Mom has been gone for twenty months exactly. Holding "Mr. T" Tea pots in TJ Maxx and crying isn't the most glamorous thing I have done since she died, but it happened. She loved the A Team. She would say, "I pity the foo that messes with my babies." She was Italian/Hungarian and her Mr. T impression was hilarious. Christmas is rough.
I also picked out a collection of English cookies and a teas set, and a scarf that was almost a Monet design. She would have looked beautiful in it. It would have made her dark brown eyes pop.
Most days I do just fine. Other days are a gut-punch. Only those that lose a parent know this random feeling. One moment things are great, then you see her or hear someone laugh like her and suddenly, your heart is caught in your throat and you cannot breathe.
She is still so very much a part of me. Her humor got more inappropriate the more sleep-deprived she was. It was the times we would be talking and laughing late in the night that made the biggest impression on me. She would argue that when we would pray together we connected the most, but I have a slightly different view.
I can remember the sounds of the thunder storms as they ripped across the plains in Kansas that summer we lived in a trailer. Things may have been scary, but she got us through by making us laugh. She would make jokes about everything and everyone. It was the first time we were forced into a small space just the five of us.
I remember how hot the trailer was. It was a very small town. It was weird from going from a lot of friends in Palisade, Colorado to just your family very quickly. It was hard for Mom too. But having each other seemed to be enough.
She would do things to intentionally embarrass us. Like rolling down the window when the High School Cross Country team was running down the street and ducking down while letting out a long, loud whistle. My sister and I would just be trapped in the passenger seat like a deer in the head lights.
Early on, she had a standing joke with her best friend and yell, "Hey! Fred!" At random men, then, say, "Oh, you're not Fred!" It was an inside joke that went on for decades until they were caught by a man that demanded to know how they knew his name.
Her humor made her the person she was. Pain could not stop this. The nurse asked her, "What are you in for?" when she was headed in for a back surgery to correct the ruptured disks and without hesitation she said, "Tummy tuck and boob job." The nurse was flummoxed and rifled through the papers until she "got" the joke.
After she died, I was sad a lot. I would never hear her laugh again. She would never tell another clerk that asked, "Hey, do you want your milk in a bag?" to which the standard reply was, "Nope. Leave it in the carton, it makes the bag all soggy."
This year, however, the sadness have given way to a light. You see, her humor won't die. Those that lived with her, around her, and were friends with her carry that humor, and that light to others.
I know that she is a part of who I am. Which is why the guys at the "Jingle Bell Fun Run" in Spokane, WA that were dressed in running shoes, and *ahem* packages around their waist would have elicited an inappropriate whistle or, "Do you deliver those packages to single friends?" I did not say these things. Nor did I whistle. But I smiled inside because I felt her so strongly at that moment being the funny, belligerent person she was. I was relieved to know she wasn't really gone.
Then, there was the old lady at Albertsons talking on a cell phone while driving those rascal motorized carts. She wasn't watching where she was going. I was concerned as she headed toward the wine display. I watched in horror, too far to yell for her slow down, and no managers to help. Red wine crashed to the floor in a dark, red pool. I walked up and said, "Free wine tasting! Bring your own straw!" She was immediately mad at me. So I added, "Clean up on aisle wine!" I felt my eyes brighten as I knew Mom would have done the same thing.
The runs this week have been cheerful reminders of the gifts she has left us. She gave us a quick sense of humor, and the ability to laugh at bad situations. Those are the best gifts you can give to anyone.
Copyright December 16, 2014 by H. Jennings. No part of this blog may be reproduced in any way. This post and all posts on the blog are sole property of the author. Do not spin the content. Do not reword the articles. Do not swipe my goods. Do NOT translate into other languages and call it your own. In the words of Spongebob Squarepants, "Don't be a jerk... It's Christmas."
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
You Can't Say I Didn't Warn You
Treadmill runners don't know the struggle. You can get off the machine, go tinkle, then continue your workout. If you are hungry, you can grab a snack on your way out of the gym at the specified time. The biggest concern is if the handrails were wiped down recently.
I only know this because I started trail running last fall, and found myself so far flung out of my comfort zone I had NO idea what I was doing, or HOW I got talked into doing this. But I don't quit. So rather than dwell in the past, I will give future runners that want to try something new (which I can't recommend enough) a few key pieces of advise before you hit the road.
I will warn you, some of this may be T.M.I.
1. If you have had children, your bladder is no longer your friend. I have no idea why this happens, but since I am not the first runner to blog about this, I will go ahead and assume it is a real life issue. Go potty before you go running. I don't care if it's a mile, three miles, or twenty miles. Potty first 100% of the time. Also, Always made a new line of "modern" light bladder leakage pads. You should buy those. I can only wish I was joking. My first 5K, by the end I was a bit damp. Not too bad, but enough to learn to make better beverage choices before a run. (I drank a latte before I ran- this was a BAD idea). When your body is in full run mode, your muscles are focused on keeping you upright, so holding the contents of your bladder is not the current concern. So hence the reason I give you the lesson, go potty and wear back-up.
2. Your shoes are going to need to be replaced often. How often? Well, as soon as you start to feel pain when you run, usually about four to six months. My husband cries about this. My shoes cost the same amount as a good bottle of Scotch. The shoes last longer, but it is the reason I don't drink anymore. I can't afford the calories, nor the price. I would rather run.
3. You will probably not lose weight running alone. You just read that three times to make sure I was serious, didn't you? I know some celebrities like Jenny McCarthy say, "I run for 45 minutes a day and lost the weight like everyone else..." Uh, no. Not exactly. That's NOT how it works. If you aren't eating enough protein, and you are eating junk, no amount of running is going to make you lose the weight. I can't recommend group programs enough. I am doing Weight Watchers right now, because after 10 months of running 20+ miles a week, I had actually GAINED weight. Now, with a lot of help, tweaking the diet to match the calorie output, I have lost eleven pounds.
4. If you are going to run a half marathon, or a marathon get a coach. They are worth their weight in gold. They have experience, advise, and can give you the push you need to get to the next step. I plan to start with one in the Spring so next Fall's Happy Girl, my name is on the first page of results. I want to go faster and I want to have more stamina. You can't get these on your own.
5. Okay, this one, I have NOT personally had an issue with, but since I found out some runners do have this problem, you should know about it. Runners push food through the digestive system much faster than normal people. This isn't an issue with shorter distance and half marathon runners, but marathon and ultra runners have had to leave the course to find a bathroom, or worse have an accident. The intestines are full of little finger like villi that if stimulated by vigorous activity for extended periods of time push through solid waste in record time. That is great news if you suffer from IBS-C, but if you have normal or fast body functions, this is an issue, and you will want to consider personal ways to deal with it.
6. Winter runners are the beasts of the road. I joined the Winter Warriors group this last month and had my first run with them last week. I live where the air hurts to breathe. I live where it snows. It is pitch-black dark by 4 in the freaking afternoon. The group run starts later than that. I live where it does this neat "ice rain" thing. Running through that makes me feel like I am training my body to be a superhero. By the end of the first run, my lungs hurt and I had a shopping list for what I need to survive another crazy night of running. I bought a head lamp, and found a gator mask to put over my mouth to protect my beautiful, pink lungs. I left my house with gloves, yak trax, a mask, head lamp, light jacket, long sleeved shirt, tights, sweat pants, two pairs of running shoes, and lip balm. My family laughs at me. They threaten to get me a yellow vest so I look like a minion for real. I thought, "humm, a yellow vest may help me stand out in the dark..."
7. Runners come in every shape and size. I was stunned during my first race to see that the runners passing me were larger than I was. The magazines and news show perfect thin bodies crossing finish lines, but in reality, the majority of us are a size 8 or larger. There is no excuse why you can't run. Everyone that can walk, can run. You may run as slow as a turtle crossing a peanut butter road, but you can do it. Don't think you have to wait until you are a certain size to start running. You just have to start.
I hope this helps someone. If you love my blog, please share. I am trying to get enough visitors and eyes on my blog to do this full-time someday. (While other people run my coffee roasting business :)) Visit nectaroflife.com if you want to learn more about my day-job.
Copyright December 10, 2014 Attention Scrapers, Cheaters, Copiers, Thieves, and would-be jerks: this blog and every ounce of content on it belongs to me-NOT you. Don't re-word, splice, steal, or otherwise try to pass this off for something you would write. If you want to pay me for content, I can do that. If you fail to heed my polite warning, I hope your children flush large, valuable items down the toilet, or small items, I am fine with that too. Plumbing problems are the WORST, don't you think?
I only know this because I started trail running last fall, and found myself so far flung out of my comfort zone I had NO idea what I was doing, or HOW I got talked into doing this. But I don't quit. So rather than dwell in the past, I will give future runners that want to try something new (which I can't recommend enough) a few key pieces of advise before you hit the road.
I will warn you, some of this may be T.M.I.
1. If you have had children, your bladder is no longer your friend. I have no idea why this happens, but since I am not the first runner to blog about this, I will go ahead and assume it is a real life issue. Go potty before you go running. I don't care if it's a mile, three miles, or twenty miles. Potty first 100% of the time. Also, Always made a new line of "modern" light bladder leakage pads. You should buy those. I can only wish I was joking. My first 5K, by the end I was a bit damp. Not too bad, but enough to learn to make better beverage choices before a run. (I drank a latte before I ran- this was a BAD idea). When your body is in full run mode, your muscles are focused on keeping you upright, so holding the contents of your bladder is not the current concern. So hence the reason I give you the lesson, go potty and wear back-up.
2. Your shoes are going to need to be replaced often. How often? Well, as soon as you start to feel pain when you run, usually about four to six months. My husband cries about this. My shoes cost the same amount as a good bottle of Scotch. The shoes last longer, but it is the reason I don't drink anymore. I can't afford the calories, nor the price. I would rather run.
3. You will probably not lose weight running alone. You just read that three times to make sure I was serious, didn't you? I know some celebrities like Jenny McCarthy say, "I run for 45 minutes a day and lost the weight like everyone else..." Uh, no. Not exactly. That's NOT how it works. If you aren't eating enough protein, and you are eating junk, no amount of running is going to make you lose the weight. I can't recommend group programs enough. I am doing Weight Watchers right now, because after 10 months of running 20+ miles a week, I had actually GAINED weight. Now, with a lot of help, tweaking the diet to match the calorie output, I have lost eleven pounds.
4. If you are going to run a half marathon, or a marathon get a coach. They are worth their weight in gold. They have experience, advise, and can give you the push you need to get to the next step. I plan to start with one in the Spring so next Fall's Happy Girl, my name is on the first page of results. I want to go faster and I want to have more stamina. You can't get these on your own.
5. Okay, this one, I have NOT personally had an issue with, but since I found out some runners do have this problem, you should know about it. Runners push food through the digestive system much faster than normal people. This isn't an issue with shorter distance and half marathon runners, but marathon and ultra runners have had to leave the course to find a bathroom, or worse have an accident. The intestines are full of little finger like villi that if stimulated by vigorous activity for extended periods of time push through solid waste in record time. That is great news if you suffer from IBS-C, but if you have normal or fast body functions, this is an issue, and you will want to consider personal ways to deal with it.
6. Winter runners are the beasts of the road. I joined the Winter Warriors group this last month and had my first run with them last week. I live where the air hurts to breathe. I live where it snows. It is pitch-black dark by 4 in the freaking afternoon. The group run starts later than that. I live where it does this neat "ice rain" thing. Running through that makes me feel like I am training my body to be a superhero. By the end of the first run, my lungs hurt and I had a shopping list for what I need to survive another crazy night of running. I bought a head lamp, and found a gator mask to put over my mouth to protect my beautiful, pink lungs. I left my house with gloves, yak trax, a mask, head lamp, light jacket, long sleeved shirt, tights, sweat pants, two pairs of running shoes, and lip balm. My family laughs at me. They threaten to get me a yellow vest so I look like a minion for real. I thought, "humm, a yellow vest may help me stand out in the dark..."
7. Runners come in every shape and size. I was stunned during my first race to see that the runners passing me were larger than I was. The magazines and news show perfect thin bodies crossing finish lines, but in reality, the majority of us are a size 8 or larger. There is no excuse why you can't run. Everyone that can walk, can run. You may run as slow as a turtle crossing a peanut butter road, but you can do it. Don't think you have to wait until you are a certain size to start running. You just have to start.
I hope this helps someone. If you love my blog, please share. I am trying to get enough visitors and eyes on my blog to do this full-time someday. (While other people run my coffee roasting business :)) Visit nectaroflife.com if you want to learn more about my day-job.
Copyright December 10, 2014 Attention Scrapers, Cheaters, Copiers, Thieves, and would-be jerks: this blog and every ounce of content on it belongs to me-NOT you. Don't re-word, splice, steal, or otherwise try to pass this off for something you would write. If you want to pay me for content, I can do that. If you fail to heed my polite warning, I hope your children flush large, valuable items down the toilet, or small items, I am fine with that too. Plumbing problems are the WORST, don't you think?
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Just Shut Up
I am a blabbermouth. I hate silence in excess. If I am talking with someone, I will almost always be the one to break the silence. It is a problem I have been earnestly working on this year. I think I have figured out a few things that may help other big mouths.
1. Don't Over Share.
Yup, other runners and mom's don't mind hearing the gore of birth and running injuries. In fact, we love them. We are a sick bunch. And that is A-okay IF you a) know the person well, and b) you are SURE they want to hear it. Watch facial ticks, and for the love, stop talking if they get a little green.
Likewise, DO NOT TELL birth stories to expectant first time mothers. Never. Just No. Unless they ask AND you are related by birth. Seriously. Ditto to the ones that are "trying."
Second-hand birth and breast-feeding tales are also a no-no. Not for any reason. Unless the person is RIGHT THERE and can confirm/deny the allegations. This is something I have learned the hard way and we will leave it at that. But the point is, I learned.
2. Think before you speak.
If I don't answer a question right away it isn't because I am stupid, ignoring you, or zoning out. Sometimes, I want to come up with something thoughtful, and respectful. I can come up with pointed, hurtful, backhanded zingers off the top of my head, but that doesn't mean I should. I am quiet a lot now. I have the voice of Thumper in my head, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say 'nuffen at all."
