter. WE did succeed because we were out there running and not at
home like alot of people are sitting on the couch.
I succeeded my expectations by being able to run again since my illness. I
was telling someone later about these feelings I was having and someone
overheard me and said "Oh well what matters is that you were there
cheering all the halfers and marathoners in." Yes I know cheering for your
fellow runner is very important and exciting but gee don't kick a quarter
marathoner when they are down please give us some encouraging words
as well. I am more determined than ever now to go for the half marathon
once again in OKC if God willing, heart willing and Dr. willing will allow it.

I am having a wonderful week because my daughter and granddaughter is
back home from Florida, I am getting to spend time with all my
RunnersWorld friends, I am feeling good and I am going back to my positive
mode and having peace within myself what more could I want
"LIFE IS GOOD!"

DEPRESSING WEEK BUT LOOKING FORWARD TO THE ROUTE 66

2008-11-14T12:27:00.000-08:00

I know we all have had those weeks when everytime you turn around something depressing happens. Well I guess this is my week.
first my daughter and granddaughter are gone all week to Florida to go to Disney. I know they are having a good time but I miss talking to my daughter everyday this week. I will be glad when they are back home safe and sound.
second depressing thing that happened is our neighbor across the street from us passed away at home suddenly. She was just 76 and I know she wasn't in the best of health but she wasn't expected to go anytime soon. She was a sweet lady and will miss seeing her out and about. We have had so many neighbors pass away in the past few years and sad to say we still have a few more that probably won't be around a whole lot longer but I guess that is what happens when your neighbors are your elders that Bobby has grown up with.
This morning my mom called me to tell me that my dad had a fall in the bathroom and she had to get her neighbor to help her get him up. My poor little dad is very feeble and not in the best of health and I worry alot about him. I went and spent time with them to make sure he was ok and to help my mom with him. I hate it that our parents have to get old and rely now on our care. I don't mind taking care of them and I love them dearly but I just want to hold onto the memories of when I was young and they were in better health and taking care of me.
I hope I didn't bum you all out too much but I just had to vent a little hoping it would make me feel better. Now on top of having a depressing week I did have a few good things go on.
I am still reflecting on my joyous time I had with everyone that was at the mother road race. I had such an amazing experience that I am ready to do it again. I know Ken & Kathy aren't in no big hurry for that.
I enjoyed Thursday nights walk with Candice & Lindsay. I also enjoyed seeing the beautiful Aiden. I appreciated all the hard work that Kathy & Brian did to throw the pizza party. The food was good but visiting with friends was priceless.
I am now focusing on (I am not going to say only) the quarter marathon. I was so hoping to do the half this year but there is always next year for that but maybe I will be in Greece at that time who knows. I am looking forward to the challenge and all the excitement that goes along with it. I will be at the finish waiting and cheering all the half and full marathoners in. I found out I am good at this cheering thing. I can't wait to go to the expo tonight to pick up our race packets because that makes it more real and now we have to go through with it no backing out.

hopefully everyone will eat well and get plenty of rest and I will see you Sunday.

I HAVE FINALLY BEEN TAGGED

2008-11-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

Ok so I was starting to get the last kid to be picked feeling until dear sweet Rachael picked me to be tagged.

The 6th picture in my sixth folder in my pics folder is a picture of Bobby's mom and his second cousin. We were at my nephews wedding reception back in May of this year. My nephew is one of 3 nephews that are in the marines. We are so proud of them. I have 1 nephew now in Iraq until this coming April.

So who thinks Bobby looks like his mom?

This is our nephew Dustin Who is the son of Bobby's oldest sister (she is deceased now) and he is stationed in North Carolina and is waiting for his 3rd time around to go to Iraq.

This is our nephew Nick who is the son of Bobby's next to the youngest sister. He is in Iraq now serving his 3rd time there. He is stationed in Hawaii when he is home.

This is our nephew Cory who is the brother of Nick. He just finished boot camp and is waiting for his orders and haven't heard yet where he will be stationed at.

I know I was only supposed to post my tagged picture but I couldn't help but to show off my handsome nephews in their marine attire.

I now tag Kim and Chrissy.

PUTTING MY FEARS TO REST

2008-11-04T05:26:00.000-08:00

Well I did it. I put the fears to rest on whether or not I could run 6 miles without falling over dead. I know you all think that it is just a walk in the park for you marathoners but I was having doubts since that is the longest I have ran in several months. I knew I had committed to running in the route 66 quarter marathon but was having doubts if I could make it and last Saturday I proved to myself that I could(yeah me). I felt good about how well I did I just would like to improve a little on my time but I think on race day that will happen. I was dog tired afterwards and speaking of dogs I hope the little puppy that was found in the dumpster during the run is doing ok. I can't believe someone would do that to a little helpless puppy it is so inhumane and it makes me very angry that they would do that to one of Gods creatures.

