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We had strong opionions on this woman's choice of green garb. What do you think?

Top of the Blog, to ya

St Patty's Day Dash Photo Phun

Gwen was 2nd overall women, we call her Fast Lady with a Fast Dog, as she usually trains around Green Lake with her dog.

Val was 3rd in our age group and Gina was 5th. And we are thinking everyone moves up a slot since some woman named Ted was listed first. hmm. Kathy cruised into the beer garden in a highly respectable time. But she didn't beat me ! And as you can see from the photos, time does not matter.. It's all about the wearin of the green.

I skipped my favorite race of the year, cuz I'm trying to respect the healing process. But it didn't stop me from having fun in the beer garden. Let's see if I can add the pictures to this blog.

Ohm migod

Well, it's come to this. Today I took a yoga class. Yes, you heard me.. a roll out the mat, breathe, say ohm, breathe, and stretch the bee-you know whose - us out of my hamstrings, yoga class.

But the teacher's name is "Jubilee" . How bad can it be?

Not bad, and I will go back. "They", everyone, the magazines, coaches... all say take yoga. It really helps, especially if you are a runner. And since I'm on a leave of absence from running, I might as well give it a shot. I do have some flexibility issues. And I do believe it will improve my overall strength.

Gina and I did a heart rate threshold test on the bikes yesterday. Basically you ride at a HR you think you can sustain for 20 minutes, rest 5, then do it again. It should give the coach and us some info for bike training, and how to pace our ride and run during the half ironman. I'm sure we'll re-test in a month, as we get fitter. And realize how hard we can ride. Let me know if you want me to post all the #'s.

zzz back to the BLAH-g

CRASH ing the party

Did anyone see this one? not me. But I'm so busy reading every running blog, I don't have time for movies.

I give the Oscar to Clooney for best acceptance speech. Sorry, Reese, I know you're a real woman, but to me, it just doesn't MATTER.

Hey, the Zags in another OT thriller ! which was what we were really watching and flipping to the Oscars. Because, like Capote said, it's NCAA basketball that MATTERS. Yes, JC, I did watch your beluv-ed T(w)erps win today. Kind of a close one, eh?

And for anyone interested in my running issues, I think I have given up the ghost on the Boston marathon for this year. This, expletive deleted, foot just isn't healing up well enough to put in the miles before April. So, maybe I'll take some time off the running, catch up on my swimming and put in some more butt time on the bike. At least there will be lots of bball to watch while I ride.

Now, upon accepting the BLOSCAR for best adaptation and spewing of B.S. --- I'd like to thank..

my agent, wait, I don't have an agent.
Leslie, my coach
my friends, you know who you are
Dicky V, "get a TO, baby"
Tami, my accupuncturist
Leslie, my rolfer
Bill, my PT
Chet, my shoe guy and Ty, and Tom, and John, and Sean (I gotta lot of shoe guys)
Janice at Super Cuts
Cornie, our house sitter
My neighbors, for getting rid of their dog
Patrick at the Stick dot Com
ABB, my inspiration
Gina, my inspiration's god mother
Mia, Julie, Joy, Brandi, and Abbie (not Amy)
My sisters, too numerous to mention well, ok, Joan, Mary, Patty, Catherine, Maureen, the music has started
My brother, but he's not paying attention to this drivel
Aunt Louise
My mom, who is truly beginning to understand that I wasted those college years
My dad, who would have been a beautiful blogger
Cousin John, for getting me started on this path of blog-ism
The Paloozers !
Traci, whew, remembered my friend's name
Did I say Gina ? who wishes I wouldn't mention her name on this blog, much less twice
Sandra Schmerler, the curler

and remember,
I'M MAD AS HELL AND I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now What ?

The post Olympic blues have set in. We watched the closing ceremonies this morning. OK, truth be told, the opening and closing ceremonies are not my favorite. Too much symbolism, that even the announcers sound iffy about as they read their notes. But at least it gave us something to watch as we pedalled the bikes for an hour.

How great was it that an Italian won the cross country ski marathon? and we got to hear that anthem again? and again? I love the 2nd part where they start singing "meatball, spaghetti, fettucine, frommaggio, pizza pizza pizza" Well, that's what I sang.

And any show that has the "Rotari, wh-oh oh oh" song is ok with me.

But, HEY !! how about our guy Apolo Anton Ohno ?? Trust the Seattle-ite to at least try during his event. (and that's my last Bode slam, for you WWF fans).
He is totally cool. And I'm sending Gina down to his dad's salon for a hair cut this week.

Clara Hughes is our new favorite Canadian. Her interviews were so great. A marked contrast listening to her and oh, say, any 16 year old ice skater or snowboarder...."awesome, like" Of course, she's an ancient and mature 32 years old.

