They didn't

Oh yes they did. I got called at 5am, to get low-censused. I told them, I had driven home from my vacation to work today, and I was coming to work. I can't believe it. There was no reason why they couldn't have called me off yesterday, but she didn't want to make that call. I told the night shift manager, that I only wanted to be called off if I got to stay at my family's house. So, I didn't get to stay, so I went to work.

It was a good day. Slow for me, but the time still went by pretty fast, up till the last couple hours. Those seemed to drag!!

Well, some more tv for me, and my nice warm bed. My mother got me an electric blanket for Christmas, and I put it on my bed when I got home last night. Cozy!!

Christmas Day

Well, it turns out I didn't get low censused, so I have to work on Christmas Day. I had a wonderful Christmas Eve with my family. We opened gifts (read: I opened all my gifts, and they opened the ones I got them), and at some din-din. Mom made (yummy) lasagna. I even got some for lunch tomorrow. Now I just have to remember to bring it to work tomorrow!

No hard feelings. I truely didn't expect to get off, besides...I get paid time-and-a-half for it. I got a Christmas with my family, so now I can go spend Christmas with my other family.

Tonight, gonne eat lots of cookies (I brought some of those home too) and watch some tv, before I head to bed (finally get to sleep in MY bed) early tonight. Well, early means about 10. Normally I head to bed about 11. So, its early. I haven't slept in my bed in about three weeks. I have been at DeAnn's (housesitting) since Dec 6, and then at my parents since the 19th. I can't wait!!

Christmas is approaching

Although I got all my shopping done, I haven't even started warpping. Which I will need to do today, since tomorrow is MY Christmas day. My family has decided to come over tomorrow morning, and watch me open all my gifts. They will also open the gifts that I got them. That is nice, at least I get a Christmas morning. It just happens to be on Christmas Eve. Then, I get to head home. My parents don't want me driving at night, so they are trying to get me to go home early. But, I don't want to. This is my vacation, and if the weather is bad, then I won't go home. I will call to work and tell them, I have inclement weather, and I will come home when the roads are better. However, I think they know I am gonna try to do something. I have flat out told them, I want Christmas Day off. I am gonna try to get off. Tomorrow at about 4 pm, I am gonna call in and if the census is low, I will try to get off. I think there are about 10 nurses scheduled (normally about 7-8), so I see no reason why I can't get off. Wish me luck!

Today, I was gonna go to my friend, Bonnie's house, in Benton City, to go horseback riding. However, it snowed last night, and I still have a bunch of baking to do. I haven't gotten those no bake's made yet. That is the whole point of Christmas Season, I think. So, I don't know if I will go out there. If I do, I will probably only be for an hour or so! I have to call her this morning!

Other that what I have mentioned, no other big plans. I haven't seen Jackie, or Kat. My guess is Kat is in Montana. Jackie, maybe Montana too. I don't know. Oh well. I will get to see them later. Maybe for my birthday, which is coming up soon too!! (See countdown at sidebar)

Merry Christmas!!

Productive Day

Yeah. I am so glad. I got all my Christmas shopping done, in one day. Actually in just a few hours.

Today started off great. Breakfast with Mara at IHOP. Although, the roads were bad, so she was running just a bit later than planned. I decided to sneak a little eye brow waxing in. They were in desperate need of a clean-up. I feel they sprouted over night.

Then, went shopping with my friend, Rachel. We decided since I had no clue what to get my family, I should just start browsing. So we did that, we started at the mall. I managed to get my sister and brother-in-law, and both my parents done this morning. I was so pleased, considering I had no clue what to get them.

Then, went and had lunch at Platt Electric Supply. Annual (free) Christmas lunch. Yeah. I love (free) lunch!! Then went more shopping with my Mom. We decided to head to Wal*Mart, and Fred Meyer, and I got everyone else shopped for. I can't give away too much here, since my entire family/friends reads this blog. I wouldn't someone getting hints as to what they are getting ahead of time. Granted, it is almost Christmas, and granted, they will be opening up their gifts early, since I have to work. So, it isn't like they have to wait a long time to see what I got them.

So, my day is very productive. It is still light out, so I may even go for a run. Yeah, I need to do that. And, tonight I am staying at Jen/Joel's, cuz I get to babysit tomorrow morning.

Oh yeah, I even got a chance to stop by and see some people I hardly get to see anymore. One was Bonnie. SHe used to work at Dr. Tan's office with me. Now she is at Lincare. Point...I stopped by, said hello, and she invited me to her place on Saturday. Bigger point...she had horses, and I get to go ride them!! Yup! You may remember, not last year, but the year before, she invited me out there for my birthday, to go riding. It was freezing cold, but still a ton of fun!! I can't wait to go freeze me buttocks off again. It will so be worth it. Mom gets to come too. She hasn't riden in a long time.

Well, I better get that run in, like I said I would!

Bunco!

Last night, went over to my sister's house, and played Bunco. It is a no-brainer game of dice. More of an excuse to get together for a girl's night in. Kind of like guy's poker night. Usually you win prize money for most bunco's, and most wins, things like that, but last night, we did an ornament exchange instead. So, it was fun. I met a bunch of my sister's neighbors, and got to spend time with my long time friend, Rachel. It was fun!!

Today, was a boring day. Didn't get much done. I want to go running. I brought my running light, and warm running clothes, so I may still go out tonight. I hate that is gets dark so quickly. I slep most of the day away, since my dog kept me up most of the night. I just don't get any good sleep when he sits at the door whining, cuz he wants to go play with my parent's dogs. Hopefully tonight will be better.

No plans so far this whole time I am here. I guess I will just wing it. I still need to shop. I have gotten nothing for anyone, except Grason and Kaitlyn. The two easiest to shop for. Maybe that is why I have their stuff. I don't know. Speaking of...Grason is here now, so what am I doing on the computer. See ya!

Home for the Holidays

I am headed home today. I can't wait. My stint at house sitting is finally over, and I get to spend a week with my family. I am just gonna do a little clean-up here at home, then I am off.

I had fun at DeAnn's house, sitting, but I am glad that it is over. I think Charlie was starting to not like it too. He stopped wanting to go "bye-bye", and refused to listen to me. That is ok. I know he likes it at home, so he will be happy to go there.

I have to work Christmas Day, which I am not happy about, but I don't want to get started on that rant. So, I will be coming back to Portland Christmas Eve. I am gonna try to get off, but it will depend on how many nurses are working, and how many patients are in the hospital. I think she pads holidays though. Maybe half expecting people to call-in sick, or maybe just because we are always super busy, or just to make it so we have a good day...I don't know. All I know is, I have to work, and I don't want to.

So, I am off now. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday Season. I will try to keep updated while at my parents, but it doesn't always happen. So, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight! Hehe! :)

2 months and its over

So, Jeff and I broke up last night. I had noticed him not calling as often, and just generally getting phased out. He didn't realize he was doing it, but since I had been there before, I totally knew what it felt like. I wasn't gonna put up with it.

Last year, we were friends for a long time. But when Jeff gets interested in someone/thing else, he tends to ignore, or make excuses in the current relationship. We used to talk everyday, several times a day, then it started to slack. He stopped calling at night. Mostly because he was super busy, majorly stressed, and just starting his new job in Seattle. But, in the past, when he had been really busy, he still called, because he wanted to. Well, apparently he stopped wanting to talk to me. Luckily, I had seen it in the past, so I knew what it felt like, so I only put up with it for about 4 days. If he hadn't done it to me last year, I wouldn't have thought anything of it yet. The only downside, which he will realize soon, is he ruined it again, and this time....there won't be a next time.

So, I cried alot last night after it happened. It was so hard to say goodbye. The hardest part for me will be the friendship. We were great friends, could talk about anything. But, I can't be just friends with him, so I had to completely cut it off. I feel like I am losing my best friend. Not a long time friend, just a good friend. We talked all the time. It was great having someone to talk to about the daily stuff. Oh well, my family/friends will have to deal again!

So, I realized last night (after all the crying) that there were MANY things that I didn't like about him. Granted there were so many things that I twhought were wonderful, but some very important qualities that I want from a boyfriend, I just never got. And, I derserve so much better. And, I am gonna get so much better. I don't know when, but I will.

So, please don't worry about me. Yes, this totally sucks. Yes, it is hard. But, yes, I will get over it. And Yes, I will be fine.