I am so proud of everyone for finishing their run. I was glad to see Cheryl coming in with still a little smile on her face. She has come a long way in her training and I know she will do good come race day.

I am sad to say that I think the Dynamic Duo is no longer running together because Ed (I want to kick some globo gymers A##) has become faster than lightning(way to go!). He did awesome on his 22 (I mean 24) miler. I know he will do good also on race day.

We now have introducing the Team :
Thing 1 & Thing 2

Can you see the resemblance? I think these two make quite the pair. They are a little wacky but you got to love them they are part of the running family. I mean who wouldn't love these two of a kind ( I think one is a little more funnier than the other)? they may bring up the rear (no fault of Ken's) but they have fun in doing so. Way to go guys!

Bobby ordered these tattoo's for Ken, Ed & himself to wear on race day.

I think they will look so cool on them. I think you still have time to order them if anyone else is interested in them. The website is http://www.marathontattoo.com/ They also have tattoo's for half marathoners. They get them to you pretty quick.

Sunday Bobby & I went bike riding with Christin on the west bank of the river. We rode I think about 7 or maybe 8 miles. WE had a good time and the weather was perfect. I was surprised Bobby even felt like going but he was feeling good and thought it would help loosen up his legs more. Bobby has recovered fast from his long run.

Monday night I enjoyed my run with Bobby, Ken, Michael and Cassy. I was glad Cassy joined in with us. We ran 4.5 miles, we started at 21st and ran north across 11th street bridge and then down the west bank to the pedestrian bridge and across the bridge finishing up back at 21st. Ken was kind enough to hang back with me. Ken & I stopped a few times to talk to people we knew which I was thankful for the little break. When we were running on the west bank we came upon some sprinklers going and everyone wanted to go around them but not me I thought what the heck I won't need a shower when I get home LOL so I ran right through them and I welcomed the cool mist in my face.

Bobby and I are trying to plan ahead on how he should eat to get ready for his marathon. Ken has given him some good advice so we are taking that to incorporate with what Bobby thinks he should eat which I know there will be popcorn included in his menu. I think he could live on popcorn. I think the popcorn industry would go broke if he stopped eating it.

Not much else going on for me this week except I hope maybe the rain will hold off Wed. evening so Bobby & I can go bike riding again. I am so loving this biking thing but I won't give up on my running. I am looking forward to this weekend to go help out at the mother road 100 mile race that Ken & Kathy are participating in. I will be cheering them on as well as some of our other runners like Candice, Jason & Lisa. I know that Roman will be there also pacing Kathy and Bobby will be pacing Ken some as well as Dave who I think is pacing Kathy some. Good luck to them both I know they will do awesome.

I hope everyone makes it out to vote today so I guess I better get ready to go vote myself and stand in the long lines(maybe I should take some lunch with me.)

VOICES IN MY HEAD

2008-10-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a good week and recovering from the Tulsa Run.

I had so much fun helping Kathy & Brian out at the Tulsa Run Expo (I hope I didn't make too many boo boo's for them.) I enjoyed getting to see everyone in our group that was picking up their race packets. The anticipation and eagerness on their faces made my day. I too was excited about this Race since it was my first race since being sick with my heart issues. I also enjoyed having dinner Friday night with Kathy, Brian, Ken, Dana, Jason (Dana & Ken's son) & the beautiful Mackenna (Dana & Ken's granddaughter.) she is so adorable and very entertaining I might add and Oh of course my wonderful husband Bobby (I guess I better mention him so he doesn't get his feelings hurt.)

Saturday morning came early since I didn't get in bed until late Friday night but it was nice to sleep just a little later than our normal saturday morning run. I was ready for the race to start. I met up with Brenda & Donna to run with them. I enjoy running with Brenda & Donna they keep me motivated. Donna finally took off ahead of us guess she got her gust of wind. I was doing good and feeling good making sure my heartrate stayed where it should. I still had that little voice in my head putting a little fear in me hoping that this doesn't trigger another attack. I tend to hear that voice when I run and I am trying hard to conquer that fear. I was hoping to make good time but I was a little off from what I wanted. I was hoping for a 41 minute time but ended up with a 44 which was 2 minutes faster than last years Tulsa Run. I guess that wasn't bad for this old grandma that hasn't been training that much since being sick. I did get to cheer everyone in that did the 15K and was proud of all of you for doing your best. Bobby & I went to have breakfast afterwards with Ken, Deon & Brian which was nice getting to rehash the morning event with them.

Saturday evening we went to Broken Arrow for the halloween bash on Main Street. We helped pass out candy and had fun with our granddaughter.

