In a little less than a month, I am going to close the door on a piece of my life. I have resigned as the Managing Director of the KTC. I am working through mid-January in an effort to make the transition smoother from 2012 to 2013. I could tell you that I am sad to go but in reality, I am very excited about the future. I have no idea what it will bring. I don't have a job lined up but am exploring several options.
I was hired in early 2009 and started my first official day on April 1 that year although I really started working as soon as I was offered the job. I did so out of necessity because there was so much to be done. I didn't want to get behind and I didn't want participants and members to suffer.
It has been a wild ride. I have gotten to do some cool things. Top 5 in life has to be the Fast 40 Dash on I-40 before it re-opened. What a crazy event to plan with no date and then find a way to put that many people on the interstate legally and safely. And, if you don't remember, I was 100 weeks pregnant (not really but it felt like it) and everyone was so worried that I was going to go into labor right there on the newly paved interstate. It was an amazing day.
I have made lots of friends many of which have become our extended family. We have been blessed and lucky. I have seen people transform their lives and it has been amazing.
I've talked a lot about change and life lately. Mostly because I have been evaluating mine. I am so lucky to have the best husband in the world. He is supportive and he knows when things aren't well. Did I mention that he is really smart?
For quite some time, I have been unhappy. I thought it might be because I wasn't pregnant yet or I thought it might be because we've had a rough year at KTC. I have given my work situation a lot of thought over the last several months. I just don't have my "happy" anymore in this job. I love KTC and it isn't fair to either of us if I am not happy.
Some recent issues have really made me/us, stop and think about our life. We've really examined what is important and what needs to change and it kept coming back to my job. I almost always work 7 days a week. There is an event every weekend and I work most holidays. If I don't work that actual holiday then we work the day before or the weekend of the holiday. In almost 4 years, I have had to work on every vacation. Yes, every single vacation and yes, getting the work done was necessary.
I don't want to sound ungrateful because I have been very grateful to have this opportunity. But when you stop and think about life, I have a small child and I only get one shot here. If you don't have kids then you may never understand that concept. But, if you have kids - no matter the age - you get it. This is it. He won't ever be little again and if I miss it now then it is gone forever. And, it moves fast. Very fast. Head spinning - he was only a baby yesterday - fast. I didn't put myself through 9 months of hormones, bad running, big belly, and terrible heartburn to miss out on this dude's life.
Life is too short to be anything but happy. I need a better schedule and I need more time for me, Jason, and Jackson and hopefully another little Altman in our future. I have been humbled by the outpouring of people wanting the best for me. They have emailed and texted me about job opportunities. Some people are offering to create a job for me within their own companies. It makes my heart swell with happiness that we have such a fantastic support system.
So, I am closing one door and open another. I can't wait. It is going to be a fun ride.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
2011 vs 2012 - A whole different story at the Chickamauga Battlefield
Well, the 2012 Chickamauga Marathon has come and gone. This year was so much sweeter than last.
If you remember, last year was rough. Altman didn't have a good day and came in 2nd and spent a little time in the medical tent.
So, when he said he was going back, I pretended not to hear him and ignored it for a bit. He was serious and I am a supportive wife so I got on board with the idea. I told him from the beginning that he had to train hard. No kidding around. Put in the effort and finish standing upright this year. Please.
His training really started in the summer for Hood to Coast. From there, he won a half marathon at his alma mater, Miami University, in September (see guest post). He went to Columbus in October and had a half marathon PR.
As we drove to Chattanooga, we talked pace strategy and plans for race day. Instead of running the half, I had decided to run back and forth on the course as I had done two years before (I am obviously good luck). I would see him 4 times with the last being at time being at 19.5. From there, he was on his own.
Race morning was mellow. We were up and heading to the Battlefield with plenty of time. There was quite a traffic jam heading in so we had a Chinese fire drill in the middle of the road and Altman walked to the race site. He got his stuff and warmed up.
As time for the race start got closer, I got really nervous. My sweet friend Jennifer had texted me the day before to tell me to call her if I got anxious. I sent her a note that morning to tell her just how nervous I was. As I sat in the car (yes, on the seat warmer because it was cold!), I got a bit mushy and weepy. What if things went wrong again? What if he came around that corner all hunched over again? How would I calm my sister and make Jackson understand that Daddy is okay if things went wrong?
I snapped myself out of it. I knew his training was awesome. I knew his diet had been awesome. I knew that he was ready and that he was going to kill it. No doubts.
I always cry during the anthem. Always. At KTC races, I get a tear. That day was no different. I wiped the tears and got my watches ready. And, they were off!
I headed over to the first cross over and saw him around 2.3 or 2.4 miles. He looked at ease. I headed down to the next cross over and waited for him. I met a lot of volunteers and made some friends and when he came through, he was solo. No one in sight. He looked great. I ran back up to the first cross over and waited again. There I ran into friends and when he came through, he was still leading and still very much alone and he looked great. I headed back to the other cross over. My new friends there cheered him on when he ran through at 19.5. Again, leading and looking fantastic.
I sprinted back to the finish. I met up with my sister and Jackson and we waited. There wasn't much time and we were on our toes. We saw the bike lead first and then the neon singlet. He looked great. I could see the clock ticking closer to 2:39 and began yelling with a great sense of urgency. I knew he'd coast to a win but I really wanted him to go under 2:39. I knew he wanted it too. He picked up on my tone and then picked up his pace as he headed for the line.
He won by something like 16 minutes.
It was a great day. Altman got the win and the PR. I was able to support him by being out on the course and seeing him in several locations (told you I was good luck!). I also got in a great 10 mile run at a decent pace. And, I got to see well over 30 deer which is always very cool.
This year's story was so different than last year's story. I like this one better. I am grateful for that.
Happy Thanksgiving and many blessings for you and your families.
If you remember, last year was rough. Altman didn't have a good day and came in 2nd and spent a little time in the medical tent.
So, when he said he was going back, I pretended not to hear him and ignored it for a bit. He was serious and I am a supportive wife so I got on board with the idea. I told him from the beginning that he had to train hard. No kidding around. Put in the effort and finish standing upright this year. Please.
His training really started in the summer for Hood to Coast. From there, he won a half marathon at his alma mater, Miami University, in September (see guest post). He went to Columbus in October and had a half marathon PR.
As we drove to Chattanooga, we talked pace strategy and plans for race day. Instead of running the half, I had decided to run back and forth on the course as I had done two years before (I am obviously good luck). I would see him 4 times with the last being at time being at 19.5. From there, he was on his own.
Race morning was mellow. We were up and heading to the Battlefield with plenty of time. There was quite a traffic jam heading in so we had a Chinese fire drill in the middle of the road and Altman walked to the race site. He got his stuff and warmed up.
As time for the race start got closer, I got really nervous. My sweet friend Jennifer had texted me the day before to tell me to call her if I got anxious. I sent her a note that morning to tell her just how nervous I was. As I sat in the car (yes, on the seat warmer because it was cold!), I got a bit mushy and weepy. What if things went wrong again? What if he came around that corner all hunched over again? How would I calm my sister and make Jackson understand that Daddy is okay if things went wrong?
I snapped myself out of it. I knew his training was awesome. I knew his diet had been awesome. I knew that he was ready and that he was going to kill it. No doubts.
I always cry during the anthem. Always. At KTC races, I get a tear. That day was no different. I wiped the tears and got my watches ready. And, they were off!
I headed over to the first cross over and saw him around 2.3 or 2.4 miles. He looked at ease. I headed down to the next cross over and waited for him. I met a lot of volunteers and made some friends and when he came through, he was solo. No one in sight. He looked great. I ran back up to the first cross over and waited again. There I ran into friends and when he came through, he was still leading and still very much alone and he looked great. I headed back to the other cross over. My new friends there cheered him on when he ran through at 19.5. Again, leading and looking fantastic.
I sprinted back to the finish. I met up with my sister and Jackson and we waited. There wasn't much time and we were on our toes. We saw the bike lead first and then the neon singlet. He looked great. I could see the clock ticking closer to 2:39 and began yelling with a great sense of urgency. I knew he'd coast to a win but I really wanted him to go under 2:39. I knew he wanted it too. He picked up on my tone and then picked up his pace as he headed for the line.
He won by something like 16 minutes.
It was a great day. Altman got the win and the PR. I was able to support him by being out on the course and seeing him in several locations (told you I was good luck!). I also got in a great 10 mile run at a decent pace. And, I got to see well over 30 deer which is always very cool.
This year's story was so different than last year's story. I like this one better. I am grateful for that.
Happy Thanksgiving and many blessings for you and your families.
Guest Post - Jason's State to State Story
A Victorious
Homecoming
For the last several years, I have had a recurring dream. It is a simple one. It is me running through the streets ofOxford , Ohio Miami University
in Oxford , but
I was not “a runner” back then. As an
adult, running has become such an important part of my life. I work two jobs. One is planning and organizing a road
race. The other is at a running
specialty store. My wife is the director
of our local track club. While neither
of us were runners when we met, we both typically have similar interests and
running has become one of them that has engulfed our life.
For the last several years, I have had a recurring dream. It is a simple one. It is me running through the streets of
Back to my dream. As
anyone who has gone off to college knows, those four years (yes, I was one of
the few to get through in four) are special.
I believe that my subconscious is trying to merge a special time in my
life, the college years, with a passion that I have developed as an adult.
Last summer, while researching events to send brochures to,
I stumbled upon the State to State Half Marathon in Oxford .
It was created in 2003, two years after I graduated. My schedule didn’t mesh to run it in 2011,
but figured I’d try to keep it on the calendar for 2012. I looked at the results from 2011 and
previous years. The winning time ranged
everywhere from 1:07 to 1:20. The normal
winning time was in the 1:14-1:15 range.
Not only would it be cool to run a race in my old college town, but how
cool would it be to have a chance to win it?
Kristy, Jackson, and I loaded up and drove to Oxford the day before the
race. She had been there once before
with me, nine years ago. This was Jackson ’s first trip to
my alma mater, so a special daddy moment for me. Believe it or not, we had never shared a
hotel room with him before. I was a
little nervous we might not get much sleep, but surprisingly, we all slept
pretty well.
On race morning, I snuck out of the hotel room for a quick
warm-up without waking them up. When I
toed the line for the start of the race, Kristy and Jackson were there to support
me; Jackson in the jogging stroller, Kristy ready to give him a tour of the
town while I ran the race.
As the gun sounded, I wanted to take it out fast but under control. There was a 23 year old male who went out a
little faster than me. I sat on his
shoulder for the first half mile and saw that we were running 5:20 per mile pace. “If this guy can keep this up, he can have
it.” I thought, as I backed off a tad. I
had planned to target 5:40 pace for the first 4 miles, then try and negative
split from there. Easing off, I still
went through the first mile in 5:32, about 3 seconds behind the leader. As soon as we hit that first split, I saw
what looked like a sudden stop from him.
He had obviously run the first mile faster than anticipated. I immediately pulled up next to him, and
decided to run the next little bit with him.
Keying off of his pace, we slowed to 5:55 mile pace for the next quarter
mile. I decided to put in a surge to
keep on pace for my 5:40s. He let me go
and I entered the first turn into a side neighborhood in the lead. Exiting the neighborhood loop, I hit the
second mile in 5:38. Back on the main
drag for just half of a mile, I turned into the second neighborhood which was
an out and back section. Once I turned around,
I saw that I had opened a 20 second lead on him, with third place another 20
seconds behind him. Finally turning back
onto the main drag again, I hit mile three in 5:36. Now the rest of the course was straight out a
rural, country road to a turnaround cone in Indiana .