I got word back from Brian Williams (the canadian one) that it was a kid named Jonathon Han, who sang that New Foundland anthem, on Hockey Day in Canada. Which begs the question... which day ISN'T Hockey Day in Canada?

Say, did I mention our long run on Saturday? 13 miles. It went ok, a bit tough at the end, and the foot was quite sore afterwards. So much so that I sent word to the coach that Boston is off the schedule. But this morning it was fine. So I sent word to the coach that Boston is back on the schedule. Who knows??? My emotions have spent more time in motion than my body. Way UP then way down.

Just wanted to remind you all that this a running blog.

Winter Wonder Land

Now I really feel like I'm particpating in the Olympics. We were once again blanketed by snow. I'm pretty sure there was a centimeter of snow. (in my olympic canadianism I go metric)

Well, today I was moved to tears. The Canadian men won gold in curling, as I'm sure you've heard. At the post game ceremony some kid sang a very moving version of New Foundland's anthem. Of course, not having heard it before, it's probably just a a very moving sort of song but...

And it begs the question.... do all the provinces have their own anthem? I guess there's "Alberta Bound". I'm not sure if there is a Washington state anthem. I don't think you can count "The Bluest Skies you Ever Saw Are in Seattle". What about other states? "California Dreamin", oh, but I'm sure some of you could come up with a better song for California.

My Czech heritage was showing as I screamed for Ms. Neumannova to win the 30K cross country ski event. Her name also is easier to say than Ms. Tchepalova or Ms. Kowalczyk.. And her name reminds me of a favorite Seinfeld line, "Newman !"

Who'd a thunk ?

Breaking news.... Just in case you get all your Olympic info from NBC, there is (was) (where do you live?) a Japanese woman in the ice skating competition. Oh, and by the way, she (Arakawa) WON GOLD !

Actually, the headline should be " Uh, Oh, Canada". Hey, the guys aren't in the hockey medal hunt, but their curling team, from New Foundland, where schools are closed to watch the game, throw the rocks for gold tomorrow. Good luck to them. I'm guessing Wayne and Janet have placed their bets already. sorry, low blow.

And of course, we're rooting for the USA guys who are playing for the bronze broom.

Really, we anxiously await Apolo Ohno's races.

But we are already feeling the slowdown of games.. next week will be tough. We'll just have to soldier on. Or some such saying.

Rush to judgement

OK, I've re-thought one of my earlier Olympic lessons. Now I'm thinking old Chad Hedrick is a bit of a jerk. Shani had good reasons for not skating in the team pursuit, and Chad just can't get over it. Could it be it's because he's from that red state Texas? Sorry, Shani. Move on, Chad.

The Olympic gold medal in the sport of Home Show wandering goes to.............. it's a tie. Co-winners, Ann and Gina !!! Do you know how many gas insert/fireplace booths there can be? Almost as many as the hot tub displays.. which are huge and make the overall square footage of the show almost marathon-ish. But it was a useful trip. I'm sure we learned information that we'll use sometime during the next (and last ?) remodel here at Green Lake.

Tomorrow's sport is to see how fast we can recycle all the brochures that we were handed.

FYI, we are already planning on attending the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, BC. I must start looking for a condo to rent.

Answer to the Skater Uniform Question

An astute Blog reader has asked about those little patches on the inner thigh of the speed skaters. She's is an astute Olympics watcher. OK, she's also an astute elementary school principal, and AKA, my sister Joan.

For the answer please read the following information (I lifted it from some ISU website) (Internat'l Skating Union, duh...)


Introduction
All participants in Short Track Speed Skating know and understand that the sport
involves risks and danger of injuries, including cuts and puncture wounds, particularly
those resulting from a collision or fall. ISU Members must instruct all participants to
respect safety measures required to minimize such risks and dangers. In particular,
Members and participants must observe all ISU initiated safety measures, including those
stated in Rules 280 and 295 and in this and other Communications.
The ISU has commissioned a study of fabric standards for competition clothing/uniforms
for Short Track Speed Skating including a medical assessment. The study identified the
special areas of risk as those shaded in the drawing below. These include the neck, groin,
axillar region, gluteal region, lower arms, hands, back and front of the knees. At a
minimum, all of the areas specified in the figure below are to be protected by the cutresistant
fabric specified in this Communication
Areas of risk
2
In order to determine the suitability of competition clothing/uniforms materials for Short
Track Speed Skating, tests were carried out to simulate the effect of extreme falls and
determine the quality of materials. Through statistical and error analyses, the results from
these tests have been correlated with test results using the same materials under
international standard EN388 (this widely recognized standard will be familiar to clothing
manufacturers). Using the test data, an equation has been determined which makes it
possible to test a material according to standard EN388, and then calculate its suitability
for Short Track Speed Skating.

