Sky Girl

She has a way of making what's yours hers.  But she is so dang cute doing it that you just have to let it slide!

 

 

 

Chilling in Dad's chair...with the heating pad even.  Good luck getting her out of it!

 

 

Even Ollie isn't safe...Sky pulls her bed out from under the window and lounges on it like she is the queen of the living room!  Pretty darn cute. 

 

 

 

It's been a few busy days in a row, and I'm on a bit of a learning curve with windows 8.  But, I'm working on loading new pics and sharing what's been keeping us busy but having fun! 

 





Apple Sauce!

I fixed my photo limit problem myself.  Figured out a work around to get around the storage limit...a work around that does not involve paying for extra storage, or Mark having to figure it out since he has his hands full with work right now.  On to regularly scheduled blogging!!!  

We came home from E WA with a box full of yummy apples, grown in a back yard orchard.  So nice to get fresh home-grown apples that taste yummy!

It took one whole day, three pans cooking at once, one electric peeler, a calculator, a measurement conversion chart, a test batch for taste testing before cooking them all up, and help from Sky (meaning lot's of patients from me!) to go from this...

...to this...

Lot's of yummy applesauce!  

The jars are for sharing with a few peeps and the glass containers are in the freezer for us to enjoy.  Mark discovered that caramel flavored vodka spiked applesauce is pretty great.  Just takes a bit of a splash, not much, but it is pretty yummy!  

A big thank you to Jodi for letting me borrow her Rotato!  I didn't even know such a thing existed, but now that I do I want one!  This thing was like magic and saved me from hand peeling a box full of apples!  Thank you...I'm bringing your applesauce to you today!  (Dad do you remember hand peeling apples when we were kids and trying not to break the peel string?)

The recipe I used actually came from allrecipies.com but if not for the measurement conversion chart in in my Better Homes and Gardens cookbook I would still be trying to figure out how much to increase everything X12 spread across 3 pans!  

I'm sure Sky thought she was being helpful and having great fun while doing so...

 She saw what a mess I was making and got out all the kitchen towels to help me clean up.

 Under the kitchen sink...thank goodness I took all the cleaners and chemical stuff out a long time ago and only store TP, paper towels and Kleenex under there.  Strange place for paper products but it's non-toxic and that's all I really care about.  

 

Umm....darn she caught me, does this mean I can't play under here anymore?!  That is her worried look, her oh boy am I in trouble, or does mommy think this is super cute and going to let it slide look.  

Mommy does think that her hair is too long and it's time for her first real hair cut...stay tuned for those pics!

I Think We Have a Blog Problem

Blog may be down for a bit...I can't upload anything something about being over a storage limit...whatever.  Mark is on it.  Will post when I can post more than just text!

Link Love

I love this blog: PurposeFairy

In this fast paced life that we live reading this blog makes me feel like everything has stopped or at least slowed down.  It allows me time to reflect on myself, my life, and how I'm living it and reacting to it.  I'm not a New Years resolution person, I'm a make changes as needed when needed, set goals and take on new challenges all year, not just one day a year kind of person.  PurposeFairy helps me do that on a daily basis and I love it!  

When I'm angry, frustrated, irritated or feel like I'm drifting this blog helps me let go of all of it and figure out how to move on.

Today's post is about the 3 different types of people in life and which one are you and is it working for you.  It really was not a relevant post to why I'm feeling angry and frustrated today, but it did prompt me to do a double check and make sure I'm being the type of person I want to be and that my life is how I want it to be.
I feel pretty good with my self evaluation today*.  It helped me focus on what is truly important to me: being the best me I can be for my life and for Mark and Sky.

After reading today's post and doing a quick check-in with myself I found peace in my heart, let go of the negative feelings I was struggling to be done with, and resolve to not let others rain on my life.   They can have their thunderstorm, I'm going to get a bright rainbow colored umbrella and go puddle jumping with Sky.  (It's actually a sunny clear day today so no puddle's to be found, but you get my point!)

Check out the blog it's worth it! 

*No I'm not perfect and find things on a daily basis I could be better at or do better in my life.  But, no one is perfect...the important thing is to be mature enough to do some honest self evaluation every now and then and work on what needs to be worked on. 
 

Monday

Monday's can be not so great even when you have the best job in the world (staying home with your cute munchkin!). 