3. There are MANY times it is okay to say NOTHING
Recently, a few big, shocking things happened to my friends. I was hurting for them. I wish I could have been there to give them a big hug, and a pie. Pie makes everything better. Pie never says the wrong thing.
I really didn't know what to say. I really didn't know how much they hurt. So, I did the opposite of what I would usually do, and I said very little. I said, "I am SO sorry." Because I was. I was sorry they were hurting. I was sorry they were in pain. I was sorry they had lost so much in such a short period of time. There was nothing more to say.
I sent off a few Joyce Meyer CD's and prayed. Sometimes, it is really is knowing someone cares. I care first and foremost about my friends hearts. They should know without a doubt, they are unconditionally loved, and respected. They should also know, I will pray, even if they don't necessarily believe in God. Most of the time, I see the answers to specific prayers happen. I don't knock my friends over the head with my faith. Faith acts, and rarely uses words.
Finally, I want to address my absolute #1 PET PEEVE (besides my decorative pillows on the floor, which is a close #2) FOR THE LOVE... DO NOT EVER, EVER, EVER BE TALKING TO SOMEONE IN THE FLESH AND TEXTING SOMEONE ELSE. I cannot think of anything ruder, or more disrespectful. It happened to me this last weekend and I found that it was actually offensive. We were having a good conversation (albeit sad, both of our mother's had died in the last few years) and suddenly she pulls out her phone and started texting! WTF?!?! I walked away. I think we all should. We should teach people that it doesn't pay off to be rude. Either that, or ask if they have phone insurance then rip the phone out of their text savy hands and proceed to run over it with a car. Explain nicely that people in the flesh are more important than someone texting. Have ONE conversation at a time. Give each person your full undivided attention and in turn, you may be able to give them the love they want and need. You may even be able to find it for yourself.
Copyright warning: Property of the United States of America and H. Jennings. November 19, 2014. Do not copy, paste, translate, skim, re-distribute, scrape, or otherwise steal the content on this site. If you ignore my very kind warning, may your tongue turn orange so people know that you are a thief.
1. Don't Over Share.
Yup, other runners and mom's don't mind hearing the gore of birth and running injuries. In fact, we love them. We are a sick bunch. And that is A-okay IF you a) know the person well, and b) you are SURE they want to hear it. Watch facial ticks, and for the love, stop talking if they get a little green.
Likewise, DO NOT TELL birth stories to expectant first time mothers. Never. Just No. Unless they ask AND you are related by birth. Seriously. Ditto to the ones that are "trying."
Second-hand birth and breast-feeding tales are also a no-no. Not for any reason. Unless the person is RIGHT THERE and can confirm/deny the allegations. This is something I have learned the hard way and we will leave it at that. But the point is, I learned.
2. Think before you speak.
If I don't answer a question right away it isn't because I am stupid, ignoring you, or zoning out. Sometimes, I want to come up with something thoughtful, and respectful. I can come up with pointed, hurtful, backhanded zingers off the top of my head, but that doesn't mean I should. I am quiet a lot now. I have the voice of Thumper in my head, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say 'nuffen at all."
3. There are MANY times it is okay to say NOTHING
Recently, a few big, shocking things happened to my friends. I was hurting for them. I wish I could have been there to give them a big hug, and a pie. Pie makes everything better. Pie never says the wrong thing.
I really didn't know what to say. I really didn't know how much they hurt. So, I did the opposite of what I would usually do, and I said very little. I said, "I am SO sorry." Because I was. I was sorry they were hurting. I was sorry they were in pain. I was sorry they had lost so much in such a short period of time. There was nothing more to say.
I sent off a few Joyce Meyer CD's and prayed. Sometimes, it is really is knowing someone cares. I care first and foremost about my friends hearts. They should know without a doubt, they are unconditionally loved, and respected. They should also know, I will pray, even if they don't necessarily believe in God. Most of the time, I see the answers to specific prayers happen. I don't knock my friends over the head with my faith. Faith acts, and rarely uses words.
Finally, I want to address my absolute #1 PET PEEVE (besides my decorative pillows on the floor, which is a close #2) FOR THE LOVE... DO NOT EVER, EVER, EVER BE TALKING TO SOMEONE IN THE FLESH AND TEXTING SOMEONE ELSE. I cannot think of anything ruder, or more disrespectful. It happened to me this last weekend and I found that it was actually offensive. We were having a good conversation (albeit sad, both of our mother's had died in the last few years) and suddenly she pulls out her phone and started texting! WTF?!?! I walked away. I think we all should. We should teach people that it doesn't pay off to be rude. Either that, or ask if they have phone insurance then rip the phone out of their text savy hands and proceed to run over it with a car. Explain nicely that people in the flesh are more important than someone texting. Have ONE conversation at a time. Give each person your full undivided attention and in turn, you may be able to give them the love they want and need. You may even be able to find it for yourself.
Copyright warning: Property of the United States of America and H. Jennings. November 19, 2014. Do not copy, paste, translate, skim, re-distribute, scrape, or otherwise steal the content on this site. If you ignore my very kind warning, may your tongue turn orange so people know that you are a thief.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Finding Home
I moved over 30 times in my life. A lot of temporary living situations, and a lot of moving around. I got REALLY good at packing as a kid. Dad had bi-polar disorder. We were not in the military.
The good was that I met a lot of people I still get to connect with via facebook. I learned a lot about the west, and mid-west. I got to meet most of my family. I know how to I learned to cook fried chicken properly in Kansas. I learned to hike 14ers, and can peaches from time in Colorado.
California was home for the bulk of my life. I love the ocean. I love the sun. I love gardening seven months a year. I consider myself a California girl. However, finding home has been a journey.
That was the bad part. I got so used to moving around, I didn't feel "at home"... anywhere. California is a big state. I was born in the Sacramento area, but again, that is quite the territory. When we visited a few weeks ago, I loved the warmth, the sun, running into old friends, and the family time. For the first time in my life, though, I didn't feel like coming back to Washington so I could pack and move right back.
Yesterday, I was pulling into the driveway of our church and the Daughtry song, "I'm Coming Home." started to play. First off, I didn't know this was a "cross-over" song. I listen to Christian music in the car. Air 1 if you want to know the exact station. The bright fall leaves swirled in the breeze and my friend was there in the parking lot as I pulled in. A strange, and unfamiliar feeling began to form a lump in my throat. I was home. I am home.
Washington state, the Spokane region became my home 12 years ago. When we came for the interview February 2002, we stayed up at Arbor Crest. It was the Historic Riblet Mansion. Sitting on the edge of a Cliff (Hence the name "Cliff House") you could see the entire Spokane region. I fell in love with the beauty of Spokane. I even said the words I now regret, "I LOVE the snow!" (Actually, I love looking at snow. From a window. Sipping hot chocolate mixed with coffee. I do NOT love driving in it. Snow is REALLY cold. It is frozen water under 30 degrees. And don't get me started on having to shovel that stuff).
Slowly, over the course of 12 years, I made friends; more in the last year than the rest of the 11 years combined. But that was really only a small part. Spokane became my home because I choose to grow here. I own a home here. I had both my kids here. I have been part of our church for eight years. I have at least five people I can count on day or night to help if I need it. Some people don't have anyone like that.
When you find the kind of home I am talking about, it becomes easy to forgive because it is what you want for yourself. You can let people in that have hurt you in the past because life is so very, very short. You discover your heart. You find that the walls you put up to protect your dwelling, family, and emotions were blocking your view of the sun.
I have a garden I have already plotted the crop and set aside the seed for Spring 2015. I have a sister that lives within 5 minutes that helps with my kids. Her husband and my kids can talk Star Wars. Which is great, because I don't understand what I haven't seen. I want to keep it that way.
Home is not just a location. People search their whole lives to find where they belong. Some, pass from earth never knowing what it means to be home. They try to find it in apartments, mansions, and buildings. They can try to make a home by forcing people to stay, or go. Some think home is a thing that can be purchased. But home is not a simple ingredient in life. It is a recipe.
Those younger than 30 may not know the theme song for Cheers. Make good use of youtube and look up the song. It may have been about a bar, but the sentiment is the there. It is a song about a place where people found family even if they weren't related by blood. The short version they played on television is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1irjgfMC3A
Home is people that love you, support you, and want you. Home should make you feel like nothing is too late or impossible. Home is the smell of pumpkin pie coming from the oven you and your husband installed together. Home is a place to mark on the wall how much your kids have grown. Home is enjoying a meal you grew from a seed. Home is walking into church and having people wave at you, even if you are a few minutes late. Home is being able to leave and visit anyone, anywhere, and always find when you return to your bed, a kind of sleep that is the most restful. Home is failure that found grace. Home is a place of love, anger, forgiveness, pain, frustration, joy, hope, and the appreciation of it all. When you enter the place you live, it is the faces of the ones you hold most dear shining back on you. It is a place that makes life's seemingly insignificant sounds a beautiful symphony.
Copyright November 7, 2014. I know this blog and all posts on it are wonderful. However, don't even think about copying, translating, or otherwise stealing this work. You have to ask. No permission from me= NO COPY. NO Kidding. If you take my work and call it your own, may a flock of roosters reside next to you for the rest of your life no matter where you live. I hope they crow at 2, 4, and 6 am for at least two minutes each time. May they remind you that you have to pee. So you have to get up each and every time. Don't be that person. Don't steal my stuff. It's just rude.
The good was that I met a lot of people I still get to connect with via facebook. I learned a lot about the west, and mid-west. I got to meet most of my family. I know how to I learned to cook fried chicken properly in Kansas. I learned to hike 14ers, and can peaches from time in Colorado.
California was home for the bulk of my life. I love the ocean. I love the sun. I love gardening seven months a year. I consider myself a California girl. However, finding home has been a journey.
That was the bad part. I got so used to moving around, I didn't feel "at home"... anywhere. California is a big state. I was born in the Sacramento area, but again, that is quite the territory. When we visited a few weeks ago, I loved the warmth, the sun, running into old friends, and the family time. For the first time in my life, though, I didn't feel like coming back to Washington so I could pack and move right back.
Yesterday, I was pulling into the driveway of our church and the Daughtry song, "I'm Coming Home." started to play. First off, I didn't know this was a "cross-over" song. I listen to Christian music in the car. Air 1 if you want to know the exact station. The bright fall leaves swirled in the breeze and my friend was there in the parking lot as I pulled in. A strange, and unfamiliar feeling began to form a lump in my throat. I was home. I am home.
Washington state, the Spokane region became my home 12 years ago. When we came for the interview February 2002, we stayed up at Arbor Crest. It was the Historic Riblet Mansion. Sitting on the edge of a Cliff (Hence the name "Cliff House") you could see the entire Spokane region. I fell in love with the beauty of Spokane. I even said the words I now regret, "I LOVE the snow!" (Actually, I love looking at snow. From a window. Sipping hot chocolate mixed with coffee. I do NOT love driving in it. Snow is REALLY cold. It is frozen water under 30 degrees. And don't get me started on having to shovel that stuff).
Slowly, over the course of 12 years, I made friends; more in the last year than the rest of the 11 years combined. But that was really only a small part. Spokane became my home because I choose to grow here. I own a home here. I had both my kids here. I have been part of our church for eight years. I have at least five people I can count on day or night to help if I need it. Some people don't have anyone like that.
When you find the kind of home I am talking about, it becomes easy to forgive because it is what you want for yourself. You can let people in that have hurt you in the past because life is so very, very short. You discover your heart. You find that the walls you put up to protect your dwelling, family, and emotions were blocking your view of the sun.
I have a garden I have already plotted the crop and set aside the seed for Spring 2015. I have a sister that lives within 5 minutes that helps with my kids. Her husband and my kids can talk Star Wars. Which is great, because I don't understand what I haven't seen. I want to keep it that way.
Home is not just a location. People search their whole lives to find where they belong. Some, pass from earth never knowing what it means to be home. They try to find it in apartments, mansions, and buildings. They can try to make a home by forcing people to stay, or go. Some think home is a thing that can be purchased. But home is not a simple ingredient in life. It is a recipe.
Those younger than 30 may not know the theme song for Cheers. Make good use of youtube and look up the song. It may have been about a bar, but the sentiment is the there. It is a song about a place where people found family even if they weren't related by blood. The short version they played on television is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1irjgfMC3A
Home is people that love you, support you, and want you. Home should make you feel like nothing is too late or impossible. Home is the smell of pumpkin pie coming from the oven you and your husband installed together. Home is a place to mark on the wall how much your kids have grown. Home is enjoying a meal you grew from a seed. Home is walking into church and having people wave at you, even if you are a few minutes late. Home is being able to leave and visit anyone, anywhere, and always find when you return to your bed, a kind of sleep that is the most restful. Home is failure that found grace. Home is a place of love, anger, forgiveness, pain, frustration, joy, hope, and the appreciation of it all. When you enter the place you live, it is the faces of the ones you hold most dear shining back on you. It is a place that makes life's seemingly insignificant sounds a beautiful symphony.
Copyright November 7, 2014. I know this blog and all posts on it are wonderful. However, don't even think about copying, translating, or otherwise stealing this work. You have to ask. No permission from me= NO COPY. NO Kidding. If you take my work and call it your own, may a flock of roosters reside next to you for the rest of your life no matter where you live. I hope they crow at 2, 4, and 6 am for at least two minutes each time. May they remind you that you have to pee. So you have to get up each and every time. Don't be that person. Don't steal my stuff. It's just rude.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Jesus, Vitamin Brooks, and Fat Girls
Six months ago, I was able to get off anti-depressants. I had been taking them since Mom got sick. Once I started running, I found a new state of content, and with my doctor's help, slowly decreased the dosage until I was able to be completely off. Now, when people ask what I "am on" to keep me happy after Mom died, I tell them, "Jesus and Vitamin Brooks." They look at me funny until I hold up my running shoe. Which I wear every day because they remind me that I need to move my butt.
http://blogs.webmd.com/food-and-nutrition/2012/08/your-brain-on-exercise.html Want proof that exercise is excellent for your attitude? Read the article I linked to above. I read it about two years ago, and decided that I HAD to move, not just for my weight, which I fight with daily, but my well-being.
Running not only improves balance with time, but it also helps with awareness, test scores, muscle tone, digestion, and sleep quality. It is seriously the best medicine for being blue. That doesn't mean that you toss that Prozac right this second. Instead, create a regular exercise regimen and stick with it. If and when you feel better, then talk to your doctor to determine the best method of coming down from the medicine. All anti-depressants are mind altering in some way, so it is important to not stop taking them cold turkey.