Cut Resistant Clothing
No limitations will be imposed on the manufacture of protective competition
clothing/uniforms other than, at a minimum, the material must comply with Standard
EN388. A close study of the implementation process, the world wide availability of cut
resistant clothing/uniforms and practical experiences has resulted in a reconsideration of
the requirements. The cut resistant material used in protective clothing according to this
ISU Communication must meet as a minimum requirement the Level 2 Standard
according to EN388 in a cut resistance test (resistance to cutting by sharp objects). Cut
resistant protection may be either integrated in the actual competition uniforms, or be
worn as special underwear.
To ensure consistency in the testing of the fabrics used, the manufacturers of cut resistant
clothing/uniforms are strongly recommended to have samples of their fabric tested at
SATRA Quality Assurance, Ltd., SATRA House, Rockingham Road, Kettering,
Northamptonshire NN16 9JH, Great Britain, fax no +44/1536 410 626.
The report commissioned by the ISU on the cut resistant study is available free of charge
for ISU Members from the ISU Secretariat. For manufacturers and other third parties, the
report is available at cost of mailing. Details of the Standard EN388 are available through
every national standardization institute or can be ordered from SATRA Quality
Assurance Ltd.

Application and Control
According to Rule 295, paragraph 2, of the Special Regulations for Short Track Speed
Skating, each Skater is solely responsible that his/her personal equipment meets the
highest safety criteria in order to obtain the utmost safety for the Skaters. ISU Members
are herewith requested to ensure that all Skaters entering international Short Track Speed
Skating competitions shall respect the above-mentioned Rule and the requirement of this
Communication for their competition clothing/uniforms as soon as possible, but at the
latest as of July 25, 2004.
ISU Members are requested to ensure that their competition clothing/uniform
manufacturers label their products stating that the cut resistant fabrics used meet the
criteria of Level 2 Standard according to EN388, and/or provide documents that confirm
the requirements of the cut resistant fabric. Such document must be in English, duly dated
and signed by the manufacturer and it must be provided upon request before the
competition clothing/uniforms will be considered acceptable.
3
The ISU may carry out random controls on the use of the required cut resistant
competition clothing/uniforms. Skaters must be able to present proper documentation
about the uniforms and the materials used. Non-compliance with the requirement at ISU
Events after July 25, 2004 will result in an immediate exclusion of the skater(s) from the
respective ISU Event or Olympic Winter Games.

Safety Measures
Obviously, the safety program respecting cut-resistant uniform material, together with all
the other safety measures specified in the ISU Rules, cannot absolutely assure full
protection for all competitors under all conditions. Experience demonstrates that stumbles
and falls occur in this high-speed ice sport. All ISU Members and their clubs, coaches and
officials who conduct training programs are admonished to teach safe skating techniques
during training and to insist upon compliance by their competitors with ISU rules during
competitions.
Milan, Ottavio Cinquanta, President
June 28, 2004
Lausanne, Fredi Schmid, General Secretary

WOW, talk about BLAHHH-G
But now you know, these folks aren't just strapping on skates and speeding circles around the rink. There is big technology involved. There was an article about a Canadian skater and the cuts he suffered from some blade.. But it brought flashbacks of my weed whacker accident and I had to stop reading. If I could find the photos, I'd share , but....

Now, if one of you loyal blog readers could inform us of just what the axillar region is, I'm sure it'd be appreciated.

Olympic Lessons

Well, I guess we've all learned a little lesson about Show boating, now haven't we? Thanks to Lindsey Jacobellis for that.

Or how about the old "don't count your chickens before they're hatched" . Thanks to US women's hockey for that.

Or how about "never underestimate your opponent". Thanks to Canada men's hockey for that.

Or how about "there's no I in team speedskating" oh wait, there is an I... Thanks to Shani Davis for that.

Or the famous "always double check your bus schedule so you won't be late for your Olympic competition". Thanks to Johnny Weir(d) for that.

OK, OK, enough of this.
We are waiting for the temps to rise above 30 F here before going out for our run. Might not go until next week.

Dude !

Forget that lame (or should I say gold lame ?) figger skating. Snow board Cross is the COOLEST. Gina just read an article that says "cool" is still in. Gnarly is not. What a fun looking race.

I see our guy Weir(d) crashed and burned out of the medals. Figgers.

Tonight we had a bike fitting. Some PT guy who knows all about bikes got us set up with correct seat / handle bar settings. And got the cleats on our new bike shoes set correctly. We are now officially bike geeks. Shorts (diapers) and all. We should be pedalling much more efficiently now.

Now I must get back to more SnowboardX.