So, I guess I am single once again...bring on the single, hot guys...in Portland!! No more long distance stuff. Maybe I will go back to that hash, and see if that cute guy, Andy, is really interested. Hehe :)

Running and Wheels

Alrighty. So yesterday ran a 10k race. It was fun. My friend Audrey ran it with me, and she had a friend Angela, that also ran too. We all had a ton of fun. I really wanted to dress up in Santa hat and bells, but didn't get the Santa hat in time, so just had the small bells that the race provided for us. Oh well.

We decided to ride the MAX to the start. It was fun. For those of you who don't know, the MAX is the public transportation of choice here in Portland. It is the train that runs East-West. You can get most places from it, but it can take a long time. For instance to get from my place in Southwest Portland area, to the airport (Northeast Portland area), it can take about 1 1/2 hours. Luckily, this was just downtown, about half that distance. I think it was maybe 30 minute ride. It was fun though, we were just chatting away.

So, the run. Yes. It was good. A little rainy, and a lot windy. That part totally sucked, but we managed to get through it. The first three miles were the worst. Uphill, against the wind. Yeah. But, once we got past that, we were flying. We managed to finish at 1hr 11 minutes. Which is just under a 12 min/mile pace. Slow for most people, but I was happy with it. If I can keep that pace up for the winter, great. Then, when I start training again early spring or late winter for my next marathon, then I will be set. Hopefully I can start losing weight again too.

Moving on. Went and got my brakes done. I dressed in my running clothes thinking I would run while they fixed my car, but when I got there, it was pouring rain. Now, don't get me wrong. I don't mind running in the rain, but pouring rain...no thank you!

I waited. It wasn't bad. I brought my palm this time, so I could play some games. I did have a bag of that popcorn I mentioned in the above post. I couln't help it. It stared at me, and begged me to eat it. So I did!

Well, when they were done. They guy told me my Left wheel bearing is going bad, and it needs to be fixed soon. I knew something was wrong, because my car had been running loud lately. Before it sounded like a smooth car, now it sounds like a rough truck. So, of course with my luck, they couldn't get the part, except through an authorized Pontiac dealer. No one sold them. So, he was nice enough to call and get a quote. The guy said without ABS, and a front-wheel drive system, they couldn't order just the wheel bearing, they had to order the whole hub system. I don't really know what that means, but whatever. I do know, that it needs to be fixed, and he is the first one to tell what is wrong. I have asked several people, and no one knew why it was making that noise.

So, he went ahead and ordered the part, it will be in on Wednesday. I can take my car in again on Thursday morning (for another 2-3 hour wait), to get that fixed.

Another $300 down the drain. Okay, maybe not down the drain. My car is an investment, and I do need to take care of this investment. An investment I will be keeping for a very long time!!

House Sitting and Brakes

So house sitting is going great.

My boss, DeAnn, asked me to dog/house sit for two weeks. I said no problem. I don't have anything at my house I need to stay there for, so why not stay at someone else's house. They even allowed me to bring Charlie over to stay here too. They have a 15 year old Border Collie named Chayse. She puts up with Charlie, but hobbles around a lot. I have to keep Charlie off her half the time.

I like their house, and their dog. I am staying in their spare bedroom, and she has a really nice down comforter on the bed for me. When I arrived, she had towels laying out, some blueberry muffins for breakfast, and even a flashlight at the bedside (in case I needed to get up in the middle of the night, that way I wouldn't trip on anything-how sweet).

When I have to work though, Charlie goes back to my home, and the neighbor girls let Chayse out in the afternoon once. 12 hours alone is really hard on the dog, so they are nice enough to help out.

On to the brakes. I went and got my oil changed on Saturday, and my brake light had been coming on, so I asked them to check my brake fluid. They didn't want to, but I explained to them that if it isn't really low, then I know it is an electrical problem, not a real brake problem. I told them, I didn't expect them to fix it, I just wanted them to check, since they were already working under my hood.

They did. That was nice.

It is low. Grr.

Well, since they don't do brakes, I decided to head over to Les Schwab and have them looked at. See what needed to be done, and how much. Well, when I arrived I told the guy my brake light kept coming on, and I needed to know what I needed to do about it, and how much would it cost.

He said " No problem, we will take your car back, check it out, and I will get back to you to let you know what needs to be done"

"Great!"

"It will take about half hour"

"No problem, I will wait"

So, I waited, and waited, and waited. Finally they pull my car into the service bay, and check my brakes. I also had them rotate my tires while they were there. Last year I had to buy new tires, so they needed to be rotated.

After 45 minutes + of waiting, the lady finally comes back in, tells me what that I have 15% left on the front, and 60% left on the rear. They recommend replacing the front brakes at this time. She tells me it will cost ~$200 to replace brakes, flush the system, and fill my brake fluid. And, if my rotors need to be replaced, it will cost an additional $80.

I can't exactly afford that, but I figure this is safety I am talking about, and I have lots of traveling in my future. So, I say "Go ahead. How long will it take?"

"M'aam, we are closed now, you will have to make an appt for that."

"What? The guyt told me he would check things out and come back to let me know what needed to be done. So, not only did I wait for 45 minutes for you to tell me something I already know, but now I have to come back and wait again. Okay, I guess it needs to be done, can I make an appt for tomorrow?"

"We are closed"

"Are you kidding me?" I said a bunch of other stuff under my breath. About ready to cry, holding myself back. "I guess Monday then"

So, I have an appt to get my brakes fixed in 45 minutes. They said it should take about an hour. Right, an hour. I will believe that when I see it. I have decided to wear my running clothes, and when I drop off my car, I will go running. What better way to waste time? Even if I don't run for a full hour, I won't just be sitting there, staring at the popcorn machine, debating whether to have any or not!

Back to work, I go!

Well, I guess the title says it all. I have been on a little hiatus (aka days off) for three days, now I am headed back to work three days. Then I get another three days off. I had asked for those days off because Jeff was supposed to come visit me that weekend. Of course, he decided to go and get a job in Seattle, so will be moving that weekend instead. Now, I have no clue when I will get to see him again. Boohoo!! :(

Well, I am off to bed! Tomorrow I start house sitting at my boss's house for two weeks. I am watching her 15 year-old Border Collie, Chase. She is white with a few black spots. A very gentle soul. Charlie is going to ruin her. Kidding. But seriously, I will be staying over there for two weeks. I, however, don't feel comfortable leaving Charlie in a new house, with another dog for 12 hours while I work, so I will be dropping him off before work, and picking him back up after work. It makes things easier on the house. I don't want to be responsible for paying for new couches, linens, toys, whatever else he may decide to chew on. I just don't want to, nor can I afford it. It will be lots of extra driving (she lives about ten mins from me), and will require me to get up just a few minutes earlier than I normally do, but so be-it. I can do it.

I am actually looking forward to it. It will be weird to be in a strange house all alone, and my boss's house when she isn't there, but still fun just the same! Wish me luck! Then, when the two weeks is up....I get to go home for Christmas and spend six days at home with my family (hopefully with Jeff too, somewhere in that mix), then come back to work on Christmas day. Yes, you heard me correctly. I have to work on Christmas Day. Even though I offered to work all other holidays, just to have this one off, I still have to work on Christmas Day. At least I get time-and-a-half, right? Yeah!

Well, those are my little rants for tonight. Have a great day. Oh, and I have not started shopping yet. I had better start thinking about what I want to get for my family, hadn't I?

Kahuna Hash

Another hash night. It wasn't as fun as the first night, but still fun. I got about the same amount of running in, in less time. Lasted about an hour tonight. We ran all over downtown Portland, so it was fun.

I have another race on Sunday. So, the running is much needed. Tomorrow is a full moon hash, so I may go to it. Depends on if I get any running in during the day. I really want to get a 4-5 mile run in tomorrow afternoon, sometime. I will see if that happens. Usually I am lazy all day, then the evening/night comes, and I start wanting to go do.

Weird how that works.

Just Kathleen

So, I went to the Oregon Hash House Harriers event last night. It was a TON of fun. Basically it is a co-ed fraternity.

Seriously.

But, I had fun just the same. So we started out at this hotel, and the hares left about ten minutes before we did to set the trail. Then we started off. We ran around the city, basically bar hopping. Apparently it is not always like that, last night was different. Last night was a "pick-up" hash. Which meant no one chose to be the hare ahead of time. So, they drew straws at the beginning, and the shortest was the hare. Audrey didn't want to be the hare, so we showed up later than 6:30, so she didn't have to partake in the drawing of the straws. I was a virgin, so I of course wouldn't ever be chosen.