Once turning around, it was a straight shot all the way back to the
start line which doubled as the finish line.
I found a good rhythm going out.
5:37 for mile four, 5:35 for mile five, 5:36 for mile six. I felt comfortable and relaxed as I hit the
hilliest part of the rural road. Mile 7
slowed to a 5:43, but I wasn’t too concerned because of the hills. As I hit the turnaround, one of the course
monitors yelled “He’s 300 yards back of ya!”
Sure enough, when I headed back toward home, I estimated I was a minute
ahead. Giving a smile and a “Good Job”
as I passed him, I tried to kick in the next little bit to be sure and crush
any idea he had that he may catch up. 5:34
for mile 8. The next two miles were first
back into the hilly section, then a gradual uphill that I then realized had
been a gradual downhill on the way out.
5:40 for mile 9. 5:46 for mile
10. I started to feel a little fatigued
at this point and started to reevaluate my race plan. I had planned to try and hit sub 5:30s for
the last 3 miles, but wasn’t completely sure I could maintain that pace (which
would have resulted in a half marathon personal best), and determined that
staying strong and bringing home the win was most important. Mile 11 was a 5:42. At this point, I started to encounter 5K
participants who were also heading toward the finish line. With a shot of adrenaline from their words of
encouragement, and the water stop volunteers letting me know that “There’s no
one within sight!”, I felt rejuvenated and tried to push the last couple
miles. I also believe that the
realization that I was not only going to win, but achieve my first half
marathon victory at my alma mater gave me an extra burst of energy. Mile 12 was a 5:34. Mile 13 started as a slight downhill, and
then culminated with the steepest uphill of the race as we climbed back into
“Uptown” Oxford . I went through mile 13 in 5:31…my fastest
mile of the race. By the time I hit the
13 mile mark, I could see the finish line and could hear the cheers of spectators
and most significantly, Kristy and Jackson.
I crossed the line in 1:14:26.
Second place came in at 1:16:02.
It was an amazing feeling to be back at a place that I spent
an important and impressionable portion of my life. Taking home the victory was just icing on the
cake. Being able to finally go for a run
there was like a dream. I cannot wait to
have that dream again.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
A Day
Ever had one of those days? From start to finish, today was a day.
I went to the allergist this morning. It is no secret that I have been sick fairly often for the last few months. I have always had sinus and allergy problems but they seem worse this year.
I wondered why I hadn't received a reminder call or paperwork for my initial visit. Turns out, they had me "scheduled" but didn't have me down for a time. Awesome. After 20 minutes of trying to figure out what to do with me, they decided to get me in. Thanks.
I was there almost 4 hours. No joke. Chat with doctor, test, itchy mess, talk to nurse, more testing, talk to nurse, talk to doctor, make an appointment to start what seems to be lifelong allergy shots because I am allergic to EVERYTHING, make a return check-up appointment, and finally check out.
I took the prescription to Walgreen's. She said to give them an hour. Three hours later when I returned, they had forgotten to enter it or fill it. I had to wait. That made me late to pick up Jackson. Awesome.
I got to Jackson's school and he was awake but he was "post nap angry Jackson." Awesome.
Jackson's teacher wanted to talk to me about his bowel movement. Seems his medications' are giving him a bit of runny poop. Awesome.
We went to Target. As we were leaving, the skies opened up and literally soaked us while we tried to get to the car. Awesome. My shoes dyed my feet purple. They weren't meant to get wet. And yes, after cleaning them multiple times, they are still purple.
And, I spent a good deal of money at Target and didn't get a darn thing that is fun. Awesome.
Hurricane Jackson hit the house and there are toys everywhere. No need to clean up. He will just blow back through tomorrow.
Cleaned Jackson after two more runny poops. Don't get so grossed out. He went in the toilet but you just can't wipe a kid like he needs to be wiped when he is sitting on the toilet. (And yes, I know that he is going to hate me for writing these things in a few years. Oh well.) (And, yes, I realize that some of you don't care about his bowel movements. If that is the case, just don't read my blog.)
I was going to make Jackson a drink and knocked the whole cup of water over. On myself. I went to get a straw for my water and it had a hole in it. I let Fritz out and when he came back in, he took his muddy paws and put them all over the walls.
Other high notes...I have something like 10 phone calls to return tomorrow. I did get an article written for Footnotes but I am about a week behind the deadline. I did not get to exercise today unless you count the plank poses and tricep dips that I did while Jackson played bubbles in the bath tub. I am getting to watch the Oregon game on TV. (that last one really is a plus)
Yes, these are tiny, irrelevant little things in the grand scheme of life but they just made the day more of a day. We aren't hurt and we are mostly healthy. I am whining but hey, if I can't whine to you guys then who can I whine to these days?
The good news is that tomorrow is a new day. See you then.
I went to the allergist this morning. It is no secret that I have been sick fairly often for the last few months. I have always had sinus and allergy problems but they seem worse this year.
I wondered why I hadn't received a reminder call or paperwork for my initial visit. Turns out, they had me "scheduled" but didn't have me down for a time. Awesome. After 20 minutes of trying to figure out what to do with me, they decided to get me in. Thanks.
I was there almost 4 hours. No joke. Chat with doctor, test, itchy mess, talk to nurse, more testing, talk to nurse, talk to doctor, make an appointment to start what seems to be lifelong allergy shots because I am allergic to EVERYTHING, make a return check-up appointment, and finally check out.
I took the prescription to Walgreen's. She said to give them an hour. Three hours later when I returned, they had forgotten to enter it or fill it. I had to wait. That made me late to pick up Jackson. Awesome.
I got to Jackson's school and he was awake but he was "post nap angry Jackson." Awesome.
Jackson's teacher wanted to talk to me about his bowel movement. Seems his medications' are giving him a bit of runny poop. Awesome.
We went to Target. As we were leaving, the skies opened up and literally soaked us while we tried to get to the car. Awesome. My shoes dyed my feet purple. They weren't meant to get wet. And yes, after cleaning them multiple times, they are still purple.
And, I spent a good deal of money at Target and didn't get a darn thing that is fun. Awesome.
Hurricane Jackson hit the house and there are toys everywhere. No need to clean up. He will just blow back through tomorrow.
Cleaned Jackson after two more runny poops. Don't get so grossed out. He went in the toilet but you just can't wipe a kid like he needs to be wiped when he is sitting on the toilet. (And yes, I know that he is going to hate me for writing these things in a few years. Oh well.) (And, yes, I realize that some of you don't care about his bowel movements. If that is the case, just don't read my blog.)
I was going to make Jackson a drink and knocked the whole cup of water over. On myself. I went to get a straw for my water and it had a hole in it. I let Fritz out and when he came back in, he took his muddy paws and put them all over the walls.
Other high notes...I have something like 10 phone calls to return tomorrow. I did get an article written for Footnotes but I am about a week behind the deadline. I did not get to exercise today unless you count the plank poses and tricep dips that I did while Jackson played bubbles in the bath tub. I am getting to watch the Oregon game on TV. (that last one really is a plus)
Yes, these are tiny, irrelevant little things in the grand scheme of life but they just made the day more of a day. We aren't hurt and we are mostly healthy. I am whining but hey, if I can't whine to you guys then who can I whine to these days?
The good news is that tomorrow is a new day. See you then.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
What does "having it all" mean?
Before we get started, this blog post is really about me and my life with a child and job and the things I want to do. By no means do I think that life isn't tough for women without children but I realized 3 years and 4 months ago that those little boogers really change things in ways you never imagined and make life so different than before....Oh, and the post is long. I tried to cut it down but just couldn't do it.
I've been reading a lot of articles lately on women and whether or not they can "have it all." The articles are almost a self portrait. I am mid 30s, I am married, I have a beautiful child, I hope to have another beautiful child, I am the Director of a nonprofit organization and almost always work full-time+, I like to exercise a lot, I volunteer in the community, and I am scheduled beyond what a calendar should allow.
Honestly, I want more. One of my greatness strengths is also one of my biggest weaknesses - I am never happy. (now you know!) That doesn't mean that I am not a happy person. It is simple. During training, when I finish a run, I try to figure out how to run faster next time because no matter the speed, it wasn't good enough. During dinner, I try to figure out how to make it better the next time (add more salt, less pepper, more spice...). After every single race that we organize, I make a list of all the things that could have been better.
I was driving to a meeting last week (on very little sleep because of said beautiful child) questioning my life and thinking, "nope, it isn't possible to have it all."
The big question to is, what does it mean to "have it all?" How do you define it? How do the other mothers I know define it? How do runner mothers or other fitness guru mommies define it? How do the moms at pre-school define it? How do retired women define it? How does the media define it? What about society in general?
Truth is, it depends on each individual woman and what they are willing to do to "have it all." I shouldn't judge others and no one should judge me. Perception usually isn't reality so do the women around me feel as though they have it all or are they struggling behind closed doors to make it through the day?
I suppose for some women, it is quite simple (which isn't even simple): go to college; get married; have a kid; get a job; get the laundry done each week; go to the grocery store; and keep plants alive. There are struggles there but the accomplishment of getting laundry done or keeping a plant alive might be all a girl needs. That's cool.
For me personally, it is so much more. Life has become a crazy juggling act. The worst part is when I drop a ball or two and then can't get all of them back in the air. I have no life rhythm and when it happens, it just stinks. Lately, I can't seem to get all the balls in the air.
For me, I want my kid to be happy. Truly happy. I want him to throw his head back in laughter and smile that beautiful big smile of his. I want him to know that he is loved more than anything in the world. I want him to know that he can always call on mommy (seven times in the middle of the night on any given night) and I will always be there.
I want my husband to happy. I want him to know that he is my everything and that nothing makes me happier than having him in my life. I want him to look to the future and see us sitting on a porch (probably still in the condo) watching the cars go by.
And yes, I want the laundry done and the house clean and dinner as family most nights which is always a great deal of effort.
I want to be fit. I want to be a role model for other people. Lately, I've not been competitive running and it has been so much more fun. But, there has been a lot of guilt about it too. In my inner circle, people are competitive runners. Sometimes I feel like less of a runner when not training and when people ask and I say, "oh no, no races coming up." But, I am getting past it. I've been cross training and really getting back to yoga and strength training and am having a good time.
"Having it all" means that I am making a positive impact on my son and my husband, my friends and my community and the community at large. There aren't a ton of definitive outcomes on the last part so it is hard to tell if I am succeeding. Am I making a positive impact? Most days, I have little downtime to reflect so I don't know if I am or not. This is a struggle since I spend a great deal of personal and professional time working on events and programming for our community. It makes me happy so I suppose that is a positive indicator towards my goals.
Most importantly, "having it all" means that I am happy. It is waking up and being excited about my day.
I've had a lot of days lately where I wake up and am not excited about my day. That means that I don't have it all and I need to change some things. I understand that life can be hard and there will be stress but I am at a time where I need to make some changes.
The good news is that the definition of "having it all" will change with our various life cycles. So, I am due a good cup of coffee, some quiet time, and a little life contemplation. Who knows what will come but I will keep on striving to have it all because I am never happy and I always want more. :)
I've been reading a lot of articles lately on women and whether or not they can "have it all." The articles are almost a self portrait. I am mid 30s, I am married, I have a beautiful child, I hope to have another beautiful child, I am the Director of a nonprofit organization and almost always work full-time+, I like to exercise a lot, I volunteer in the community, and I am scheduled beyond what a calendar should allow.
Honestly, I want more. One of my greatness strengths is also one of my biggest weaknesses - I am never happy. (now you know!) That doesn't mean that I am not a happy person. It is simple. During training, when I finish a run, I try to figure out how to run faster next time because no matter the speed, it wasn't good enough. During dinner, I try to figure out how to make it better the next time (add more salt, less pepper, more spice...). After every single race that we organize, I make a list of all the things that could have been better.
