What's so special about June 28th???

Yep... that's it! 14 years ago this delightful, dancing daughter came into my life... well, okay, I'm about 6 hours off but still!

How do you describe a force of nature that at the same time is so gentle and loving? It really defies words. It's been amazing to see her grow from a little girl interested in Barbies, and baby dolls to a confident young woman. She has tremendous patience with her younger cousins, and already shows good judgment.

Happy Birthday, Tasha!

Did It!

And, hey, that means I have a PR I can do 4k in 42 minutes! So... I'm feeling pretty pleased.

Pics to follow, if and when I get time here to download and post... but, I'm not sure that will happen before we leave for Itasca!

Anyway... have a great day, and Be Blessed!

Nervous!

Tomorrow is it... the big day of the R-A-C-E. Maybe if I spell it, I won't freak out as much. Nah... I still will.

I anticipate it taking about 45 minutes to run the 4k. I'm just short of a full of two miles now, and adding in another .14... eh... that's what I'm looking at realistically I think. It's a fun run so no real finish line... just a park... and a bunch of people.

My plan, having read up on race strategies for noobs... is to start in the back of the pack. I know I'm slow... so there is no sense in starting up front with the experienced, and local elite runners. I'm going to try to take it slow.

I'll eat -- nothing before the race-- and probably re-fuel afterwards like usual... some eggs, spinach and tomato... I've got shades, got a visor, ready to sun screen up... and butterflies in the tummy.

Since we are heading north to Itasca shortly thereafter... posting a pic at the close of the run... might take a day or two... but... so be it...

Iffen you think about... say a prayer for me... and

Be Blessed!

Driver's Edge!

This is another huge rave. In driver's education our children learn how to drive to pass the test. This, however, does not teach them how to really drive.

This past weekend, my son, Alex was privileged to take advantage of a wonderful program put on as a charitable event. The instructors are professional drivers-- some from Nascar, and Indy, others who teach professional driving. Needless to say... they know their stuff.

Alex was taught how to steer through a skid, how to do a high speed lane change, how to use panic braking... etc.

If you have the opportunity... I cannot recommend this course highly enough. Yes, the men use some salty language... but the knowledge is unbeatable.

www.driversedge.org

Oh... and Alex won a trophy for most improved in steering through a skid! I am so proud of him... and as a Mom, pleased that he's learned how before the roads are icy and without winding up in the ditch.

Thanks to Driver's Edge, who puts the program on for FREE!!

Be Blessed!

Rave!

Just got my new sports bra... I have to tell you. What a difference! I'd bought the el cheapo stuffmart versions before. This has wicking fabric to keep the sweat away, and real honest to goodness motion control.

I'm ordering another one in black while they are at this price. It's amazing! I had a much more comfortable run this morning. These are normally 33.00 a piece at my local sports store, so... it's a score. They are however down to black and white in most sizes. Doesn't bother me any though.

I'm about function, not fashion and ummm would not be seen in public running with just a jogging bra for a top anyway. *shudders*

Be Blessed!

An Amazing Day!

This has been an amazing day! We had a company picnic of sorts... the company was Sanford Health. My FIL works for the company... and so we were all invited.

It was so much fun! There was a whole carnival with rides, free pop, free water, free food... and good food, as well as fair fare. Rides were free, everything was free.

And... there were 3 concerts... A.J. and Ally (I'm not familiar with them really, seem to be a sort of Hannah Montana-esque group) Sheryl Crow -- She brought her A game, and Rascal Flatts.
Again, all free! So, yes... we had a blast. Loved every minute.

They had a great show. My personal fave, Rascal Flatts.

Hope your day was good too.

Be Blessed!

The Company One Keeps...

Lately, I've been giving a lot of thought to this topic. Earlier in the year, I was asked to step back from some of my associations so as to devote more time to family life, and less time to online issues. Online friendships are real, though, and when you stop being there... you miss a lot.

I again apologize to everyone who worried, and prayed for me during that time. I certainly should have had the good sense to just explain I needed a sabbatical, and why. I have received the okay to re-join the company, both from those who requested I step back, and from the company itself.

I am posting this because I know that there are those who have bad feelings toward the company, and who may want to change their association with me based on that knowledge. I'm going to be honest and upfront here with everyone.

I truly love the company. It is one that has blessed much of my life. I've learned tremendously from the women there. Is it perfect? No. It's on a fallen earth... but it is a company that I intend to keep.

Be Blessed!

Fitness Bargains!

One blog I love to read, is Caustic Musings . First, the nutritional recipes are incredible. But even better is the way she spotlights frugal fitness stuff!!

One Hanes Place currently has an awesome sports bra on sale for 9.99. If like me good motion control is a must, I highly recommend visiting their clearance section. Even better... shipping is only 3.00 for the day! That makes this is a complete bargain.

Just some thoughts there...

Grace