I was doing GREAT until I came across a news story yesterday in regards to Wal Mart labeling plus sized women costumes, "Fat Girl Costumes." http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/mega-retailer-uses-fat-girl-costume-category/ar-BBbxyKH?ocid=anscnbc11 That made me heartsick. I hate being called "fat" even though technically, I am not anymore. But anyone can tell you the first time they were ever poked and told they were "fat." It never felt good. It never came out nicely. An apology from the company came, but that is honestly how they feel about their customers. Nice.
Some people thought it was funny. I understand. If you have never been overweight, or if you don't care (Mama June), then yes, this could be possibly construed as humorous. But if you were a little girl in a bathroom and had your aunt tell you "You sure are getting fat, aren't you?" It can be taken differently. Suddenly that "chunk" was a thing to be ashamed of, embarrassed by, and something to loathe. All of which I did. I wanted to be a "skinny" girl.
I tried starving myself in junior high. That went horribly. First, I had a teacher tell my Mom, then I got a cavity from the brief amount of purging I did. Oh, and I didn't lose any weight. Not a single pound. My Mom told me we were "big boned" and I should appreciate how I looked.
By high school, I had tried almost every diet out there. But it didn't help that our families idea of diet food was eating a box of Snack Wells Devil Food cookies, because they were "low fat." We worked out to Richard Simmons "Sweatin' to the Oldies." The long and short of it was we didn't know how to be healthy, thin, people. We thought we were doing the right things to lose weight.
The scale didn't move until I moved out. I started reading books that said to use real butter, not margarine. Literature that told me carbohydrates are actually sugar in disguise. Your body stores them the same way in digestion (I was the pasta queen- so not good news). I found out that meat should be eaten in moderation and vegetables should be cooked al dente not with a cheese coating. I quit buying processed garbage and spent a small fortune at Pampered Chef. I still have the items I bought, so it was a good investment.
I know I am so much better off than I was before. I know that I have to exercise six days a week. I know that NO ONE is going to take care of my body except me. I know that I am unconditionally loved. I know that my weight is just a number. I know that I am a valuable member of society with two of the best kids on the planet. I know that this too shall pass. I hope you know these things too. Because we are precious, no matter how a store marks our size.
Copyright October 28, 2014 H. Jennings 99037 United States of America. No publication, reproduction, translation, spinning, or otherwise using this post without my permission. Because I am very bossy. Ask my sisters. Also, if you do decide to rip-off my work, I hope karma comes in the form of being attacked by a cat in your face. Not a tiger or anything, just a house cat with litter-box claws straight to your nose.
http://blogs.webmd.com/food-and-nutrition/2012/08/your-brain-on-exercise.html Want proof that exercise is excellent for your attitude? Read the article I linked to above. I read it about two years ago, and decided that I HAD to move, not just for my weight, which I fight with daily, but my well-being.
Running not only improves balance with time, but it also helps with awareness, test scores, muscle tone, digestion, and sleep quality. It is seriously the best medicine for being blue. That doesn't mean that you toss that Prozac right this second. Instead, create a regular exercise regimen and stick with it. If and when you feel better, then talk to your doctor to determine the best method of coming down from the medicine. All anti-depressants are mind altering in some way, so it is important to not stop taking them cold turkey.
I was doing GREAT until I came across a news story yesterday in regards to Wal Mart labeling plus sized women costumes, "Fat Girl Costumes." http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/mega-retailer-uses-fat-girl-costume-category/ar-BBbxyKH?ocid=anscnbc11 That made me heartsick. I hate being called "fat" even though technically, I am not anymore. But anyone can tell you the first time they were ever poked and told they were "fat." It never felt good. It never came out nicely. An apology from the company came, but that is honestly how they feel about their customers. Nice.
Some people thought it was funny. I understand. If you have never been overweight, or if you don't care (Mama June), then yes, this could be possibly construed as humorous. But if you were a little girl in a bathroom and had your aunt tell you "You sure are getting fat, aren't you?" It can be taken differently. Suddenly that "chunk" was a thing to be ashamed of, embarrassed by, and something to loathe. All of which I did. I wanted to be a "skinny" girl.
I tried starving myself in junior high. That went horribly. First, I had a teacher tell my Mom, then I got a cavity from the brief amount of purging I did. Oh, and I didn't lose any weight. Not a single pound. My Mom told me we were "big boned" and I should appreciate how I looked.
By high school, I had tried almost every diet out there. But it didn't help that our families idea of diet food was eating a box of Snack Wells Devil Food cookies, because they were "low fat." We worked out to Richard Simmons "Sweatin' to the Oldies." The long and short of it was we didn't know how to be healthy, thin, people. We thought we were doing the right things to lose weight.
The scale didn't move until I moved out. I started reading books that said to use real butter, not margarine. Literature that told me carbohydrates are actually sugar in disguise. Your body stores them the same way in digestion (I was the pasta queen- so not good news). I found out that meat should be eaten in moderation and vegetables should be cooked al dente not with a cheese coating. I quit buying processed garbage and spent a small fortune at Pampered Chef. I still have the items I bought, so it was a good investment.
I know I am so much better off than I was before. I know that I have to exercise six days a week. I know that NO ONE is going to take care of my body except me. I know that I am unconditionally loved. I know that my weight is just a number. I know that I am a valuable member of society with two of the best kids on the planet. I know that this too shall pass. I hope you know these things too. Because we are precious, no matter how a store marks our size.
Copyright October 28, 2014 H. Jennings 99037 United States of America. No publication, reproduction, translation, spinning, or otherwise using this post without my permission. Because I am very bossy. Ask my sisters. Also, if you do decide to rip-off my work, I hope karma comes in the form of being attacked by a cat in your face. Not a tiger or anything, just a house cat with litter-box claws straight to your nose.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
I'm Back!
After the race I was given crutches, and told to stay off the foot until it was healed. I have a four level house. My husband and wonderful children can't find anything. No, I don't hide things. That is a myth. They. Just. Don't. Look.
By day three, the crutches were in the closet. I had figured out a way to bandage up the blister and wear a shoe so we could still work. The foot wasn't allowed the perfect healing time, but good enough for this operation.
We went on a short trip to see family a week later. That was quite the adventure. I got to see family and friends. My husband went to a concert and hang out with his friends. He got to have his birthday with family, and old friends.
A lot of good happened and some bad. We learn from the bad and keep marching. The best marriage advise I can give is this: never stop talking to each other. Even if you fight, talking and listening is the best way to get through anything. It is only over when someone stops talking.
I started running while I was on vacation. The blister was *mostly* healed. I could feel myself getting out of shape by the day, and that wasn't working for me. My digestive system only works when I run. So I tied my running shoes on and went for it. I was so happy I did. Yes, things hurt a bit. But I felt like I was alive again. I had the mental focus and clarity that only comes with physical exertion.
We got home ten days ago. But life has a way of going very fast this time of year. And Halloween candy has a way of finding it's way into my home. Ugh. I have a love/hate relationship with candy. Okay, that's a lie. I love candy. Thankfully, I now loving running. So I indulge in the good stuff only. Why waste calorie intake on Good n' Plenty? Give me my organic, dark chocolate with sea salt and coffee nibs. And no, I don't share with my kids. And no, I don't feel even slightly guilty.
Today, I did the third round of 1.65 miles in my neighborhood. The doctor said one mile until the foot is healed (6 weeks plus). This is my version of obedience.
I live in the cold north, or Washington State. I also signed up for the "Winter Warrior" group locally. We plan to run every week, even through rain, sleet, and snow. Because we are banana's, that's why. I am going to keep running and earning points. I am just competitive enough to try.
Copyright October 25, 2014 H. Jennings, United States of America. No part of this blog may be used, translated, copied, altered, spun, or stolen. If you do any of these things I have spoken of, may your printer ink be dry, your cereal to have moths, and the air in all of your tires escapes. Because stealing copyright material makes you a jerk.
By day three, the crutches were in the closet. I had figured out a way to bandage up the blister and wear a shoe so we could still work. The foot wasn't allowed the perfect healing time, but good enough for this operation.
We went on a short trip to see family a week later. That was quite the adventure. I got to see family and friends. My husband went to a concert and hang out with his friends. He got to have his birthday with family, and old friends.
A lot of good happened and some bad. We learn from the bad and keep marching. The best marriage advise I can give is this: never stop talking to each other. Even if you fight, talking and listening is the best way to get through anything. It is only over when someone stops talking.
I started running while I was on vacation. The blister was *mostly* healed. I could feel myself getting out of shape by the day, and that wasn't working for me. My digestive system only works when I run. So I tied my running shoes on and went for it. I was so happy I did. Yes, things hurt a bit. But I felt like I was alive again. I had the mental focus and clarity that only comes with physical exertion.
We got home ten days ago. But life has a way of going very fast this time of year. And Halloween candy has a way of finding it's way into my home. Ugh. I have a love/hate relationship with candy. Okay, that's a lie. I love candy. Thankfully, I now loving running. So I indulge in the good stuff only. Why waste calorie intake on Good n' Plenty? Give me my organic, dark chocolate with sea salt and coffee nibs. And no, I don't share with my kids. And no, I don't feel even slightly guilty.
Today, I did the third round of 1.65 miles in my neighborhood. The doctor said one mile until the foot is healed (6 weeks plus). This is my version of obedience.
I live in the cold north, or Washington State. I also signed up for the "Winter Warrior" group locally. We plan to run every week, even through rain, sleet, and snow. Because we are banana's, that's why. I am going to keep running and earning points. I am just competitive enough to try.
Copyright October 25, 2014 H. Jennings, United States of America. No part of this blog may be used, translated, copied, altered, spun, or stolen. If you do any of these things I have spoken of, may your printer ink be dry, your cereal to have moths, and the air in all of your tires escapes. Because stealing copyright material makes you a jerk.
Sunday, September 28, 2014
First Half Marathon Finished!
I have two sayings over my desk. "I am strong because I am weak. I am fearless because I have been afraid. I am wise because I have been foolish." The second is "Sometimes you win, Sometimes you learn."
Both applied to yesterday.
I wrote on my arm, Hebrews 12:1 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off the weight and everything that hinders us, and run with perseverance the race set before us."
I joined the trail running group eight weeks ago. Our first run was on the Riverside State Park trail near the cemetery. I did pretty good. I thought, "I can TOTALLY do this!" The runs got progressively harder, longer, and more technical. Last week, I did the five mile trek, and I thought, "I can do Happy Girl no problem!" I had aspirations of a two and a half hour finish.
The race began on the same leg as the first trail we ran. Piece of cake, I zoomed through people as the familiar trail was, dare I say, easy. I did four miles and caught up to the second group of runners. (There were three groups). I was easily doing ten and a half minute miles. Then I looked down at the six mile mark and I almost cried. Mom was gone.
Mom has technically been gone. She passed a year and a half ago. I run with her happy smile around my neck on a dog tag. She has completed every race so far with me.
I stopped and ran backwards for about a quarter mile. I didn't see her. I started praying HARD someone would find her and bring her back. I notified the next aid station on the trail.
The trail got more technical, and without Mom, I felt a little lost, and a lot sad. I decided to keep going, telling myself, I could always get another one, if it didn't show up.
By mile 8 it was hard to pick my feet up all the way, and I slipped on horse poop that was on a rock. I didn't see the rock until it was too late. My ankle hurt. Bad. Like white streaks in my vision bad. I decided it was okay to cry. I didn't stop though. I invented this hop/skip/limp thing that must have looked hilarious to the people behind me. But I didn't care.
I started to walk. The twisted ankle caused some kind of muscle spasm to kick in. My calf muscle seized up and hot, searing pain greeted me with each downward step. The lady behind me pointed to my calf and said something like, "That doesn't look good." But I told her I was fine. So I did a tip-toe run to stretch the muscle and keep my momentum in a forward direction. It worked. Sort of, anyway. I now have a blister that made my husband nauseous to look at.
For the rest of the race, I did a run a bit, walk a bit, run a bit, walk a bit. Then I got the call from my husband asking if I was okay. "I'm alive." I told him, "In pain like no other, but I am alive." He was sympathetic. "Get here when you can. I love you. I am proud of you." I got off the phone and started to cry a little again. I had one mile left to go.
I saw my family at the edge of the property with my unicorn. Excitement, pain, happiness, agony, and a little disappointment in myself were all emotions I felt. But they were the best thing I had seen all day. My family loves me. My husband had said the night before bringing the unicorn, "would be humiliating." I told him not to worry about it. But my oldest, an eleven year old boy, wanted me to ride the unicorn over the finish in the first place. What woman rides a unicorn over the finish? Me. I did. I rode a unicorn over the finish line of the half marathon.
My time wasn't great. It took three hours, pretty much even. Overall, I came in 442 out of 594 runners. My body hurt in places I didn't know I had. Walking is a bit sketchy. Going up (or down) the stairs isn't fun. (Which reaffirms my decision my next house will be single level. My current home has four levels).
I posted a plea to fellow racers to keep an eye out for the necklace of Mom. Social Media, in all it's faults, saved Mom from a second tragic loss. The company that made the necklace went out of business. I could not have replaced it if I wanted to. To the person that found her and turned her in, please let me know. I want to send you a bag of coffee and a thank you card. I was able to go pick up the necklace yesterday afternoon. My necklace of Mom is safe and sound.
I got a beautiful sterling silver necklace at the finish. I wore it the rest of the day. One side says "Happy Girl" the other "Finisher 13.1 miles." Worth every bruise, sprain, strain, and blister.
I put my race bib over my desk. It is a reminder that even when you think you are prepared for something, bad things may happen. You have to keep going. You have to stay strong.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Copy write September 28, 2014 H.Jennings. Under NO circumstances may any portion of this article may be used, cited, spun, or translated into other languages (I SEE YOUR GOOGLE IP ADDRESSES) without WRITTEN CONSENT. This and all information on this blog is subject to the rights and laws of the United States of America. Stay off our blogs, out of our land, and be thankful we are the greatest country in the world.
Both applied to yesterday.
I wrote on my arm, Hebrews 12:1 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off the weight and everything that hinders us, and run with perseverance the race set before us."