I was driving to a meeting last week (on very little sleep because of said beautiful child) questioning my life and thinking, "nope, it isn't possible to have it all."
The big question to is, what does it mean to "have it all?" How do you define it? How do the other mothers I know define it? How do runner mothers or other fitness guru mommies define it? How do the moms at pre-school define it? How do retired women define it? How does the media define it? What about society in general?
Truth is, it depends on each individual woman and what they are willing to do to "have it all." I shouldn't judge others and no one should judge me. Perception usually isn't reality so do the women around me feel as though they have it all or are they struggling behind closed doors to make it through the day?
I suppose for some women, it is quite simple (which isn't even simple): go to college; get married; have a kid; get a job; get the laundry done each week; go to the grocery store; and keep plants alive. There are struggles there but the accomplishment of getting laundry done or keeping a plant alive might be all a girl needs. That's cool.
For me personally, it is so much more. Life has become a crazy juggling act. The worst part is when I drop a ball or two and then can't get all of them back in the air. I have no life rhythm and when it happens, it just stinks. Lately, I can't seem to get all the balls in the air.
For me, I want my kid to be happy. Truly happy. I want him to throw his head back in laughter and smile that beautiful big smile of his. I want him to know that he is loved more than anything in the world. I want him to know that he can always call on mommy (seven times in the middle of the night on any given night) and I will always be there.
I want my husband to happy. I want him to know that he is my everything and that nothing makes me happier than having him in my life. I want him to look to the future and see us sitting on a porch (probably still in the condo) watching the cars go by.
And yes, I want the laundry done and the house clean and dinner as family most nights which is always a great deal of effort.
I want to be fit. I want to be a role model for other people. Lately, I've not been competitive running and it has been so much more fun. But, there has been a lot of guilt about it too. In my inner circle, people are competitive runners. Sometimes I feel like less of a runner when not training and when people ask and I say, "oh no, no races coming up." But, I am getting past it. I've been cross training and really getting back to yoga and strength training and am having a good time.
"Having it all" means that I am making a positive impact on my son and my husband, my friends and my community and the community at large. There aren't a ton of definitive outcomes on the last part so it is hard to tell if I am succeeding. Am I making a positive impact? Most days, I have little downtime to reflect so I don't know if I am or not. This is a struggle since I spend a great deal of personal and professional time working on events and programming for our community. It makes me happy so I suppose that is a positive indicator towards my goals.
Most importantly, "having it all" means that I am happy. It is waking up and being excited about my day.
I've had a lot of days lately where I wake up and am not excited about my day. That means that I don't have it all and I need to change some things. I understand that life can be hard and there will be stress but I am at a time where I need to make some changes.
The good news is that the definition of "having it all" will change with our various life cycles. So, I am due a good cup of coffee, some quiet time, and a little life contemplation. Who knows what will come but I will keep on striving to have it all because I am never happy and I always want more. :)
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Good Ol' Rocky Top!
I love this City and I love UT Football. When I was young, my Uncle Lynn brought me to a game and that was the beginning of my love affair. People in orange were everywhere. Folks were friendly and it was such a cool atmosphere. We played Vandy that day and Andy Kelly was quarterback. We won. I left Knoxville thinking to myself that I would be back.
In 1994, I made my way here for college and have stayed with little thought of leaving. I have a good history with this town. I have great memories and plan to make more. One of my favorite things in the world is the "T." I have been to one game where it was cancelled because of weather but if we have tickets, we make it in time for the "T."
College was fun. Very fun. I was blessed to have a great job for most of my time in college at the Copper Cellar on campus. As I ran this morning, I recounted some of the crazy memories. Waiting tables and bartending were hard - especially on game days - but we had so much fun.
I have been a UT Fan for as long as I can remember. The good, the bad, and the very ugly. I watched the Goal Post run down Cumberland Avenue in 1998. That was cool.
After college, I met Altman and if you've met him, then you know he likes a little college football. Over the years, we have had pre and post game parties at the house on White Avenue, we have held tailgate parties at our home, we've "owned" a spot on campus for tailgating, we've spent time back at Copper Cellar, and we've gone to a number of games through the years. We have great memories of friends from Knoxville and friends from out of town visiting and sharing the excitement.
When Jackson was born, he went to a few tailgate parties with us. We didn't stay long and always came home to watch the game. We were hesitant to take him down for a game last year but I think he might be ready this year. He's been signing Good Ol' Rocky Top all week. I drove him through campus today and he kept asking me to park so he could "play Tennessee." I love that he gets to grow up in such a fun environment.
I have a tradition of running through campus in the fall. Generally, I hit the road for the first home game but was sick last week and just couldn't do it. I almost didn't go today as I was teetering with the idea of trail running instead. I am glad I chose the road. I am glad that I chose the route that we ran and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead - with my life, work, and football.
Life isn't just about football but I am reminded today that football brought me to Knoxville where I got an education, met my husband, had the coolest kid, and have made many, many friends. GO BIG ORANGE!
In 1994, I made my way here for college and have stayed with little thought of leaving. I have a good history with this town. I have great memories and plan to make more. One of my favorite things in the world is the "T." I have been to one game where it was cancelled because of weather but if we have tickets, we make it in time for the "T."
College was fun. Very fun. I was blessed to have a great job for most of my time in college at the Copper Cellar on campus. As I ran this morning, I recounted some of the crazy memories. Waiting tables and bartending were hard - especially on game days - but we had so much fun.
I have been a UT Fan for as long as I can remember. The good, the bad, and the very ugly. I watched the Goal Post run down Cumberland Avenue in 1998. That was cool.
After college, I met Altman and if you've met him, then you know he likes a little college football. Over the years, we have had pre and post game parties at the house on White Avenue, we have held tailgate parties at our home, we've "owned" a spot on campus for tailgating, we've spent time back at Copper Cellar, and we've gone to a number of games through the years. We have great memories of friends from Knoxville and friends from out of town visiting and sharing the excitement.
When Jackson was born, he went to a few tailgate parties with us. We didn't stay long and always came home to watch the game. We were hesitant to take him down for a game last year but I think he might be ready this year. He's been signing Good Ol' Rocky Top all week. I drove him through campus today and he kept asking me to park so he could "play Tennessee." I love that he gets to grow up in such a fun environment.
I have a tradition of running through campus in the fall. Generally, I hit the road for the first home game but was sick last week and just couldn't do it. I almost didn't go today as I was teetering with the idea of trail running instead. I am glad I chose the road. I am glad that I chose the route that we ran and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead - with my life, work, and football.
Life isn't just about football but I am reminded today that football brought me to Knoxville where I got an education, met my husband, had the coolest kid, and have made many, many friends. GO BIG ORANGE!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Sometimes I get stopped in my tracks
A few weeks ago, I got really sick. Started with a cough a little runny nose and ended up knocking me out of commission for a bit. As usual, after one day of rest, I was back at life full-time.
The cough has lingered a bit but overall, I felt better. Not great but better. Both Jason and I had traveled separately a couple weekends ago and I've had an unending to-do list that isn't get smaller. We haven't been able to get into a groove but was expecting that we would this past week.
Wrong. So wrong.
I don't get headaches. I get a "face" headache whenever a sinus infection hits. Otherwise, I am lucky not to be burdened with them.
On Tuesday, I thought I was dying. We had a party to go to and a babysitter lined up so we were going by golly. By the time we got to the marina to meet friends, my head hurt so bad that I was nauseous. I had some food and a cocktail and felt better. I thought that I must not have had enough to eat that day.
Wednesday, I didn't feel great so I took the day off from running. Wednesday night, Jackson didn't sleep and I was up all night with him. Literally. It had been a long time since I have been up all night so I chalked Thursday's misery to no sleep.
I got up yesterday ready to do a long run and get back to normal. I got a mile into the run and thought my head would explode. It was so painful that I stopped for minute thinking that I was really going to vomit (and by the way, I don't throw up - ever).
I spent all day trying to get into a walk-in clinic (which was just a comedy of errors) and finally saw a nurse practitioner last night. She did a pretty good review of everything and drew blood to make sure I am not anemic. I am not. And in case you were wondering, nope, I am not pregnant either. We tested for that too.
She said it is a viral infection and gave me some crazy medicine that was supposed to be for nausea. I woke up feeling like I had been hit over and over with a 2x4. After debating another doctor visit, I called on a friend who is in the medical field. I told him everything and he said that the "z-pac" that I took previously probably didn't clear up the infection. It probably stopped it for a minute but now it is back with a vengeance. He said he'd seen several cases of sinus issues lately because of pressure changes, etc. He also said that I didn't really need the meds that the n.p. had prescribed. That medicine is for vertigo and not for nausea. Thankfully, he called in a prescription for me and I am now on medications that will hopefully knock this out.
I have spent the day napping. Seriously. I never nap. I was in my pajamas until almost 6 pm when I finally showered and put on another pair of pajamas. I ate dinner and am back on the sofa. I am looking forward to ice cream and bed by 8 pm.
I missed my annual "run through campus on the first home game day" run this morning. I never miss that run. We had planned to go downtown for a bit and maybe take Jackson to the game. Missed that too. I am going to miss a KTC race tomorrow. I never do that unless I absolutely have no choice. In this case, I need the rest and the race is small and will be fine without me. I have to get well because we have a busy, busy end to 2012.
I am literally stopped in my tracks. My brain says to move but my body says no thank you. Tomorrow is a new day and hopefully I will feel better. If not tomorrow, then maybe Monday. I hate being sick and I hate missing out on life. There is a lot to do and I am ready to get rolling again.
The cough has lingered a bit but overall, I felt better. Not great but better. Both Jason and I had traveled separately a couple weekends ago and I've had an unending to-do list that isn't get smaller. We haven't been able to get into a groove but was expecting that we would this past week.
Wrong. So wrong.
I don't get headaches. I get a "face" headache whenever a sinus infection hits. Otherwise, I am lucky not to be burdened with them.
On Tuesday, I thought I was dying. We had a party to go to and a babysitter lined up so we were going by golly. By the time we got to the marina to meet friends, my head hurt so bad that I was nauseous. I had some food and a cocktail and felt better. I thought that I must not have had enough to eat that day.
Wednesday, I didn't feel great so I took the day off from running. Wednesday night, Jackson didn't sleep and I was up all night with him. Literally. It had been a long time since I have been up all night so I chalked Thursday's misery to no sleep.
I got up yesterday ready to do a long run and get back to normal. I got a mile into the run and thought my head would explode. It was so painful that I stopped for minute thinking that I was really going to vomit (and by the way, I don't throw up - ever).
I spent all day trying to get into a walk-in clinic (which was just a comedy of errors) and finally saw a nurse practitioner last night. She did a pretty good review of everything and drew blood to make sure I am not anemic. I am not. And in case you were wondering, nope, I am not pregnant either. We tested for that too.
She said it is a viral infection and gave me some crazy medicine that was supposed to be for nausea. I woke up feeling like I had been hit over and over with a 2x4. After debating another doctor visit, I called on a friend who is in the medical field. I told him everything and he said that the "z-pac" that I took previously probably didn't clear up the infection. It probably stopped it for a minute but now it is back with a vengeance. He said he'd seen several cases of sinus issues lately because of pressure changes, etc. He also said that I didn't really need the meds that the n.p. had prescribed. That medicine is for vertigo and not for nausea. Thankfully, he called in a prescription for me and I am now on medications that will hopefully knock this out.