She was dressed up like her favorite HighSchool Musical character and her adorable cousin was dressed up like a cute little witch. Our daughter even got dressed up this year.

There was alot of kids walking up and down Main Street I had no idea it was going to be such a huge ordeal but I guess free candy brings out everyone. Our granddaughter got to come home with us to stay all night which I am always ready for her to come stay with us. Sunday morning she got to go with her papa to the donut shop for breakfast which was a treat for her. We had to take her home later that day which is always hard to do when we are having so much fun with her. We stopped at riverparks afterwards to go for a bike ride. We rode our bikes across the pedestrian bridge which it was so windy that I thought I was going to blow off of it. We ran into Cara on the path who was out riding her bike as well. She had mentioned she had ran that morning at turkey mountain with Brian and some of the other Taturs and she had so much fun she is going to do it again. We were riding across 11th street bridge when there was this elderly man in a motorized wheelchair coming toward us in the distance and I don't know what happened but the next thing we knew he was falling over. He managed to get back in his chair before we could reach him but we made sure he was ok before we went any farther. He said he was fine and went on his merry way. Cara was done at that point because she had already gone alot of miles before we caught up to her so Bobby & I went on the Katy Trail toward SandSprings which is a nice place to ride your bike just a little hilly. We turned around at the Gilcrease Museum rode due to it would be getting a little dusky soon. We stopped by Jason's Deli on the way home to pick up some potato soup to take home for dinner. I am hooked on their soup it is so good.

Monday evening we went running at the lower paved path of Turkey mountain with Michael and Ken. We always enjoy our runs with them. I decided to run instead of riding my bike because I need to be ready for the quarter marathon in a few weeks. Ken & I ran the way back together and we talked about his upcoming 100 miler which I am looking forward to helping with. I ended up running/walking a total of 5 miles. I felt good how well I did but it was a little chilly and took awhile for my lungs to warm up enough to breathe good while I was running. That is one thing I am not looking forward to in the winter time.

I am looking forward to the mock marathon this Saturday where I am planning to do the quarter marathon and hoping to make it under what I completed my quarter last year which was 1:49:53. I will be cheering the rest of those doing their long distance running. I know everyone will do awesome.

Have a blessed week and will see everyone at our usual stomping ground.

QUE SERA, SERA

2008-10-22T06:16:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a little while since my last post and Bobby was just saying that most of us hadn't posted in awhile. So Bobby here you go.

Last week I had the pleasure of spending time with my daughter and granddaughter as my granddaughter was out of school for fall break. Wednesday we met at Cheesecake Factory for lunch which was so so good. WE also had the pleasure of having lunch with Candice as well. The food is so delicious and the best part of all is the yummy cheesecake. I think everyone should try it out atleast once in their lifetime. I was hoping to spend more time with my daughter that day but she said she had to meet her husband afterwards to run an errand. I asked her what she was doing and she just said oh it is just something we have to do. Knowing my daughter like all moms knows theirs I knew something was up and I had a gut feeling I knew what it was and yes my gut feeling was right.

She went and got herself a Tattoo! I knew she has been wanting one for quite sometime but kept hoping that phase would pass. I am trying to be a good sport about it but I did voice my opinion. My daughter has always been very quiet and shy growing up so this was totally out of character for her but I guess she is coming out of her shell and realizing there is a whole world out there just waiting for her to grasp hold of and enjoy. I just didn't think it would come in the form of a tattoo but I can't complain too much if that's the worst thing she does because she is a mom and needs to still set examples for her daughter and she still is my sweet little girl all grown up. She tells me I am too conservative and need to be more open minded and enjoy life more. I thought I was enjoying life but in her eyes I guess not. Well my dear daughter I will try to loosen up more and I am very proud of you and who you are. I guess I am stuck with my son in-law for sure now LOL. I can't say anything bad about him he is a very good husband and father to both my girls. He is shy like my daughter and doesn't have alot to say but he is a very hard worker and provider for them. He is very intelligent thank goodness for my daughters sake because she is a true blonde.

Friday I met up with my daughter and granddaughter at the mall and we had the best time shopping and getting a special treat of ice cream. I had bought all 3 of us some white sunglasses and my granddaughter thought that was so cool that we looked like triplets. She said she was taking them to Florida with her when she goes in November and taking them on the teacup ride at Disney. I wish I could sneak in their suitcase for that trip. That was a surprise trip my son in-law planned for them.