It started great actually, got up at 5:15, did my one mile for the day, came home and crawled back in bed until Sky summoned me.  I literally got up put on my running stuff and left, no food, drink or anything else.  Dressed and left...figured I can do anything for 10 minutes or less.  The only way I'm going to get through this daily running challenge is to only do a mile on the days I don't have a scheduled "normal" run.  Normal being 3 to 6 miles.  I will still do those runs and only do the mile on the other days.

I have to say I kinda liked getting back into bed after a run.  I have never done that...usually I'm too sweaty!
Then I met Jodi, Reagan, and Harrison for a walk.  It is a cool, crisp, sunny day today so it was perfect!

  The girls ready to go! 

I was feeling pretty productive when I got home.  I ran, did Cyber Monday gift shopping, had friend time with Jodi, got the grocery shopping done on the way home and Sky down for a nap.  Made a couple phone calls that needed to be made and was ready to move on.

Then I made the mistake of checking my email and you know what I'm ticked off, really ticked off about unrelated situations.  Ticked off on behalf of a friend and ticked off for myself.  And I let it totally distract me from the other things I wanted to do today.   

Since it's up to me to fix my outlook that's exactly what I'm going to do!!!   

I'm done for the day people.  No more computer time, no phone time, I'm done.  Unless you text or call be babe, then I will pick up because I love you and not ticked at you.  :)  I'm putting on the music I like and doing whatever Sky and I want this afternoon.  If it makes her laugh then I'm happy and that's what we are doing!  

(I may have some Pinterest time later...that makes me happy and doesn't open the door for communication, opinions, advice or whatever else that FB/Email does and won't tick me off further.) 

I'm going to let go of what isn't mine to be ticked about, and work on letting go of the rest so I can focus on enjoying the rest of my day with Sky and Mark.   

Best Running Partner Ever!

Shout out to Amy, who is running the Seattle Marathon today.  I'm sure she is done by now, have not heard how it went.  While I was running my little 4 miler this morning I was sending good running vibes her way!

(Shout out to ND for securing a spot in the BCS Championship game!!!  I can just hear Dad ranting about it now, but I'm happy!)

Sky looks much cuter post run than I do! 

I LOVE my little running partner!  She cracks me up while running, says hi to almost everyone we pass, and points out all the dogs.  Best part is she hardly every fusses on runs.  The only time she fusses is when I slow down too much, then she starts yelling GO, GO, GO at me.  You would think I'd be running 7 min miles by now!  I love running with my adult running partners, but I tell you it's nice knowing Sky is there every day if I need her to be.

Today's run felt hard, it felt slow, and my hip hurt.  Sitting in the truck for hours and sleeping in a different bed did not do me any favors.  So, I was surprised to see this when I took a peak at my splits on. 
(BTW - this is my fave part of Runkeeper...checking out my splits.)

mi	Pace (min/mi)	Elevation (ft)
1	10:01	-14
2	9:58	-7
3	10:02	4
4	8:41	11
5	7:57	1

I feel good keeping a 10:30 pace while pushing Sky, so was crazy excited to see my last mile was under 9 min!  I did pick a pretty flat run today, just because my hip hurt, but still I don't usually even try to run fast while pushing her, I focus more on form and not leaning too much into the stroller. 

Tomorrow starts the mile a day challenge until NYD.  I'm looking forward to nice easy pace with Ollie on those short 1 mile days.  I feel better running every day, like my body gets used to it, so this stretch of running will be good I think. 

Happy Football Day All! 

Black Friday

My idea of Black Friday shopping was hitting up the Best Buy on-line sale that started yesterday.  Ordered my Christmas present for a great price!  Not telling what it is though...Thank you Mark!  :)

Today I visited Run Pretty Far and ordered this top!  Thankful that I held on to some of my spending money...I love having a good quality, functional running top that is pretty and on sale!  (Thank you Dad!)

Top pic is the back of the shirt and bottom pic is the front of the shirt.  

If you are braving the shopping crowd have fun and get yourself some good deals! 

Thankful Thursday

Yesterday - Elya and I were the ONLY runners that showed up for the Stroller Group run, in the pouring rain!  I was soaked clear through every single layer I had on.  I tell you I felt pretty hard core running in the wind and rain, and best part is I feel like we totally earned our indulgences today! 

Thank you Elya for being there and not making me run alone!  No matter how hard the run is it's always fun running with you!

Today - Watching football, hanging out with family, Sky playing outside in the warm sun, ordering gifts online, watching the parade, cooking yummy food, drinking lot's and lot's of wine and champagne all in PJ's. 