We run around chasing the hare, and stop at these "beer checks", tonight was at bars. We had three bars that we stopped at total. It was fun. No pressure for us non-drinkers either, it was really cool. Then after about 15-20 mins, the hare is off again, and then so are we. Running to the next check point. At the end, there was even a boob-check. No one is allowed to go on, until someone shows their boobs. I got there just as the group was breaking up. Someone had shown their boobs already, so I didn't have to do it. :)

So, it was totally fun. It lasted about two hours, probably got about a 3-4 mile run in, with lots of stops in between. But that is ok, it was still a ton of fun. So...Just Kathleen. When you get there you are required to sign in, and you are "just whatever-your-name-is" until you have been to many hash's and they decide to name you. Most names are sexual or perverted in nature. So I am cool with being Just Kathleen. If you introduce yourself, you have to say "Just Kathleen", or if you have a name...then whatever that is. This group is a drinking group with a running problem. They tend to be professionals during the day, and just like to have fun at night. So, you are not allowed to talk about work, or what you do.

I met this cool guy. His name is Mystery Meat. He was hitting on me all night long. He was totally cute, so it was fun. His real name was Andy, he slipped that one in. At the end of the night, he had won a super cool Bangkok (? spelling) T-Shirt, and a second Hash T-shirt too. Well apparently, he already had one of those, so asked me my size, and gave that shirt to me. So it was super fun. I can't wait to go back again! They meet three times a week. The Wednesday group is called the Portland Humping Hash. I can't go next Wednesday, but I will try to go next Monday and Saturday. I guess most nights are more running, less bars/beer checks, and most nights only last about 1:00-1:15, vs the two hours we were out last night.

I will keep you posted on my future hashing nights. I am no longer a virgin, so I don't have to get re-initiated!!! Yes, I had an initiation last night. But, luckily you are allowed a proxy to drink for you, so I still didn't have to drink! Yeah!

Home life

Finally got some housework done. I ahve been working/traveling so much lately, I just have not had time to get any housework done. So, I finally got about 10 loads (no joke) of laundry done, dishes, and random other cleaning stuff. I will do more heavy duty stuff tomorrow. I know my apt isn't that big, but I am not working on it all day, constantly. Even though I should be! :)
Tonight I am headed out to a new running group. My friend Audrey, from work, runs with this group. They are all professionals in some manner, and there only rule is not shop talk! Yes! I love that. I hate getting together with people at work, and all they want to talk about is work. So, it will be nice to meet a bunch of new people, and get a good run in. Catch...we don't ever know how far we are going, where we are going, what terrain we will be running in, and it is at night. So, Mom...don't freak out. I will constantly be around other people. Apparently it is a game. The "hares" run ahead and set the trail, and if you catch them... I don't remember exactly, but something happens to the "hare". It sounds like fun. Oh, and I forget to mention, something about drinking...every mile, every turn...I don't remember that either. She explained all this to me about a month ago, when I was gonna go with her before...but I couldn't then. So this is the first time I will have gone with her. I am excited. I know it will be major freezing cold, but that is ok. I am cool with that. I have lots of winter running clothes. I trained for my second marathon during the winter, and I enjoyed it more than summer running!
So, I am off to go run the Hash...that is what they call it. I will update you all on how it was and how it works. yeah. I am excited to go running again!!

Seattle Half Marathon

Yes Jeffery...the race was Sunday. You are correct.

I convinced my friend Heather to join me on the trek to Seattle, so I didn't have to go alone. I am so glad she decided to come, it was a ton of fun! We left Saturday morning, and headed up there. Got to the Hotel, valet parked my car, then we checked in. Got my race packet, and met another frined named Heather. She ran the Portland Marathon too, and we met before that race as well. It was nice to see her again.

In Seattle we did a little shopping, but mostly vegged in the host hotel room. It was a ton of fun, just relaxing in the Westin's Heavenly beds, and watching DVD's.

The next morning called for snow/rain mix, so I wasn't 100% I wanted to run, but I did. It was snowing in the early am, but not enough to stick, and it was more wet than anything. So, I got up, dressed, and forged my way to the start line. I had about a mile to walk to even get to the start line, but it was ok. Heather met me at the hotel in the morning, and we started the race together.

So, when I say Heather ran with me, it is the second Heather, not the first Heather that came to Seattle with me. The second Heather lives in the Seattle area. So, from here on out...Heather1 came with me, Heather 2 met me there!

Heather2 isn't much of a runner yet. She does the run/walk method, so it was abig deal to start running with me. She ran the first mile, then started walking, and I never saw her again. Oh well, she knew that would happen. It was nice just to have someone to start with. Thanks Heather2!!!

The run...well, it was really wet, and cold. Heather2 told me before the race to wear a garbage bag, to keep warmer and drier...so I did. It was a funny sight, but she was right, it was way warmer. It rained the whole time, and started down-pouring about mile 10. I called Hather1 and told her not to meet me at the finish. There was no point in both of us being drowned rats.

Overall, it was a good race. A good route, and I finished strong. I even feel I could have ran another 3-5 miles if I absolutely had to. Luckily I didn't have to. I was tired of the rain. But then again, I did have to trek back another mile to the hotel. So, really I did about 15 miles this weekend. Hehe!

Time: Finished in 2:43, which is pretty good for me this year. That is 12:30 pace. Not bad. Got a good shirt, sweatshirt, and cool medal. So I am happy. Next run for me is the Red-Nosed RUNdeer, on Dec 10th. Audrey wants to run that with me! Yeah! I will run the 10k at that race. I am excited to keep running now. I was starting to feel like I couldn't run distances anymore, but that race reminded me, my body likes to run, and it will remember no matter how much I try to forget!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy Thanksgiving to all. I do have to work (and am here now), but I got to spend a few days with my family, and even got to see Jeff for a moment or two before leaving town. I got in late last night, so early to bed for me. It was worth it though! :)

Hope you all have a great Turkey day! Eat lots and lots for me. After two days of work here, I am off to Seattle for a Half marathon (that I haven't been training for-bad Kathleen). I am going alone, so wish me luck!!

Nov 22

Nothing too exciting today. Just a lazy day. Watched You, Me, and Dupree. It was good! Was gonna head home about 4 or 5, then I learned that Jeff was coming into town, so I stayed. We went to dinner, and got to spend about an hour and a half together. I guess it is better than nothing! Off to bed though, as I am getting in very late!! Have to work tomorrow!!

Nov 21

So, it was another great day with my family. Had the family over for dinner. That was fun. It is always nice to see everyone. Did some baking too, so I got to eat no-bake cookies. The bestest ever. Really... in my mind, that is what makes Thanksgiving...Thanksgiving. Yes, the cookies. They really are that good!!

So, tomorrow I have to head back home. Not my idea of a great holiday, but you got to do what you got to do! I ...got to....work. Yeah! Too bad I have to head back. More family is coming tomorrow night. My Uncle Jeff, with a few of my cousins, that I never get to see. Oh well. He lives in Portland near me, so I can see him whenever...the cousins, well I don't get to see them whenever, but oh well.

Jeff may be coming tomorrow too. I may get to see him just as I am leaving town to head home, or he may decide to wait and come Thursday morning. Which means, I don't get to see him at all. Grr. I hate long distance relationships. I miss him so much, and I hate not seeing him very often. Grrr.

Well, I am off to bed!

Nov 20

Got to hang out all day with my mom. I had a blast. First off, we started running. I know, can you believe it? I got my mom to run with me. She did a really good job. We ran for 45 mins. It was only supposed to be 30, but she walked a lot. Which is fine, I just ran circles around here, it was fun.

Then we went and got Grason, and I got to hang with Grason all day. We went to the mall got our brows done, pedicures. It was fun. Then came home, watched a couple movies. Jen/Joel came over for dinner (Yumm...tacos, my favorite!) and then they took Grason home! :(

It was a blast! Tomorrow....baking all day for Thankgsgiving Day. That I won't be here for...but at least I get to eat all the cookies!!! :)

Nov 19

Man how things change so quicky. I guess I am going home now. My mother has offered to pay for gas, so I have no excuse not to go home. I will have fun. I will get to see my neice/nephew again (who can turn down them), and my parents, and my sister/brother. So, it iwll be fun. I will even see my grandparents (which I never really see). Too bad I have to come back for Turkey day. Oh well, who needs turkey anyhow?

Short post, but I need to pack and get on the road. I worked all day...so don't want to be up too late...driving!!