I joined the trail running group eight weeks ago. Our first run was on the Riverside State Park trail near the cemetery. I did pretty good. I thought, "I can TOTALLY do this!" The runs got progressively harder, longer, and more technical. Last week, I did the five mile trek, and I thought, "I can do Happy Girl no problem!" I had aspirations of a two and a half hour finish.
The race began on the same leg as the first trail we ran. Piece of cake, I zoomed through people as the familiar trail was, dare I say, easy. I did four miles and caught up to the second group of runners. (There were three groups). I was easily doing ten and a half minute miles. Then I looked down at the six mile mark and I almost cried. Mom was gone.
Mom has technically been gone. She passed a year and a half ago. I run with her happy smile around my neck on a dog tag. She has completed every race so far with me.
I stopped and ran backwards for about a quarter mile. I didn't see her. I started praying HARD someone would find her and bring her back. I notified the next aid station on the trail.
The trail got more technical, and without Mom, I felt a little lost, and a lot sad. I decided to keep going, telling myself, I could always get another one, if it didn't show up.
By mile 8 it was hard to pick my feet up all the way, and I slipped on horse poop that was on a rock. I didn't see the rock until it was too late. My ankle hurt. Bad. Like white streaks in my vision bad. I decided it was okay to cry. I didn't stop though. I invented this hop/skip/limp thing that must have looked hilarious to the people behind me. But I didn't care.
I started to walk. The twisted ankle caused some kind of muscle spasm to kick in. My calf muscle seized up and hot, searing pain greeted me with each downward step. The lady behind me pointed to my calf and said something like, "That doesn't look good." But I told her I was fine. So I did a tip-toe run to stretch the muscle and keep my momentum in a forward direction. It worked. Sort of, anyway. I now have a blister that made my husband nauseous to look at.
For the rest of the race, I did a run a bit, walk a bit, run a bit, walk a bit. Then I got the call from my husband asking if I was okay. "I'm alive." I told him, "In pain like no other, but I am alive." He was sympathetic. "Get here when you can. I love you. I am proud of you." I got off the phone and started to cry a little again. I had one mile left to go.
I saw my family at the edge of the property with my unicorn. Excitement, pain, happiness, agony, and a little disappointment in myself were all emotions I felt. But they were the best thing I had seen all day. My family loves me. My husband had said the night before bringing the unicorn, "would be humiliating." I told him not to worry about it. But my oldest, an eleven year old boy, wanted me to ride the unicorn over the finish in the first place. What woman rides a unicorn over the finish? Me. I did. I rode a unicorn over the finish line of the half marathon.
My time wasn't great. It took three hours, pretty much even. Overall, I came in 442 out of 594 runners. My body hurt in places I didn't know I had. Walking is a bit sketchy. Going up (or down) the stairs isn't fun. (Which reaffirms my decision my next house will be single level. My current home has four levels).
I posted a plea to fellow racers to keep an eye out for the necklace of Mom. Social Media, in all it's faults, saved Mom from a second tragic loss. The company that made the necklace went out of business. I could not have replaced it if I wanted to. To the person that found her and turned her in, please let me know. I want to send you a bag of coffee and a thank you card. I was able to go pick up the necklace yesterday afternoon. My necklace of Mom is safe and sound.
I got a beautiful sterling silver necklace at the finish. I wore it the rest of the day. One side says "Happy Girl" the other "Finisher 13.1 miles." Worth every bruise, sprain, strain, and blister.
I put my race bib over my desk. It is a reminder that even when you think you are prepared for something, bad things may happen. You have to keep going. You have to stay strong.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Copy write September 28, 2014 H.Jennings. Under NO circumstances may any portion of this article may be used, cited, spun, or translated into other languages (I SEE YOUR GOOGLE IP ADDRESSES) without WRITTEN CONSENT. This and all information on this blog is subject to the rights and laws of the United States of America. Stay off our blogs, out of our land, and be thankful we are the greatest country in the world.
Monday, September 22, 2014
Don't Quit
I have been "practicing" running in my ankle brace, and knee brace. With the help of the orthotic insole my calf muscle (gastrocnemius and soleus for the technical term) no longer feels like it is being torn from the bone; which is what was happening with the 9mm drop in my arch when I would use force to run. Most people have a 4mm drop. In non-technical jargon, this means, I have feet so flat they sink when I walk. It is ugly.
"The big bruise on your arch didn't clue you in to stop running?"
"I am part of a trail group, I have to run." She furrowed her eye brows and glared at me.
"Why are you nuts? That isn't a related answer to the question I asked."
"I have a half-marathon I am training for. I have been working hard, so I have to take the bruises, and just tape, medicate, bandage, and brace into place until it is over." I was not shocked that she was so forward about her disdain. I have already had the same canned response for the three doctors that have spent the last three weeks patching up my leg and foot.
She shrugged her shoulders. "Fine. Do your half marathon then you HAVE to stop until the muscle is healed. If you don't rest and don't stop, this condition will form scar tissue and you will risk much worse injury. You can start running distance again when the bruise and muscle are completely healed. Which is six weeks."
I understand. I understand pushing past pain, but I also understand being an idiot. This half marathon is my last long distance run until the first of the year. I will still run nearly everyday, but it will be one to three miles. Runners don't count three miles as "distance." This is a bit disheartening. But I keep running. One mile is still a run. Two miles is still a run. Three miles is still longer than the majority of the population can do.
The last week, I had to walk. Ankle braces make my feet feel like they are sliding around in my shoe. Which is not optimal for being stable on uneven terrain like a trail. But I am moving forward and pressing past what feels normal and comfortable. I have to cross that finish.
I changed the time I will finish. I am in the slowest group now. It isn't what I wanted. But life is 100% about how you take being knocked down. Are you going to make excuses and use injury to give you an attitude of fear, and failure? Or do you want to put on some decent shoes and go for a long walk that gives way to a run?
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) September 22, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the author and web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
"The big bruise on your arch didn't clue you in to stop running?"
"I am part of a trail group, I have to run." She furrowed her eye brows and glared at me.
"Why are you nuts? That isn't a related answer to the question I asked."
"I have a half-marathon I am training for. I have been working hard, so I have to take the bruises, and just tape, medicate, bandage, and brace into place until it is over." I was not shocked that she was so forward about her disdain. I have already had the same canned response for the three doctors that have spent the last three weeks patching up my leg and foot.
She shrugged her shoulders. "Fine. Do your half marathon then you HAVE to stop until the muscle is healed. If you don't rest and don't stop, this condition will form scar tissue and you will risk much worse injury. You can start running distance again when the bruise and muscle are completely healed. Which is six weeks."
I understand. I understand pushing past pain, but I also understand being an idiot. This half marathon is my last long distance run until the first of the year. I will still run nearly everyday, but it will be one to three miles. Runners don't count three miles as "distance." This is a bit disheartening. But I keep running. One mile is still a run. Two miles is still a run. Three miles is still longer than the majority of the population can do.
The last week, I had to walk. Ankle braces make my feet feel like they are sliding around in my shoe. Which is not optimal for being stable on uneven terrain like a trail. But I am moving forward and pressing past what feels normal and comfortable. I have to cross that finish.
I changed the time I will finish. I am in the slowest group now. It isn't what I wanted. But life is 100% about how you take being knocked down. Are you going to make excuses and use injury to give you an attitude of fear, and failure? Or do you want to put on some decent shoes and go for a long walk that gives way to a run?
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) September 22, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the author and web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
My Happy Place
I put aside training a few weeks each year to bake in the sun ("bake" is the correct term. I go from translucent winter white to beet red inside of two days), and watch whales breech in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I trade Vitamin Water for salt-rimmed margarita's and listening to my kids laugh and play in the pool. When I am stressed, or having a difficult day, I can close my eyes and picture the sand in my toes and the ice in my drink.
The images from Hurricane Odile hit too close to my Happy Place. Looting at the Wal Mart where I shop, the beaches, pristine and beautiful, are now ravaged and filthy. Miles of shoreline I walked hand in hand with husband devastated overnight. More important than my own little world of sheltered paradise, the mass flattening of the homes of those that make my stay pleasant and wonderful, is too much to absorb. The homes made of wax cardboard, composite wood, iron, and cement lay in piles washed away like a house of cards.
After going through pictures of my in-laws in Mexico, we created a coffee blend called, "Happy Place." With the mix of Mexican, Guatemalan, and Sumatran coffee, it is the heavy favorite of all the coffee we roast. It is a permanent homage to our favorite place. http://www.nectaroflife.com/Happyplace.htm
It is the only time and place I have ever been thankful for the hours I endured Dora the Explorer. I can tell you I need to find a bathroom, I only eat chicken, the words for chocolate, coffee, spider, snake, up, down, music, and in this case, star. I sat on the beach with my family after the sun set watching the brilliant display of stars above. Suddenly, a huge star took off across the sky. I yelled to the Hispanic family behind us, "ESTRELLA! ESTRELLA!" They were able to catch a glimpse of the tail, and for once, I was thankful I remembered Dora and her ridiculous star pocket.
My happy place used to be on top of a 14er. I climbed to the top of one of them twice while working at a Christian Challenge camp in the area. I love trail running because although I have a lot more oxygen than I did when I climbed Redcloud Peak (14,034 if you want EXACT numbers) I get a similar feeling of accomplishment and awe. There is nothing like being on top of a tall hill or mountain. Both times I hiked to the top, I did so with a large group of kids and my fellow group leaders. When you give kids the chance to face their fears, accomplish a HUGE goal, and let them touch the sky, you show them they can do anything.
This week, we trail ran near Liberty Lake in Washington state. It isn't my favorite trail. I don't care for weeds that overgrow a trail. But the view from the top of the lake was pretty amazing. My time on the trek stunk. Yes, I can blame my foot. Like a fool, I left the brace I had been told to wear at home. Ugh. I won't make that mistake again. For a while at least. Rule #1 Never change anything that worked. Okay, that is the NEW rule #1.
As I climbed to the top of the hill, my foot pain gnawing at my knees and making me feel stupider with every step, I had to remember who I am. I didn't just give the kids strength to face their fears, and pain, I gave myself the gift as well. A small part of me wanted to turn around and go back. I decided a bit of pain would be worth the effort. I AM an over-comer. I BELIEVE I can do this. I KNOW that I am strong.
Next year, we are talking about going to Mexico for very different reasons. We are looking into finding ways to help make life better for those that serve so many. Perhaps a day or two out of our vacation, we can work to rebuild the homes of those that create our "Happy Place."
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
After going through pictures of my in-laws in Mexico, we created a coffee blend called, "Happy Place." With the mix of Mexican, Guatemalan, and Sumatran coffee, it is the heavy favorite of all the coffee we roast. It is a permanent homage to our favorite place. http://www.nectaroflife.com/Happyplace.htm
It is the only time and place I have ever been thankful for the hours I endured Dora the Explorer. I can tell you I need to find a bathroom, I only eat chicken, the words for chocolate, coffee, spider, snake, up, down, music, and in this case, star. I sat on the beach with my family after the sun set watching the brilliant display of stars above. Suddenly, a huge star took off across the sky. I yelled to the Hispanic family behind us, "ESTRELLA! ESTRELLA!" They were able to catch a glimpse of the tail, and for once, I was thankful I remembered Dora and her ridiculous star pocket.
My happy place used to be on top of a 14er. I climbed to the top of one of them twice while working at a Christian Challenge camp in the area. I love trail running because although I have a lot more oxygen than I did when I climbed Redcloud Peak (14,034 if you want EXACT numbers) I get a similar feeling of accomplishment and awe. There is nothing like being on top of a tall hill or mountain. Both times I hiked to the top, I did so with a large group of kids and my fellow group leaders. When you give kids the chance to face their fears, accomplish a HUGE goal, and let them touch the sky, you show them they can do anything.
This week, we trail ran near Liberty Lake in Washington state. It isn't my favorite trail. I don't care for weeds that overgrow a trail. But the view from the top of the lake was pretty amazing. My time on the trek stunk. Yes, I can blame my foot. Like a fool, I left the brace I had been told to wear at home. Ugh. I won't make that mistake again. For a while at least. Rule #1 Never change anything that worked. Okay, that is the NEW rule #1.
As I climbed to the top of the hill, my foot pain gnawing at my knees and making me feel stupider with every step, I had to remember who I am. I didn't just give the kids strength to face their fears, and pain, I gave myself the gift as well. A small part of me wanted to turn around and go back. I decided a bit of pain would be worth the effort. I AM an over-comer. I BELIEVE I can do this. I KNOW that I am strong.
Next year, we are talking about going to Mexico for very different reasons. We are looking into finding ways to help make life better for those that serve so many. Perhaps a day or two out of our vacation, we can work to rebuild the homes of those that create our "Happy Place."
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
The Finish Line Is Near!
I missed the last two trail running group meetings. I felt like a loser last night, but sometimes life is like that. We only think we have control.
So, while tending to my sick kid, and getting used to running with the ultra hip, super sexy brace for my knee I opt for the treadmill. (My husband says it looks like I am slowly building an exo-skeleton. I assume that is a sci-fi reference). I did alright. Seven miles in all.
Am I built for running? I asked myself that question all week as I went to an orthopedist appointment and was fitted for the brace. He assured me EVERYONE is able to run. If you can walk, you can run. SHOULD everyone run? No, probably not. Although I run a high risk for eventual problems in my knees and feet, I am taking the steps now to prevent that. By keeping active, and my weight within normal guidelines, my joints should be fine for decades. That was music to my ears. I am not the skinniest runner, and I am not the fastest runner, but I am off the couch. That half marathon will be ran. I have 99 problems, but determination isn't one of them.
Today marks a happy day. It is our coffee neighbor's first birthday. Technically, it's their little boy's birthday, but he rolls around like he knows what he is doing. My kids were out at our warehouse roasting coffee with us until they were two years old. (Not in the shop with the coffee, we have an office... sheesh.) They had a party for him last weekend that included the grandparents, parents, and that was the end of the list. Not that I wouldn't have gone. I would have. However, they asked me a few months ago if "the kid" would remember the first birthday at all. Here is what I said, "If I could go back in time, I would have spent NO money the first two birthday's. Wait until they are three, have friends of their own (if you do pre-school or play groups), and you can do something fun. If you REALLY want a cake, make one yourself. Decorations from the Dollar Tree. Cap it at $5.00. And for the love of all things infant, DON'T. DO. GOODYBAGS. Goody bags are for older kids that care about the temporary tattoo, bottle of bubbles, candy, and crayons. But seriously, save your money for the next two years." I know most new parents can't help themselves, but I am proud to report they took my advise. I didn't get so much as an invitation. And I couldn't be happier.