There is so much I'm thankful for that it's hard to put it all into words.  To keep it simple I'm thankful for my life, and for every person that is part of it.  You all make my life so full and rich and amazing.  Thank you!

Happy Thanksgiving all!  

Color!!

I love to color by the way and have been trying to focus on adding color to my black and gray wardrobe!  Plus, I'm loving that Sky is getting into coloring and by that I mean eating the crayons.  :)

But, this post is not about any of that.  It's about a giveaway from a blog I follow: Colorissue

No, not every blog I follow is about running!  I love the Color Issue because it's creative, fun, and lighthearted.

Check out the giveaway below and then go to the Color Issue and enter! 

This glorious package thats yours for the taking includes:

***$100 visa card
***A necklace of your choice from The Love Chain (silver chains are an option as well)
***Custom 8x10 Santa Clause Poster by your truly (LaDitta Design) just in time for the holidays!

Running Challenge Issued!

I have accepted a Holiday Running challenge.  1 mile a day Thanksgiving to New Years Day.  The group I'm doing this with decided that you can miss 2 days a week as long as you make up the miles that next day.  So basically the challenge is run 5 days a week for a total of at least 7 miles a week.

I did tell them that I won't be starting this until the Monday after Thanksgiving.  I'm not going to drive 4 plus hours, over the pass, in the snow to spend time running when I could be visiting my family which is the whole point of the trip anyway. 

So Starting Monday the 26th, 5 days a week with at least 7 miles a week! 

Want in on the challenge?  Join the Wonder Woman running page on FB here: Holiday Run Challenge
And, comment on the run challenge post so they know you are participating! 

Michelle Beckham - yep I'm calling you out girl - I think you should do this!  :)  1 mile a day, 10 minutes tops to run around the block!  Nice way to end the year and kick start our running for the new year! 

Sky and I went for a quick little jaunt today.  Average pace was like 9:36 ish...not too bad considering I was pushing her and my good hip was hurting.  Go figure!  Does that mean I no longer have a good hip?  I think I need some stretching and peg boarding and it will be fine.  Ended up doing a run, walk, run to give my hip a break on the hill.  It hurts worse pushing up hills.  I was happy with my pace for both running sections though.

Oh, and Mark test ran his new shoes Yesterday on the treadmill at the Y.  He was smart, did a slow paced run walk combo just to get used to them and let his feet adjust.  Can't wait to get a run in with him!

Now off to pack and get ready to make the trek over the pass.  Can't wait to see some snow tomorrow!

Peanut Butter and Playdates

The staples in the life of a stay at home mom.  There are few others, but these are a hit as of late.

I know I talk about running a lot, but while it's a big part of my life, it's not by any means the most important. 

Most important is my family.  My relationship with my husband, and raising a little girl we can be proud off. That means when my family needs me running no longer matters. 

While I didn't particularly feel like Sky needed me today I realized by the end of the day it was a good choice to go on a play date, chill at home, and skip running. 

Sky was a happy camper playing with Reagan and having lunch at Jodi's today.  And, bonus I was super happy to catch up with my friend!  It had been way too long.  Extra, extra bonus...Harrison time!  He is so cute and snugly.  And, I even got a lesson in changing boy diapers.  It's totally different people!   

Given the crazy rain and wind I kinda thought running was out of the question, but there was a break this afternoon and I was on my way to putting the running gear on.  On the way though I was tripped up by Sky playing with the dogs and it only took one look at how happy she was for me to realize today needed to be about her, and what makes her happy. 

I realized at that point that I hadn't had any fits, she had been totally easy going all day, listened to me, said please and thank you, and was basically having a really good Sky day.  Not that there are very many bad Sky day's but today was one of those dream days.  Running was probably not the top of her list today, so I took it off the top of my list.

We had fun playing with the dogs, reading books, and hanging out with zero agenda.  Kinda perfect.  

 Who doesn't like peanut butter toast to start the day?  She takes after her Daddy...Mark LOVES peanut butter! 

 (Not a great pic...forgot the camera so used my phone.)  Sky and Reagan having a meeting of toddler minds.  I have no idea what captured their attention. 

 

Just Do It!

Not talking about Nike either.  If you are a running mommie and haven't joined the Fleet Feet Stroller Running group you are missing out!!! 

Here is the link to the FB page: Stroller Group Page

Join the page to stay up to date on all the fun!  We have a Mommies night out wine tasting coming up and a great group of ladies to run/walk with!!! 