Nov 18

I guess I am not going to go howm now. I spoke with my mom, and I just don't have the money to spend on all that gas. Besides I am headed to Seattle this weekend for a half marathon, so I will have to spend gas money then, and hotel money.

I will either get my puppy after Thanksgiving, or near Christmas. I need to speak with Steve. I am sure he will appreciate having him longer. I miss him lots, but I know I will see him again, so it isn't as bad as it was before (when I tried to give him up!).

So, I guess I will clean on my days off and start decorating for Christmas. Yeah! I love Christmas!! I can't wait til the season gets under way!!

Nov 17

Ended up being a lazy day. We decided there wasn't too much to do, but housework, and so we didn't hang out together. I, of course, didn't get much done. I need to do morelaundry, and some dishes. I hate housework. That is why I was a housewife for Halloween....scary job!!Hehee

Back to work tomorrow for a couple more days, then back to the TC's. I was thinking I didn't really want to go home again (don't like driving, don't have the money), but my puppy is there. If I don't go get him now, I don't know when I will get him back. I just hate going home, knowing that everyone still has to work, and can't hang out with me, except in the evening, and by then, doesn't ever want to do anything. Although, I love just hanging out all day in my pj's, I can do that here.

Oh well, I am sure it will be fine. I am sure I can find someone to do something with. Somewhere!

Nov 16

Oh my goodness. I almost forgot to blog today. Wow...that was a close call.

Today was a work day. Very, very busy. Of course I can't talk about it, due to confidentiality reasons. Oh well. You wouldn't understand it anyhow. (Not to offend anyone)

Gonna hang out with Heather all day tomorrow, can't wait!!

Pictures from this weekend

Jeff took the above picture. I am not that good with my camera yet, and he has known photography for a while. It was a cold day, but really fun hiking. Nothing like the gorge, but still fun. This is at Bowl and Pitcher in Riverside State Park in Spokane, WA.

This is Jeff at the top of a cliff. He didn't want to get too close, so he kept down low, as to not fall off. Good thinking!

This is Jeff.

This is a picture of the balloons on the swinging bridge. Some people were putting them up because it was "A good day!"

Nov 15

Another day at work. Nothing too exciting. Came home to an empty house. Charlie is hagning with Steve for a few days. I was home, and plan to go back home next week, and well all I do is work when I am here, so he might as well have some fun with Steve. He gets so bored hanging out here all day...alone. I feel for him, I really do. I have a doggie sitter come in the middle of the day, and play with him for an hour, take him out. That breaks things up a bit, but I bet it can still be boring here. I don't' think he does anything until I get home. Then he is very wild, and all I want to do is relax. Oh well. he is having fun with Steve. I will get to see him next week!!

Nov 14

I am home now. Today I got to spend a few hours hanging out with my mother and my neice, Kaitlyn. It was a ton of fun. But, back to work I go tomorrow. I work 4/5 days, then I head back to the TC (Tri-Cities, WA) to spend (my) Thanksgiving Break with my family. I have to work on Turkey day, so I am going there early. I know I was just there, but I didn't get to see everyone, and I have three days off, so what else will I do with my time???

Better get running more though. I need to get a longer run in, or my half marathon in Seattle (which I am running whether I am prepared or not) will really suck. That is ok. I can always walk. There is no harm in walking, nothing wrong with that. It is just supposed to be a fun run anyhow, to keep me motivated, and keep me running. I will have fun. So far, I am going alone, but my sister may go with me, and run a few miles. I don't know for sure!

Nov 13

Lazy day today. I slept most of the day. It felt great. I don't think I get really good sleep when I go out of town, so it is nice to be able to sleep all day.

Tonight I get to go visit my friend Kat. Won't get to see her long, but a short chat will be nice! Tonight I have Grason too. I love taking him for the day or the evening. Tomorrow I get Kaitlyn for the day. Yeah!! I don't know what we will do, but I am sure we will have fun. I might try to get some more pics of her.

Nov 12

Had a blast in Spokane with Jeff. I have some pics to post, but I have to wait until I get home, because I need to upload them to my computer. Sorry, you must wait.

Yesterday we went to this little park and did a little hiking. Not quite like the Gorge, but hiking still. There was this cool swinging bridge across the river. There were some people putting up ballons all across the bridge. When we asked what the occasion was, some guy in a thick Russian accent said "It's a good day!" Yes, we thought it was a good day too, but we weren't putting up ballons. Oh well. I got a pic of them too, so that will be what I post when I get home. Also took some good pics of Jeff. :)

Today, we didn't do too much. Stayed in watched some TV. I didn't even get another run in, but it was crazy windy. I hate running in the wind!

I came home tonight. Jeff had to go into work, then work early tomorrow morning, so I came home. When I get here (at Jen's), Grason welcomed me with open arms. He even gives me lots of kisses. It is so cute. He really leanes in and kisses me...sometimes with open mouth, but he will learn to pucker his lips soon enough. Oh man...both my kiddos make me melt. I will try to go see Kaitlyn again tomorrow too. She is crawling all over the place. I can't wait till she starts walking and talking. She is growing like a weed. Maybe I can get a few more pics of my kiddos too.

I have the next couple days off, so I plan to stay in the TC till Tues. I may head home Tues morning, to get some cleaning/laundry done. Work a few days, then head back over here for Thanksgiving. I have to work on Turkey day, but I plan to spend a few days before here. Then off to Seattle for the Half Marathon. I still plan to do it. Whether I have been running or not, even if I have to crawl across the finish line! I will be there!!

Nov 11

Happy Birthday Zoe, and Matt!!!

I didn't get much sleep last night. Oh well. I haven't had much sleep in the last few nights, so what difference is it if I add one more night to the pile.

Got up for a run this morning at Jeff's. Went for an hour. I am guessing about 5-5.5 miles. I feel really good. I am so glad I decided to go. It felt good to get out there vs laying around in bed not really sleeping, but trying to. Maybe I will go back to bed now, and see if I can get some sleep.

Yeah! Nothing else to exciting going on here, at least not yet!!

Nov 10

Made it home safe to the TC!! I am having a blast seeing everyone. I went over to Jen/Joel's this morning, picked up Grason, and he gets to hang with me all day! So we are at the office right now, playing with Kaitlyn too. I miss these kids so much!

Well, I will keep everyone posted on my fun I am having this weekend (this extended weekend-woohoo!). Daily blog posts are a lot of fun!

Nov 9

Happy Birthday to my friend Jackie!

I am headed off to the TC here in just a minute. Work seemed to take FOREVER!! But, good news...my short three-day-weekend, just became a nice 5 day stretch off. Thanks to Khristina and Scott for switching with me. :) Thanks a lot!

So, I am off to see my Jeff, and my family! :)

Nov 8

Today I am at work. It seems to be a very slow day. So, Power of 10 update. I am a little sore in my arms, but that seems to be it. I am thinking it is because I just didn't do it correctly. I will try again next week and see if I can do better.
As for the rest of my life...been feeling a bit depressed lately. Nothing major, just maybe the weather. Getting excited to go see Jeff this weekend though. Really excited now to see my family too. I convinced Mom to make dumplings for dinner Friday night. Yum, yum!!
Jeff has his interview in Seattle today at 3pm. Hopefully he will get the job, and move over to this side of the mountains....yeah! It will be a great opportunity for him! (and us...hehe :) )
Better get back to work!

Nov 7-Election Day

So, I am bad at remembering to vote. But, since I have a boyfriend, that is big into that sort of thing...I had to do it. So..everyone remember to go vote! Okay, I have said my peace!!

As for today. I went to the gym today. Did my first Power of ten workout in almost a year. It was good. Although, I really feel we didnt do it right again. We counted way to fast, and I just didn't feel I pushed myself as I should have. It will get better. I remember the first time I did it last year. It took us a few weeks to get the hang of it. Of course, I may be singing to a different tune tomorrow, when I hurt like hell. We'll have to see.

I also did 15 mins of cardio before hand. I wanted to do more, but we were pressed for time. So maybe I will get a good run in tonight. I will have to see. I am spending the day with Heather again. We are gonna just hang, watch more movies, run some errands. That sort of thing. Then two days of work, then I am off to see Jeff!!! Woohoo! I can't wait!

Nov 6

Had a fun day hanging out with Heather. She wasn't feeling good, and called in to work, so I went over and we watched girl movies all day. It was so much fun! Heather is awesome. We have a lot in common, and we can talk about anything. Fun to have a good friend. We are gonna hang out all day again tomorrow, then back to work for me.
Then I get to head home and see my babies. I just heard today Kaitlyn is crawling! Can you believe it? They are both growing up so fast!!