After I got done with them at the mall I then went to work and got my belongings and left my resignation letter. I was glad no one was there as I was a little sad. Even though it was saddening I still feel good about my decision. You know that saying when one door closes another one opens well that is happening to me and I am so blessed for that. I have been wondering since I am no longer working how to make a little extra money to help save for the trip to Greece in November 2009 with Coach Kathy. I so want to go and do the 5 K or maybe the half there so I can say I have ran a race in another country. My parents who are disabled are on this assistance program that has someone come clean their house for them 3 hours a day 3 days a week. I was joking with them about I could do that for them and get paid for it. I didn't think that the program would let relatives do it for them but my mom asked them and they said I could all I would have to do is fill out the forms. So I am thinking seriously about doing this for that extra cash if my parents don't drive me too crazy being around them that much LOL. I can taste Greece in my future so Chrissy & Michael save us a room.

Last night (Tuesday) I enjoyed my walk with Candice & Chrissy. I was glad Chrissy came to walk with us it has been awhile since she has joined us due to her surgery. Her husband Michael runs with Bobby on Monday nights and I always ask when Chrissy is coming back and last night she surprised me. We had alot of girl talk to catch up on. Candice was alittle bummed last night and I hope she is doing better today. After Walking Bobby & I had an enjoyable dinner with Kathy, Brian, Ken, Dana, Roman & Toby at the Oriental Buffet on 71st & Riverside. I had never been there but Ken & Dana really like it. I have to say it was very good and it was better than the China King that is a few doors down from it. I will definately eat there again. We laughed at everyones fortune from their fortune cookie ( if you ever heard of the old game when you read your fortune you add " in bed under the sheets" at the end of the fortune. that really makes for a good laugh.)

This Friday I volunteered to help Kathy & Brian at the Tulsa Run expo. I am looking forward to helping, it should be fun but I bet Brian puts me on the ugly foot contest and I will have to be grossed out by all the ugly feet. WE were teasing Bobby about having to walk around in this ugly foot costume at the expo, boy wouldn't that be hillarious.

I am looking forward to doing the Tulsa Run. I just don't understand why everyone gets a finisher medal except the 5 Kers. I know it's not much but come on now even the 1 mile fun runners gets a medal. Oh well as the saying goes Que Sera, Sera. That's how I am going to look at life from now on and not stress about the little things.

Just a reminder if anyone wants to bring out their kids saturday evening starting at 6 p.m. on Main Street in Broken Arrow Bobby & I will be there at our daughters in-laws business(Quaid & Associates) helping pass out candy for the halloween bash. They will have all sorts of games and lots of fun so dress up your goblins and bring them out and be sure to look for us.

Well this should be enough blogging to wet your appetite for the week (Bobby). I hope to see everyone at the expo & Tulsa Run.

MY WHIRLWIND WEEKEND

2008-10-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Wow what a weekend I had. Bobby & I got up extra early Saturday morning to prepare for his 20 mile run and take food & water to turkey mountain for the runners. I am certain Dave got up early as well to get everything else ready in the absence of our fearless leader who was having an adventure herself. Props goes to Dave for the awesome job he did marking the course the day before which Bobby & I met up with him Friday evening after he had finished.
We congregated at our usual meeting spot and listened to Dave give instructions for the route and I glanced around and noticed we were missing a few of our runners and definately was missing Kathy & Ken but was wishing them luck on their 100 miler. I did think about them periodically all through the day as to how they were doing and what mile they might be at. I definately admire them for their accomplishments. Candice & I bid farewell to the runners as we sent them on their way thanking God that it was them not us on that long run. We hopped into my car and started out on our journey to stay ahead of the runners to cheer them on and make sure that everyone was ok and had plenty of water to drink. We first stopped at the turn in on riverside by the pedestrian bridge and everyone was still smiling at that point and having fun. I was wanting to count heads but it was too dark. We then proceeded to Turkey Mountain to meet up with them and we watched people get ready for the duathlon they were having at Turkey Mountain. When the runners got to that point they were starting to look a little tired which I think after climbing up that big hill had a major role in that. I did finally get a head count of the runners which was 32 doing the 20 miles unfortunately I didn't get to get a count of the half marathoners but there was a good group doing that run but did notice a few of them missing as well. When the runners took off from Turkey mountain Candice & I loaded up the water jug and table and headed for runnersworld to drop off the water jug just in case it was needed there for when the runners got to that point but it was well stocked already with water but we thought we would leave the pretzels there for them. We did run into some of the half marathoners there which they were looking good and doing a fantastic job on their 8 mile run. Once again we loaded into the car and decided to make a stop at starbucks (sorry Rachael) so the mommy to be could take a bathroom break and since we were there we thought what the heck we might as well get us something to go ( sorry Rachael). WE then proceeded toward 21st and had to detour through the neighborhood because for some reason the police had that intersection blocked. Candice & I were drooling over the fancy homes and critiquing their beauty. WE finally arrived at Veterans Park to check on the half marathoners finishing up with their run and made sure everyone was doing ok. WE hopped into my car once again to take out on Riverside to see where the marathoners were at. We spotted the head leaders of the group right about where we meet on Tuesdays so we made a quick turnaround and headed for our next stop where the path first enters the neighborhood when you cross riverside. WE stood their and cheered and took pics of everyone coming through ( I did forward those pics to Ken & Kathy so be looking out for them to show up on the runnersworld blog.). WE told everyone there would be water & pretzels for them at runnersworld. I was amazed at how many smiles were still on their faces at that point which was probably right about mile 15. WE did notice AAron (I think that was his name because I heard some say his name was Mike) was having some trouble with his leg. We asked if he was ok and if he needed a ride back to the start. He said no he was having some issues but was still going to keep on going. Bobby & Ed were the last to come through that point but was not too far behind the girl power team and was trying to keep the smile on their face. I know by the look on Bobby's face that he had hit the wall. So to cheer him up we told them we would have a surprise for them when they got to Runnersworld. WE hauled it to Wild Oats to meet up with my daughter so I could pick up my granddaughter who would be staying with us overnight. My granddaughter was excited to tell me that her dad had sent her on a treasure hunt and at the end of the hunt she found tickets to Disney World which they will be going in November. WE left wild oats and caught up with Bobby & Ed by Runnersworld and showed Bobby his surprise (it was our granddaughter cheering him on.) I hoped that the sight of Katie would inspire him to keep on going. WE finally headed back to Veterans Park to finish cheering everyone in for their big hurrah. I tried to take everyones picture of them after they finished. They were tired but yet amazed at themselves at what they just accomplished. Bobby & Ed brought up the rear, once again not that far behind girl power which I am so proud of them and thank ED for sticking with Bobby to keep him going. I will have to give Candice & myself props for being the cheer leaders but a big CONGRATS to all the runners for a job well done.