To make it even better Fleet Feet has a punch card.  Get your card punched every time you participate in a group run and after 12 punches you are entered in a drawing for a $250 gift card!!! 

Even if you can't make it every week you really should join already!!!

Happy Football Sunday all!

The Woo To Your Hoo

Last night Mark, Sky and I headed to Fleet Feet Sports Tacoma to claim the free shoes, inserts, and socks that I won in the drawing.  Since I'm set for shoes for now they agreed to let Mark claim the prize!   I get the Garmin watch though!  The rep is sending the green one to the store for me, so excited!    

This was the first time he has been fitted for running shoes and was excited for the opportunity.  I was excited to let a running thing be about him for a change instead of me! 

Step 1 - measure both feet sitting and both feet standing. 

Nick was awesome and got a book for Sky so I could read to her between photo's.  

Reading the Foot book...very fitting!

Step 2 - run while Nick videos you, then play the video on the large TV above the treadmill while Nick analyzes your stride and explains it to you.    

 Step 3 - try on shoes, and test run them, or two different ones if you want.  Mark has a Nike and a Brooks on the treadmill.  

He ended up going with these...

Brooks PureFlow 

I think it all came down to one of the tag lines for the shoes being "Simply put they are the Woo to your Hoo".  Who wouldn't want shoes that are the woo to your hoo?!

Just kidding, Mark tested all the shoes that would work for his stride and put thought into it.  He takes his time when shoe shopping, and Nick talked him through each shoe he tried on, so I know he got the shoes that were the best fit. 

After he settled on the shoes it was time try inserts until he found the one that fit best in the shoe and felt good on his feet, and socks as well.  The socks even have an L and an R on them so he puts them on the right foot so they can do whatever it is they are going to do for him.  

Now all that's left is for us to go on a run together!  

A HUGE Thank You to Fleet Feet Sports Tacoma for allowing Mark to claim the shoe prize and experience a fitting!  I'm really looking forward to running with my hubby!     

Up Early

...getting ready for a 7 am 5 Mile Drive run with Michelle.  Haven't hit 5 Mile in a long time.  A little scared actually, but gonna give it my best shot.  Excited to have a Sky free run, see where I'm at speed wise.  

Thought I would post some Sky pics while I have a few minutes. 

 Showing off her new High Tops.  Thank you baby consignment shop for having cute stuff at great prices!  

 Have been waiting a long time for this clear flower rain jacket to fit!  Funny thing is the plastic is so stiff she can't bend her arms...both funny and cute!  

Her newest obsession is pushing her empty baby stroller around and around in never ending circles.  Not kidding she will march around for hours perfectly content!  

 

From the Kitchen

I highly recommend this cookbook for anyone that likes Asian cuisine and/or has a wok that they love using.  Or, maybe even has a wok that they got as a wedding gift and have yet to use, how many years later?  I will leave that friend unnamed for now.  ;)

Every recipe I have tried has been a hit!  Early in the week I gave Lao Chicken and Ginger a go and we all loved it! 

2-4 Tablespoons corn or peanut oil (I used peanut)
6 shallots or 4 onions sliced (I used shallots)
2 inches fres ginger, sliced and diced
3-6 garlic cloves, crushed
8-12 chicken thighs with skin
2 medium-hot chilies, red or green cored and sliced, plus extra to serve
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon fish sauce
2 cups coconut water or coconut milk (I used milk, but will use water next time to make it more healthy) (If using coconut milk see bold instructions below)
8 oz pea eggplants or cooked green peas (I used frozen green peas and it was fine)
6 scallions, halved then finely sliced lengthwise
10 large cilantro sprigs

Heat the oil in a wok, add the shallots or onions, and stir-fry until golden.  Add the ginger and garlic and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.  Remove to a plate, then add the chicken to the work, and saute on all sides until golden.  Stir in the onion mixture, chilies, sugar, and fish sauce.  Add the coconut water, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and cover with a lid - if using coconut milk, don't put on a lid or the milk will curdle.  Simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender. 

If using coconut milk, bring it gently to a boil (stiring, or it will curdle), then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is done.

Add the pea eggplants or peas, simmer for 2 minutes, then serve topped with scallions, cilantro, and chilies, plus fragrant Thai rice.  (I used plain old white rice and it was good). 

NOTE : If using coconut water omit the sugar, because it will have been sweetened.  Pea eggplants, like bunches of mini-grapes, are sold in Thai and Asian stores. 