Ligety split !!

Ted Ligety wins the Combined Downhill event! Bode boy is struggling, but I guess that doesn't mean he isn't meeting his "goals". Only he would know that.

And the Croatian sensation is now a brother - sister act. Cool.

Snow & Ice

We had a huge snowstorm last night. We were blanketed with the white stuff !

Now I really feel like I'm at the Winter Olympics !

I have time to blog because the men are figger-ing and I really only need to watch the Canadien, Emanuel "Can't Do", as Margaret has cleverly named him.

Our boy, Bode, has managed to dq by straddling the gates. Maybe if his coach put a beer at the bottom of the hill, he could manage to finish a run.

OK, hearing some really odd trumpet music from the tv land. Better go see who is falling, I mean skating, to that.

Torino or Turin ? ?

First, let me just say that this Olympic blog is dedicated to the memory of Schmerler, the Curler.

OK, two weeks of television bliss for sports freaks like myself. Esp. since we become virtual Canadiens for the duration because we get their tv station and they do lots of live stuff, unlike our NBC which likes to tape delay the "drama" for big night time audiences. And they have that neato maple leaf to dec out all their uniforms.

The winter Olympics are fun because it's all so beautiful. And it's sports none of us in our right minds (presuming we are) would ever do. Well, I know a lot of you snowboard but on the half pipe getting major air? or in a group race? no.

I know this is blasphemous to most of the world but I could do without the "figger" skating. Especially the pairs. and definitely skip the ice dancing. I will admit to their athletic ability, but sports with "costumes" not uniforms, sends me over the edge. And all the drama, sequins, flowers and teddy bears, and tears.... did I mention tears??? It is all so nicely summed up by good old Nancy Kerrigan's quote "Why me ??" cuz it's all about "me".

OK, that rant is over. But it does remind me that I saw an interview with my sister Joan's Favorite Portlander, Tanya Harding, the other day. If she's still boxing I'd guess it's in the heavy weight division. Still a nut job.

Now, I must get back to the tv. I hear there are some terrific crashes on the ski hill today. And the Canadien women lost their opening round of curling to the defending gold medalists, Sweden. I guess the ice is too straight. And they like their ice to be a bit more "swingy", and if anyone knows what that means, please chime in.

Political Blahhhg

Today was interesting. We went downtown to see Gina's rowing mate, Sally Clark, get sworn in as the newest City Council member. And if today's 15 minute meeting was any indicator, we wish her all the best. Can you say "zz zzz" ? The meeting portion was a sleeper, and this was with no agenda items.

But the swearing in part was great. The Conibear Rowing Club was well represented. And rowdier than the other groups of family and friends that came to support Sally. But that's to be expected of the jock crowd.

And the bonus was we got to meet "celebrity" council woman Jean Godden. Jean wrote a column for the Seattle P I forever. The local scene, name dropping, funny, good reading. I was actually sorry to see her run for office. I liked the column. That's her shooting off poppers or something. Maybe it's a light sabre. Sally is going to have to mind her p's & q's sitting next to her.

The rest of the day was spent sitting in bath tubs at various stores while Gina measured, of course. "How do you like that angle of lay back?" And standing on carpet samples. "ooh, that's comfy" "ooh, that's $9000 a square foot".

And so it begins.

Well...

We've had the Seahawk lights burning. But for some reason they only come on in the middle of the night. Maybe the game was played too early. Well, maybe not for you east coast folks.

Gina and I were all set to jump in the lake if we won. Unfortunately, we're dry. We are of the mind that "at least we were in the game". I've never been big on calling the losing team LOSERS. Good to know, too, that the winners were such great players. I mean, I don't think they had one single holding penalty all game. hmm.

But hey ! The nachos were good !

Nachos Blog

We've had our coffee, workout and showers. Now it's party time !

The Bus may be a Michigan kid, and a Notre Dame guy, but I've got no loyalty to him today.

Is that my beer calling? What time are the nachos planned for? Yahoo for Super Bowl, we get nachos !! The nacho anticipation level is as great as the game's.

The winds have died down. The lake is calm, the sun is out. It's a beautiful day in Seattle.
The only way it make it a better day is a win.

Go Seahawks !

12th Man !!!! 12th Man !!! 12th Man !!!

So sue me, you Texas A&M twerps. jeez, yet another reason to hate Texas.

Gina and I are planning our 12th man sign for the front of the house for game day.

So, yesterday I ran4 miles. YES !! i am really upping the mileage now. Saturday's long run is 6 or so. And of course, biking like Lance. Some day I'll upload all the daily exercise heart rates, run paces, mileages, biking miles, mph, cadence, etc etc.