Nov 5

Hello All. A very non-busy day at work today. But I get the next couple days off, and I am totally excited about them. Tomorrow gonna go running with Audrey. then Tuesday, gonna hang out all day with Heather. We have all sorts of fun planned. It is nice to find friends to hang out with. I might even go to the gym with a new friend Ellie. I can't wait. I am thinking of getting started in Power of ten again. I really want to do it, but I have to find someone just as excited about it as I.

Nov 4

Today was a work day. Not too exciting. I have to go back tomorrow, then I get a few days off. Turns out I will be coming home on Fri (thurs night to be exact), so i get to see my Grason. He is walking now! I can't wait to see him again! I will probably head to Spokane for a day or two to see my boyfriend, but I haven't decided for sure. It is a short weekend, but a weekend none-the-less.

National Blogging Month

Happy National blogging Month. I will try to keep to the challenge as well. Good luck to us all!!! Wow....I have no clue what to write daily. I guess I will think of something. How come I am only speechless when I HAVE to say something...weird?

Halloween 2006

So, I didn't get to go as a stick of gum. Mara decided people wouldn't understand, and I agreed (reluctantly, but agreed). So, she helped me chose to be a housewife. It was fun. We went to the dollar store, and got slippers, a frying pan, and some curlers. Then headed to Goodwill and found a housecoat. It was teal with ruffles, and
fit me perfect. It was like it was waiting for me to buy it. The whole costume was $8. Can't beat that. See pictures below.

Other than that, had a great time in Spokane visiting Mara. I also got a chance to see my boyfriend, Jeff. I hardly get to see him, so it was nice to be able to spend some time with him again.

Got into town on Fri night, headed to Kimmie's birthday party at a bar. Basically had
some fun bar time. I was the designated DD. I always am, and I like to be. I hate when my friends get drunk, and have to drive home...so I get to do the driving!! :) After I dropped off Mara at her house...I headed over to see Jeff. :)

Saturday, I spent all day with Mara. We went shopping, and got all the Halloween stuff. We had dinner at home, then headed to the Halloween party. It was fun. However, we didn't stay very long. Left at about 12:30 am to lacey/Jeremey's house. We just hung out and talked. Most of us didn't drink that night, so it ended up being an early night.

Sunday I got to spend with Jeff. Except for a few hours when Mara and I went to a play. It was called "Isn't it Romantic". It is about two girls living in NY (or somewhere close), and their lives. It was really good. Reminded me how much I miss theatre. I will need to see more plays around here too.

Afterwards, Jeff and I went to dinner and a movie. We went and saw the new Robin Williams movie "Man of the Year". It was classic Robin...hilarious. It was fun. Monday morning, I had to head back home. Boohoo! I hated leaving. I wish I could have stayed a week. Oh well.

So, I am home now. Nothing too exciting. I need to go running tonight, but I find myself being lazy again. Now it has been over a week since I have ran at all. If I don't get my butt in gear, I will be really upset!! I will run tonight. I WILL!!

Heading home to the TC next weekend. I will be there for sure Friday. May be heading back to Spokane on Fri night, but I don't know for sure right now. If not, I will hang out with my family. Yeah!!

Mara and Brent as a sexy bat, and a pornstar/construction worker :)


This is Tabby and Dave as Thing 1 and Thing 2. They are so creative!! Tabby just had her wisdom teeth pulled the day before, so didn't stay out long. I don't blame her. I was in bed for days after mine were pulled. Way to go Tabby!!


Lacey and Reanna.


This is Chris dressed as a gypsy. He looked better than some of the girls there!


Mara as a bat...in motion! Watch out everyone!


This is my whole costume. I am a housewife. Aren't I cute?


This is a closer look at me...now you can't deny how cute I am...I know you can't!!


The four of us. Meagan and Lacey were fairies, and Mara and me.

Seattle

Turns out, I just don't have the self-motivation to keep running all the long distances right now. I have been struggling to get anything longer than 5 miles in. I know that I did a 7 miler once, but I just don't get out there.

So, I guess I will not be running the Seattle Marathon, but I will definetely do the Seattle Half marathon. I am really excited to go and to run a race again. I think I will try to find a Half marathon at least every couple months...just to keep me out there.

Other than that, I am still running (except this week, I have been REALLY lazy), and still enjoying it. I will try to keep getting faster this winter, so maybe next year, I can plan to run a marathon in...say...5 hours 15 mins. Maybe that will be a stretch, but I can try!

Weight loss has been slow, but still losing. I have been eating really bad lately. Matter of fact, just ordered a damn pizza for tonight...because I can...so I did. Oh well. Gotta live life!! I try to make healthier choices most of the time, just not as hard as I was trying before. I really do not want to plateau right now, so I am gonna try extra hard from here on out. Well, after tonight's pizza...since I did pay for it. It would be bad to just throw it out, and not eat it!

Halloween

I have decided to be a stick of gum. I hadn't thought of too many good ideas, so DeAnn at work helped me think of some easy to do, costumes.

I am gonna try to find a pink sweatpant/sweatshirt combo, and maybe get letters that say EXTRA or BUBBLEYUM, something good.

So there you have it. I am gonna be a stick of gum!!

I couldn't resist

I think this is so true...for those who know me well..

What Makes You ...
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What makes you sexy?	Your hips
What makes you pretty?	Everything
What makes you loveable?	Your compassion
What makes you fun?	Your sense of humor
What makes you irresistable?	Your heart
99.00%Just how great are you?
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Brooks and Dunn Update!!

That was an awesome concert. First off...Jack Ingram (spelling?) was ok. I wasn't too impressed, but then again, he is new, and I only knew a few songs. then again, that is about all he is allowed to sing.

Sugarland rocked. Jennifer Nettles was amazing. I was totally impressed, makes me want to go buy their CD. I may do that tomorrow. It really was great. Every song they sang was a great song!

Brooks and Dunn...well they were...words cannot describe how cool they were. They sang every song I could think of that I wanted to hear. They had the coolest stage show. I was very pleased. Worth every penny I spent...on....well i didn't buy tickets, so worth every penny I spent on food!!

Yup! I went to the concert, and decided to buy food. I figure, you can't go to the fair and not buy fair food. So, I did. My dad and I each got a hotdog, a drink, and that totaled $20! Oh well, it was fun. Free tickets...the least I could do was buy something! So I did!

Overall....one of the best concerts I have been to. And, I have been to many!!

7 miles...its a start

Today I decided to get off the couch, and get a longer-than-3-mile run in. Okay, it was after Jeff encouraged me to go, so I have to thank him. Don't worry...I did.

So, anyway...I got off the couch, and ran. It was great. It reminded me how much I love distance running. You see, with shorter distances, the whole run is a push. 30-40 mins of puching and convincing myself I don't need to stop and walk. But once you get past that point, it just feels great, and you just keep going.

So, that is where I was...running, feeling great, and glad I got off the couch today!

Next up...13 miles tomorrow!!

Long Run

So, I am having difficulty getting motivated to do these long runs. I know that if I don't get out there soon, I will not be ready for the marathon in Seattle. I am not sure if I am slacking, because I allowed myself an out. I told myself I can always just run the half if I decide to. I think I need to get my butt in gear, and just run. I have been getting lots of good shorter runs in during the week, and it feels great. I just haven't wanted to get up and do 13 miles (which is what I had scheduled for today).

My attitude needs to change.

I had a bad dream last night, that I couldn't find my clothes, and I drove all over looking for them, and was an hour late starting the race, and I just couldn't get in the motion of running. It was weird.

Do dreams try to tell you something? Is it telling me, I don't really want to run the full marathon? Is it telling me....hmmm....what could it be telling me?

Mood: aaah

I just feel weird today. It has been raining, so maybe that is why. Normally the weather doesn't bother me. Today, I just have not been motivated to do anything. I want to get out for a run, but I feel my energy is being drained! Grrr

BTN Run

BTN run means "better than nothing" run.

I headed out tonight for a short 3 mile jaunt. I knew I needed to get a good run in tonight, so I was planning on booking it.

Well, I guess because I sat watching tv and eating (alot of) M&M's, I didn't have a good run. I felt sick part way through. So I slowed down...that didn't help. I walked a bit thinking I needed to just give myself a little rest...that didn't help.