Most of the produce I already had on hand as normal staples in my kitchen.  I always have several varieties of rice on hand since it's something GF Mark can eat, and I had the chicken on hand from when Safeway had the last buy one get one free meat event, so it ended up being a fairly inexpensive meal to make. 

Enjoy...and unnamed friend...break out that wok!  :) 

Thankful Thursday

Today I'm thankful for dark nail polish because it hides the black and gray toenails that I have.  I don't like having callouses, scars from blisters, black toenails, or that the black doesn't go away it grows away. 

If I cover it with dark polish it doesn't exist right? 

Sometimes you just have to be thankful for the small things...like nail polish.  :) 

Anyone else have "runners feet"?

Growing Up

Can you believe Sky has gone from this...

To this...

What happened to my baby girl?  It really hit me the other day when I passed the baby ergo to Jodi so she can use it with Harrison.  I can't begin to tell you how sad that makes me.  I'm so thankful Sky was a baby that loved being worn, because I used the heck out of our moby wraps and the baby ergo.  I loved wearing her, walking her to sleep, calming her down walking circles through the house. 

Now it seems there are days that the less contact we have the happier she is.  I know it's all part of growing up, and she still has her cuddle days for sure.  And, I love this stage, I really do.  She still has that last little bit of baby in her, but is talking and learning every day.  She is showing compassion, kindness, anger, her opinions, politeness (feels like a huge success to have her saying please on her own without prompting!), frustration, joy, determination and love. 

Even though I love this stage, I have moments that I just have to morn the loss of my baby girl.  I know I'm not the only mom to go through this and I'm not special, but it's what I'm feeling right now.  

Half Fanatic

I haven't run since last Thursday.  Busy weekend and Sky has a cold, and I have a bit of a cold, so have been laying low so I'm ready for the Stroller Run tomorrow. 

Just because I haven't run doesn't mean I'm not thinking about it.  And, that led to me setting a big goal for next year. Becoming a Half Fanatic!  That means three 1/2's in 90 days.  And since I'm already registered for See Jane Run in July and I plan on doing the Run For a Soldier in September that means running a 1/2 in August is all I need. 

Not looking forward to running a 1/2 in August...hello hate hot weather running! 

The nice thing is there is no time requirement.  As long as you start and finish three 1/2's in 90 days you qualify.  So, while I totally want to blow my time out of the water, I don't have too if it starts getting to be too much.  Getting to that first one will be the hardest, after that just have to maintain the training/keep the weekly miles up there and stay healthy for the next two.  Oh and maybe find a few peeps to run me in the last few miles!  

On top of thinking about my running goals I have been doing a little running shopping...Thank You Dad!  (I know...next time I use Sky's mirror for self pics I will clean the hand and lip prints off first!)

 Long sleeve running top from Athleta!  

Back of top.  It's very pretty and totally different from what I usually go for!  

 North face E Tip gloves!  I love using my phone without taking my gloves off!

 Brooks bright pink reflective jacket for running in the dark!  It is not for warmth, but I can layer under it, it's so people can see me in the dark.  I don't have anything like this and really needed something to fit the bill!  Flash in your face!  Wanted to show off the reflective parts.  

 

 Another pair of pink compression socks from ProCompression.  Every time I find a discount I get a pair and I love these!  I have the blue argyle and love the pink!  I could have 20 pairs of these things and I would still want more!  

I guess I like flash in my face.  :)  Start Line Shirt from Oiselle.  It's hard to see but it's a bar graph of the different race distances.  

Lest you think all I care about is running...

The new Aerosmith Album!  I was at Costco and saw it and had to have it!  The 13 year old girl inside was doing back flips when she saw it was the delux edition and has a bonus CD with extra songs, a DVD with videos (shot at the Tacoma show Michelle and I went to) and interviews, and a poster!!  Steven is still so Rock Star Cool I can hardly stand it!

And since my family really just wants to see pics of Sky here you go...

 She is probably happy because she doesn't have any pants on.  Girl does not care for pants or socks.

This is her preferred view of life in general.  She stands on her head All. The. Time. 

 

I Won!!!

Imagine my surprise when I saw this on FB yesteray.............

Fleet Feet Sports Tacoma

17 hours ago near Tacoma via mobile

The winner of the Fleet Feet sports shoe pack, which includes shoes, inserts, socks and the Garmin Forerunner 10 is (drum roll please)... Jen Yeatman!