And really bore-blog you. by the way, nice cartoon, Joan. :)

Running Crazy

Yes, that's the name of this blog because I should be talking about all the running I do. Well, it's been a while but today I ran around the lake. 3.1 miles. Yahoo !! Will try it again tomorrow.

Also rode the bike for 55 minutes. Gotta do something for exercise. Watched the Notre Damers come from behind to almost win. And then got in a half of the Gonzaga game. Adam Morrison was HOT !!! Watching the games makes the ride kind of fun.

On the political scene, one of Gina's rower mates, Sally Clark, was chosen to fill a vacancy on the Seattle City Council.

And I just heard that Portland had a bit of a shake today.

California dreamin

As the rain POURS DOWN here in Seattle. The sun was out yesterday so what am I complaining about?

Hey, we went to California over MLK weekend. Really it was ABB weekend. Annalise turned 14. We surprised her, brought the party to her drumline practice, got to watch all our mutally favorite tv shows and games with our long lost buddies, Traci and Denise.

Have yet to see her drum the big bass drum, though. That's another trip.

The verdict is in...

and it seems the jury duty system still sucks. YES, I got called again. Too bad I can't screen those calls. So, I catch the 7:00am bus downtown. Just to sit around til 10 or so. Then 85 of us get called. Bad sign. Means a big trial. A 3 weeker. ugh. I did a 6 weeker one time, but that was when I worked and got to stay away from the job/kids for that time period. Now it just messes with my training and blogging.

As about 40 of the others called out their lame excuses (root canal, day care issues, trips, important jobs... casino poker tourney director? ) I wished that I had bought airline tix to anywhere. Then we sat around for an hour. Then we got sent for an hour and half lunch. Only to come back for 10 minutes and be sent home for the day. Only to return at 10:00 tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed that I look enough like a bigot/idiot/genius/whatever necessary to not get chosen to serve.

Of course, if I do get selected I won't be able to blog you about it til it's over. Here's hoping I can fill you in on the case tomorrow.

Super Bowl, Baby !!!!

Seahawks to the Super Bowl !!!
and here we are, watching the game from our bikes. We're riding to Detroit !
ok, we've just started our half iron man event training. We've set up our bikes on indoor trainers to simulate riding (without the rain and cold)
Just to give you an idea about how long these NFL games take, we rode for an hour (well, 59 minutes, we're working on not being SO compulsive, not whole hour/start & end on the hour, etc) and the 1st quarter was just ending. Not to worry, I was able to crack a beer by halftime.

Today I ran outside for the first time since Dec. 14. 40 days, but who's counting? This past week or so was more of the same, indoor machines, with a bit of treadmill walk/run . zz zzz
Can't say whether the foot is totally better, since it never was really sore, but it's time to run. and ride. It was really fun to watch the game while pedalling. I'm sure it will get old but our summer goal is a half iron man triathlon in July (1.2 swim, 56 mile bike ride, 13.1 run) That and Boston in April, so IT'S TIME TO RUN .

We are psyched about the Seahawks. Although, we are not as invested as we used to be for the Sonics. Finally figured out that it takes too much energy (not to mention ticket costs) and too big of an emotional toll to be TOO into it all, but it was sure fun today.

We took a quick trip to California last week. I'll post some photos and trip highlights soon.
Go Hawks !

But was I sane to begin with?

Well, it's been a month of using the elliptical machines, the indoor bikes, the erg, running in the pool (see story below) . Amazingly, I haven't had the urge to kill anyone yet. Wasn't sure how I'd react with no running to keep me sane. Of course, the 26 consecutive days of heavy rain has helped with wanting to stay indoors.

OK, so I went to the pool one day with coach Lesley. She set me up with the little blue belt to wear while "running" in the deep end. It all went fine. I did not have my contacts in so was running blind but I thought I had it all figured out. The next week I took Gina with me. She says "Are you sure you know what you're doing?" Of course, don't be silly. It's easy. So off to the pool we head. Out of the locker room, around the pool deck to where the blue belts are hanging on a rack. This time I have my contacts in, so I can see. We start trying on various blue belts. It doesn't seem quite right, none fit, we're trying to adjust straps, frontwise, backwards, standing there for 5 minutes. All the while Gina asking "are you sure you know what we're doing?" Don't be silly. I'm sure they were blue belts. After a bit of this, the lifeguard calls out from across the pool (so everyone there can hear) "Ladies, if you're looking for the water walking belts, they are over here. Those are for your feet." Of course they are.

We had walked right past the real blue belts. Good thing I had my contacts in so I could be so observant.

Gina started looking for some cement shoes to put on me.

"Ladies........." I giggled the whole time we were running.