I don't think I have lost any more weight. I don't use the scale at home, as I have to step on one when I go into the doctor's office. They don't tell me the numbers, and I like that. My pants fit, I feel healthy, and one way or another, goals are being met.
As for the missing trail runs, guess where I am dragging the whole family later this week? To the trails I missed. We are ALL going to take those dusty runs. Because I am flexible like that...
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the author and web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
So, while tending to my sick kid, and getting used to running with the ultra hip, super sexy brace for my knee I opt for the treadmill. (My husband says it looks like I am slowly building an exo-skeleton. I assume that is a sci-fi reference). I did alright. Seven miles in all.
Am I built for running? I asked myself that question all week as I went to an orthopedist appointment and was fitted for the brace. He assured me EVERYONE is able to run. If you can walk, you can run. SHOULD everyone run? No, probably not. Although I run a high risk for eventual problems in my knees and feet, I am taking the steps now to prevent that. By keeping active, and my weight within normal guidelines, my joints should be fine for decades. That was music to my ears. I am not the skinniest runner, and I am not the fastest runner, but I am off the couch. That half marathon will be ran. I have 99 problems, but determination isn't one of them.
Today marks a happy day. It is our coffee neighbor's first birthday. Technically, it's their little boy's birthday, but he rolls around like he knows what he is doing. My kids were out at our warehouse roasting coffee with us until they were two years old. (Not in the shop with the coffee, we have an office... sheesh.) They had a party for him last weekend that included the grandparents, parents, and that was the end of the list. Not that I wouldn't have gone. I would have. However, they asked me a few months ago if "the kid" would remember the first birthday at all. Here is what I said, "If I could go back in time, I would have spent NO money the first two birthday's. Wait until they are three, have friends of their own (if you do pre-school or play groups), and you can do something fun. If you REALLY want a cake, make one yourself. Decorations from the Dollar Tree. Cap it at $5.00. And for the love of all things infant, DON'T. DO. GOODYBAGS. Goody bags are for older kids that care about the temporary tattoo, bottle of bubbles, candy, and crayons. But seriously, save your money for the next two years." I know most new parents can't help themselves, but I am proud to report they took my advise. I didn't get so much as an invitation. And I couldn't be happier.
I don't think I have lost any more weight. I don't use the scale at home, as I have to step on one when I go into the doctor's office. They don't tell me the numbers, and I like that. My pants fit, I feel healthy, and one way or another, goals are being met.
As for the missing trail runs, guess where I am dragging the whole family later this week? To the trails I missed. We are ALL going to take those dusty runs. Because I am flexible like that...
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the author and web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
First World and Foot Issues
Saturday was rough. I ran almost three miles, then pain (and I mean the run MUST stop pain) caused an abrupt halt to the training. Sunday I threw in a mouth guard and ran through the pain. I iced the foot and put it up later, but the bruise on my arch said that the action was probably stupid. By Monday, no trail group for me. I could walk, but it hurt. I wore one of those uber sexy wrap supports and went around with my kids.
My trail coach said getting the foot looked at was about the only thing I could do. I went into the Fleet Feet Store http://www.fleetfeetsports.com/ and was immediately given the best customer support in the world. I had not one person, but two, watching me walk to figure out my gait, and showing me with an actual foot bone display what was happening when I walked (ouch! By the way, no wonder my poor foot hurt!). I was in the store about a half an hour and walked out with a arch support for the bones that no longer wanted to stay put. They cut and fit the mold for my foot. I have a super tiny calcaneus heel and large metatarsals (foot bones). This makes finding a shoe fit difficult for someone like me.
Which brings me to a few months ago, when I started having foot pain, and wandered into another national sporting goods store that shall remain nameless and I asked the "shoe department expert" if she knew what support would work best with the specific pain I was having. She was chewing gum, and apparently I interrupted her conversation with the married but yet flirting younger gentleman. Yeah, I was unimpressed at that point, then she pointed, and told me, "the supports are over there, center rack." I asked how I would know what one I needed. She said, "uh, I dunno... Good luck with that." Can you say, tacky? It isn't even worth going in for the coupon they offered. I would have had better luck at Wal Mart.
This week we also introduced our kids to Weird Al videos. I hadn't seen any of them since the early '90's (Achy Break-y Song) and apparently, he has had quite the comeback. http://youtu.be/bwvlbJ0h35A This one is called "First World Problems." I was a bit convicted. Now, I when I get frustrated about the little things, like the dishes not coming out of the dishwasher clean enough, or clothes coming out of the dryer wrinkled warrants the song to be played in my head. "First world, first world problems, yeah..." I am a spoiled first world woman. But a THANKFUL woman. I really do give thanks for dirty dishes (we get to eat), dirty clothes (we have little people that get dirty), and snow to shovel (we have water when the rest of the west is in a severe drought). However, my favorite is http://youtu.be/8Gv0H-vPoDc Word Crimes.
So, this afternoon training will resume. Fast walk to start breaking in the new support, then jog, but I will be there on the 27th for this adventure I committed to. Have a great rest of your week.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
My trail coach said getting the foot looked at was about the only thing I could do. I went into the Fleet Feet Store http://www.fleetfeetsports.com/ and was immediately given the best customer support in the world. I had not one person, but two, watching me walk to figure out my gait, and showing me with an actual foot bone display what was happening when I walked (ouch! By the way, no wonder my poor foot hurt!). I was in the store about a half an hour and walked out with a arch support for the bones that no longer wanted to stay put. They cut and fit the mold for my foot. I have a super tiny calcaneus heel and large metatarsals (foot bones). This makes finding a shoe fit difficult for someone like me.
Which brings me to a few months ago, when I started having foot pain, and wandered into another national sporting goods store that shall remain nameless and I asked the "shoe department expert" if she knew what support would work best with the specific pain I was having. She was chewing gum, and apparently I interrupted her conversation with the married but yet flirting younger gentleman. Yeah, I was unimpressed at that point, then she pointed, and told me, "the supports are over there, center rack." I asked how I would know what one I needed. She said, "uh, I dunno... Good luck with that." Can you say, tacky? It isn't even worth going in for the coupon they offered. I would have had better luck at Wal Mart.
This week we also introduced our kids to Weird Al videos. I hadn't seen any of them since the early '90's (Achy Break-y Song) and apparently, he has had quite the comeback. http://youtu.be/bwvlbJ0h35A This one is called "First World Problems." I was a bit convicted. Now, I when I get frustrated about the little things, like the dishes not coming out of the dishwasher clean enough, or clothes coming out of the dryer wrinkled warrants the song to be played in my head. "First world, first world problems, yeah..." I am a spoiled first world woman. But a THANKFUL woman. I really do give thanks for dirty dishes (we get to eat), dirty clothes (we have little people that get dirty), and snow to shovel (we have water when the rest of the west is in a severe drought). However, my favorite is http://youtu.be/8Gv0H-vPoDc Word Crimes.
So, this afternoon training will resume. Fast walk to start breaking in the new support, then jog, but I will be there on the 27th for this adventure I committed to. Have a great rest of your week.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
They will find I am strong
I promise I was at three weeks of trail running yesterday. But man, did that dirt hill whoop me! I was gasping for air and yet determined to keep going no matter what.
It isn't even close to the hardest thing I did all day. A few hours earlier, I had an ultrasound to address some of the pain I had been experiencing. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know something is amiss when there are a number of measurements being taken, and a black "anomaly" appears on screen.
It's a small fibrous tumor. It's completely operable, and so I am not worried whatsoever. Faith in God means that this too will pass and my faith is unshaken. Follow-ups are scheduled, and they will find in addition to the tumor, I am strong.
On a positive note, the scale showed a one pound drop in weight from my last appointment. It is a tiny win, but I will take it! I have worked off many calories to fight for that drop.
My long run on Saturday was over ten miles (including the walk earlier). I hope next week to have the time go under two hours for the eleven miles I have scheduled. Not sure I will hit the mark, but I am going to give it everything.
The unicorn hippity hop ball arrived. I love it so much. My toddler neighbors think it is the best thing on planet Earth. If you have never heard a child laugh while riding a unicorn, your life isn't complete yet.
So, keep going with your personal goals! Medical issues aren't going to stop or slow me down, and they shouldn't to you either. Run, swim, bike, jog, walk, do karate, or hop, but do something at least one hour six days a week. Don't strive for a "perfect" body size, shoot for a healthy body with a normal weight.
Have a great rest of your week!
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
It isn't even close to the hardest thing I did all day. A few hours earlier, I had an ultrasound to address some of the pain I had been experiencing. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know something is amiss when there are a number of measurements being taken, and a black "anomaly" appears on screen.
It's a small fibrous tumor. It's completely operable, and so I am not worried whatsoever. Faith in God means that this too will pass and my faith is unshaken. Follow-ups are scheduled, and they will find in addition to the tumor, I am strong.
On a positive note, the scale showed a one pound drop in weight from my last appointment. It is a tiny win, but I will take it! I have worked off many calories to fight for that drop.
My long run on Saturday was over ten miles (including the walk earlier). I hope next week to have the time go under two hours for the eleven miles I have scheduled. Not sure I will hit the mark, but I am going to give it everything.
The unicorn hippity hop ball arrived. I love it so much. My toddler neighbors think it is the best thing on planet Earth. If you have never heard a child laugh while riding a unicorn, your life isn't complete yet.
So, keep going with your personal goals! Medical issues aren't going to stop or slow me down, and they shouldn't to you either. Run, swim, bike, jog, walk, do karate, or hop, but do something at least one hour six days a week. Don't strive for a "perfect" body size, shoot for a healthy body with a normal weight.
Have a great rest of your week!
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
New Friends and The Scenic Tour
I joined a trail running group a few weeks ago. This was a good thing. I am a treadmill runner for the most part, but on the seldom "nice days" I will go trekking through our neighborhood. But, like Goldilocks, I don't like too hot, too cold, or too windy. So I get out like three times a year. Just kidding. But you get the idea.
The trail group forces me out of my comfort zone and straight up a cliff. Coach called it, "steep incline" but I think he will get a visual dictionary for Christmas. Here are a few other things that I didn't know when I started trail running:
1. "Jog up the hill/ mountain" This means walk at about 3.2 miles an hour for the rest of human kind. The coach goes a lot faster because he is some sort of mutant. Seriously, don't try to run.
2. "The trail is narrow." Translation, dirt trail used by deer. This is very narrow, and usually has loose rock and dirt. And whatever you do, DO NOT look down.
3. "Bring plenty of hydration." We went on a 500+ elevation climb (which wouldn't sound like much), but I guzzled down over 38 oz of water. Next time, I will fill up my Camelback (c) because I don't like running out of water. If you don't own a hydration pack, get one.
4. "Watch your footing." This means do not divert your eyes from the ground unless you are 100% sure you are not going to die/fall. If you want to see the deer someone pointed out, stop running. Or fall down. Your choice.
5. "I marked the trail with flour." *Sigh* This means he/she probably marked the trail, but stay with the leader just in case. If you are in a little group a bit further back, you might get lost. I mean, take the scenic route. We had more distance than the rest of the group, and found our way back (because someone found us, but you know, whatever). That flour dusting was about 20 paces further than the trail crossing. We could have probably seen it, but all four of us managed to miss it. Okay, three of us. One person said, "I think we went the wrong way." Her father may have taken pictures to document the group. At least I wasn't alone.
Making friends as an adult is more difficult than I anticipated. I have lived in the same area for 12 years. I am friends with my neighbors and I consider myself friends with the parents of my kids friends. But doing things outside my family, and neighbors was a BIG step. I had to join a group at church, and this trail group. Now, I have friends of my own. Which sounds weird.
I used to have a lot of friends. I wasn't "popular" but I had people I hung out with. I am still in touch with friends I made in Middle School. Once I consider you a friend, you are in for life.
My kids are both in new schools this year. We are all three in the same boat. Trying to find people that can relate to us, share our interests, and like coffee. I keep telling my kids to get out there and join people and if one group isn't right, then go do something else.
It takes work to meet new people but just remember, be yourself, and give everyone the same grace you want for yourself. In the end, you might find a person or two you will learn to appreciate and grow with. Good friends are out there, you just have to look.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
The trail group forces me out of my comfort zone and straight up a cliff. Coach called it, "steep incline" but I think he will get a visual dictionary for Christmas. Here are a few other things that I didn't know when I started trail running:
1. "Jog up the hill/ mountain" This means walk at about 3.2 miles an hour for the rest of human kind. The coach goes a lot faster because he is some sort of mutant. Seriously, don't try to run.
2. "The trail is narrow." Translation, dirt trail used by deer. This is very narrow, and usually has loose rock and dirt. And whatever you do, DO NOT look down.
3. "Bring plenty of hydration." We went on a 500+ elevation climb (which wouldn't sound like much), but I guzzled down over 38 oz of water. Next time, I will fill up my Camelback (c) because I don't like running out of water. If you don't own a hydration pack, get one.
4. "Watch your footing." This means do not divert your eyes from the ground unless you are 100% sure you are not going to die/fall. If you want to see the deer someone pointed out, stop running. Or fall down. Your choice.
5. "I marked the trail with flour." *Sigh* This means he/she probably marked the trail, but stay with the leader just in case. If you are in a little group a bit further back, you might get lost. I mean, take the scenic route. We had more distance than the rest of the group, and found our way back (because someone found us, but you know, whatever). That flour dusting was about 20 paces further than the trail crossing. We could have probably seen it, but all four of us managed to miss it. Okay, three of us. One person said, "I think we went the wrong way." Her father may have taken pictures to document the group. At least I wasn't alone.
Making friends as an adult is more difficult than I anticipated. I have lived in the same area for 12 years. I am friends with my neighbors and I consider myself friends with the parents of my kids friends. But doing things outside my family, and neighbors was a BIG step. I had to join a group at church, and this trail group. Now, I have friends of my own. Which sounds weird.
I used to have a lot of friends. I wasn't "popular" but I had people I hung out with. I am still in touch with friends I made in Middle School. Once I consider you a friend, you are in for life.