So, even though I did get out, and it was a crappy run/walk....I can still count it as a run day...just a BTN run!

Brooks and Dunn

Only a few more days, and my Dad and I are off to see the Brooks & Dunn conert at the Rose Garden!

I am not a huge fan of B&D, but since I got free tickets, I might as well be excited about it. I think they have many good songs. I just probably would have never paid to go see them in concert.

So, Sunday night is the concert, and my parents are coming into town Sunday morning. My mom gets to stay at home with Charlie. I think they will watch a movie or something like that. She doesn't get to go, because the tickets were won off the radio, and I only got two. She doesn't care though.

So, Monday I will update you all on how the concert was.

Hilarious

As I was reading all my friend's blogs, I ran across my friend Brandi's blog. She has this posted, so I watched it. It is hilarious. It is 6 mins long, but worth every minute!

Enjoy

One last hike for the year

There is this new girl at work. Her name is Heather, and we made instant friends. We decided to head out to the gorge to go hiking. It was a ton of fun.

We hiked Eagle Creek all the way to Tunnel Falls. It is about a 13 mile round trip hike. A ton of fun, we had.

We started out pretty late. We weren't sure if we would make it all the way, but figured we could get out as far as we could. We barely made it all the way before we had to turn back. We started at 2. Figured 3 hours to get out, and 2 hours to get back. That is how long it took. We should have turned around about 1/2 hour before, but we were so close. Didn't want to miss the best part of that hike. We had to hike about 20 mins in the dark, and about 5 mins of pitch black. We started getting a little spooked at the very end, but we made it safe and sound to the car. After that, no problem.

We had a ton of fun. We have a lot in common, and talked about everything. She is just a few years older than I am. I got some ok pictures, nothing really good. But I will still post what I have. She took some good pictures of me.

I actually got to wear my hiking pants I bought this summer. When I bought them, they fit me, although were just a tad tighter than i would have liked for hiking. But not now. They fit me like a dream. They were very comfortable, and exactly what I had in mind when I bought them. I wish I could have gotten more use out of them this year, but I know I will get good use next year. I may even go one more time this year. I can keep going as long as the weather permits really.

So, here are a few pictures of the scenery, and a couple of me and Heather. Over all great day. I am hurting a little bit today in my hips, but nothing like after the marathon. I even got a 3 mile run in yesterday morning, and may try to get another 3 mile run in tonight. :)

Tunnel Falls


Part of the hiking trail. Most was dirt and leaves. There were quite a few areas that were very rocky. It was considered a moderate hike. I didn't think it was terrible. I thought the rocks/rough terrain made it tougher than the steepness. It wasn't bad at all, but it was 12-13 miles roundtrip!


Good photo of Heather.


Good photo of me!


I liked this picture of the creek. We got off the trail to get this photo! It was fun!


Hope you enjoyed these photos. Maybe I will get even one more good hike in this year.

Tendonitis

I think I may have a mild tendonitis. It is just an inflammation of the tendon on my right foot. I think I remmeber hurting vaguely before race day, but i just blew it off, said it would go away. I didn't think twice about it. I would have forgotten about it had I not mentioned it to Suzy, who reminded me that I had said that.

So, it has been bothering me the last few days. Nothing major, just a little sore on the top of my foot. But it is swollen, and red, and maybe a bit warm. So I need to watch it, rest it, ice it, and hopefully recover it.

I don't want to end up getting a major infection, because I didn't treat it while it was something small. So, I am going to baby it for a while. I really want to run, but I will resist.

I won't however, not play softball tonight. I probably shouldn't play, but I am going to. It is the last two games of the fallball season, and I want to play...so I am going to! Besides, after that, I can rest again for a few days, then try running again on Wednesday. I am sure it will be better by then!

More pictures!

Family Pic..thanks Zoe for the help with PS.

About mile 11...woohoo! Go Kathleen

Finish Line...here I come. Thanks Zoe for the great pic!

Another family pic. Aren't we a fun family?

Grason and Kaitlyn

I took a lot of pictures of both my kiddos. My nephew, Grason, is one year old now. My neice, Kaitlyn, is 6 months old.
Here is my favorite one of each of them.

Vacation Update!

I am back now. Actually I have been back in town since Saturday morning, but my vacation didn't really end until I went back to work yesterday.

It all started after work Thursday Sept. 21. I finished work at 7:30pm, and was ON VACATION!! Woohoo. I have never actually taken a week off of work, and used my vacation hours, so I am pretty excited about this. Even though, I wasn't going to some exotic location....it was still a vacation for me. My plan was to spend a few days in Spokane, then head home (TC) and spend the rest of the week seeing all my family and friends.

Headed to TC on Friday afternoon. First having lunch with a new friend, Mark. I met him online, and we have been talking for some time now, just never met. So...we finally met at lunch. It was a good lunch. We had lunch at Red Robin, my favorite restaurant! Yumm! I like it because it is all-american, and it has lots of stuff to chose from. Enough about that. After lunch I was ready to go...car packed and everything. Even had Charlie waiting..I was literally ready to go. So, I went!

Got into town on Fri, and decided to stay with Jen. I was going to watch Grason that night so they could go play poker, or something like that. So Grason and I had a fun night at Nana and grandpa's. Went there for dinner...yum...salmon...freshly caught. :)

Saturday, headed up to Spokane to see Jeff. He had some games on Saturday, so I watched him ref football. It was ok, nothing too exciting! Had a great time with Jeff all weekend. Even got him to go running a little with me. That was a sight to see! Tried to go to Riverfront park to take some pictures, but, silly me, my camera needed to be charged. So, no pics. I was really bummed about that.

Sunday, he had to ump a couple softball (fastpitch) games, so I went along and watched. Those games, much more fun that football. Maybe because I like softball...I don't know! Any way, the second game I made friends with some of the moms on the winning team. We had a lot of fun talking, and watching the game.

Headed home Monday morning. Spent the rest of the week eating out, seeing friends, and hardly running. Monday night got to go out on the boat for a couple hours. I didn't get in the water, it was pretty cold. Joel had fun tubing, while I had Grason and played flag duty. Either way, it was a blast, and Jackie even got to join us for a little bit.

The rest of the week went by way to fast. Grason turned one year old on Wed Sept 27. So that was fun. I got some good pics of his party. I will try to post a slide show of all the pics I took while I was on vacation. (Update: see new slideshow to the right for some of the pics) I even played photographer, and got Grason 1 year pictures, and Kaitlyn 6 month pictures. Took a TON of pictures, and only about 50 or so was any good. Oh well. I am still new to the photography world. I hope to keep getting better. Even took family pictures. My family doesn't have any pictures of us all together (professional) since I was about 5 years old. We were in need of some family pictures. Got some good ones of those too!

I got to see all but just a couple people while I was in town, so I was very pleased with that. Even managed to make it to a CBC Health Careers dedication. There is a new building in Richland, and they were dedicating it. I really wanted to see all the teachers, so we decided to go. Why this is cool...well apparently, I am on the front page of the TC Herald. I was in one of the shots they took, and I thought it was funny.

Came home Saturday morning, so I could meet Suzy here (she came up to watch me run my marathon), and go to the expo (get race packet), and just relax. Well...didn't get much relaxing in, but i still had fun, nonetheless. My entire family came up too. There was Jen, Joel, Grason, Matt, Ashley, Kaitlyn, Mom, Dad, Uncle Jeff, Steve, and Suzy here cheering me on. Zoe, Jason, Isaac and Xander also came to see me finish! I am so blessed to have such great family/friends to come cheer me on! Thank you all!! You carried me through my marathon. Special thanks to Jen for running the last 7 miles with me! You are the best!

Marathon went great. I finished a LOT faster than I thought I even could. I finished 5:52:08. I was expecting a 6:30 marathon, praying I wasn't out there for 7 hours. I even beat my second marathon time, by about 14 minutes! Yeah! I felt great. The last 4 miles were really painful, but I made it through. I ran the whole way. Stopped to walk a few times, but only for about 10-15 seconds at at time. I think I walked one time for about 1 minute. It just hurt to walk, and hurt even more to start running again. But I had to run, and I knew that if I kept walking, I wouldn't start running again, so I limited my walking breaks.

The day was perfect for running. From beginning to end. It was sunny, but not too sunny. Warm, but not too warm. Just perfect I tell ya.

So, I am still considering running Seattle Marathon on Nov 26. I am definetely doing the Half marathon, but really think I can do the full thing. I am not making any final decisions until Oct 15 (when I need to register before the price goes up). So share your thoughts!!