Anyway, Doc says if no pain while running go ahead with a progressive build up. So I have had a couple days of 2 minutes walking / 1 running for a grand total of 15:00. With 3 days in between. On this plan I should be ready to run the Boston Marathon in, say, 2009 ?

Results are in !!!

I know you've all been super anxious, waiting to hear who won the annual judging of the xmas cards. We waited til January to give the procrastinators a chance to participate.

Annalise, a drum roll, please..................................................................

The award for 1st card received goes to Gina's cousin, Sue V., from Michigan. again. Every year we get her card even before we go to Hawaii. She sneaks it in right before Aunt Louise.

The judges were having a tough go of it this year, with so many great entries... so we took the easy route and came up with a couple categories... Overall winner, and religious entries. Of course, these categories are subject to change each year, whimsical judges that we are.

OK OK
Religious card category award goes to Anne Z & Kathy of Rochester, NY. a lovely Bethlehem scene.

Overall (aka, Best Snowman) goes to Linda & Herb Sherburne. who won't even know they won, til we exchange cards next year. They are parents of kid/friends from my Queen Anne Rec Ctr. days.

The entry from Thousand Oaks was nice, and we must have really liked it last year, too, cuz we kept the same one that Michelle & Teri sent in 2004. There was a very creative one from Portland, but how many categories can we have? as with all sporting events, "there's always next year".

All photo cards are winners in my book. Of course, Bev & Diane's annual pugs dressed up as reindeer is always good for a chuckle.
But what's with photos of just the kids?? People, please learn to use the self timer and get yourselves into the picture. I say this like any of the people that sent these cards actually read (or even know about) this blog. :) but we bloggers are obliged to rant every once in a while. and i'm liking words with l's, g's, o's and b's . i digress.

Or that anyone, other than a couple previous winners, even know there is a judging.
Now you see how truly odd our lives are.

Bifocal blog

Technological advances abound ! I am sitting here at the pc typing, and actually able to read what I've written without putting on the little cheater glasses. I have bifocal contacts ! And no, I don't have the font size set on gigantic.

We'll see how this little experiment goes. The new contacts are of the soft variety and I've been a hard lens gal since 1978. New procedures for this old dog to learn. And of course, our glasses prescriptions needed updating so I used the occasion to drop a bundle at the optician's desk. New stylin' spec's . Stay tuned. Gina stayed true to her style and just got new prescription.

Some day this blog will get back on the running track. As I am still doing the cross training, it bothers me to even think about the hours I've been putting in on the elliptical machine. The PT put a tape job on my foot, and it seems to be helping. Which might mean I'll need orthotics to put in my shoes. Sheesh, this body needs help from top to bottom. Thank God my hair is perfect.

Happy Holiday Cookies

Even super fast runners like myself cannot be in two places at the same time, so while I was celebrating the holiday in Portland, my trusty blog assistant, Gina, was sent on assignment to Wapato, WA. A quick mini-lesson on how the other digital camera works and she was ready to be embedded in the Young Family event.

Sunday morning, Steve & Betty, and Scott & Susie, arrived for a heart healthy breakfast of Marilyn's famous Christmas cookies. We've all heard Slots talk about that labor of love (lard). Mid-morning there was a welcome surprise visit from Donovan and his daughter, Gracie. Then it was on to the fun of opening the presents. A record number of puzzles (see picture) were opened by Marilyn. We don't know if it was done in a record setting time but we're sure to get a full report on how long it takes her to complete each puzzle. Steve got the usual 100% flannel shirts with 2 button-down pockets and Scott got the obligatory blue jeans (see picture).

The annual prime rib dinner was served. Gina made a "to die for" mushroom sauce to put on the meat. I'll talk to her later about un-biased reporting. Cookies were eaten for dessert. Probably for appetizer, too. The jello salad was available ... and still is (see picture).

Overall, a good time was had by all and early in the evening they all packed up their dozens and dozens of cookies and left.

I've gotta figure this out

How to add more photos.. but for now, an additional post each time is certainly worth the hassle, to see more of my photos gallery? wouldn't you agree?

OK, just want to thank everyone who made for such a fun time. All the chefs (joan, grady, jeff, sarah, catherine, joel, aileen, karin, ardie, karla, mom) ( ok,everyone but me) the entertainmenting stories of Antartica and Japan from aileen and kris, the party favors by catherine and cresswells, and the betts for bringing the islands to oregon. And the chauffered ride home to Seattle from Kris and Chris. I try to do my part by serving drinks and digitally documenting the day.

Mahalo to everyone.

Running was discussed

There was very little exercising done this weekend, other than lifting of heavy forks and full glasses. We were being totally sympathetic for/of/with (what is it?) Joan. Her knee went totally out of whack on Sat. Major pain. I tried to medicate her with the help of Dr. Jameson. I think it must have helped. I know I felt no pain. :) Here's hoping you get back to the Y soon. You're looking great!