I have spent the day napping. Seriously. I never nap. I was in my pajamas until almost 6 pm when I finally showered and put on another pair of pajamas. I ate dinner and am back on the sofa. I am looking forward to ice cream and bed by 8 pm.
I missed my annual "run through campus on the first home game day" run this morning. I never miss that run. We had planned to go downtown for a bit and maybe take Jackson to the game. Missed that too. I am going to miss a KTC race tomorrow. I never do that unless I absolutely have no choice. In this case, I need the rest and the race is small and will be fine without me. I have to get well because we have a busy, busy end to 2012.
I am literally stopped in my tracks. My brain says to move but my body says no thank you. Tomorrow is a new day and hopefully I will feel better. If not tomorrow, then maybe Monday. I hate being sick and I hate missing out on life. There is a lot to do and I am ready to get rolling again.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Please welcome my sweet friend, Courtney Russell, to my blog. Courtney is the Co-Chair for The Big KnoxVenture Race coming up in October. It is a fun event and myself and KTC have been involved since it's first year. Check out her blog below and hopefully we will see you on October 13!
Kristy
Knoxville’s One-Of-A-Kind Adventure Race—That is for Everyone!
The BIG KnoxVenture Race benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee
Huge thanks to Kristy for allowing me to write a guest
blog post about an event that is near and dear to my heart, the BIG KnoxVenture
Race. Maybe you have seen our commercials or ads in the past and thought, “what
is that?” or “that is not for me.” I want to tell you a bit about
KnoxVenture and why it might be the perfect event for you.
Trust me, if I saw the words “adventure race” and didn’t
know anything else about it, I wouldn’t take a second look. I am neither
adventurous nor fast (and if you are one or both of those things I applaud
that!).
I also suspect that those who participate in some of the
local 5ks, 10ks, etc. might think this isn’t for them because it involves more
than just running and isn’t a “serious” road race.
KnoxVenture really is tailored to people of all ages and
all fitness levels. The 5K course takes you through downtown Knoxville to
complete both physical and mental tasks. Some of my favorite teams each year
are the parents with their children in strollers. We have everyone there from
the Operation Boot Camp Teams that go all out on both their awesome costumes
and their speed, to the friends in crazy costumes that just use the time have
fun in downtown Knoxville, to the coworkers wearing their company logos and
utilizing the event as an opportunity for team building.
Maybe some of the serious runners following Kristy’s blog
want to come out and try to give the Operation Boot Camp Teams a run for their
money?
And the BEST part about KnoxVenture is that all the
proceeds support Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee and the work they
do to provide quality mentoring relationships for children throughout East
Tennessee. That is what the day is really about…after the challenges are
completed and the race is won, the kids keep winning!
If you and your family, friends, co-workers, church, etc.
etc. would like to be a part of this unique, worthwhile and fun event please
visit www.KnoxVenture.org.
You can also call Holly Kizer at Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee at 865-523-2179.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of East
Tennessee please visit www.BigBrothersBigSistersETN.org.
Thank you all for your time! I hope to see you at
KnoxVenture!
Courtney
Russell
2012
BIG KnoxVenture Race Co-Chair
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Don't judge me but Pre-School is the Best.
I have told this part before, anyone who knew me growing up knew that I didn't want kids. I said this through high school, college, and post college. Altman and I had serious discussions about it before we got married. Of course my (our) mind changed and I would do anything for my kid. He is amazing. Altman and I were so happy before he was born but he filled this spot in our hearts that I didn't even know existed.
He makes me happy. So happy. His smile is infectious and he is smart and funny. He makes me cry - in a good way. He brings out emotions that I never knew existed. He also makes me cry in a way that makes me wonder if I am a good mother or not and frankly why on Earth did I had a kid. On any given day, he can bring me to my knees in tears - in a good way or a bad way. He makes me mad too. I don't understand what was unclear about me saying, "Don't blow that whistle inside." But, apparently I was unclear because every head turned when he blew an ear piercing whistle inside the Post Office.
He is like me. A lot like me. He is smart and he doesn't like to wait for instruction. He wants to dive right into to something. No time to wait for instructions. Just do it. He gets frustrated really easily (probably because he didn't read the instructions and he got it wrong). He is stubborn. I see some epic battles ahead.
Don't take any of this wrong. He is a great kid. Really. We couldn't ask for a better kid. I thank God every night for blessing us with such a cool kid. He has great manners and is so kind and thoughtful of others. Altman has this way with people and I see a lot of that in Jackson.
He is out of school this week. As usual, on paper, having no backup plan is a great idea. I can do everything, right? I can work, watch the kid, feed the kid, feed myself (whoops - forgot about that today), do more work, do laundry, clean the house, and do more work with no problem at all. Always a good idea until we get to this week.
I love him but we have a much better relationship when he goes to school. He goes Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. Perfect. I work out before and then spend that time in meetings and running KTC. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Altman and I alternate afternoon meetings and then we work at night but after he goes to bed.
The time away is great for all. Jackson loves the schedule. Get up, eat, play, school, and then see mommy and daddy. He has friends and loves his teachers. They teach him things and then he can come home and tell us all about it. I can't wait for 3 pm to pick him up. When I pick him up, I have missed him all day. And, I really did miss him so much that I wonder why we send him to school.
Tuesday can't get here fast enough. I love him but we'll be a happier duo once he goes back to school. I think I do a good job of being his mother. I do the best I can every single day. I can fix boo boos, I am teaching him to be grateful in life, that hard work is important, to do nice things for others, and I am teaching him healthy habits. With all that said, I am a better mother because he goes to pre-school.
You can judge if you want but if you don't send your kid away for a little while everyday - you should try it. There is nothing wrong with staying home with your kids. I admire and praise anyone that can do it. For us, I am better at what I do when we can spend some time apart each day. Now, back to working and making dinner and maybe now I will get to eat!
He makes me happy. So happy. His smile is infectious and he is smart and funny. He makes me cry - in a good way. He brings out emotions that I never knew existed. He also makes me cry in a way that makes me wonder if I am a good mother or not and frankly why on Earth did I had a kid. On any given day, he can bring me to my knees in tears - in a good way or a bad way. He makes me mad too. I don't understand what was unclear about me saying, "Don't blow that whistle inside." But, apparently I was unclear because every head turned when he blew an ear piercing whistle inside the Post Office.
He is like me. A lot like me. He is smart and he doesn't like to wait for instruction. He wants to dive right into to something. No time to wait for instructions. Just do it. He gets frustrated really easily (probably because he didn't read the instructions and he got it wrong). He is stubborn. I see some epic battles ahead.
Don't take any of this wrong. He is a great kid. Really. We couldn't ask for a better kid. I thank God every night for blessing us with such a cool kid. He has great manners and is so kind and thoughtful of others. Altman has this way with people and I see a lot of that in Jackson.
He is out of school this week. As usual, on paper, having no backup plan is a great idea. I can do everything, right? I can work, watch the kid, feed the kid, feed myself (whoops - forgot about that today), do more work, do laundry, clean the house, and do more work with no problem at all. Always a good idea until we get to this week.
I love him but we have a much better relationship when he goes to school. He goes Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. Perfect. I work out before and then spend that time in meetings and running KTC. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Altman and I alternate afternoon meetings and then we work at night but after he goes to bed.
The time away is great for all. Jackson loves the schedule. Get up, eat, play, school, and then see mommy and daddy. He has friends and loves his teachers. They teach him things and then he can come home and tell us all about it. I can't wait for 3 pm to pick him up. When I pick him up, I have missed him all day. And, I really did miss him so much that I wonder why we send him to school.
Tuesday can't get here fast enough. I love him but we'll be a happier duo once he goes back to school. I think I do a good job of being his mother. I do the best I can every single day. I can fix boo boos, I am teaching him to be grateful in life, that hard work is important, to do nice things for others, and I am teaching him healthy habits. With all that said, I am a better mother because he goes to pre-school.
You can judge if you want but if you don't send your kid away for a little while everyday - you should try it. There is nothing wrong with staying home with your kids. I admire and praise anyone that can do it. For us, I am better at what I do when we can spend some time apart each day. Now, back to working and making dinner and maybe now I will get to eat!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Where did my clean go?
I was raised to have a clean home. Growing up, I had to make my bed, wash the dishes, and help clean the house. That was part of life.
I have always loved a clean house. In my adult life, it has been a symbol of a job well done. That feeling when you crash onto the sofa after cleaning the house and you can smell the clean. I love it. It really is one of my favorite things in the world.
In college, I had clean roommates and not so clean roommates. When I lived alone, my apartments were almost sterile because they were so clean. And, there was no mess. When I lived alone, there were no clothes on the floor and things were neat and orderly.
Altman wasn't taught the same clean that I was taught. Through the years, I have adjusted my expectations. For instance, a few years ago, he caught me rearranging the items in the dishwasher before we washed them. He was putting things in but I thought they could go in differently. I didn't think he'd notice that I was reloading everything - he did. Now, I leave the dishwasher to him. He loads it and unloads it and we are all happy.
We have a child. We also have three dogs and a cat. Clean doesn't live here right now. We got the puppy because the old dog has to go out so many times a day that we thought this would be a great opportunity to house train the new dog. That has worked well. Unfortunately, the old dog has no idea where he is and does his business all over the house.
Luckily, the toddler is daytime potty trained so at least I am not cleaning up kid pee off the floor anymore. That sure was fun for awhile.
We are trying to teach Little Altman to do his chores. He has to make his bed, take care of the dogs, eat vegetables, etc every day. His idea of making the bed and mine are significantly different but the effort is there. Yesterday, it took over an hour to clean up trains so that we could go to a birthday party. I understand that we have to teach him. If I die trying, he will be raised knowing how to clean up after himself, how to do laundry, and how to scrub a toilet. The good news is that this afternoon, he called me into the bathroom and showed me how he was cleaning the potty. It was a nice start (and yes, he was being supervised by his father).
Through the last few years, we've alternated between having someone clean the house and doing it ourselves. Admittedly, it is really hard to have a clean house when you live in roughly 1700 sq. ft. with all these beings under one roof. It is hard to justify the money when the place looks like a hurricane hit it within 5 minutes of being cleaned. But, it is hard to justify our own time when it looks like a hurricane hit it within 5 minutes of being cleaned.
Right now, we are attempting to make it a family affair. Everyone has their duties and they are split up throughout the week. We'll see how this goes.
I like clean. We aren't nasty but we aren't eat off the floor clean. Those days may be gone permanently. I sure hope not..............
I have always loved a clean house. In my adult life, it has been a symbol of a job well done. That feeling when you crash onto the sofa after cleaning the house and you can smell the clean. I love it. It really is one of my favorite things in the world.
In college, I had clean roommates and not so clean roommates. When I lived alone, my apartments were almost sterile because they were so clean. And, there was no mess. When I lived alone, there were no clothes on the floor and things were neat and orderly.
Altman wasn't taught the same clean that I was taught. Through the years, I have adjusted my expectations. For instance, a few years ago, he caught me rearranging the items in the dishwasher before we washed them. He was putting things in but I thought they could go in differently. I didn't think he'd notice that I was reloading everything - he did. Now, I leave the dishwasher to him. He loads it and unloads it and we are all happy.
We have a child. We also have three dogs and a cat. Clean doesn't live here right now. We got the puppy because the old dog has to go out so many times a day that we thought this would be a great opportunity to house train the new dog. That has worked well. Unfortunately, the old dog has no idea where he is and does his business all over the house.
Luckily, the toddler is daytime potty trained so at least I am not cleaning up kid pee off the floor anymore. That sure was fun for awhile.