Weight loss update: Doing great! 35 pounds total since the beginning of the year. I reached my marathon goal, and now I am ready to start the second half of my journey to make it to my New Year goal! I know that I can do this!

Vacation

Hi All!

Just wanted to let you all know that I am on vacation in the TC. I will be gone until marathon time, so I will update then.

So far, had a great weekend in Spokane with Jeff. Now, I am off to the TC to see all my family and friends. Lots planned for this week. I can't wait!!

Have a great week, bloggerland!

Damn Yellow Lights!

I got pulled over....again, for running a yellow light.

What is it with this city. They feel you an't run yellow lights. It clearly states in the driver's manual that yellow means "caution".

Well, yesterday I was coming home from a long and hard day at work. I was car number 4 at a red light. It turned green, we started going. No sooner than it turned green, did it turn yellow again. so, I was strolling up to the line, thinking to myself that was way too short.

I had a decision to make. Go for it, or be good and stop.

Well...I made the wrong decision. I went for it. It turned red as I made it pass the intersection, but as I glanced behind me, there was a cop. Damn it. So, headed up to the next light, cop pulls behind me. Stroll to the next light, cop stays there. Not too close, just behind me like any other car. I think I have a chance.

Then I turn my blinker on to turn left to head home, so does the cop. Damn. I am getting pulled over.

As soon as the light turns green, and I turn, the lights come on. I am so close to home. I am on my street. But, I pull over. She...yes she, come up and asks if I know why.

"The yellow light"

"Yup!"

I told her I saw the light and had to make a decision, and it was a bad one none-the-less. She asked for my stuff, took it back to the car. Of course, not before asking about my plates... :)

Then came back, handed me my stuff and said have a good night. No warning, no nothing. I think she just wanted me to know what I did wrong...I did. So she was happy. She was very pleasant. We laughed about my plates. I think she saw that I was a nurse, coming home from an obviously long day at work.

So, NO ticket. Yeah!!

Can't Sleep

So last night, no matter what I tried, I just could not sleep. I laid there for hours it seemed. I went to bed at like 10 or 11, finally fell asleep at about 2 or 2:30am.

No joke.

So, I was listening to KUPL 98.7 fm last night. They started giving away Brooks & Dunn tickets at midnight. Every hour for 24 hours. All through today.

So, when the first hour offer was announced, I dialed the number, and all I got was busy tones. Oh well. I have never won anything over here. I used to win stuff at home all the time. Maybe less people trying, I don't know. But here, I have yet to win anything.

Then, at 1:30am, when the second hour offer was announced, I immediately started dialing again.

This time....ring...ring...

"KUPL, who's this?"

"This is Kathleen"

"You're caller number 9"

"Yes!"

So, yeah, I won tickets to the Brooks & Dunn concert on Oct 22. I didn't even know they were coming here. I am not even sure I like them that well. But free tickets. I will learn to like them.

So, I get to go pick up my free tickets next week. I have no clue if they will be good, bad, or somewhere in between seats. I don't care.

I asked my Dad to accompany me to the concert. He said that's a big "maybe".

No, he just has to make sure his schedule (golfing) is free. This will be the first time in a long time I will have spent time with just me and Dad. I am looking forward to it.

Not sure I can pull this one off...and play ball!

Your Haloween Costume Should Be

Candy Corn

What Should You Be For Halloween?

21miler

My 21 mile benchmark went great. I ran pretty much the whole thing, only walked a few times. It just hurts so much to walk, and then to start running again, so it is just easier to keep running.

So, anyway, it went great. I felt great the whole time, and only the last mile really sucked.

The course took us out to St. John's Bridge, which is part of the marathon course. It was nice to get to run that ahead of time, because they say that is the "big" hill on the race, and it is at mile 17. That makes me a little less anxious about a "big" hill, having ran it already. It really was pretty though. I ran up the whole thing without stopping. I am pretty proud of that. I am not sure I will have the same motivation during the marathon, but I am hoping I do. My running partner's theory is just walk up the hill, save the energy. I will have to see how I am feeling at mile 17 to decide. I am not sure either way yet.

I am still hurting a little in my quads and my hips, but really haven't hurt that much. Matter of fact, started Fall softball last night with a double header. I got to play lots. Mostly outfield and catcher, but played 2nd base one time. That was fun, but didn't make any plays. Oh well. One girl hurt her hand, and another girl got hit in the face with the ball while running to the base, but she is ok. The first girl did break her fingers, but will be ok. Only a few games during fall ball, but it will be fun.

Also coming up....

Kickball Tournament. I think that will be fun. it is Saturday Sept 23. One day. I think we are guaranteed at least 4 games. So that is cool!

Halloween Softball Game. That is the w/e Mara is coming to visit, so she may play in it to, if the times workout ok. This game is softball, but we are required to wear a costume. Sounds like fun. I don't know what to dress up as. Anything related to softball is out. Any suggestions???

I can't help it...

I love these quizzes.

Your Seduction Style: Au Natural

You rank up there with your seduction skills, though you might not know it. That's because you're a natural at seduction. You don't realize your power! The root of your natural seduction power: your innocence and optimism. You're the type of person who happily plays around and creates a unique little world. Little do you know that your personal paradise is so appealing that it sucks people in. You find joy in everything - so is it any surprise that people find joy in you? You bring back the inner child in everyone you meet with your sincere and spontaneous ways. Your childlike (but not childish) behavior also inspires others to care for you. As a result, those who you befriend and date tend to be incredibly loyal to you.

What Kind of Seducer Are You?

A Visit to the Wetlands

Zoe and I, and the kids, all visited the Wetland Observatory yesterday. It was pretty cool. Ton of nature at its best. We didn't see too many creatures, but still had some fun. There were some really cool trails that brought us to some really picturesque places. I got some awesome pics.
This place is out in Hillsboro. I had no clue it was there. The waters were mostly dried up, and the bugs/animals were all hiding. It was pretty hot. There is this cool little area for learning at the beginning. It was fun. Got to play and learn a few things. Always fun!
Here are the pics we took.
I thought this was hilarious. Simple things amuse me I guess.


These are some good nature pics. I thought the area was really serene.






This is my favorite picture. I want to try to blow this one up. This is the first time I have liked a picture that I took enough to blow it up really big. I will have to see what it turns out like. If it still looks good big, maybe I can frame it and start my collection of my own pictures hanging in my home!


Xander
.
Zoe

Kathleen

Isaac (he brought his camera too, and was taking lots of good shots!)

Cool Birdhouses all over the place

Zoe, Xander, and Isaac walking on the trail.

Another one of my favorite shots.

Just a little into my personality...

So you think this is right??

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have medium extroversion. You're not the life of the party, but you do show up for the party. Sometimes you are full of energy and open to new social experiences. But you also need to hibernate and enjoy your "down time." Conscientiousness: You have medium conscientiousness. You're generally good at balancing work and play. When you need to buckle down, you can usually get tasks done. But you've been known to goof off when you know you can get away with it. Agreeableness: You have high agreeableness. You are easy to get along with, and you value harmony highly. Helpful and generous, you are willing to compromise with almost anyone. You give people the benefit of the doubt and don't mind giving someone a second chance. Neuroticism: You have medium neuroticism. You're generally cool and collected, but sometimes you do panic. Little worries or problems can consume you, draining your energy. Your life is pretty smooth, but there's a few emotional bumps you'd like to get rid of. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is low. You're a pretty conservative person, and you favor what's socially acceptable. You think that change for novelty's sake is a very bad idea. While some may see this as boring, many see you as dependable and wise.

The Five Factor Personality Test

Concert was amazing!!

So headed off to the American Idol concert last night. Season 5, top 10 contestants all performed. I wanted to bring my camera but we were taking the MAX, and I wasn't sure on the policy, so I didn't want to get stuck with it if I wasn't allowed to bring it in. where would I put it? I couldn't miss the concert, so I decided it was best to leave it at home.

So we were off. Took the max, and got there right at 7pm. Not bad timing. They started late....as most concerts do. Looked at our tickets....entry at C18. Okay....where is C18....

Upstairs!

And upstairs some more....really long escalator. We passed like three floors. I was already feeling my nose starting to bleed. These tickets were supposed to be mid-priced...why am I going upstairs.

Oh well. We decided it wasn't so bad, we could look down and see everything. And that we did. The only problem was they were very small.