However, there was much discussion of past races, upcoming races, biking and triathlons, sports injuries, work out routines (Silver Sneaker award to Mom) , training issues, age group wins (Way to go, Aileen !) , prize money won (Way to go, Catherine !) . Bike accidents. ("you so tall", Kris) , fun and not so fun events (how/why did you jump in that frozen lake, Karin? ) , giving up surfing at the Oregon coast (wise decision, Karla) mountain biking (helmets & health insurance, Joel),

ok, enough of this rambling. I know what you want, MORE PHOTOS !!!

fyi, that's Kris doing his imitation of the French version of the March of th Penguins. The Morgan Freeman version did not make it to Japan.
that's Aileen doing her imitation of an Adelie (?) penguin rolling it's eyes.
and that's Aileen after 7 days of answering penguin related questions. have you seen "March of the P's?"

Party Blog

First of all,let me be the last to say "Merry Christmas !" There, that's out of the way. Or should I say, "Molly Christmas"? as in the Miller Blog-dog, Molly.

I see my last post was a full week ago. I'm sure you've missed the drivel. I took the Amtrak to Portland on 12/23. I spent 4 fun filled days with the Miller family. Mom, from Roch cha cha, Anne M., Aileen trekked from Antartica, Kris flew in from Japan, Ardie and Karin Betts drove up from Calif., Karla B was in town, the Cresswell family, as usual, and newly minted Miller relatives, Lynn and Mary Jo, survivors of Katrina were around. (OK, always were rellies, but I just met them.) And our fabulous hosts, Joan and Grady.

Christmas Eve party was Hawaiian theme, at Anne M's place. A,K,K Betts created the evening for us. It was quite festive and Anne was the belle of the ball. Or should I say, the big kahuna? She got a real live lei, and "borrowed" my aloha Santa hat. Looking good!

Christmas day party was a blast! Started with the frittatta for b'fast, presents were done by noon, naps were had, party preps, and the big bash at 4:00. Cresswells arrived with dinner in hand. A fork lift might have helped, that roast beast was so huge. Yes, Jeff, I saw the leftover beast rolling down Ladd Ave. The 5 second rule was in effect.

It was sit down dinner for 14. Champagne toasts, food, food, and more food. Holiday hats and xmas poppers (not the disco drug) and quotes from W had (almost) everyone rolling in the aisles. This year a slide show of penguins and ice bergs substituted for the singing of xmas carols.

Dec. 26 was more of the same. Joan and Grady hosted an open house party, for neighbors and friends. and family, of course. can't get rid of us that easily. With a lot of the same folks from night before, it seemed a continuation of the fun. We still couldn't get rid of the cranberry juice. I guess Cosmo's were not the drink of choice this weekend. But we were ready.

ok, the blog-gods are not letting me upload more pic's so I'll end. and start another.

Little Drummer Girl

And her shadow........ and a few of her bandmates.

Just when you thought this was a running blog, no, no, it's a band geek blog. Here is our buddy Annalise, ABB for short. Playing "the big bass drum, and the piccolo,too" (oh, you knew I could work in a phrase from the 'Music Man') with her award winning Thousand Oaks HS band. Next semester she will be playing with the prestigious T.O. Spring Drum Line.

Hey, wait. I do have running news. Results are in and I placed 1st in the Jingle Bell Run. Val was 2nd, and Gina 5th !!!!!!!!!! http://www.ontherunevents.com/jinglebell/2005results Let's see if this link thing works. I may have to read up on the blog techno stuff.

OK, Merry Christmas to all.

Pa rum pa pum pum

The Art of Running

Well, there is joy in mudville tonight.

I've been having a little pain in my foot/arch ever since the half marathon (did I mention I was 4th ?) Ran a little in Hawaii, a little since coming home. Raced last Sunday. But the pain was worsening. So, being the stress fracture hypochondriac that I am, went to see the doc. He seemed to think that was what it is. And to plan for 3 months OFF. I got the bone scan on Friday. My insurance company probably wonders why I don't quit running, as this was my 3rd scan of the year. OK, some of you may wonder, too.

Anyway, my experience reading these films gave me hope. Of course, I still managed to be a pout face all weekend, thinking the worst. That I was out of the Boston race, again. Jeez. But long, boring blog, short.... It's not a fracture. As you can clearly see from the picture.

It's possible it would have become one, if I'd kept running. So, I'll stay off running for a few weeks. Get my money's worth from the gym membership and use the indoor machines. Spend hours on the elliptical machine, and the spinning bikes, maybe some pool running, and VIOLA ! I'll be still in shape when it's time to run again.