Bobby had trouble resting that day after his run. He was sore and too tired to relax and sleep so later that evening we took our granddaughter to the movies to see Beverly Hills Chihuahua which was a cute movie to see. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a family movie to see together.

Sunday brought another busy funfilled day for us starting with a big breakfast I cooked complete with biscuits and gravy and all the fixins yummo. I had enough spongebob to last me for awhile as that is my granddaughters favorite cartoon to watch the whole time she stays with us. Later in the afternoon we decided to have a picnic before we took her home. Do you know how hard it is to find a park in Broken Arrow. WE finally ended up at her elementary school which you can use on the weekends for picnics and playtime plus they have a half mile track around it. WE ate our sandwiches and our granddaughter told us that they have to go around the track everyday after lunch before they can play. She wanted to run around it so WE took off, she & I ran around it and Bobby walked it. She wanted to do it again like all kids would so once again she & I ran around it and Bobby walked. I think we did about a mile altogether. I needed the workout anyways. WE then played on the playground for awhile before we had to take her home which I hate having to say goodbye to her because it will be awhile before I see her again. I will get to see her on the evening of the 25th they are having a halloween bash on Main street in Broken arrow, if anyone is interested it starts at 6 p.m. where the kids can go trick or treating to the businesses there which My daughter's in-laws have a business there and I will be helping hand out candy that night. They will have other activities going on as well.
Later Sunday evening Bobby & I went bike riding at Turkey Mountain trail which I love to do but the climb back up afterwards is a killer. WE rode about 8 miles. WE like to stop at the pedestrian bridge area and rest and take in the view before heading back. WE like to have a little nourishment there to give us energy for the ride back.
See I told you I had a busy weekend and my week will be somewhat busy as well with housework and dr.'s appointments plus I forgot that I will be having lunch this week with my daughter and hopefully Candice if it works out for her. I will also be taking my letter of resignation to work which you all know that will be the best for me and my health issues. It will be sad to say goodbye to everyone at work since I was there for 11 years. I will have to pack up my belongings also which after all those years I have accumulated alot.

I look forward to seeing everyone Tuesday night and hope you all have a blessed week and have recooperated well from your run. Ed I hope you have a safe trip this week.

CAKE, CAKE & MORE CAKE PLUS GOT ME SOME NEW WHEELS

2008-10-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

This past week I have had more than my share of cake. Last Monday as you all know was my birthday so I had cake. Tuesday night I brought cupcakes for everyone so more cake. Thursday night Lisa brought cake for her birthday so once again more cake for me. Friday I had lunch with Candice at Queenies which if you haven't tried it they are very good. I had Quiche & a salad and guess what I had to get? carrot cake since I was told their cakes were good and they were right the cake was awesome. Since I have had so much cake this past week I think I have had enough for awhile. I started riding my stationary bike and lifting weights along with my walking/running since after eating all that cake I will look like big Bertha if I don't watch out.