My kids are both in new schools this year. We are all three in the same boat. Trying to find people that can relate to us, share our interests, and like coffee. I keep telling my kids to get out there and join people and if one group isn't right, then go do something else.
It takes work to meet new people but just remember, be yourself, and give everyone the same grace you want for yourself. In the end, you might find a person or two you will learn to appreciate and grow with. Good friends are out there, you just have to look.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Nothing Is Impossible... Including Unicorns
"Dad, how do you spell unicorn?" The memory flashed as I happened upon a piece of yellowing paper in Mom's big stack of stuff she kept, but didn't organize. On it was a list with a few things in my four year old handwriting. I wanted a horse, or a unicorn, and a new Light Bright.
The room was dark and Dad was watching football. I sat there making my Christmas list. "There are no such thing as unicorns." He said flatly. My feelings were hurt, but he didn't answer my question. "I know. I asked 'how do you SPELL unicorn.'" He rolled his eyes dramatically and spelled it out.
My cousin came over with my Great Uncle several days later and told me that unicorns might have been real, and then informed me that my Dad didn't know everything. He said he hoped I did get a unicorn. That was thirty years ago.
The thing about hope and faith is that it isn't in our time. God isn't Santa Clause. We sometimes get the miracles we need exactly when we need it, but for the most part, we have to just keep looking.
We bury our parents, our brothers, and friends. We wonder why God didn't heal them, or make things right before it was too late. The Bible talks about no less than a half dozen people being raised from the dead. Death isn't always the final say.
When Mom died, I felt heartsick. The landscape of my life was littered with painful loss. This seemed to be one more thing I would have to just work through. But then something happened.
"I will restore everything that has been lost." I heard the voice in my head as I picked weeds last summer in my garden. I thought it was odd timing, but continued the task at hand. It is in my garden that I pray, talk to Mom (or the memory thereof), and cry. That night, I read Job 42. Job had lost everything, and his friends were simply numbskulls. But they stuck around, so they were forgiven. Job went from nothing in sack cloth and ashes to more than double what he had when the book started. He had complete restoration. That day, in the garden, I had no idea how God would do that, but I determined to keep getting up after every loss. I determined to live like I was restored completely.
I started running because I believe that my body is a temple. I wanted that structure fit, whole, and healed. I wanted to have the ability to run the race the Bible talks about. I wanted the prize of the high calling. Even if that prize is simply a healthy life right now, that is more than enough. My faith is enough.
Yesterday, I ran three very long, hard trail miles. My legs are tight and sore. But I am doing something I thought was completely impossible a year ago.
The in-box yesterday had all manners of junk mail in it. I deleted, deleted some more, and unsubscribed until I happened upon something that made me laugh, and believe that God not only has a sense of humor, but He is keeping his word. "We want to send you at no charge a review of our new adult sized unicorn hopper."
I bounded up the stairs with a smile and told my husband, "I GET A UNICORN!" He started laughing, and told me it HAD to be a mistake. But I got the shipping notice this morning. My unicorn is on it's way.
Did I expect a unicorn? Oh, my no. How do I feel? More than less like this:
My kids have dared me to ride the unicorn over the finish line of the half marathon. My oldest told me, "People are cool, but are they cross the finish line of a half marathon on a unicorn cool?" He put the idea in my head.
Being a Christian doesn't mean that the road of life is ANY easier for me. It may even be harder. But my pastor's wife has the tag-line in her email that reads: "You are God's favorite." It's true. The Bible is clear that we ALL are blessed and HIGHLY favored. God WANTS us. He wants to show us how much more complete life is lived with him.
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The room was dark and Dad was watching football. I sat there making my Christmas list. "There are no such thing as unicorns." He said flatly. My feelings were hurt, but he didn't answer my question. "I know. I asked 'how do you SPELL unicorn.'" He rolled his eyes dramatically and spelled it out.
My cousin came over with my Great Uncle several days later and told me that unicorns might have been real, and then informed me that my Dad didn't know everything. He said he hoped I did get a unicorn. That was thirty years ago.
The thing about hope and faith is that it isn't in our time. God isn't Santa Clause. We sometimes get the miracles we need exactly when we need it, but for the most part, we have to just keep looking.
We bury our parents, our brothers, and friends. We wonder why God didn't heal them, or make things right before it was too late. The Bible talks about no less than a half dozen people being raised from the dead. Death isn't always the final say.
When Mom died, I felt heartsick. The landscape of my life was littered with painful loss. This seemed to be one more thing I would have to just work through. But then something happened.
"I will restore everything that has been lost." I heard the voice in my head as I picked weeds last summer in my garden. I thought it was odd timing, but continued the task at hand. It is in my garden that I pray, talk to Mom (or the memory thereof), and cry. That night, I read Job 42. Job had lost everything, and his friends were simply numbskulls. But they stuck around, so they were forgiven. Job went from nothing in sack cloth and ashes to more than double what he had when the book started. He had complete restoration. That day, in the garden, I had no idea how God would do that, but I determined to keep getting up after every loss. I determined to live like I was restored completely.
I started running because I believe that my body is a temple. I wanted that structure fit, whole, and healed. I wanted to have the ability to run the race the Bible talks about. I wanted the prize of the high calling. Even if that prize is simply a healthy life right now, that is more than enough. My faith is enough.
Yesterday, I ran three very long, hard trail miles. My legs are tight and sore. But I am doing something I thought was completely impossible a year ago.
I bounded up the stairs with a smile and told my husband, "I GET A UNICORN!" He started laughing, and told me it HAD to be a mistake. But I got the shipping notice this morning. My unicorn is on it's way.
Did I expect a unicorn? Oh, my no. How do I feel? More than less like this:
Being a Christian doesn't mean that the road of life is ANY easier for me. It may even be harder. But my pastor's wife has the tag-line in her email that reads: "You are God's favorite." It's true. The Bible is clear that we ALL are blessed and HIGHLY favored. God WANTS us. He wants to show us how much more complete life is lived with him.
(c) August 15, 2014 H.Jennings NOTICE: this is private content. Scrapping content, borrowing, spinning or otherwise stealing my post material is copyright infringement. Don't do it. The United States of America has strict policies requiring those that want to reuse content to have WRITTEN consent of the author. So if you want to use this in any way, just ask.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
First Day, First Trail, and Anniversary
I thought it would be nice to follow up yesterday's post with something more positive, and more information about me. I will start with the good stuff first. This week has been awesome so far.
My oldest is eleven and a half. He is so smart; I am in awe. He started 8th grade yesterday. This is a new school, and he only knows a few people. I hate that he had to change schools again, but 8th graders aren't known for being the most understanding and kind people in the world. I didn't think a traditional middle school/ jr. high situation would be best for a young, brilliant kid. So far, I think my husband and I made the right call.
Speaking of my husband, this week, we celebrated 14 years of marriage. That is a lot considering how short relationships are these days. I got married when I was only 19 years old. It was insane. My mother told me so. She wanted me to wait a full year, but also didn't want me to have sex before marriage. We made the right decision. We only dated 20 weeks before we were married. Yes, I was a virgin on my wedding night. Not too many people can say that with pride. Not many people care. It isn't sacred in our culture, and that is sad.
Monday night, I put on my best running shoes and rode along with my trail running friend to my first trail running event in about 15 years. My trail running experience ended when I left Camp Redcloud in Lake City, Colorado the fall of 1999. I didn't think I would ever do it again, even though I loved it.
The air was hot and thick with smoke, but I wasn't going to chicken out. I have been training on my treadmill but the trails have rocks, which my treadmill lacks. My ankle tripped once, but I didn't go down. I am a well-conditioned klutz. I didn't fall too far behind at any point. I stayed within the first half of the group. It wasn't easy. I forgot how to run and drink water at the same time. That must have been hilarious for the people running behind me. I felt like a turkey looking up at the rain.
It was awesome. As we headed back, an osprey had caught a large fish in the river. The fish was so large the osprey struggled to get it into the air. I tried to get a picture, but the bird became indignant that it had an audience and finally flew away. The half dozen of us just stood there impressed we got to see something so amazing.
(This is a photograph of an osprey, not the exact one we saw, but I plan to use the experience as a way to convince my husband I need a new camera phone).
Half way into the trail, with the dust, smoke, and trees, it hit me, the trail smelled the same as in Colorado in late summer. I had to smile. That was a happy thought. Long before the beaches of San Clemente, my happy place was on the side of a mountain.
It has also been seven years since I struggled with my mental break. As I mentioned, I was diagnosed with Post Pardum depression in 2007, after giving birth to my youngest. He ate 20 hours a day. I co-own a business with my husband with no employees. I still had a job to do, even if I was plugged into a baby half the time. It will wear you down. I never recommend this to others. Always hire help when you have a medical procedure, or deliver a baby.
I didn't just "get over it." I had hours of counseling. I had to show my husband how to do parts of my job so I could rest when I needed to. I hid the shame of what I had done because I was afraid of what people would think. Some people are weak and need to break down others because they are broken themselves. Fight back with faith. Fight back with hope. Fight back with speaking up. They may talk about you behind your back, but you are above that now.
When I started shedding the "this is who I have to be" image and started being myself, and challenging myself to do new things, I overcame a battle with depression. I have been off anti-depressants for two months now. My doctor and I agree that I can go back on if I need to in the future, but my head feels bright, happy, and free.
I run when I start to feel down. I push myself beyond the 20, 30, 40 minute mark and before I know it, I have run close to two hours. The rush of endorphins is better than any drug on the market. My body feels the pulse of energy, and I can look at myself in the mirror and be satisfied (mostly) with what and whom I see. When I run, I force myself to see myself strong, beautiful, and full of life. When you are full of life, death will flee. When I run, I pray. My body HURT for the first four months I ran, and my lungs felt like I couldn't get enough oxygen. Now, it is a chore to get to the "peak" performance level, but once I get there, it is like I am given wings. God will give you the strength and courage you ask for.
Injuries, and body types may prevent you from running, but don't let it prevent you from getting moving. Start small. I would walk/ jog when I first got my treadmill for 20 minutes at a time. I couldn't do any more without my knee hurting. Finally, the knee healed and I picked up the pace to a brisk jog at 5 MPH. Last month, I was able to kick up the pace again to 6.5 miles an hour. Make no mistake, progress is slow.
Healing cannot be quick or it may not last. Go for slow, steady progress and refuse to let your mind think negatively. I say this out loud when those dark things threaten my progress, Philippians 4:8 "Finally, friends, whatsoever is true, whosoever is noble, whatsoever is right, whatsoever is pure, whatsoever is lovely, whatsoever is just- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think on these things. Whatever you have received from my words, or seen in my actions, put it into practice. And the God of Peace will be with you." If you are not necessarily a Christian, then use the first part as a mantra. Do not allow one ounce of negative to be thought. You do have control of what you CONTINUE to think on. The dark thought may pop by for a visit, but show it the door by repeating the verse above. Then go for a walk, play with your kids, call your friend, or eat some expensive dark chocolate. Take captive your thoughts so they do not take you captive.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 13, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
My oldest is eleven and a half. He is so smart; I am in awe. He started 8th grade yesterday. This is a new school, and he only knows a few people. I hate that he had to change schools again, but 8th graders aren't known for being the most understanding and kind people in the world. I didn't think a traditional middle school/ jr. high situation would be best for a young, brilliant kid. So far, I think my husband and I made the right call.
Speaking of my husband, this week, we celebrated 14 years of marriage. That is a lot considering how short relationships are these days. I got married when I was only 19 years old. It was insane. My mother told me so. She wanted me to wait a full year, but also didn't want me to have sex before marriage. We made the right decision. We only dated 20 weeks before we were married. Yes, I was a virgin on my wedding night. Not too many people can say that with pride. Not many people care. It isn't sacred in our culture, and that is sad.
Monday night, I put on my best running shoes and rode along with my trail running friend to my first trail running event in about 15 years. My trail running experience ended when I left Camp Redcloud in Lake City, Colorado the fall of 1999. I didn't think I would ever do it again, even though I loved it.
The air was hot and thick with smoke, but I wasn't going to chicken out. I have been training on my treadmill but the trails have rocks, which my treadmill lacks. My ankle tripped once, but I didn't go down. I am a well-conditioned klutz. I didn't fall too far behind at any point. I stayed within the first half of the group. It wasn't easy. I forgot how to run and drink water at the same time. That must have been hilarious for the people running behind me. I felt like a turkey looking up at the rain.
It was awesome. As we headed back, an osprey had caught a large fish in the river. The fish was so large the osprey struggled to get it into the air. I tried to get a picture, but the bird became indignant that it had an audience and finally flew away. The half dozen of us just stood there impressed we got to see something so amazing.
(This is a photograph of an osprey, not the exact one we saw, but I plan to use the experience as a way to convince my husband I need a new camera phone).
Half way into the trail, with the dust, smoke, and trees, it hit me, the trail smelled the same as in Colorado in late summer. I had to smile. That was a happy thought. Long before the beaches of San Clemente, my happy place was on the side of a mountain.
It has also been seven years since I struggled with my mental break. As I mentioned, I was diagnosed with Post Pardum depression in 2007, after giving birth to my youngest. He ate 20 hours a day. I co-own a business with my husband with no employees. I still had a job to do, even if I was plugged into a baby half the time. It will wear you down. I never recommend this to others. Always hire help when you have a medical procedure, or deliver a baby.
I didn't just "get over it." I had hours of counseling. I had to show my husband how to do parts of my job so I could rest when I needed to. I hid the shame of what I had done because I was afraid of what people would think. Some people are weak and need to break down others because they are broken themselves. Fight back with faith. Fight back with hope. Fight back with speaking up. They may talk about you behind your back, but you are above that now.
When I started shedding the "this is who I have to be" image and started being myself, and challenging myself to do new things, I overcame a battle with depression. I have been off anti-depressants for two months now. My doctor and I agree that I can go back on if I need to in the future, but my head feels bright, happy, and free.
I run when I start to feel down. I push myself beyond the 20, 30, 40 minute mark and before I know it, I have run close to two hours. The rush of endorphins is better than any drug on the market. My body feels the pulse of energy, and I can look at myself in the mirror and be satisfied (mostly) with what and whom I see. When I run, I force myself to see myself strong, beautiful, and full of life. When you are full of life, death will flee. When I run, I pray. My body HURT for the first four months I ran, and my lungs felt like I couldn't get enough oxygen. Now, it is a chore to get to the "peak" performance level, but once I get there, it is like I am given wings. God will give you the strength and courage you ask for.