And, maybe, just maybe, I will run that darn race in April.

by the by, the floral still life was done by a fabulous young artist in NY. Kyle McHugh. I knew him when....

We Three Trees

The seasonal decorating has been in full swing here at Green Lake. We could not decide on one tree, so we have a few. One outside, a holly tree, that we think looks great with lights. I told Gina that those lights were on permanently, or at least til I could cut the wires. Holly tree is pretty, but oh so sharp!

For our inside tree(s) we decided that since we have a small house, a small tree would be perfect. And if it's small, we could have two. Our favorite is the Charlie Brown tree. It's "pathetic" . The new desk needed a tree. of course. And the new bathrom couldn't go un-adorned. of course not.

The annual Christmas card contest is underway. Full, and final, results will be posted in January.

Well, I must go wrap some presents. Because it is SO obvious when Gina does it all. They all look fantastic. I am the pathetic wrapper.

From recent comments, it seems I am a pathetic blogger, too.
BLAHG-HUM BUG

Where is all the running news? you ask. Tune in to tomorrow's blog. speaking of pathetic.

Jingle Jangle

Sunday was the Jingle Bell 5k Race. Gina and I ran with 10,000 of our friends. Only 9 of whom we invited back to the house to hot tub, sip champagne and irish coffees, and watch football. Oh, and a few who saw fit to not run.

There are no official race results to report but I can say I did make at least 20 Irish Coffees.

We were quite social this weekend. A little soiree at Michelle and Teri's house was fun. And the cocktail weinies that were slow cooked in a fab BBQ sauce, well, all I can say is, that is my new pre-race dinner. Those pasta parties are old news. I ran pretty well, and felt great. After a whole week of sluggish running, I was happy.

We also attended a Christmas party at our gym. Just so you know, pre-race carbs aren't all bad, I did lift a couple 12 ouncers of beer. and chatted with folks who look so different when wearing regular clothes, other than t's and shorts. I almost said normal clothes, but then I remembered a couple outfits. One guy had a dress shirt, festooned with a piano keyboard down the side. Causes a head tilt. hmm... "why is he wearing that?" but I've seen how much he lifts so I'm not wondering out loud.

Here I am with the gym owner, quite possibly THE NICEST MAN ON EARTH. And I don't think I exaggerate. Mark is his name. We were chatting about how he water skis year round. brrr. and the other shot is Gina, well, obviously, and Darcy, our triathlon buddy. oh and Evan. As soon as the camera came out, the dudes were jumping to get in the pictures. And the 3 guys, well, that's Mac on the left (he should own the gym), unknown member in the middle, and one of our favorite work out buddies, Rock. His wife discreetly stepped aside. Rock is the funniest surfer dude around.

I know, I'm strange ( I almost said we're, but Gina claims nothing to do with this blog) , but we love the folks at our gym. And it is our home away from home. There are a couple odd balls... Did I mention the guy that gives Gina advice on how to kill people? I don't think she's followed up.

OK, jeez, I might have to re-title to "Partying Crazy"

Good night. No, no recipes tonight. But if I can get the secret BBQ sauce for the weinies, I'll pass it along.

Going Postal

First, the good news............. there was no line at the post office today !
And now the bad news.... we are back on the mainland. Oh well, paradise for 9 days is still paradise. And it's time to get ready for the holidays. I mean, Christmas. Wouldn't want Jerry F and his gang mad at me. Although, I'm sure he would be if he only knew me. But, I digress, di-blog?

We had a great time. Exercised a little, but mostly it was R & R. Each day was "filled" with water slide races, splashing in the pool or ocean, eating mahi mahi, sipping tropical drinks. The big decision of each day was which chaise lounge to choose, factoring in sun, shade, slide access, proximity to the poolside bar's tv (must stay current on the games). I think the waitress thought my name was Heinekin. Every time she passed by she would look at me and say "Heinekin?" I'd nod. Well, not everytime.

Our celebrity siting of the trip was at Sansei. (best sushi) Mariano Rivera and family showed up. We should have requested a bigger table. Next time. Damn Yankee.

Our mistake of the week was wasting time on the time share sales pitch. I'm sure Alec would say "time invested". He lost that sale when he couldn't wrap it up in time for us to get to our dinner reservation. Don't mess with our feeding schedule. At least it was a cloudy day. We didn't buy, but did "invest" time in thinking about it, and then trying to say no. That's a word the sales folks don't like to hear.

We saw our poolside buddies, Kathy & Jack, from SF, who we see each year. That's always fun. Discussing all the year's political issues while floating in the pool. It must have been liberals' week at the Westin cuz no one tried to drown us.

More stories later.
Aloha Sorry, I know that gets old