 

Umm, yeah I never win anything, so this was a surprise and I'm super excited!  Since my shoe situation has vastly improved as of late (perk of coordinating the stroller group) I don't really need the shoes, so I'm going to see if they will let me give that to Mark.  He would like to run with me sometimes, but he has never had good shoes fitted for him.  If not I will start stockpiling shoes for myself...it's never a bad thing to have back up shoes!  Especially on a single income! Anything I can save money on/not spend money on means I can get something else needed instead. 

 

I'm super excited about the watch!  I have a NB GPS watch, and it works pretty well.  There are times when the GPS doesn't connect at all, but it works well enough.  But, Garmin is the Big Daddy of GPS running watches and even the least expensive is just out of my price range when there are other running things I need.  

 

So, this is the only way I would end up with one.  I'm really excited that this is the basic, easy for a dummy to use, model...that's just what I need!   

I don't know if I get a color choice, but if I do I'm going for this one...

Busy Life

It's been a busy few days!  I was all ready to go with a lovely Happy Birthday post for Mark Thursday, and it just didn't happen.  I felt kind bad about it until I thought about it...What's more important posting about his birthday or Sky and I celebrating it with him?!  Sometimes we (the collective we all!) can get so caught up in taking the perfect pic, or pics for the blog, or playing words with friends, or checking email and we forget to actually live life and have fun.  

I didn't post because I was busy making sure Sky got an early nap so she wouldn't be cranky during birthday lunch at Asado with Daddy!  I took her to Frog and Kiwi to let her play and tire her out.  It worked because she made it through lunch and a visit to Fleet Feet, Mark wanted to see the store, and the bike shop next door to fix the flat tire on the jogging stroller.

Marks birthday gift from Sky...

  Her first masterpiece!  

His "real" gift is 3 12 X 24 printed canvases...was an screaming deal from Livingsocial.com!  I'm letting him pick the pictures since he has a whole lifetime of pretty amazing pics to choose from, and they are going to be on our walls for a very long time, so wanted to make sure they are pics he really wants printed in that form. 

 Sky and I at lunch.  

Once Sky and I got home I had to scramble to change into running gear, cook dinner and take it to the Beckham's for Mark, Bob and the girls to have dinner while Michelle and I went to Fleet Feet to participate in the grand opening adventure run!  (Yep...second visit to the store in one day and 4th of the week!)  

I was kind of an idiot about this adventure run!  First of all running at night and didn't put on a hat or gloves, or pants.  But, I did have a day glow Fleet Feet Sports shirt on representing the store.  I was also an idiot to think that this was going to be an easy run around Proctor going from business to business collecting prize tickets.  Stupid...it's a running store...of course we are going to run our butts off!  To get the most tickets you had to run to the businesses that were the furthest away.  So Michelle and I picked the furthest business we thought we could manage and still get back by the deadline.  Oh, and they started 15 min late, so we had 45 min instead of 60 to cover as much ground as possible.  We ended up running about (I forgot to track it, based this off the miles listed on the adventure run map they handed out) 5 miles round trip in 45 min, and 7 of those minutes were spent in Safeway purchasing canned food to get our ticket.  Easily the fastest pace run Michelle and I have done together!   

We didn't end up winning any of the prize drawings, but Michelle got a NB bag full of goodies, and I got a perfect for me Asian themed running shirt that Janna tossed at me!  Oh, and we grabbed some wine and apps after to celebrate!  Was a really fun evening of running adventure with Michelle.

Friday I headed back to the store (5th visit...this coordinator gig kept me busy this week for sure, but I LOVE it!) for the grand opening sale.  Turns out the one thing I actually needed was not on sale and the shirt I wanted wasn't on sale either, but I had some grand opening specific money, thank you Dad!, and one of my perks is an in-store discount so I still got both items, and still have money left over to wait for the Stroller Running Group Moving Comfort event coming up!  Ended the evening at the parents for Mark's birthday dinner with them.

Spent Saturday grocery shopping and getting ready for Mark's birthday evening at Joey's.  The one and only thing he really wanted to do this year was watch Prometheus at Joey's in his in-home theater.  It seats 6, so was us, Joey and his girlfriend and Bob and Michelle.  Had a nice dinner, good wine and drank, and watched a really good movie!  The nice thing was Justina spent the night with Sky so that we could spend the night at Joey's.  He lives far enough out that it's nice to have that option!  Sky was a happy camper when we got home...didn't bother her at all that we were gone.