Injuries, and body types may prevent you from running, but don't let it prevent you from getting moving. Start small. I would walk/ jog when I first got my treadmill for 20 minutes at a time. I couldn't do any more without my knee hurting. Finally, the knee healed and I picked up the pace to a brisk jog at 5 MPH. Last month, I was able to kick up the pace again to 6.5 miles an hour. Make no mistake, progress is slow.
Healing cannot be quick or it may not last. Go for slow, steady progress and refuse to let your mind think negatively. I say this out loud when those dark things threaten my progress, Philippians 4:8 "Finally, friends, whatsoever is true, whosoever is noble, whatsoever is right, whatsoever is pure, whatsoever is lovely, whatsoever is just- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think on these things. Whatever you have received from my words, or seen in my actions, put it into practice. And the God of Peace will be with you." If you are not necessarily a Christian, then use the first part as a mantra. Do not allow one ounce of negative to be thought. You do have control of what you CONTINUE to think on. The dark thought may pop by for a visit, but show it the door by repeating the verse above. Then go for a walk, play with your kids, call your friend, or eat some expensive dark chocolate. Take captive your thoughts so they do not take you captive.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 13, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
The Thoughts Alone
**Authors Note: I wrote this post four days ago. My husband said that it was depressing, and urged me to hold off posting. So I did. Then, last night, on August 11, 2014, Robin Williams ended his life. I decided to go ahead and post this with the hope and prayer that someone, somewhere, might be able to read this and get help. To that person, I want to say how blessed and amazing you are, NO MATTER WHAT. **
I saw the picture. She had a beautiful, happy smile, and then the video plea from her husband. I heard the words, "the kids think Mommy is on vacation." Then the words, "She was upset when she left."
My heart ached for her kids. I knew exactly what happened. Then the list of things she purchased came out a few days later, and my heart knew for sure.
Her family asked, "What could have driven her to this dark place?" Trust me, it's a slow, cold decent. You never planned on going down the road, but once you start to slip mentally, the final step to contemplating suicide isn't a stretch.
I have experience in this area. Unfortunately, I have had four members of my family, one uncle, three cousins, take their own lives. Then there was me. I broke. But in my case, I knew better than to be alone.
She was alone with her thoughts. When you get to the dark place, the demons are sure a hell of a lot louder than reason. "You will never make him/her truly happy." They whisper in a cold, malicious tone. "They will be fine without you." Continues the voices slightly louder. "What is there to live for anyway?" The answer can't be found before they become louder, and more demanding, "You do everything for them, and look what they have done for you!" These voices in your head didn't come in over night, but like most parasites they do not care about the host. They feed on insecurity, your thoughts, your motives, and your heart. No one can see them from the outside.
People going through the decline may say things like, "I am tired." "I wish things would change." "I feel like I don't have anyone." "I am stuck in this situation." At this point, friends and family should start to do something. Take them out for coffee and talk to them heart-to-heart. Watch their kids, or take them dinner. Remind them with notes, and calls that you love them and care about them. Tell them you NEED them to be okay. (This may make them cry or cause anger. That is sign things are much worse than they have said). Then help them get there. Talk to their spouse and let them know that you worry about your friends mental health. Most of the time, those who live with the person completely and totally miss the decline because it doesn't happen fast.
Catholic Relief Services, and Lutheran Community Services both offer low-cost and free counseling to those that can't afford traditional services. Get the names and phone numbers of local professionals and give them to your friend or spouse. Most people that suffer with depression, or are contemplating suicide will not ask for help. You have to give it to them.
Sometimes, they just need to sleep. Do whatever you can to let them rest. In my case, I had a newborn that ate around the clock, and I was literally worn out. I could not hear reason because I was so tired. When I see pictures of myself from that time, it hits me how bad it was. I gained a lot of weight. I looked gray and puffy. I didn't exercise. I would have given anything to have someone let me have a nap and a long walk. Maybe a pedicure. Okay, definitely a pedicure. Give them a pedicure. Unless it's a dude, then I would suggest letting them do something they really enjoy, like racing go-carts, or fishing.
TALK TO THEM EVERY SINGLE DAY. Do not have a "scheduled" time. But do let them know you will continue to call them and let you know you care every day. This should be enough to let the person know that someone is looking out for them. To a person on the edge, this could be the difference between life and death.
Finally, speak truth to them every time you touch base with them. I am a Christian, so I will tell even those that don't believe in God, "You were put on earth for a reason, and YOU are precious to God and Me." It's not perfect English, but it tells the person you care. Tell them, "I know you are hurting, and I want to be there for you." Letting them know they don't need to be perfect for you is a big thing.
Touched By An Angel may have seemed corny during the 90's, but it spoke truth on weekly basis to thousands of hearts. Every week, Roma Downy would tell people, "You are precious, and God loves you very much. If you could only see how high, and how deep His amazing love is, you would understand that your life means everything to the one that created you. He knew you before the moment you were formed in your mother's womb. He cares that you are going through this, and He wants to hold you. Won't you give God the chance?"
I hope that my struggle and the loss of my family was not in vain. If you are feeling helpless, hopeless and reading this touched off something you need to share, please get help. You are not alone.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
I saw the picture. She had a beautiful, happy smile, and then the video plea from her husband. I heard the words, "the kids think Mommy is on vacation." Then the words, "She was upset when she left."
My heart ached for her kids. I knew exactly what happened. Then the list of things she purchased came out a few days later, and my heart knew for sure.
Her family asked, "What could have driven her to this dark place?" Trust me, it's a slow, cold decent. You never planned on going down the road, but once you start to slip mentally, the final step to contemplating suicide isn't a stretch.
I have experience in this area. Unfortunately, I have had four members of my family, one uncle, three cousins, take their own lives. Then there was me. I broke. But in my case, I knew better than to be alone.
She was alone with her thoughts. When you get to the dark place, the demons are sure a hell of a lot louder than reason. "You will never make him/her truly happy." They whisper in a cold, malicious tone. "They will be fine without you." Continues the voices slightly louder. "What is there to live for anyway?" The answer can't be found before they become louder, and more demanding, "You do everything for them, and look what they have done for you!" These voices in your head didn't come in over night, but like most parasites they do not care about the host. They feed on insecurity, your thoughts, your motives, and your heart. No one can see them from the outside.
People going through the decline may say things like, "I am tired." "I wish things would change." "I feel like I don't have anyone." "I am stuck in this situation." At this point, friends and family should start to do something. Take them out for coffee and talk to them heart-to-heart. Watch their kids, or take them dinner. Remind them with notes, and calls that you love them and care about them. Tell them you NEED them to be okay. (This may make them cry or cause anger. That is sign things are much worse than they have said). Then help them get there. Talk to their spouse and let them know that you worry about your friends mental health. Most of the time, those who live with the person completely and totally miss the decline because it doesn't happen fast.
Catholic Relief Services, and Lutheran Community Services both offer low-cost and free counseling to those that can't afford traditional services. Get the names and phone numbers of local professionals and give them to your friend or spouse. Most people that suffer with depression, or are contemplating suicide will not ask for help. You have to give it to them.
Sometimes, they just need to sleep. Do whatever you can to let them rest. In my case, I had a newborn that ate around the clock, and I was literally worn out. I could not hear reason because I was so tired. When I see pictures of myself from that time, it hits me how bad it was. I gained a lot of weight. I looked gray and puffy. I didn't exercise. I would have given anything to have someone let me have a nap and a long walk. Maybe a pedicure. Okay, definitely a pedicure. Give them a pedicure. Unless it's a dude, then I would suggest letting them do something they really enjoy, like racing go-carts, or fishing.
TALK TO THEM EVERY SINGLE DAY. Do not have a "scheduled" time. But do let them know you will continue to call them and let you know you care every day. This should be enough to let the person know that someone is looking out for them. To a person on the edge, this could be the difference between life and death.
Finally, speak truth to them every time you touch base with them. I am a Christian, so I will tell even those that don't believe in God, "You were put on earth for a reason, and YOU are precious to God and Me." It's not perfect English, but it tells the person you care. Tell them, "I know you are hurting, and I want to be there for you." Letting them know they don't need to be perfect for you is a big thing.
Touched By An Angel may have seemed corny during the 90's, but it spoke truth on weekly basis to thousands of hearts. Every week, Roma Downy would tell people, "You are precious, and God loves you very much. If you could only see how high, and how deep His amazing love is, you would understand that your life means everything to the one that created you. He knew you before the moment you were formed in your mother's womb. He cares that you are going through this, and He wants to hold you. Won't you give God the chance?"
I hope that my struggle and the loss of my family was not in vain. If you are feeling helpless, hopeless and reading this touched off something you need to share, please get help. You are not alone.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 12, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Information EVERY new runner needs
I made the idiotic assumption that running required good sneakers, and the motion of moving your feet. I found out over the last five months it is SO much more than that. Here are the top ten things you MUST know to help you get started and be successful in your running quest.
1. KNOW THY FEET and what support you need! Sports Authority and Wal Mart stores have foot mapping stations to determine what kind of feet you have: flat, normal, or high arches. This information is critical to finding your shoe, getting the insoles you need, and being comfortable while running. DO NOT start a running program until you have done this. Period.
2. Don't be a cheap skate with your shoes! I know various stores sell "athletic" shoes for the $20.00 range, and that seems tempting since you are testing the water so to speak with the whole running thing. This is a mistake. I now have shin splints, and aggravated tendons, it is a regret that has had a lasting impact. Get good shoes to start with and then you will enjoy the journey. By the way, these shoes are going to be pricey. Look to spend about $60.00 to $150.00 depending on your foot type and running gait. I suggest getting fitted at a local running store then, grab another pair of the same type at www.sierratradingpost.com. Like them on facebook and be occasionally rewarded with 30-40% off offers! This is how I scored my Brooks shoes that are the best color and fit a girl could ask for. Not to mention, they were on sale with the coupon for only $55.00 normally, they are about $100!
3. Hydrate while you run. This is still a bit of an issue for me. I am going to have to get busy with my sewing machine, my ideas, and a bit of ingenuity. If I love my design I plan to sell them and patent the idea. Why? Because the little belts with water bottles are just plain sad. I drink so much water it is a little crazy. But the Camelback pack is a bit too large and heavy. Running with one of those handheld bottles is cumbersome. You see my issue. I am WAY too picky. Maybe I will have to just find the one I hate the least and go with it.
4. Be fitted for proper undergarments. Ladies, under wire sports bras are from the devil and should be burned. Find bra's that fit comfortably and properly (straps should NOT move). I have a very small chest, so my favorites are tanks with the built in shelf bra. Gals that are more blessed than I in that area should go to Victoria's Secret and be fitted with their amazing selection of high quality sports bra's. Again, this isn't an area where you should skimp.
5. Feel free to skimp in the clothing department. You can wear running shorts, or I love the "support" leggings. I buy the majority of my clothes from the clearance racks at Big 5, Sports Authority, Ross, and TJ Maxx. You should have at least three pairs of shorts/bottoms, and four shirts.
6. Log and know your run course. Check out google maps, or mapmyrun.com to find out the exact distance you have put in. Each week, add at least a quarter mile so you are gradually increasing your distance and endurance. I keep a notebook that tells every activity I do that counts toward fitness miles, like walking with my family, and trail running. It all goes in the book.
7. Know how many calories you need to go with the calories you are burning. Again, this one, I still have not mastered. I am about to pay big bucks for help. I have done everything my family practice doctor told me to do. (He actually said, "It's physically impossible that you can not be losing weight if you are exercising and watching your caloric intake.") I switched doctors and my new doctor has referred me to another dietician that will work with specific allergies and metabolic issues in play. I will report as things get better.
8. Stretch properly before you run! http://running.about.com/od/stretchesforrunners/tp/stretchesforrunning.htm This link has a lot of helpful stretches to get you ready to cruise. Your joints need to be properly stretched before they are exerted.
9. Take a friend with you! Again, learned the hard way. I should have had the buddy system at least once a week from the time I started, but I didn't think I knew anyone that ran. It wasn't until May, I met a lady at my church that I start running with this next week. People are there to support, encourage, and push you. Find friends that have more skills than you to glean advise from, and help you grow on your journey.
10. Push through the pain, but only to a certain extent. http://www.runnersworld.com/health/runners-and-blood-clots-what-you-need-know?page=single There are risks associated with running. Blood clots are an issue. Know the signs and symptoms and get help if you feel you are suffering. Only you know your pain threshold. If your leg is cramping up, stop for a few minutes, down some coconut water or Gatorade, and walk off the cramp. However, if the pain is sever and radiates in your chest, and upper arm-Stop immediately. Wait until your heart rate is down, then continue at a moderate pace. If the pain continues, call it a day. If you can't breathe, it goes without saying, head to the E.R.
Running is something that can help ease stress, strengthen and tighten muscles, and lower your blood pressure. Being a couch potato and calling Kinect games "physical activity" may seem like they are a better idea, but crossing a finish line in real life is one of the best things in the world. I was a dedicated walker until I entered my first 5K and found community, strength, and health. I love running now.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 9, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
1. KNOW THY FEET and what support you need! Sports Authority and Wal Mart stores have foot mapping stations to determine what kind of feet you have: flat, normal, or high arches. This information is critical to finding your shoe, getting the insoles you need, and being comfortable while running. DO NOT start a running program until you have done this. Period.
2. Don't be a cheap skate with your shoes! I know various stores sell "athletic" shoes for the $20.00 range, and that seems tempting since you are testing the water so to speak with the whole running thing. This is a mistake. I now have shin splints, and aggravated tendons, it is a regret that has had a lasting impact. Get good shoes to start with and then you will enjoy the journey. By the way, these shoes are going to be pricey. Look to spend about $60.00 to $150.00 depending on your foot type and running gait. I suggest getting fitted at a local running store then, grab another pair of the same type at www.sierratradingpost.com. Like them on facebook and be occasionally rewarded with 30-40% off offers! This is how I scored my Brooks shoes that are the best color and fit a girl could ask for. Not to mention, they were on sale with the coupon for only $55.00 normally, they are about $100!