Saturday morning I enjoyed my adventurous ride with Coach Kathy as we cheered on all the runners as they made their way through downtown. We made it back to Veterans park just in time for her to have to leave for the Zoo run. I stayed and waited for everyone to come in from their first leg of their 9 mile run. Everyone left again for their final 4 miles after hydrating & refueling. Cheryl , who is doing awesome, came in from her first 5 miles totally wiped out and very thirsty and was wanting to give up but I told her I needed to run 4 miles so I will run with you. She agreed to go ahead and finish so we took off and we had a steady pace running but I forgot my garmin and couldn't tell what pace we were at. We both kept conversation going to keep her occupied and not think about running. I felt good and was doing alot of running and she was scared I was overdoing it but I told her I am ok and lets keep on going. We made it back to veterans park and she was disappointed that she didn't make her 11 mile goal for the day but I told her not to be too hard on herself because she did do 9 miles and made the effort to come when it was lightning and looking like rain. I am very proud of her determination. I did sign up to do the quarter marathon so I am working hard to be ready for which is hard to get back into since I hadn't done much running since June. I still have that little voice in my head trying to hold me back for fear of another attack. Charlotte did give me some words of wisdom on overcoming those fears.

Sunday I talked Bobby into buying us some new set of wheels.

We went to the Trek store on Riverside and both of us purchased matching his/hers Trek Bikes just like the one pictured above. I haven't been on a bike in quite awhile so I was hoping I wouldn't take a spill on my first time out. We took our bikes to turkey mountain and it was scary going down that steep hill I felt like my bike was flying through the air. We rode from the parking lot to the 31st street bridge where we sat down on the benches to take a rest break and enjoy the relaxing view. I think the chalk monster has struck once again because there was chalk messages all along the path. The weather was so perfect for bike riding except on the way back to turkey mountain the wind was making it hard to peddle forward. When we got to the start up the long hill toward the parking lot we decided we needed to push our bikes up it instead of trying to peddle up it. My legs were stiff at that point and made it hard to climb that very long hill which I think they need to put in escalators for us old people. I truly enjoyed our bike ride and we will be riding now on Wed. & Sundays for our cross training. I think next Sunday if the weather is nice we will take along sandwiches to eat while we are relaxing at the pedestrian bridge. I think I am going to like this new hobby but I bet I am going to be sore in the morning. I think our neighbors think we are nuts, first running and now biking even my daughter asked if we were going to get into triathlons now like her in-laws. I said no way I am just riding for fun not for competitiveness.

I am looking forward to this coming weekend. First it will be exciting to see Bobby do his first 20 miler so Candice & I will be there cheering everyone in on their 20 miler and also cheer on the half marathoners as well. Maybe we can sag for you guys since Kathy won't be there :( . I will also get the pleasure of keeping my granddaughter overnite since it is my daughters 5th anniversary.

Hope all have a wonderful & Blessed week and Lindsay hope you & Aiden are doing good and look forward to seeing him.

IT'S MY PARTY.........

2008-09-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (Monday the 29th) I will be another year older. I am not too thrilled about this and Bobby is not helping the matter at all. He has been teasing me all day about turning older and getting closer to that big 50. I have been thinking about that song "It's my party" but instead singing "It's my birthday & I'll cry if I want to." I am blessed and thankful however that I am still alive & kicking. Bobby did take me to Jamil's today for my birthday dinner since we will be running Monday Evening at our usual spot at Turkey Mountain. I guess I will call it a birthday celebration run like the saying goes if you can't beat them join them so since I can't beat getting older I will just join in for the fun ride into senility.
Bobby & I enjoyed Jamil's it had been a long time since we ate there. For those who didn't know Jamil's has moved to 51st & Harvard. It is on 51st east of Harvard by Marie Callendars and is in the building that used to be Jimmy's egg and Panera which I guess both have moved out. Bobby was kind enough to take me shopping at the mall to my favorite place VS. I guess turning another year older has some perks.
Saturday I enjoyed my walk with Candice which when I am with her we manage to find something to laugh about. We both realize that it seems an eternity walking from point A to point B and is very tiring more so than running so props to Sonya for walking 18 miles Saturday.
Later Saturday Bobby & I went to our nephews daughter birthday party at a park in Broken Arrow. We had a picnic and visited with Bobby's brother & sister who we don't get to see very often. I was impressed that Bobby managed to go seeming how he was tired and sore from his 18 mile journey that morning. I am proud of him for training so hard to do the marathon. He has come along way from couch potato to marathoner in a little over a year and a half. Thanks to my son in-law's parents, who now are tri-athletes, got us interested in this running thing so we were blessed to meet such wonderful friends and challenge our bodies in ways it has never been challenged before.
I did manage to talk to my granddaughter today who is growing up so fast. She told me about how she likes first grade and all the things she is doing in class. She told me about going to see Disney on Ice this weekend. She loves highschool musical and that is what Disney on Ice is about this year. She is already telling me things she wants for Christmas which I can't believe is just around the corner. This past week My daughters husband surprised her with a new Mazda Mach 3 hatchback which my granddaughter told me it was a sweet ride. I wish I could spend more time with my granddaughter but it is hard to do since they live way out in Broken Arrow & I live west of the river.
Since I have made the decision to probably not return to work ( it is the best decision for my health) I have been reading blogs about saving money & using coupons. I am getting hooked on coupons and learning all the websites to get coupons so I guess you can say I am becoming a coupon queen. I am trying to save money everyway I can so I can go to Greece next year with the RunnersWorld group. I want to be able to say I ran in the Greece race. I think that will be so awesome and an experience I may never have a chance to do again. I am hoping someday that maybe Coach Kathy will want to do a run in Brasil so I can see my foreign daughter again.