Today we are chilling, watching football, hanging as a family, watching the 49'ers game with Brian.  Best part is...Mark has tomorrow off!  Love just hanging at home with my man and my baby!      

First Stroller Group Run!!!

First a shout out to Jodi, who had a baby 6 days ago and showed up today to the stroller group!!!  She is amazing!

I also want to say Thank You to Jodi because wouldn't you know my stroller had a totally flat, can't be saved tire!!  It was flat before I ran yesterday, so I pumped it up and did a short run with Sky.  I was going to go back out and check it later that evening, but Mark was out there and he reported it was low, so obviously it wasn't holding the air I put in it earlier in the day. 

I sent a panicked text to Jodi asking to borrow her single BOB, only to have her offer to bring the double and push Reagan and Sky while she walked, so I could run with the group.  Now I have never given birth, so I don't know this for sure, but I'm pretty darn sure I would not be walking 6 days after having a baby, and I wouldn't volunteer to push 50 or so extra pounds! 

I checked it again this morning thinking if it held any air at all I would pump it up again and run with it, but it was again totally flat, like a pancake.  I wasn't worried though because I knew Jodi would be there with the double.  Turns out Elya was there with her double as well, and only one kiddo and since she was running I put Sky in Elya's stroller for the run.  I just didn't feel good about Jodi pushing that extra weight. 

We had a great turn out for the run, especially considering this was all generated through posts on FB to the local Mom's group, the Fleet Feet store page, and the Fleet Feet Sroller Mom's page and word of mouth.  The sunny morning didn't hurt either I'm sure! 

The gang!

We had nine mommies total, 2 walked and 7 ran.  And, I have to say I was impressed with the pace these ladies kept.  I had been hearing through FB posts and comments "I'm slow", "I don't want to hold anyone up", "I'll walk or run by myself because I'm slow" etc.  But the average pace was 11:27, I was expecting something closer to 13:00.  And, the group stuck together really well.  

It was really nice to not have the stroller actually because I was able to drop back/speed up as needed and I even sped up enough to turn around and get an action shot!  

Jessica and Julie look like they are having so much fun!!!  LOVE IT!  

Thank you to Fleet Feet Sports Tacoma, Janna, and Paul the owner for the support, the goodie bags, and letting a bunch of strollers overrun the store this morning! 

We did a total of 3.02 miles in just over 34 minutes.  Nice work ladies!  

Now, I have to rest my legs, eat right and get ready for Dodgeball tonight!

It's Sky's World...

Running first...Ran 2.2 ish miles with an average pace of 9:37...it felt like a fast run.  I started fast because I felt really good!  But, I got down to the park and around the lake and decided to walk back home.  When I run uphill with the stroller my bad knee bothers me.  I think it's the ergonomics of leaning/pushing the stroller.  When I run without the stroller my knee is fine, so it's something to do with pushing the stroller.  Anyway, given the first Stroller Group run tomorrow and the grand opening run Thursday, I decided to play it safe.  

...and, we're just living in it!  It's pretty clear to me that it is astonishing to her that the world does not bend to her every whim.  We are approaching the "terrible two's" and I see hints of it, but what I see more of is the fun-loving, kind, smart, little girl that I love spending my days with. 

Her favorite thing right now is Ollie.  Her and Ollie still have a few issues to work out when it comes to each others toys, and who's food is who's, but the two of them together results in a lot of giggles and playing.  I totally feel like the two of them are in league together against the adults, but I love watching the two of them interact so it's worth it.

Things Sky is saying:

"No poopoo, I gassy"

"I goo girl" Goo = Good

"Bess you" = Bless you

"Dub, dub"

"Joi" = Jodi.  I find it funny Jodi has yet to hear her say Joi.  She does not perform on demand.

"More" = thank goodness!!!!!  Now I know what she wants!

"Anna" = Banana

"Qua qua" = duck

"Momo" = Monkey

"E E E" = sound a monkey makes

"Pee" = Please

"Tha U" = Thank you

"Go go" = outside right now!


We do the alphabet every day.  Some days we get to D sometimes we get to R.  Today she only said every other letter, I would say A, she would say B, I said C, she said D and on and on.   Half the time when we do the alphabet when I say A she says apple, B - bear, C is C, D - Dog, E - Egg, after that it's just the letters. 

She is supper cuddly and gives tons of hugs and kisses all day long.  Mostly to Ollie and Bishop, but I get a few as well. 