We are trying to teach Little Altman to do his chores. He has to make his bed, take care of the dogs, eat vegetables, etc every day. His idea of making the bed and mine are significantly different but the effort is there. Yesterday, it took over an hour to clean up trains so that we could go to a birthday party. I understand that we have to teach him. If I die trying, he will be raised knowing how to clean up after himself, how to do laundry, and how to scrub a toilet. The good news is that this afternoon, he called me into the bathroom and showed me how he was cleaning the potty. It was a nice start (and yes, he was being supervised by his father).
Through the last few years, we've alternated between having someone clean the house and doing it ourselves. Admittedly, it is really hard to have a clean house when you live in roughly 1700 sq. ft. with all these beings under one roof. It is hard to justify the money when the place looks like a hurricane hit it within 5 minutes of being cleaned. But, it is hard to justify our own time when it looks like a hurricane hit it within 5 minutes of being cleaned.
Right now, we are attempting to make it a family affair. Everyone has their duties and they are split up throughout the week. We'll see how this goes.
I like clean. We aren't nasty but we aren't eat off the floor clean. Those days may be gone permanently. I sure hope not..............
Friday, August 10, 2012
A rock up the nose isn't a bump in the road!
It was bound to happen...an object in the nose or ear that we couldn't get out. Why wouldn't it happen on our mini-vacay? Totally fits our life.
While riding kiddie rides last Saturday, one of the workers watched an exchange between Jackson and I. He was picking his nose and then trying to stick his finger in his mouth. Of course I told him to stop, pulled the finger away from his face, and reminded him how gross eating boogers is. The kid working saw the whole conversation and I could see him giggling to himself. It was a bit embarrassing but heck, what 3 year old hasn't picked their nose and eaten a booger. If you say your kid hasn't done it then you are fibbing or haven't seen it yourself. I was just happy that he hadn't stuck in marbles or trains or whatever in his nose yet.
We headed to Brevard for a few days of rest and relaxation. On Tuesday morning, we went for a run and then to breakfast. Little Altman was complaining of a rock in his sandal. Jason got it out and we took off for the mountains for some hiking. No big deal. About a mile into the short drive, Jackson said, "I have a rock in my nose." I didn't even turn around and just asked him what he said. "I have a rock in my nose." I asked how it got there and he said he put it there.
I looked over the seat and up his nose and yep, there was a rock. We pulled into a parking lot and I pulled him out of his seat and into the back of the Tahoe. I was acting like I was going to perform surgery or something. After looking a little closer, he had shoved it pretty far up there and we decided we needed assistance getting it out.
The ER was from the 1950s. Seriously. Small and everyone seemed old including the staff. They all LOVED Jackson and after each of them telling us a "rock up the nose story" said they'd take care of us. So much for hiking. We waited for awhile so that they could discharge someone and get us back to a room.
We wanted to hike but we settled for Ring Around the Rosies and the jumping game while we waited in the lobby. Yes, in the lobby in front of the 20 or so people waiting to be treated or waiting on family.
Luckily, the rock fell out before the doctor had to intervene. A good sneeze knocked it loose and a few wipes and it literally just fell out and onto the exam table.
Instead of hiking, we spent the afternoon in the ER. Jackson was in great spirits the whole time and although it was a bump in our road that day, we made the best of it. We headed back to the cabin where we played trains and watched the Olympics and spent some great time together as a family.
I doubt this is the last trip we take to the ER. He now repeats that he shouldn't stick things in his nose but as I type this, we are having the booger conversation...again.
Sometimes the road is smooth and sometimes it is bumpy. Sometimes it broken all to heck. You just gotta keep going and see what each new day brings. And, sometimes give yourself a high five that the bump was a small one and could have done a lot more damage!
While riding kiddie rides last Saturday, one of the workers watched an exchange between Jackson and I. He was picking his nose and then trying to stick his finger in his mouth. Of course I told him to stop, pulled the finger away from his face, and reminded him how gross eating boogers is. The kid working saw the whole conversation and I could see him giggling to himself. It was a bit embarrassing but heck, what 3 year old hasn't picked their nose and eaten a booger. If you say your kid hasn't done it then you are fibbing or haven't seen it yourself. I was just happy that he hadn't stuck in marbles or trains or whatever in his nose yet.
We headed to Brevard for a few days of rest and relaxation. On Tuesday morning, we went for a run and then to breakfast. Little Altman was complaining of a rock in his sandal. Jason got it out and we took off for the mountains for some hiking. No big deal. About a mile into the short drive, Jackson said, "I have a rock in my nose." I didn't even turn around and just asked him what he said. "I have a rock in my nose." I asked how it got there and he said he put it there.
I looked over the seat and up his nose and yep, there was a rock. We pulled into a parking lot and I pulled him out of his seat and into the back of the Tahoe. I was acting like I was going to perform surgery or something. After looking a little closer, he had shoved it pretty far up there and we decided we needed assistance getting it out.
The ER was from the 1950s. Seriously. Small and everyone seemed old including the staff. They all LOVED Jackson and after each of them telling us a "rock up the nose story" said they'd take care of us. So much for hiking. We waited for awhile so that they could discharge someone and get us back to a room.
We wanted to hike but we settled for Ring Around the Rosies and the jumping game while we waited in the lobby. Yes, in the lobby in front of the 20 or so people waiting to be treated or waiting on family.
Luckily, the rock fell out before the doctor had to intervene. A good sneeze knocked it loose and a few wipes and it literally just fell out and onto the exam table.
Instead of hiking, we spent the afternoon in the ER. Jackson was in great spirits the whole time and although it was a bump in our road that day, we made the best of it. We headed back to the cabin where we played trains and watched the Olympics and spent some great time together as a family.
I doubt this is the last trip we take to the ER. He now repeats that he shouldn't stick things in his nose but as I type this, we are having the booger conversation...again.
Sometimes the road is smooth and sometimes it is bumpy. Sometimes it broken all to heck. You just gotta keep going and see what each new day brings. And, sometimes give yourself a high five that the bump was a small one and could have done a lot more damage!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
We are nearing Jackson's third birthday. On this day three years, I was being discharged from the hospital pumped full of steroids with a bottle full of blood pressure pills that were meant to stop my pre-term labor.
I had had a stressful end of pregnancy. I started a new job and directed two large existing races on the event calendar. I planned, organized, and kept the date secret for a third race for several months and brought 2000 people plus volunteers and a boat load of other folks down to I-40 for a mile-ish run on June 11. The running joke with my KFD friends was that if I went into labor, they would deliver the baby on the interstate because it would make a great story. I didn't go into labor that night but did soon after....
On Monday morning, Jason and I hit the gym. I did the elliptical because my legs and body just couldn't handle a run that day. I lifted weights. When I finished up, I noticed a dull ache in my right hip. I thought the baby had turned awkwardly and brushed it off. I worked for awhile but the pain didn't go away. Sometime mid-afternoon, I called the doctor's office and asked for the nurse to call me back wondering if there was a way that I could physically turn him by myself..
We were buying groceries when the call came. The nurse said that I should come to L&D immediately. They thought I was in labor. I couldn't process what they were saying. Wouldn't I know what labor was like? I was so worried. If our due date was July 31 then this was way too early to have a baby (by the way, I always thought they were wrong about the due date). I ran into a friend in the store before I could find Jason. I cried and she told me it would be fine. We paid for the groceries and dropped them at Runners Market on our way (we were shopping at the Kroger there). Sounds so silly that we went ahead and paid for them but we thought we'd stop by the hospital and head right back home.
Turns out, I was dilated 3 cm and contracting every two minutes. He had turned all right and he was trying to escape. I stayed for two days while they gave me steroids to strengthen his lungs. I saw specialists. His weight was good. He was roughly 6 lbs and 5 oz and 33.5 weeks. It would be better if he waited a bit longer but we could make it work if he was born then. They sent me home with instructions not to work out or drive. I wasn't on bed rest but I wasn't allowed to do anything.
We held him off til July 6. I was in labor the whole time. If I didn't take the medicine right on time, I could feel the contractions coming. He really wanted to join the party.
He wants to do things how and when he wants to do things. Heck, the preterm labor told us that and I should have made a note then. We wanted him to walk early but he did it when he was ready. We really wanted him to talk. He did it when he was ready and sure that he could do it well (I think he is going to be a Type A personality like his mom).
He is an amazing kid. He is funny and really smart. He is quite the entertainer.
I am blessed to be his mother and to be the first person that go to know him. We had long talks while I was pregnant and he ran 100s of miles with me during those months.
Last week was hard. For those of you who are close then you know the story. For those who aren't, a prayer for my sister and my family would be good.
As we start a new week, I am reminded of how precious a little life is and how much goes in to bringing a baby into this world. Making it through pregnancy is such a big deal and people take that piece of the timeline for granted. I knew that complications could happen but I never dreamed that we'd be holding our breath for those last weeks hoping we had everything ready and hoping that he would be big enough and strong enough to make into the world.
He made it alright and we are lucky to have him.
I had had a stressful end of pregnancy. I started a new job and directed two large existing races on the event calendar. I planned, organized, and kept the date secret for a third race for several months and brought 2000 people plus volunteers and a boat load of other folks down to I-40 for a mile-ish run on June 11. The running joke with my KFD friends was that if I went into labor, they would deliver the baby on the interstate because it would make a great story. I didn't go into labor that night but did soon after....
On Monday morning, Jason and I hit the gym. I did the elliptical because my legs and body just couldn't handle a run that day. I lifted weights. When I finished up, I noticed a dull ache in my right hip. I thought the baby had turned awkwardly and brushed it off. I worked for awhile but the pain didn't go away. Sometime mid-afternoon, I called the doctor's office and asked for the nurse to call me back wondering if there was a way that I could physically turn him by myself..
We were buying groceries when the call came. The nurse said that I should come to L&D immediately. They thought I was in labor. I couldn't process what they were saying. Wouldn't I know what labor was like? I was so worried. If our due date was July 31 then this was way too early to have a baby (by the way, I always thought they were wrong about the due date). I ran into a friend in the store before I could find Jason. I cried and she told me it would be fine. We paid for the groceries and dropped them at Runners Market on our way (we were shopping at the Kroger there). Sounds so silly that we went ahead and paid for them but we thought we'd stop by the hospital and head right back home.
Turns out, I was dilated 3 cm and contracting every two minutes. He had turned all right and he was trying to escape. I stayed for two days while they gave me steroids to strengthen his lungs. I saw specialists. His weight was good. He was roughly 6 lbs and 5 oz and 33.5 weeks. It would be better if he waited a bit longer but we could make it work if he was born then. They sent me home with instructions not to work out or drive. I wasn't on bed rest but I wasn't allowed to do anything.
We held him off til July 6. I was in labor the whole time. If I didn't take the medicine right on time, I could feel the contractions coming. He really wanted to join the party.
He wants to do things how and when he wants to do things. Heck, the preterm labor told us that and I should have made a note then. We wanted him to walk early but he did it when he was ready. We really wanted him to talk. He did it when he was ready and sure that he could do it well (I think he is going to be a Type A personality like his mom).
He is an amazing kid. He is funny and really smart. He is quite the entertainer.
I am blessed to be his mother and to be the first person that go to know him. We had long talks while I was pregnant and he ran 100s of miles with me during those months.
Last week was hard. For those of you who are close then you know the story. For those who aren't, a prayer for my sister and my family would be good.
As we start a new week, I am reminded of how precious a little life is and how much goes in to bringing a baby into this world. Making it through pregnancy is such a big deal and people take that piece of the timeline for granted. I knew that complications could happen but I never dreamed that we'd be holding our breath for those last weeks hoping we had everything ready and hoping that he would be big enough and strong enough to make into the world.