That about sums up my weekend besides getting to watch the new season of Amazing Race (which I think Kathy & Roman should sign up to do) and Desperate Housewives. I am so glad that all my favorite shows have started back for the season but it will make it harder to leave the couch to run except I don't have an excuse because I have DVR.

Since the rule is whenever it is your birthday you have to bring cake for everyone so I plan on bringing something Tuesday night for us to have after our run so hope to see you there.
I hope everyone has a blessed and prosperous week.

DOG FOR RENT

2008-09-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

Beware of this killer dog.

He sleeps during the day

and parties all night.

His name on the streets is Kiwi because he is brown & fuzzy like one.
Don't let his cuteness fool you. Lately he has been driving me crazy
waking me up several times in the night causing me to get little sleep.
He is a little spoiled by getting treats everytime he goes out & comes
back in. I don't know why he doesn't wake Bobby up but he always
comes to my side of the bed & barks at me until I get up & let him out.
I still haven't figured out why I am the one that always feeds & waters him,
let him out all the time, give him treats & everything else but he still insists
on being Bobby's dog go figure ?

(Look guys a remote in both hands LOL.)

When Bobby's home it's like I don't exist unless he wants something

(hmmm sounds like he learned that habit from Bobby) and he is

stubborn (learned that as well from Bobby)I can call him all day

til the cows come home & he won't come but let Bobby call him &

he breaks his neck trying to get to him. I guess the guys have formed

an alliance against me in this house & I may be voted out. Since I am

the only girl I don't think I stand a chance but let him do something

wrong then suddenly he becomes my dog. The snoring between

Bobby & the dog I don't know who's the loudest. I don't see how such

a little dog can snore so loud. I will gladly rent him out ( it's a package deal

Bobby comes with the dog LOL) to anyone wanting to lose sleep.

Anyone that sees me catching a few ZZZZZZ's on our runs you will know

why. Time to go wash the dog.

NOT FOR THE SQUEEMISH

2008-09-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Seems like all the guys on the blog want to read about gross and disgusting with puking involved well do I have a good one for you. Candice read carefully or your puke meter might go up again.

I went to the ear, nose & throat dr. the other day because I am still having trouble with fungus growing in my sinuses. I have been through 2 surgeries to try & clear up this problem but it still keeps coming back. I guess I am allergic to moldy Bobby. The dr. told me I would have to start irrigating my nose out twice a day for the next 3 weeks with this antifungul medicine. I thought ok not too bad right? Well was I wrong, when I picked up this stuff from the Apothecary Shoppe he showed me this huge bottle of stuff that looks like the color of pee.

He said all you have to do is squirt a syringe full in your nose. I went home & waited for Bobby to get home to do this not so hip thing just in case I passed out or something so he could call 911 if needed LOL.

Oh my gosh let me tell you when I started shooting this stuff up my nose I felt like Linda Blair in the Exorcist! stuff started shooting out of my mouth & running down the back of my throat making me want to puke! It wasn't a pretty sight the taste alone would make even a magget gag. I thought I'm supposed to do this how long? I don't see how people snort drugs up their nose & have no problem doing this & liking it.

I guess I will have to find a good technique for this so maybe I won't be projectiling more than what should be staying in my sinuses ( anyone got any good suggestions for this?) hopefully I can keep this up for 3 weeks because I hate the nauseated feeling (I know Candice can relate). I have to keep it refrigerated so hopefully Bobby doesn't come home from a long run delirious & think it's gatorade LOL.

Thursday night I was walking with the 2 preggo's Candice & Lindsay (love ya girls) & they taught me a new word "cheeseburger crack" never heard of it & if you don't know what it is you can try to ask them but I doubt they will tell so you might have to figure it out for yourself. Thanks to them that thought is stuck in my mind so now when I have to do this disgusting nose rinse the combo of both will definately make me puke thanks girls!