She loves playing with her BFF Reagan, but I see the look of bewilderment when sharing comes into play.  She also loves playing with her belly button.  Totally fascinated by it!

She has an absolute $h!t fit when I change her diapers.  I don't know why...is it the break in play, or the invasion of privacy, I don't know, but it's a kicking, hitting, screaming event almost every time.  I love it...NOT! 

She it way more interested in playing with her training potty than sitting on it. And, the one attempt to poo in it resulted in poo on the floor.  Fun times.  

Opening car doors on her own is a big deal and results in ear to ear smiles! 

Her fave thing right this minute...

Yikes...terrible pic of me...fresh out of the shower no bra...lovely. 

The washable, white board crayons I got her with eraser mitten.  As you can see she loves sitting at her table drawing on her little white board.

She has caught on to our bedtime routine and bedtime books are out.  As soon as we say books she loses it.  I read to her all during the day so she still get's book time, but she doesn't even want to look at her bedtime books any more.

Our little girl is growing and changing every day, it makes me a little sad sometimes, but I LOVE it!  

Exciting Running Week

 I love her crossed feet!

Before I get to the running stuff...this is a daily occurrence.  I usually get Sky going with breakfast, or on a more relaxed day I wait to get ready until her mid morning snack, and then do hair and make-up.  Without fail she will start giggling out of control because Ollie is usually licking her toes or has her nose up on the tray.  After a few good toe licks Sky will drop treats over the side for Ollie.  These two are becoming fast friends! 

Now, on to running!  First, I'm super irritated with myself for not getting a sunny, warm run in today.  It was sunny, clear, and 60 degrees today!  Unheard of for Nov around here!  But, alas I was fulfilling my IRB responsibilities and reviewing the research studies I had been assigned, and doing laundry, and playing outside with Sky and the dogs.  At least I got outside for a bit! 

I plan on getting some miles in tomorrow.  The distance will be determined by if I run with Ollie or not.  I would like to do a longer run and push the pace a bit tomorrow, so that Wednesday's run can be a recovery run or walk as needed. 

Speaking of Wednesday, it's the first Stroller Group run!!  I'm so excited!  El and I scouted the route and she actually went back and ran it again and figured out how to skirt through, or around UPS (depending on how busy campus looks when we get there) so that I can get the group an even 3 miles.  I know 3 miles doesn't sound like much, but when running with babies, and I already know we have walkers, its more about how long it will take and not how far we go.  Most kiddos are good for 45 to 60 minutes...I'm shooting for 45 to 50 minutes.  I don't want to stress anyone out because their kiddos are crying.  I hope to run it, but if there is a walker/walkers that need company I will walk it, or run/walk, or whatever the group needs me to do.  

Another run I'm excited about this week is the Scavenger Hunt Fleet Feet Sports is doing on Thursday as part of their grand opening!  It's free, we get a map and we run around from business to business collecting raffle tickets, then all our tickets get put in a pot for prizes!  There is some good stuff...shoes, moving comfort bras (I don't own one, but hear they are pretty BA), and a bunch of other stuff.  Michelle and I are going to work together to help each other out!  Oh, and it's a free event!!!  We show up, sign up, and get our butts in gear to get to all the stores in the given amount of time.  Best part is, we get a ticket for free wine at Pour at Four, where the prize drawings are happening.  Even better part is, it's Mark's birthday that day and he said he doesn't care at all that we are doing that.  (But we are celebrating his birthday this weekend so we will make up for it!) 

So excited for the Grand Opening stuff going on in the store.  I'm going to try and catch as much of it as I can, to support them, and maybe win some free stuff!

Busy Sunday

Strange Sunday around here...was not in PJ's on the couch watching football all day!  Started with a 7 am run with El to scout my route for the Stroller Run on Wednesday.  Was so wonderful to have some El time and get caught up on each others life! 

Then we met Michelle and the girls at the Tacoma Art Museum for a free Day Of The Dead festival.  There was face painting, sugar skull painting, and a stroll through the museum followed by lunch at El Toro.  Yea for Salsa Verde! 

Then home to decorate the house...yes it is full on Christmas around here.  Well except for the tree.  We are doing a mantel-top tree this year so that Sky can't get her hands on the ornaments.   Haven't found our tree yet. 

Sky had an exciting weekend...she got a little lap top from Aunt Tami!  She is so stinking happy!

 So excited to be sitting at the big girl counter with Mommy!  

 In her fave chair (daddies) on her little laptop.