He made it alright and we are lucky to have him.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Then vs Now
Over the last 10 years, Altman and I have vacationed at my parent's house in Florida every year except for 2 (wedding year and the year Jackson was born). After so many trips to this place, I was thinking about then vs now meaning before Jackson vs with Jackson.
Before Jackson....
We could leave anytime of day that we wanted. Had to work? No problem. Leave late afternoon and arrive at midnight. No big deal.
Less packing. More clothes but less stuff.
More sleep. Go to bed late. Get up whenever. Nap for two hours. Lots of sleep.
More beach time.
Reading on the beach or working puzzles.
Eat whenever and wherever.
Run whenever, wherever.
Adult beverages anytime of day.
After Jackson....
We leave whenever will work best for his sleeping schedule. This year, we left at 6:48 am. It was a good call. We were trying to leave by 6:30 am. I called it a victory.
More stuff. More packing. We look like the Clampetts leaving town. Clothes (still packed way too many even though I toned it down a bit), shoes, food, bed rails, and more. Basically, you name it, we probably brought it. Even so, we are fortunate that the living room looks like the Island of Sodor and these toys travel easily. Jackson is entertained and mommy can read a book.
No sleep. Jackson is off schedule so he wants to go to bed late and wake up early. Because his room is so close to ours, we hear every single move and it keeps us awake at night. His naps are shorter (because he doesn't want to miss a thing) so our naps are shorter too. Who needs sleep? We don't sleep much at home so who cares.
Shortened beach time. Have you seen my kid? Red hair and fair skin. Sunblock is at least 75 and we stay out less than two hours at a time and re-apply every half hour. BUT, we bought a little inflatable pool that is out of the sun in the afternoon so he and daddy play in the pool while mommy watches on from a lounge chair that is in the sun.
No reading on the beach. BUT, we get to play in the water, build sandcastles, follow the tire tracks, chase birds, play trains, and all around act like two year old without anyone making faces at us. Very cool.
Eat at kid friendly places. They must have grilled cheese or mac and cheese on the menu or we don't go there. BUT, our favorite oyster place has the most amazing grilled cheese sandwich and the booth is big enough to contain the toddler. And, we got balloon hats the other night. With no kid, we would have looked silly with balloon hats. Very cool.
Running is now more structured. Altman gets up and runs and I go when he returns. We bring the jogger and take family runs when we just need to get in easy miles (yes, we are still training and do still have workouts to complete). We get to explore other areas and today, we saw Coach Summit while we were running. Extra cool.
Adult beverages later in the day. Yes, we can still enjoy an adult beverage. If Jackson can have apple juice then mommy can have a glass of wine.
When I look back at then vs now, I have no idea what the heck we did on vacations years ago. Seriously. Now, our days are filled with activity. No, it isn't the same kind of vacation as before and some days, it is almost as stressful to be on vacation with a toddler as it is to be home and working and raising him and following life's normal routines.
Now, vacation is so fun because we get to live it through him and through his eyes. Stop signs are the coolest and we chase speed bumps when riding the golf cart because obviously, they are the most fun ever. I was showing Jackson the sunset the other night and now, he wants to see it. He wants to see the purple, pink, white, and blue sky as the sun goes down.
It will be cool to see how things change over the next few years. If we are fortunate to have another child then I can only imagine that we'll need a U-haul to get here. That will be okay. Regardless of one kid or more, being able to spend this time with Jackson and Altman is such a blessing. Now, back to my vacation before it ends!
Before Jackson....
We could leave anytime of day that we wanted. Had to work? No problem. Leave late afternoon and arrive at midnight. No big deal.
Less packing. More clothes but less stuff.
More sleep. Go to bed late. Get up whenever. Nap for two hours. Lots of sleep.
More beach time.
Reading on the beach or working puzzles.
Eat whenever and wherever.
Run whenever, wherever.
Adult beverages anytime of day.
After Jackson....
We leave whenever will work best for his sleeping schedule. This year, we left at 6:48 am. It was a good call. We were trying to leave by 6:30 am. I called it a victory.
More stuff. More packing. We look like the Clampetts leaving town. Clothes (still packed way too many even though I toned it down a bit), shoes, food, bed rails, and more. Basically, you name it, we probably brought it. Even so, we are fortunate that the living room looks like the Island of Sodor and these toys travel easily. Jackson is entertained and mommy can read a book.
No sleep. Jackson is off schedule so he wants to go to bed late and wake up early. Because his room is so close to ours, we hear every single move and it keeps us awake at night. His naps are shorter (because he doesn't want to miss a thing) so our naps are shorter too. Who needs sleep? We don't sleep much at home so who cares.
Shortened beach time. Have you seen my kid? Red hair and fair skin. Sunblock is at least 75 and we stay out less than two hours at a time and re-apply every half hour. BUT, we bought a little inflatable pool that is out of the sun in the afternoon so he and daddy play in the pool while mommy watches on from a lounge chair that is in the sun.
No reading on the beach. BUT, we get to play in the water, build sandcastles, follow the tire tracks, chase birds, play trains, and all around act like two year old without anyone making faces at us. Very cool.
Eat at kid friendly places. They must have grilled cheese or mac and cheese on the menu or we don't go there. BUT, our favorite oyster place has the most amazing grilled cheese sandwich and the booth is big enough to contain the toddler. And, we got balloon hats the other night. With no kid, we would have looked silly with balloon hats. Very cool.
Running is now more structured. Altman gets up and runs and I go when he returns. We bring the jogger and take family runs when we just need to get in easy miles (yes, we are still training and do still have workouts to complete). We get to explore other areas and today, we saw Coach Summit while we were running. Extra cool.
Adult beverages later in the day. Yes, we can still enjoy an adult beverage. If Jackson can have apple juice then mommy can have a glass of wine.
When I look back at then vs now, I have no idea what the heck we did on vacations years ago. Seriously. Now, our days are filled with activity. No, it isn't the same kind of vacation as before and some days, it is almost as stressful to be on vacation with a toddler as it is to be home and working and raising him and following life's normal routines.
Now, vacation is so fun because we get to live it through him and through his eyes. Stop signs are the coolest and we chase speed bumps when riding the golf cart because obviously, they are the most fun ever. I was showing Jackson the sunset the other night and now, he wants to see it. He wants to see the purple, pink, white, and blue sky as the sun goes down.
It will be cool to see how things change over the next few years. If we are fortunate to have another child then I can only imagine that we'll need a U-haul to get here. That will be okay. Regardless of one kid or more, being able to spend this time with Jackson and Altman is such a blessing. Now, back to my vacation before it ends!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Reality Check
We had a BIG reality check yesterday. In 2010, at 13 (almost 14) months old, we found out that Jackson is allergic to peanut butter. Yes, ridiculous. Who is allergic to peanut butter? I ate it the whole time I was pregnant and nursing. The child grew from am embryo to a human on peanut butter. I ate it breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. But, alas, he is allergic.
The diagnosis process was horribly frightening. Jason was in Portland, OR and Jackson's teacher made plans for the kids to make no bake cookies. The idea was cool. The kids would play with peanut butter, chocolate chips, oatmeal, and other ingredients to learn textures. She asked permission for him to make the cookies and I said okay.
Within in an hour, the teacher and school Director were calling and I was rushing him off to the doctor. He was coughing terribly and had hives and it was a frightening day.
We keep an Epi-Pen on us 24/7. It is always close. We've had the whole family and babysitters use the "practice pen" and we are adamant about asking for an ingredient list at restaurants and on anything we buy at the grocery.
With all that said, we've been comfortable the last little bit. Seemingly, airborne contact with peanuts or peanut butter doesn't cause a reaction. Like I said, we ask at restaurants and we make sure to read ingredient lists of everything we buy for home.
Just like any other day, we sent Jackson to pre-school yesterday. Same teachers. Same kids. One difference....someone sent peanuts/peanut butter in their kids' lunch bag. Apparently, Jackson came in contact with it.
His teacher texted at 2:20. "Jackson has splotches on his face." I called immediately. She said they popped up after nap. 10 minutes later, she called and said that they were spreading and that they were becoming welts. I told her to get the Epi-Pen ready (they keep one at school) and not to let him out of her sight. When we got there, we dosed him immediately with Benadryl and took him straight to his pediatrician. The hives were terrible and spreading quickly but he wasn't having any problems breathing.
No anaphylatic shock. No Epi-pen needed. Big dose of Benadryl and Zyrtec. He'll take them for a few days. The hives cleared up quickly. Life will go on and all seems to be well.
When I decided that he was gonna be fine, I cried. Just like that, his safety and his health and everything that I am was compromised for a bit. Yesterday was a big reality check. Today, he was playing and riding his tricycle.
I hate that he is allergic to PB but that is our reality and for now, we'll will ask his teacher to check twice for peanut products in lunches and I will go back to being that "crazy mom" again for a bit when it comes to checking food items.
The diagnosis process was horribly frightening. Jason was in Portland, OR and Jackson's teacher made plans for the kids to make no bake cookies. The idea was cool. The kids would play with peanut butter, chocolate chips, oatmeal, and other ingredients to learn textures. She asked permission for him to make the cookies and I said okay.
Within in an hour, the teacher and school Director were calling and I was rushing him off to the doctor. He was coughing terribly and had hives and it was a frightening day.
We keep an Epi-Pen on us 24/7. It is always close. We've had the whole family and babysitters use the "practice pen" and we are adamant about asking for an ingredient list at restaurants and on anything we buy at the grocery.
With all that said, we've been comfortable the last little bit. Seemingly, airborne contact with peanuts or peanut butter doesn't cause a reaction. Like I said, we ask at restaurants and we make sure to read ingredient lists of everything we buy for home.
Just like any other day, we sent Jackson to pre-school yesterday. Same teachers. Same kids. One difference....someone sent peanuts/peanut butter in their kids' lunch bag. Apparently, Jackson came in contact with it.
His teacher texted at 2:20. "Jackson has splotches on his face." I called immediately. She said they popped up after nap. 10 minutes later, she called and said that they were spreading and that they were becoming welts. I told her to get the Epi-Pen ready (they keep one at school) and not to let him out of her sight. When we got there, we dosed him immediately with Benadryl and took him straight to his pediatrician. The hives were terrible and spreading quickly but he wasn't having any problems breathing.
No anaphylatic shock. No Epi-pen needed. Big dose of Benadryl and Zyrtec. He'll take them for a few days. The hives cleared up quickly. Life will go on and all seems to be well.
When I decided that he was gonna be fine, I cried. Just like that, his safety and his health and everything that I am was compromised for a bit. Yesterday was a big reality check. Today, he was playing and riding his tricycle.
I hate that he is allergic to PB but that is our reality and for now, we'll will ask his teacher to check twice for peanut products in lunches and I will go back to being that "crazy mom" again for a bit when it comes to checking food items.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Dear Little Altman
My Sweet Boy,
You are an amazing little being. I am sure all mommies say that (or at least I hope they do) but for real, you are pretty cool. Beyond cool.
We kept a pregnancy journal when I was pregnant. Altman read to you every night and we kept track of your growth and progress and learned so much about how you were growing. When you were born, we started writing in a notebook journal to you. We write sporadically but keep you informed on life happenings and how you are growing. We'd like to write more but you keep us pretty busy these days.
You are almost 3. You have conversations and you can actually argue a point now. You run everywhere and you are totally exhausting. I am pretty sure that you are smarter than both your father and I. You are very much like both of us. You are stubborn and strong willed and you give everything 100%. You are methodical in thought. You didn't talk when I wanted you to but when you started, you were making sense immediately and your language has evolved rapidly. I think you were forming the words in your head and waiting to use them correctly. When you figured it out, you were off and running. You are smart. You work real puzzles ridiculously fast and you are great at problem solving.