No big deal...I did what anyone else would do....borrow the neighbors binoculars. Hehee

I made instant friends with the lady sitting next to me. She was an older woman, there with her husband and adult daughter. I think her daughter would be about my age.

So, they were great. They just offered up the binoculars, and I accepted. It was cool. Then again, after looking at them through the binoculars....they were even smaller (it seemed) when I didn't have the extra pair of eyes.

To make matters worse...I am still wearing my pinks (MAC make-up), and I am still allergic to them. So, about half way through the concert...my eyes were doing the tearing/can't focus thing. I could feel them getting red. Is that weird?

I know I shouldn't wear my make-up anymore, but I think I look so good with it on, so I don't mind getting red eyes. Funny thing about it....when we were riding the Max back home, people were staring at me like I was stoned. This one lady was like "Your eyes are so red". When I got home they weren't as bad as I had seen them. Matter of fact, they weren't even as bad as when I woke up this morning. I didn't have any white left to my eyes. Just put a few drops in them, and I was off to my run (9 miles).

Okay, okay. I know I am getting off the concert track.

So...the concert was amazing.

Mandisa was first, she did really good. I think she has even lost some weight since the show. Way to go Mandisa.

Next up was Ace Young. He did really good, but I think he has done way better. It all comes down to song choice. Each person did 2 songs on their own and a duet with the next person (or the previous person).

After Ace was Paris. I was NOT impressed with Paris. And I really liked her on the show...until the end....I stopped liking her. I think she is good, but just doesn't have what it takes. She did more hopping around, touching the crowd and talking during the songs...than actually singing. All of her songs were upbeat. I think she was used to get the crowd motivated.

Bucky was next. He did really good. I was very pleased with his performance. I actually liked it. Matter of fact, I was starting to like Bucky before the show ended. Now, I never thought he was AI worthy, but never-the-less, did start to like him.

Then came Kelly Pickler. Now after AI, Kelly went and choopped of her long blonde locks. AI was not happy about that (there may have even been a lawsuit-Simon owns teh top 12 for one year after the show), so she sported extensions. I dont' think it looked good in any way. Her and Bucky did a cute little rendition of "You're the one that I want". You know the John Travolta/Olivia Newton-John Grease song. I know you know what I am talking about. I think it was pretty good. however, I am not really a fan of Pickler. She did good, but wasn't my favorite.

After Kelly...I think there was an intermission after Kelly...Let me think. Nope. Lisa Tucker. I forgot Lisa. She wasn't right before the break.. I don't remember exactly where she was. I think before Paris...Yes...right before Paris, because they did a duet, and she introduced Paris as her best friend. Lisa was good. I like Lisa. She did a great job. Sang a few songs and played the piano while doing it. She is really talented.

*************************INTERMISSION*******************************

I know this post is getting long. So get something to eat/drink, and come back. We will resume shortly!

After the break was Chris, Elliot, Katharine, and (of course) Taylor. I think they all did amazing. During Elliot's time on stage, all four guys came out and sang a song...it was good.

Katharine (my favorite) did amazing of course. She sang the Cherry poppin song. I don't know the name of it. The one where she sang twice and was sitting on the ground for. I really liked it. Also, sang "Over the Rainbow" pretty much her signature song at this point. Then...She also sang "Think". She was awesome. She made the whole concert. I just wish she could sing more than three songs.

Oh, I forgot Chris. I like Chris, but I am not a fan of his music style. I still think he does really good, and I thought he would win for the longest time...I don't like his music. But that is ok.

Taylor was...well, Taylor. He did his little diddy on stage and was ok. I am not a Taylor fan. I think he is ok, but there are others that should have won. Oh well, can't win them all!

Of course, he left the stage, then came back for an encore. Then all ten of them sang a couple songs together. I would have been really dissapointed if they didn't do stuff with all of them together. What was I thinking, of course they would have.

So...overall a great night. I had a blast. Zoe went with me, btw, just in case I hadn't mentioned that before. Next to her was a couple old grandma's. They were plugging their ears during all the cheering...so what did I do? CHEER LOUDER!!!! I am mean, I know! It is a gift that I have! One was even doing her nails, and applying lotion during Chris's performance. Kind of funny, if you ask me!

Would I do it all over again?

HELL YEAH!! Even if people made fun of me, I don't care. I had fun, and that was all that mattered!!

Oh yeah...one more thing to add. I had been singing and the lady in front of me looked back. I told them that I was trying out on Spet 15th for next season AI. I think she thought I was good. She asked my name, and said they would think of me, and look for me when the new season started. Maybe they were humoring me, I don't know. Seriously though...Sept 15th in Seattle. AI Season 6 auditions...Who wants to go with me????

American Idol here I come

So, the American Idol Season 5 concert is coming up on Friday!! Woohoo! I cannot wait. Zoe has said that she will go with me, so it will be a blast.

It is at the Rose Garden on friday Sept 1, 7pm. I am gonna be the biggest fan there. Not the biggest, but the #1 fan.

Few that I am looking forward to seeing is Katharine McPhee, Ace Young, Chris Forgothis last name, and surprisingly...Bucky Covington. I actually started to like him at the end. Weird. He can sing some pretty good country songs, just not that good at everything. I hope he finds a niche and goes with it.

Also, Season 6 auditions are Sept 15th in Seattle. I have always said I would go try out. Now I know I would get kicked off after about 2 notes, but I thought it would be hilarious to make it sound as if I thought I was the best ever. How could they think I was horrible. I should make it to Hollywood.

And, if by the Grace of God, I did make it to Hollywood, I already have several people voting for me whether I am good or not!! :)

Nothing

Nothing to report. I haven't forgotten about blogland, there just isn't much going on right now.
Work=great. As always. I love my job. The last few days were sit on my butt read newspapers type days. Most days are so busy we can barely think, so everyone says to treasure these days! Either way, I get paid! Woohoo.
Softball=starting again soon. Fall ball start Sept. 10th. Yeah, can't wait! Also gonne be doing a Kickball tournament and a Halloween costume ball game. Those both sound like a TON of fun. Mara has even agreed to play at the Halloween costume game, since she will be here that weekend.
Running=good. Marathon is coming up. Count down is about 33 days left (or somewhere in that area). I have also decided to (think about) do Seattle. I will definetely do the half marathon, but am seriously considering just running the full marathon. Half is $70, and the full is $85. 70 is just pretty steep for a half, so that is what motivated me. Plus it will keep me running, so I can continnue to lose weight. I haven't decided for sure though. Also thinking of going to cisit my friend, Kajsa, in Arizone for my birthday, and running Rock'n'Roll Half marathon in Phoenix. Lots of fun races lined up. Maybe I can go home and run the Cable Bridge Run with Jen and mom. That will be fun too. Depends on the holiday schedule at work!
Weight=losing. Working really hard to eat healthy, and keep running. My short term goal is 9lbs by marathon time. I think I can totally do it. I have every weekend off until the marathon, so I won't have to miss any more long runs! :)
Boy=none. Still haven't found the man of my dreams. I have lots of friends but no prospects for a serious relationship. I am ok with that, but I still am hoping to meet someone new, get swept off my feet, and fall madly in love! I know, I know....wake up Kathleen!
So those are all my updates. Reminder to everyone who cares...I will be coming home Sept 23-30th. So, if you want to see me...make it a priority and schedule something with me. I don't have any definite plans yet, but want to see as many people as I can when I am home!!

Are we going back to posting only these fun little quizzes again?

Remember a few months back, when we all jumped on the bandwagon, and all we posted was fun quizzes??
I remember it well. I don't want that to happen again, but these quizzes sure are fun sometimes. I love sharing my results!!
So, here you go...another damn quiz!

You Are 16% Fake

Fake doesn't even come close to describing you. You're totally natural, and proud of who you really are!

How Fake Are You?

I like fun quizzes

You Are Most Like Charlotte!

You are the ultimate romantic idealist You've been hurt before, but that hasn't caused you to give up on love. If anything, your resolve to fall in love is stronger than ever. And it's this feminine optimism that men find most appealing about you. Romantic prediction: That guy you are seeing (or crushing on)? Could be very serious - if you play your cards right!

Which Sex and the City Vixen Are You?

Hehe....Boobs

Apparently I have a celebrity boob twin....can you guess who it is...

Pamela Anderson. I am thinking mine don't look anything like hers, but.....whatever! So, I did it again and came out with Carmen Electra. I think that is more like it!

Your Celebrity Boob Twin:

Carmen Electra

Who's Your Celebrity Boob Twin?