3. Hydrate while you run. This is still a bit of an issue for me. I am going to have to get busy with my sewing machine, my ideas, and a bit of ingenuity. If I love my design I plan to sell them and patent the idea. Why? Because the little belts with water bottles are just plain sad. I drink so much water it is a little crazy. But the Camelback pack is a bit too large and heavy. Running with one of those handheld bottles is cumbersome. You see my issue. I am WAY too picky. Maybe I will have to just find the one I hate the least and go with it.
4. Be fitted for proper undergarments. Ladies, under wire sports bras are from the devil and should be burned. Find bra's that fit comfortably and properly (straps should NOT move). I have a very small chest, so my favorites are tanks with the built in shelf bra. Gals that are more blessed than I in that area should go to Victoria's Secret and be fitted with their amazing selection of high quality sports bra's. Again, this isn't an area where you should skimp.
5. Feel free to skimp in the clothing department. You can wear running shorts, or I love the "support" leggings. I buy the majority of my clothes from the clearance racks at Big 5, Sports Authority, Ross, and TJ Maxx. You should have at least three pairs of shorts/bottoms, and four shirts.
6. Log and know your run course. Check out google maps, or mapmyrun.com to find out the exact distance you have put in. Each week, add at least a quarter mile so you are gradually increasing your distance and endurance. I keep a notebook that tells every activity I do that counts toward fitness miles, like walking with my family, and trail running. It all goes in the book.
7. Know how many calories you need to go with the calories you are burning. Again, this one, I still have not mastered. I am about to pay big bucks for help. I have done everything my family practice doctor told me to do. (He actually said, "It's physically impossible that you can not be losing weight if you are exercising and watching your caloric intake.") I switched doctors and my new doctor has referred me to another dietician that will work with specific allergies and metabolic issues in play. I will report as things get better.
8. Stretch properly before you run! http://running.about.com/od/stretchesforrunners/tp/stretchesforrunning.htm This link has a lot of helpful stretches to get you ready to cruise. Your joints need to be properly stretched before they are exerted.
9. Take a friend with you! Again, learned the hard way. I should have had the buddy system at least once a week from the time I started, but I didn't think I knew anyone that ran. It wasn't until May, I met a lady at my church that I start running with this next week. People are there to support, encourage, and push you. Find friends that have more skills than you to glean advise from, and help you grow on your journey.
10. Push through the pain, but only to a certain extent. http://www.runnersworld.com/health/runners-and-blood-clots-what-you-need-know?page=single There are risks associated with running. Blood clots are an issue. Know the signs and symptoms and get help if you feel you are suffering. Only you know your pain threshold. If your leg is cramping up, stop for a few minutes, down some coconut water or Gatorade, and walk off the cramp. However, if the pain is sever and radiates in your chest, and upper arm-Stop immediately. Wait until your heart rate is down, then continue at a moderate pace. If the pain continues, call it a day. If you can't breathe, it goes without saying, head to the E.R.
Running is something that can help ease stress, strengthen and tighten muscles, and lower your blood pressure. Being a couch potato and calling Kinect games "physical activity" may seem like they are a better idea, but crossing a finish line in real life is one of the best things in the world. I was a dedicated walker until I entered my first 5K and found community, strength, and health. I love running now.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 9, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Week Six Training Complete
When I started running in January, I could barely, and I mean BARELY jog a mile. Then by April I got to the three mile mark and I thought I was going to die. Light headed feelings with spots in my vision as I passed the 3 mile mark. Now, that's a warm-up.
For how many miles I log (over 20 per week), I should look freaking amazing. I should be able to slip into size four jeans like the celebrities that boast they only run for exercise. Nope. I have lost one pound in the last two weeks. I have altered my diet to include more protein and raw vegetables, reduced my sodium, consumed fewer carbohydrates, cut sweets to twice a week and halved the portion size, and cut out most dairy. THIS SHOULD WORK!
On that note, I would like to report that in case of famine, I will outlive everyone. My body holds on to fat cells like Donald Trump holds onto Casino's; way too long, and at a very high price. The fat says, "No, way, Lady. We have a long term relationship going here. Can't we go to therapy at TCBY's or something?"
The foot looks much better. The bruise from the chicken falling on it, has almost healed. If I didn't have fast reflexes, I could have broken my foot. I am lucky it just grazed it as it dove to the floor. Pain for a moment, but bruises last a while longer. Especially since I am so pasty white. I bruise like a peach.
I posted one long walk (3.75 miles), one mid-week run (4 miles), and today's plan is 6 miles. Saturday I will work up to eight miles. Monday, I will embark on a new, crazy adventure of a trail running group. My husband thinks I am nuts, and with all the smoke in the air, I am thinking he may be right. But, my mind is made up.
Joining the group was a commitment because it came with a fee. However, I need advise, because surprisingly, I don't know everything. In the matter of running, I know almost nothing. I realized this week, as much as I want to do this on my own, I need specific advise on how to place my feet when trail running, is a hydration pack better than a fanny pack, etc. These may sound stupid, but I am confused.
Until next post, have a great weekend!
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 8, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
For how many miles I log (over 20 per week), I should look freaking amazing. I should be able to slip into size four jeans like the celebrities that boast they only run for exercise. Nope. I have lost one pound in the last two weeks. I have altered my diet to include more protein and raw vegetables, reduced my sodium, consumed fewer carbohydrates, cut sweets to twice a week and halved the portion size, and cut out most dairy. THIS SHOULD WORK!
On that note, I would like to report that in case of famine, I will outlive everyone. My body holds on to fat cells like Donald Trump holds onto Casino's; way too long, and at a very high price. The fat says, "No, way, Lady. We have a long term relationship going here. Can't we go to therapy at TCBY's or something?"
The foot looks much better. The bruise from the chicken falling on it, has almost healed. If I didn't have fast reflexes, I could have broken my foot. I am lucky it just grazed it as it dove to the floor. Pain for a moment, but bruises last a while longer. Especially since I am so pasty white. I bruise like a peach.
I posted one long walk (3.75 miles), one mid-week run (4 miles), and today's plan is 6 miles. Saturday I will work up to eight miles. Monday, I will embark on a new, crazy adventure of a trail running group. My husband thinks I am nuts, and with all the smoke in the air, I am thinking he may be right. But, my mind is made up.
Joining the group was a commitment because it came with a fee. However, I need advise, because surprisingly, I don't know everything. In the matter of running, I know almost nothing. I realized this week, as much as I want to do this on my own, I need specific advise on how to place my feet when trail running, is a hydration pack better than a fanny pack, etc. These may sound stupid, but I am confused.
Until next post, have a great weekend!
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 8, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Monday, August 4, 2014
Hurt Foot, Hot Days, and Frozen Review
I had to ice my foot last night, so running was out of the question. It involved frozen whole chickens landing on my foot and creating pain when I walk. It is the stupid things in life that make you slow down.
It has also been over 90 degrees each day for the last 20 something days straight. We are on track to break records, or tie them. Running in the heat isn't as much fun as it sounds.
My foot was fairly swollen after the 2.25 mile walk with my family, so for the first weekend in six weeks, I had to break from the "long run." I hate that. My body needs to pull it together.
So there I was on the couch with my foot up with ice on it watching Frozen with my boys for the first time. The first thing I need to say is, WHY DOES DISNEY KILL OFF PARENTS? Seriously though, think about it... At least one parent always dies. Bambi, Snow White, Finding Nemo, Aladdin, Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Cinderella, and well... you see my point. So as we are watching this happy family in Frozen I said half sarcastically, "So when do the parents die?" My kids looked at me like I was nuts, until the boat scene and then the uber depressing song, "Do You Want To Build A Snowman?"
Before the comments section is several thousand comments thick with things like, "but it was the first Disney movie where a Prince wasn't needed..." Yeah. Got that. Girls, you do not need a man to save you, but I will tell you what, if you get a Prince, take it, because it's much nicer than being alone, or with you sister. Sisters can get a little annoying from time to time. Don't look at me like it's not true.
Did the movie have redeeming qualities? Sure. I am a little bit in love with Olaf. "This guy is out of his mind. I'll distract him, you run. Because I love you." [Pauses] "Why are you not running?" And the most charming line of the whole movie, "Some people are worth melting for." Oh, Olaf, you adorable wonderful, little allergy prone snowman you.
My kids favorite line was from the snowman as well, "Watch out for my butt!" Hilarious. Without Olaf, Frozen would have been anti-depressant worthy.
And if I had a dollar for every time I heard "Let it Go" before I actually watched the movie, I would have at least a hundred dollars. I have friends with small girls in the house that have listened to it ten times or more than that. Now that I have the lyrics and song in context, it isn't as bad, but still, please people, LET THE SONG GO.
I like the redemption at the end. I wish it was always that neat, and people would forgive, move on, and let the past stay in the past. However, forgiveness in movies and real life takes a lot of work.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 4, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
It has also been over 90 degrees each day for the last 20 something days straight. We are on track to break records, or tie them. Running in the heat isn't as much fun as it sounds.
My foot was fairly swollen after the 2.25 mile walk with my family, so for the first weekend in six weeks, I had to break from the "long run." I hate that. My body needs to pull it together.
So there I was on the couch with my foot up with ice on it watching Frozen with my boys for the first time. The first thing I need to say is, WHY DOES DISNEY KILL OFF PARENTS? Seriously though, think about it... At least one parent always dies. Bambi, Snow White, Finding Nemo, Aladdin, Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Cinderella, and well... you see my point. So as we are watching this happy family in Frozen I said half sarcastically, "So when do the parents die?" My kids looked at me like I was nuts, until the boat scene and then the uber depressing song, "Do You Want To Build A Snowman?"
Before the comments section is several thousand comments thick with things like, "but it was the first Disney movie where a Prince wasn't needed..." Yeah. Got that. Girls, you do not need a man to save you, but I will tell you what, if you get a Prince, take it, because it's much nicer than being alone, or with you sister. Sisters can get a little annoying from time to time. Don't look at me like it's not true.
Did the movie have redeeming qualities? Sure. I am a little bit in love with Olaf. "This guy is out of his mind. I'll distract him, you run. Because I love you." [Pauses] "Why are you not running?" And the most charming line of the whole movie, "Some people are worth melting for." Oh, Olaf, you adorable wonderful, little allergy prone snowman you.
My kids favorite line was from the snowman as well, "Watch out for my butt!" Hilarious. Without Olaf, Frozen would have been anti-depressant worthy.
And if I had a dollar for every time I heard "Let it Go" before I actually watched the movie, I would have at least a hundred dollars. I have friends with small girls in the house that have listened to it ten times or more than that. Now that I have the lyrics and song in context, it isn't as bad, but still, please people, LET THE SONG GO.
I like the redemption at the end. I wish it was always that neat, and people would forgive, move on, and let the past stay in the past. However, forgiveness in movies and real life takes a lot of work.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) August 4, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
What to Eat, FREE Running Guides, and More!
If you are a handwritten log type person, try the food log on for size. I will often jot down things when I am away from my cell phone and then plug them into MyFitnessPal application at night. I cannot stress enough the importance of making sure of the following:
1. If you are trying to lose weight make sure you are getting enough calories. When you run, you need to eat at least 300 MORE calories per day. These cannot be empty calories. Here are some good snack options to try:
a. Low-fat cottage cheese
b. String cheese
c. Raw Almonds
d. celery sticks with peanut butter (I hate plain celery)
e. KIND bars
f. Bumble Bars
g. Home-made Kale Chips
h. Home-made frozen Greek yogurt bites
i. Turkey jerky
j. Frozen blueberries
k. Hummus and cucumber slices
l. Rolled up organic turkey slices with spinach leaves and Swiss cheese
m. 1 oz Dark chocolate and raw cherries
n. Rolled up organic Roast beef with mustard to dip
o. Slice of sourdough bread with 1 tbs peanut butter and 3 strawberries sliced on top
p. Popcorn sprinkled with garlic olive oil and black pepper
q. Boiled egg whites with ham
r. lightly salted peanuts
s. carrot sticks with plain Greek yogurt
t. Tomato slices with provolone cheese
u. Black seedless grapes
v. 6 crackers topped with olive tempenade
w. 1/2 a banana
x. Homemade trail mix with Pepita's (hulled pumpkin seeds), dark chocolate chunks, dried plum pieces, raw almonds, flax seeds
y. Smoothie made with 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, 2 strawberries, coconut water, Benefiber (R), 1 tbs Macha green tea (LOTS of caffeine, so drink in the a.m. only).
z. Cherry Tomatoes
2. If you are new to running, make sure you are drinking enough water. I suggest at least 2 32 oz bottles full of water each day and during your run. Some may say this is too much, but any less, and I feel dizzy. Error on the side of more. Infuse with lime wedges, and herbal tea if you must have flavor. DO NOT do the "flavor shots." They contain potentially harmful chemicals, and artificial flavors and colors. If you can't pronounce it, don't put it in your mouth.
3. If you feet and legs hurt while you run, it is time to check your shoes. Try inserts, and using running specified socks. If these don't help, look at replacing your shoes with new ones that fit properly. I am a BIG fan of Brooks running shoes and here is how I found the shoe I adore http://www.brooksrunning.com/on/demandware.static/Sites-BrooksRunning-Site/Sites-BrooksRunning-Library/default/brooks_shoe_advisor/Default.htm
4. Give it TWO weeks of going on your own. If you are still having trouble getting motivated or meeting basic goals, find a friend that is more experienced in running for partnership. Meet NO LESS than twice a week. Then, do your own workout two other days a week.
5. Know your B.M.I.and how many calories you should consume. The CDC has a "automatic" BMI calculator here: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/english_bmi_calculator/bmi_calculator.html Nutrition guides can be found here that tell you how many calories you should eat in a day. http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/estimated-calorie-requirement
Well, that is the nuts and bolts of this week. I hope you found the post helpful. If you have any questions, please let me know. I am always happy to share the best and worst of my training thus far. Have a great rest of the week.
DUE TO "SCRAPER" SCUM IN OTHER COUNTRIES, THE FOLLOWING NOTICE IS FOR YOU: (C) JULY 31, 2014 United States of America. H.Jennings. Any misuse or illegal scrapping of content constitutes copyright infringement. Please email contact the web administrator for written authorization to re-post or quote any information on these pages.
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