You are frustrating. You are so smart and so sweet and kind but you are a toddler and you whine when things don't go your way. As a toddler, you are hot and cold. Sweet and happy one minute and devilish the next. Luckily, the hard times don't last long. You are gracious and respectful. You use "please" and "thank you." Your sharing skills are getting better but you are still learning.
I never knew how much I wanted you until you were born. I never thought I wanted children because I didn't think I had enough patience to be a mommy. I can be selfish, self centered, and like things to go my way. You changed everything in such a way that I could never imagine. I discovered that I have more patience than I ever thought existed and that you teach me something new every minute I am with you. I tell you every day that I miss you when you are gone. I mean it.
We had dinner with friends last night and you were incredible with their little girl. I hope that you have a sibling one day to love and play with and fight with and live life's experiences and adventures.
For today, when you wake up, we'll play trains, take the dogs for a walk, and get ready for pre-school tomorrow. I hope you always know how much your father and I love you. You bring us much joy and happiness and you have given us a lifetime of love that we cherish.
I Love You Sweet Boy,
Mommy
You are an amazing little being. I am sure all mommies say that (or at least I hope they do) but for real, you are pretty cool. Beyond cool.
We kept a pregnancy journal when I was pregnant. Altman read to you every night and we kept track of your growth and progress and learned so much about how you were growing. When you were born, we started writing in a notebook journal to you. We write sporadically but keep you informed on life happenings and how you are growing. We'd like to write more but you keep us pretty busy these days.
You are almost 3. You have conversations and you can actually argue a point now. You run everywhere and you are totally exhausting. I am pretty sure that you are smarter than both your father and I. You are very much like both of us. You are stubborn and strong willed and you give everything 100%. You are methodical in thought. You didn't talk when I wanted you to but when you started, you were making sense immediately and your language has evolved rapidly. I think you were forming the words in your head and waiting to use them correctly. When you figured it out, you were off and running. You are smart. You work real puzzles ridiculously fast and you are great at problem solving.
You are frustrating. You are so smart and so sweet and kind but you are a toddler and you whine when things don't go your way. As a toddler, you are hot and cold. Sweet and happy one minute and devilish the next. Luckily, the hard times don't last long. You are gracious and respectful. You use "please" and "thank you." Your sharing skills are getting better but you are still learning.
I never knew how much I wanted you until you were born. I never thought I wanted children because I didn't think I had enough patience to be a mommy. I can be selfish, self centered, and like things to go my way. You changed everything in such a way that I could never imagine. I discovered that I have more patience than I ever thought existed and that you teach me something new every minute I am with you. I tell you every day that I miss you when you are gone. I mean it.
We had dinner with friends last night and you were incredible with their little girl. I hope that you have a sibling one day to love and play with and fight with and live life's experiences and adventures.
For today, when you wake up, we'll play trains, take the dogs for a walk, and get ready for pre-school tomorrow. I hope you always know how much your father and I love you. You bring us much joy and happiness and you have given us a lifetime of love that we cherish.
I Love You Sweet Boy,
Mommy
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Simple
The doctor walked into the room today and said "Good Morning." Little Altman repeated it so clearly and so kid-like. "Good Morning."
The doctor said take a deep breath and he did. The doctor asked him to open his mouth and say "Ah" and he did. Just like a big kid.
I can remember in the first visits that we'd take Jackson to the doc and he was so tiny. We would take his clothes off and his diaper and lay him on the scale. I had to hold him the whole time because you couldn't just leave him on the table. Today, he stood on the big boy scale. Today, he climbed up and down the latter for the exam table.
Today, he wasn't tiny anymore. We went for a cold. He has a cough and a runny nose. Not a huge deal but after the pneumonia in 2011, I'd rather be safe than sorry.
He took the doctor's stethoscope and placed it around his own neck. He pretended to listen to his own heart. I stood there in awe of him realizing that he is growing so fast.
When he wears shorts, his legs aren't the tiny, chubby baby legs. He is tall for his age and very lean. He has boy legs. There is no baby chub to his face anymore. He looks like a little boy. When he smiles, he has a lot of teeth.
He counts everything. He can count to twenty and gets so excited every time he does it. I told him last night that he was procrastinating going to sleep and he said, "Yes, I crastinate."
Yes, everyone says it goes fast. And yes, I roll my eyes (in my head) when people say it. I say it too (and yes, I roll my eyes at myself) to parents with babies. It is amazing. 2 years and 9 months. Before I can blink, it will be July and he'll be 3. Then, he'll be 10.
What an amazing journey. It is so hard and it makes my head hurt sometimes. Some days, I just want 5 minutes of peace. Most of the time, I don't get it. By the time we get to bedtime, I have forgotten whatever it is that he was doing to drive me crazy. He wraps his arms around my neck and says, "I love you mommy." Four words. They are simple yet so profound.
The doctor said take a deep breath and he did. The doctor asked him to open his mouth and say "Ah" and he did. Just like a big kid.
I can remember in the first visits that we'd take Jackson to the doc and he was so tiny. We would take his clothes off and his diaper and lay him on the scale. I had to hold him the whole time because you couldn't just leave him on the table. Today, he stood on the big boy scale. Today, he climbed up and down the latter for the exam table.
Today, he wasn't tiny anymore. We went for a cold. He has a cough and a runny nose. Not a huge deal but after the pneumonia in 2011, I'd rather be safe than sorry.
He took the doctor's stethoscope and placed it around his own neck. He pretended to listen to his own heart. I stood there in awe of him realizing that he is growing so fast.
When he wears shorts, his legs aren't the tiny, chubby baby legs. He is tall for his age and very lean. He has boy legs. There is no baby chub to his face anymore. He looks like a little boy. When he smiles, he has a lot of teeth.
He counts everything. He can count to twenty and gets so excited every time he does it. I told him last night that he was procrastinating going to sleep and he said, "Yes, I crastinate."
Yes, everyone says it goes fast. And yes, I roll my eyes (in my head) when people say it. I say it too (and yes, I roll my eyes at myself) to parents with babies. It is amazing. 2 years and 9 months. Before I can blink, it will be July and he'll be 3. Then, he'll be 10.
What an amazing journey. It is so hard and it makes my head hurt sometimes. Some days, I just want 5 minutes of peace. Most of the time, I don't get it. By the time we get to bedtime, I have forgotten whatever it is that he was doing to drive me crazy. He wraps his arms around my neck and says, "I love you mommy." Four words. They are simple yet so profound.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
The train is moving full speed ahead!
Ah, March Madness has begun. Literally. Yes, everyone is watching their TV's and perhaps keeping an eye on a non-competitive bracket or two and cheering on their favorite teams. Yes, March brings us NCAA March Madness but it also brings CHKM March Madness.
For the last 7 years, March has been a full of madness. In the first year, Altman and I were just volunteers but we took our work seriously and worked hard for the event. For the last 6 years, Altman has been the Race Director (RD) for the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon and he puts in a ton of hours planning, organizing, and executing the events.
Race day is April 1 but don't be fooled. Being the RD is a year round job. When everyone leaves on race day afternoon, there are still hours, weeks, and months of work to be done to finalize the event. Preparation for the following year starts before the current year's race day. That could be a whole other blog topic sometime.
March is madness. I've always regarded this month by saying that "the train" is moving and it isn't stopping. Currently, we are in full speed and there is no chance of jumping off the train or slowing it down. This race is gonna happen whether everyone is ready or not.
When the basketball tourney begins, you can find the Altman's in front of laptops late into the night....calculating numbers, working on Expo layouts, writing scripts for events, replying to emails from 5 accounts (between KTC and CHKM), making plans for spring KTC races, updating KTC and CHKM Facebook and Twitter accounts, researching other events...the list goes on and on.
In two weeks from now, we'll have wrapped up the Health & Fitness Expo and we'll be doing a final check of the stadium before we head to Thompson Boling to make sure everything is set and ready there. Two weeks from tomorrow, the gun will be shot and thousands of folks will take to the streets of K-town for an amazing experience.
Ready or not, the train is moving full speed ahead. This time of year is so fun yet so stressful. KTC operations are in full swing and I am really busy. This year in particular, KTC launched RunKNOX and KnoxWalks in March so we've had extra planning and preparation to get those events up and running. The CHKM Train is going at full speed and race weekend is going to be a blast.
Two weeks. Typing that gives me a chill. This train is moving full speed ahead and I am pumped to roll into the station on April 1 and see Knoxville come alive with runners, spectators, and volunteers cross the start line and then cross the 50 yard line.
March Madness is the best.
For the last 7 years, March has been a full of madness. In the first year, Altman and I were just volunteers but we took our work seriously and worked hard for the event. For the last 6 years, Altman has been the Race Director (RD) for the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon and he puts in a ton of hours planning, organizing, and executing the events.
Race day is April 1 but don't be fooled. Being the RD is a year round job. When everyone leaves on race day afternoon, there are still hours, weeks, and months of work to be done to finalize the event. Preparation for the following year starts before the current year's race day. That could be a whole other blog topic sometime.
March is madness. I've always regarded this month by saying that "the train" is moving and it isn't stopping. Currently, we are in full speed and there is no chance of jumping off the train or slowing it down. This race is gonna happen whether everyone is ready or not.
When the basketball tourney begins, you can find the Altman's in front of laptops late into the night....calculating numbers, working on Expo layouts, writing scripts for events, replying to emails from 5 accounts (between KTC and CHKM), making plans for spring KTC races, updating KTC and CHKM Facebook and Twitter accounts, researching other events...the list goes on and on.
In two weeks from now, we'll have wrapped up the Health & Fitness Expo and we'll be doing a final check of the stadium before we head to Thompson Boling to make sure everything is set and ready there. Two weeks from tomorrow, the gun will be shot and thousands of folks will take to the streets of K-town for an amazing experience.
Ready or not, the train is moving full speed ahead. This time of year is so fun yet so stressful. KTC operations are in full swing and I am really busy. This year in particular, KTC launched RunKNOX and KnoxWalks in March so we've had extra planning and preparation to get those events up and running. The CHKM Train is going at full speed and race weekend is going to be a blast.
Two weeks. Typing that gives me a chill. This train is moving full speed ahead and I am pumped to roll into the station on April 1 and see Knoxville come alive with runners, spectators, and volunteers cross the start line and then cross the 50 yard line.
March Madness is the best.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
February Strikes Again
On February 1, I posted on Facebook that I would take a deep breath and hope to make it out on the other side. I hate February.
In high school, a friend passed away in a car accident and then just two weeks later, my aunt died in a house fire. A few years later while I was in college, another friend died in this month. In 2009 when I was very pregnant, I had two trips to the hospital and Jason was there once.
Last year, Jackson had pneumonia in mid-February after having pink eye, RSV, and a severe ear infection.
Every year on February 1, I take a deep breath and pray for the best.
Unfortunately today, the last day of the month, I have just found out that one of our friends has passed away unexpectedly.
Tomorrow is March. Thank goodness.
In high school, a friend passed away in a car accident and then just two weeks later, my aunt died in a house fire. A few years later while I was in college, another friend died in this month. In 2009 when I was very pregnant, I had two trips to the hospital and Jason was there once.
Last year, Jackson had pneumonia in mid-February after having pink eye, RSV, and a severe ear infection.
Every year on February 1, I take a deep breath and pray for the best.
Unfortunately today, the last day of the month, I have just found out that one of our friends has passed away unexpectedly.
Tomorrow is March. Thank goodness.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Turn that frown upside down
I should be happy. I want to be happy. I hate being negative. Even a little bit negative. I like being happy even during tough times.