Be sure and check out my last blog if you haven't already since I posted this one not long after my last one you may not have caught it. You can see the younger version of Bobby & Susan.

Hope everyone has a safe & blessed weekend.

REMEMBERING THE PAST & LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FUTURE

2008-09-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

Since I've been home I started watching old shows like Match Game, Card Sharks, Password & I love Lucy. These shows bring back alot of memories. I think back when I was 16 & went to work for Lea's Pizzaria on Peoria where a lg. supreme would cost under $10. There was this pizza cook there who could toss dough like it was nothing. I was amazed how well he could do this. When I first met him I thought he was stuck on himself but the more I got to know him I realized he was just shy. Who knew that guy would turn out to be my soulmate Bobby.

We married @ 18 which my mom tried to get me to wait until I was older because my parents weren't big fans of Bobby's at first and probably thought if I would wait I might have a change of heart. I had my mind made up and there was no talking me out of it.

Wow! 30 years later, 1 daughter & 1 granddaughter where has the time gone?

I look in the mirror & see this older person looking back at me with a touch of gray,

a few more wrinkles & aches and pains of aging & I think this can't be me even though I don't think I look too bad for my age. I just can't believe time has passed so fast but I wouldn't change anything except maybe spend more time with my daughter not realizing she would grow up so fast. I guess all this nostalgia is brought on by my upcoming birthday which I am not ready for even though I truly enjoy growing older with the pizza cook.

I am learning to enjoy life one day at a time & take nothing for granted so to all my running friends I enjoy being around all of you & hope to be friends for a long time to come.

To my beautiful daughter I truly love you and am proud of who you are (which is so like your father) and hope we can spend more time together even though you are busy with your family and I hope you will also learn to spend more time with your daughter as she too will grow fast.

My first Ramblings Hold On To Your Hat !

2008-09-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, Ok, some of my running friends have been asking me to start a blog. My response to them is "What am I to write about?" Well you asked for it & here it is a Blog about nothing but Susan's World.

To those who belong to my Runnersworld family that don't know me I am married to Bobby which I think everyone knows who he is.

I am on medical leave right now recovering from heart issues (Atrial Fib) which means the electrical part of my heart has gone haywire & causes my upper & lower parts of my heart to beat differently. I had been keeping it under control with heart meds but the end of June my heart went crazy having extra beats & feeling like it was doing sommersaults 24/7 & take it from me it is no joyride when that is happening. I had to quit my training for the RT. 66 half marathon which was disappointing. I was looking forward to it so much.
My heart Dr. has more than doubled my heart meds which is kicking me in the rear (not like coach Kathy does when she wants us to run LOL) making me tired all the time & no energy plus making me short of breath. The meds so far has been keeping my heart quiet (SSSHHHH don't wake it up) so the Dr. is now letting me start back walking/jogging slowly. I am suppose to not let my heart rate go above 140 (I wonder if that is just a magical number that the dr's pull out of their hat because everyone I talk to with some sort of a medical issue that is the number they tell them). I am suppose to keep my pace between 14-15 min. miles which is hard to do when I was used to doing 12-13 min. miles. I know some of you think that was still slow but hey I'm a grandma & that's my right to go slow and for someone who has never ran a day in her life before I think I am doing good.
I plan on doing the 5K at the Tulsa Run & hopefully if all goes well I want to do the quarter marathon at the RT. 66 race. I couldn't just sit by and do nothing. I will be cheering everyone else that is doing the half and full marathon.
Thursday night I did enjoy my walk with candice (whom I adore and has been my cheerleader since I've been sick). We had alot of girl talk to catch up on. We both agree that Kenny Chesney is hot & how great it will be when she & Coach Kathy's daughter Lindsay (who I think is so precious) have their babies. I can't wait to spoil both of their babies since my beautiful daughter decided not to bless me with anymore grandkids :( don't get me started on talking about my gorgeous granddaughter unless you got time to listen :)
I can't wait for this Sunday's Turkey & Taturs race. I am working one of the aid stations. Bobby & I did it last year & had so much fun we wanted to help out again this year plus we like helping out anytime we can for Kathy & Brian since they do so much for us runners. Can't wait to see how muddy everyone will be after all this rain we are supposed to have. Props goes to Brian, Kathy, Trail Zombie Ken & Stefanie Graham for all the hard work they have done to get everything ready for this race.
I know this post was rather long but I felt I needed to catch everyone up on my happenings since this was my first post. I promise to keep my other posts shorter and next time I will talk about my new addictions to old game shows, soaps, I Love Lucy & Seinfeld. To anyone who watches the soap Guiding Light I can keep you up to date by request.
Until next time everyone have a super duper weekend!