My husband loves me. My kid loves me. My family loves me. I should be so very happy.
I had a great weekend with the fam and spent time in the mountains. I didn't answer the phone (couldn't anyway because there was no service) or check email. I should be so very happy.
I have a job that I love and I have the most amazing opportunities to meet people. I should be so very happy.
I am healthy and the sun was out today so I should be so very happy.
No one is sick, the cars start everyday, and there is food in the fridge. I should be so very happy.
I have been seeking and reading and posting inspirational and motivational quotes trying to keep my positive outlook but today, I would like to just punch something or someone. Yep, it is true. How's that for honesty?
Am I mad at anyone or anything in particular? Not really. I am frustrated with circumstances and people. I am frustrated with things and people and situations that I cannot control.
I feel selfish when my mood is bad. I feel ungrateful when I am not finding the positive in everything. I have a four or five blogs that I have written and not posted because I feel like someone might judge me for being in a bad mood. I feel like complaining is just wrong.
Tomorrow will be fine. I will wake up and run and the sun might shine again and hopefully my bad mood will be gone. If not, well tough. Life goes on. I will go to Jackson's parent/teacher conference (yes, in pre-school) and I will give my presentation about health and wellness to a room filled with restaurant managers. I will finish an article I am writing for a regional magazine and I will write at least two media releases. Life will go on and I will get out of this funk.
I am probably allowed to be in a bad mood once in awhile but I would prefer to just be very happy.
My husband loves me. My kid loves me. My family loves me. I should be so very happy.
I had a great weekend with the fam and spent time in the mountains. I didn't answer the phone (couldn't anyway because there was no service) or check email. I should be so very happy.
I have a job that I love and I have the most amazing opportunities to meet people. I should be so very happy.
I am healthy and the sun was out today so I should be so very happy.
No one is sick, the cars start everyday, and there is food in the fridge. I should be so very happy.
I have been seeking and reading and posting inspirational and motivational quotes trying to keep my positive outlook but today, I would like to just punch something or someone. Yep, it is true. How's that for honesty?
Am I mad at anyone or anything in particular? Not really. I am frustrated with circumstances and people. I am frustrated with things and people and situations that I cannot control.
I feel selfish when my mood is bad. I feel ungrateful when I am not finding the positive in everything. I have a four or five blogs that I have written and not posted because I feel like someone might judge me for being in a bad mood. I feel like complaining is just wrong.
Tomorrow will be fine. I will wake up and run and the sun might shine again and hopefully my bad mood will be gone. If not, well tough. Life goes on. I will go to Jackson's parent/teacher conference (yes, in pre-school) and I will give my presentation about health and wellness to a room filled with restaurant managers. I will finish an article I am writing for a regional magazine and I will write at least two media releases. Life will go on and I will get out of this funk.
I am probably allowed to be in a bad mood once in awhile but I would prefer to just be very happy.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
feel good day!
Today was a feel good day. I feel like I have been terribly behind all year. Right now, we are in full swing in the 2012 race schedule and CHKM prep. Races every weekend (ours or someone else's) and the big daddy coming up on April 1. Add in daily administrative duties, researching sponsors, community initiatives, and the launch of two new programs and my days (into my nights) have been quite long. I'm not complaining, but I like to be organized and I feel like things have been a bit hectic since January 1.
Today was special. I didn't go to any meetings. I turned the phone off. I logged out of the email accounts. I spent the entire morning catching up. I had the day off from running so I grabbed a cup of coffee as soon as the fellas left and got to work.
After lunch, I headed out to get the oiled changed on the Tahoe. The service place had Wi-Fi and in the time I waited on my car, I was able to knock my inbox down from roughly 90 (valid) emails to 40ish in one of my email accounts. I hit up the Target for an rare solo trip. I was able to take my time and pick up a few items that I have been forgetting in previous visits.
Jason took Little Altman to Oak Ridge so I had bonus quiet time for working. I got more items knocked off the to-do list. I had time to make dinner and was able to put together the Tommy Big Loader for Little Altman to play with before we ate. I even got a load of laundry done today.
Today was a good day. I still have a lot to do. A lot. But, days like today help me regroup and remember that it can all be done. Now, I am gonna check a few more emails, watch Swamp People, eat a mini cupcake, and head to bed. Tomorrow is a big day!
Today was special. I didn't go to any meetings. I turned the phone off. I logged out of the email accounts. I spent the entire morning catching up. I had the day off from running so I grabbed a cup of coffee as soon as the fellas left and got to work.
After lunch, I headed out to get the oiled changed on the Tahoe. The service place had Wi-Fi and in the time I waited on my car, I was able to knock my inbox down from roughly 90 (valid) emails to 40ish in one of my email accounts. I hit up the Target for an rare solo trip. I was able to take my time and pick up a few items that I have been forgetting in previous visits.
Jason took Little Altman to Oak Ridge so I had bonus quiet time for working. I got more items knocked off the to-do list. I had time to make dinner and was able to put together the Tommy Big Loader for Little Altman to play with before we ate. I even got a load of laundry done today.
Today was a good day. I still have a lot to do. A lot. But, days like today help me regroup and remember that it can all be done. Now, I am gonna check a few more emails, watch Swamp People, eat a mini cupcake, and head to bed. Tomorrow is a big day!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Loving a cup of coffee
All is quiet. For now. Jackson is sleeping and Altman has headed out for his MOC meeting. Soon, the house will be full of noise and movement again but for now, I am having a cup of coffee.
This is one of the few things that I miss about pre-baby life. I don't remember life before Little Altman and honestly, it couldn't have been nearly as fun as it is now. But, I miss being able to sit down on a Sunday afternoon, after my run and breakfast, and having two or three cups of coffee. These days, I wait until nap time happens. Sometimes, I take a nap so I don't get my quiet coffee time.
I like this time because I can turn on junk TV, grab a cup, and just sit for a minute. Yes, there is a huge pile of laundry to be folded and more in the washer and dryer. And yes, I could probably wipe down the counter tops in the kitchen or sweep the floors or do some work.
Yes, I could do those things but I won't. When Jackson wakes up, I can do them while he plays trains. For now, I am going to find the remote and pour myself another cup!
This is one of the few things that I miss about pre-baby life. I don't remember life before Little Altman and honestly, it couldn't have been nearly as fun as it is now. But, I miss being able to sit down on a Sunday afternoon, after my run and breakfast, and having two or three cups of coffee. These days, I wait until nap time happens. Sometimes, I take a nap so I don't get my quiet coffee time.
I like this time because I can turn on junk TV, grab a cup, and just sit for a minute. Yes, there is a huge pile of laundry to be folded and more in the washer and dryer. And yes, I could probably wipe down the counter tops in the kitchen or sweep the floors or do some work.
Yes, I could do those things but I won't. When Jackson wakes up, I can do them while he plays trains. For now, I am going to find the remote and pour myself another cup!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Celebrating the Start Line
I did it. I actually made it to the start line and I couldn't be happier. I have posted about how terrible this last year has been for running. I have warned you that yes, you can get hurt too. I have also told you that being injured sucks. Big time.
I spent last fall feeling recovered from injury and pretty excited about a November Half Marathon. Heck, I PR'd in the 8K and was the Overall Female Winner. So, I should have been more than ready for my November race.
So close but so so far. About two weeks before, I did a training run on the half marathon course. I ran too fast and too hard. I was mad about my overall performance on the training run so I ran hard the next day. I didn't give myself time to recover and on the following Tuesday, I was gonna do just "an easy speed workout" and I pulled my hip again. I went to PT that Saturday and was really as ready as I could have been. I blogged on the story. No race.
I didn't even make the start line.
My expectations for the Aramco Houston Half were low. I experienced what is called a chemical pregnancy around Christmas and had stopped all intense training. When I found out that I wasn't really pregnant then I jumped back in to training but let's be honest, I didn't have a lot of time. Heck, I didn't have a lot of time to begin with going into this cycle.
Last weekend, I watched the Olympic Trials. What an amazing event. USA's top athletes battling for a spot on the Olympic Marathon Team. It was a once in a lifetime experience. Inspiring.
I ate some carbs, got some rest, and got up on Sunday morning for the race. We jogged to the start line. That went well. I spent the mandatory forever in the corral (yes, race rules) until the gun fired at 7 am Central time. I crossed the start line. Holy Crap!
The race was fun. I had hoped for a better time but to be honest, the crowd was tough to get through and when things finally opened up around mile 10, I just didn't have the get up and go that I needed to kill the last 5K. I didn't really care.
I knew I could finish....if I made the start line.
This was my slowest half in forever. That is okay. Some people dream of running the time I ran last Sunday. I dream of running a PR someday. For now, I am going to celebrate the Start Line. It was a place I wasn't sure I would see again for long distance racing and I am happy to get re-acquainted with it.
For now, I am gonna run for fun. A novel idea but something I haven't done in years. I have been pushing back against my body for being hurt. Now, I will re-embrace cross training and lower mileage and I will look forward to the next Start Line. See you there.
I spent last fall feeling recovered from injury and pretty excited about a November Half Marathon. Heck, I PR'd in the 8K and was the Overall Female Winner. So, I should have been more than ready for my November race.
So close but so so far. About two weeks before, I did a training run on the half marathon course. I ran too fast and too hard. I was mad about my overall performance on the training run so I ran hard the next day. I didn't give myself time to recover and on the following Tuesday, I was gonna do just "an easy speed workout" and I pulled my hip again. I went to PT that Saturday and was really as ready as I could have been. I blogged on the story. No race.
I didn't even make the start line.
My expectations for the Aramco Houston Half were low. I experienced what is called a chemical pregnancy around Christmas and had stopped all intense training. When I found out that I wasn't really pregnant then I jumped back in to training but let's be honest, I didn't have a lot of time. Heck, I didn't have a lot of time to begin with going into this cycle.
Last weekend, I watched the Olympic Trials. What an amazing event. USA's top athletes battling for a spot on the Olympic Marathon Team. It was a once in a lifetime experience. Inspiring.
I ate some carbs, got some rest, and got up on Sunday morning for the race. We jogged to the start line. That went well. I spent the mandatory forever in the corral (yes, race rules) until the gun fired at 7 am Central time. I crossed the start line. Holy Crap!
The race was fun. I had hoped for a better time but to be honest, the crowd was tough to get through and when things finally opened up around mile 10, I just didn't have the get up and go that I needed to kill the last 5K. I didn't really care.
I knew I could finish....if I made the start line.
This was my slowest half in forever. That is okay. Some people dream of running the time I ran last Sunday. I dream of running a PR someday. For now, I am going to celebrate the Start Line. It was a place I wasn't sure I would see again for long distance racing and I am happy to get re-acquainted with it.
For now, I am gonna run for fun. A novel idea but something I haven't done in years. I have been pushing back against my body for being hurt. Now, I will re-embrace cross training and lower mileage and I will look forward to the next Start Line. See you there.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Writer's Block
I want to write something relevant so badly and I just cannot get the words out these days. I have an idea where the writer's block is coming from and would love to tell the story but....
I have a lot to say but once I start writing - I hate every paragraph and every word. Hopefully soon I will be able to get the words out and tell some funny stuff. I have plenty of material but I am just not able to get it out to you.
I hope it goes away soon. For now, I will keep taking mental notes and hope that sometime soon, I can write again!
I have a lot to say but once I start writing - I hate every paragraph and every word. Hopefully soon I will be able to get the words out and tell some funny stuff. I have plenty of material but I am just not able to get it out to you.
I hope it goes away soon. For now, I will keep taking mental notes and hope that sometime soon, I can write again!
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