tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76873321476362520152024-02-07T03:47:21.204-08:00TRAILMOMMAtrailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.comBlogger374125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-67293233973351765082013-09-10T19:38:00.002-07:002021-10-04T08:26:07.499-07:00CAMPING 2013***REMEMBER, for more up to date posts please visit <a href="http://trailmomma.com/">MY NEW SITE</a>: <a href="http://trailmomma.com/">Trailmomma</a> by clicking on the link or going to <a href="http://www.trailmomma.com/">www.trailmomma.com</a>****<br />
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Sorry for the delay in posting, my laptop somehow (ahem Vans) got a virus but
we had a friend fix it so hopefully now we are good to go. As I eluded to in my <a data-mce-href="http://trailmomma.com/2013/09/food-for-thought-2/#comment-10" href="http://trailmomma.com/2013/09/food-for-thought-2/#comment-10">last
post</a>, we went camping at Donner Lake over Labor Day weekend. This year we
did things a little differently. Over the course of the summer we have purchased
some new camping equipment. In the past, the Trailmomma family has had the bare
minimum of camping gear mainly because we only go once a year (Van's is not a
huge fan of camping). Our goal this year was to go more than once but when I
went to book a campsite back in February, they were all booked (unless it was
the middle of the week). Next year, I need to get on sooner as we would love to
go to Santa Cruz to camp with the girls.<br />
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It was really nice having a much larger tent this year to fit the four of us
as well as my own personal camp stove and cooking set. The Trailmomma family
doesn't eat the kinds of foods our friends eat when they go camping and with my
gluten issues, it was just getting to be a pain because essentially, I would
have to lug in my own food anyway, but I had no way to cook anything. Not any
more. Now I can cook it myself and Vans and the girls eat something a little healthier
which makes me feel a little better too.<br />
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With the fire in Forresthill, the air was really smokey when we arrived in
Donner on Saturday afternoon. It eventually cleared off a little bit and with
all the campground fires around us, you didn't really notice after a while. We
arrived and quickly set up our tent. The girls immediately got down and dirty in
the dust. The rest of the weekend was pretty exciting with a trip to the lake, s'mores by
the campfire and even one of our friends going into labor at 3 am! Talk about a
"Labor" Day! Enjoy the photos.<br />
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Squeaker in the new tent.</div>
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Where are we mommy!?</div>
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Rock Climbing</div>
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Daddy doesn't like when I get so dirty....</div>
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Like in this dirt storm!</div>
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uh-oh</div>
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I kind of like this getting dirty game!</div>
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Time for S'Mores!!</div>
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Riding bikes!</div>
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Swimming in the lake.</div>
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And a long drive home!</div>
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~Trailmomma</div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-90033692534923797052013-08-20T13:39:00.003-07:002021-10-04T08:25:56.968-07:00NEW ADVENTURESI bit the bullet and bought a domain and have started my own webpage. This won't be a big surprise, but the site is: <a href="http://www.trailmomma.com/">www.trailmomma.com</a> and I am super excited to play around with it.<br />
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Please be patient with me as I navigate through this whole process. My daily, weekly, sometimes monthly random posts will be located over there for the time being (at least until my contract is up) but I plan to keep this site "active" and post all race reports (ahem, when I actually start racing again) here in addition to the new site in the off chance that <a href="http://www.trailmomma.com/">www.trailmomma.com</a> does survive. <br />
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This site holds a dear place in my heart and I cannot fathom shutting it down or deleting it. I still hope to publish my posts into a book format to have as a keepsake for my girls some day so they can see what a silly mom they had. If anyone knows of a great website that does that, please let me know!<br />
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In the meantime, please join me over at <a href="http://www.trailmomma.com/">www.trailmomma.com</a> and be patient with me! <br />
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-22937110119598087812013-08-19T13:09:00.001-07:002013-08-19T13:11:30.888-07:00DOMAIN OR NOT TO DOMAIN?Hello everyone! Happy Monday. <br />
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This weekend was a bust running wise. I tried to run on Saturday but I feel that I have a cold (or perhaps just really terrible allergies) but when I left my house Saturday morning, I only made it about a mile before my lungs and throat were burning and I felt like I was going to hurl. I turned around and trudged my way back home. I wasn't totally down on myself. I can appreciate resting when you are sick more so these days ... and because I knew I'd be a solo parent most of the weekend. <br />
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Saturday we had a pool party with some of my great running friends and their family. It was long overdue. Saturday evening Vans left for the Bay Area to do a century ride so I was solo with the girls that evening and all day on Sunday (hence why turning around on my run was a good thing). <br />
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We had some fun. We watched movies and ate popcorn. We goofed around and went to bed late. We had treats here and there. We went to the mall and had some fun in the Disney Store and of course we rode the carousel at the mall. Yup. all good times. <br />
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So after talking with Coach Nikon on Saturday, he convinced me to go ahead and buy a domain name. I have wanted to for quite some time. When I researched it, I saw that I could buy the name I wanted for $10.00 for a two years! That seemed great to me so I went ahead and bought my domain name. <br />
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THEN I realized (doh!) that one also needs to have a website building program AND a host. Those were not $10 for two years and in fact, were quite a bit more. Not as much as I thought but definitely something and the catch (because there is always a catch) if I like having my own domain and website, then after two years I'll have to continue to pay for it. Vans had a rule, that I could have my own domain name IF the website could pay for its own cost. Yeah, that is not going to happen unless I blog a helluva lot more. <br />
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So what to do? I have figured out the cost and if I can work two games with the Sacramento Kings (my side job that I have had for 13 plus years) that would pay for my two year contract commitment to have the program and the host. However, if I don't work two games, well then I am paying (of course). I am inclined to go for it and see what happens. Of course, I'd have to direct everyone from here to the new site and just keep this site "active" in case I need to return to it some day. Oh and of course there is that little thing called TIME to keep up the site and actually do some quality posting. Decisions decisions. What would you do? <br />
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Photos from the weekend. Enjoy.<br />
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Carousel Ride at the mall</div>
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Give this girl brown rice and black beans </div>
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in a tortilla and she is so happy.</div>
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Too Cool for School.*</div>
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*The funny thing about this photo is that I had stopped at traffic light and turned to look at the girls and saw they both had their sunglasses on! Totally made me laugh. </div>
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What also made me laugh is this conversation with Squeaker: </div>
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ME: Squeaker what is this? (pointing to her eyes)</div>
Squeaker: eyes!!<br />
ME: Good, what is this? (I point to her mouth)<br />
Squeaker: Mouth!<br />
ME: What is this? (I point to her knees)<br />
Squeaker: Knees!<br />
ME: What is this? (I point to her feet)<br />
Squeaker: Feet!<br />
ME: What about this? (and I grab her toes)<br />
Squeaker: piggies in a market!<br />
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Smart kid!trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-40951094418089954442013-08-12T20:59:00.003-07:002021-10-04T08:25:20.474-07:00FAMILY TIMEI cannot believe August is here already. The summer (in my opinion) just flew by so quickly. The weather here is cooling slightly (still warm compared to most). I love fall, although I always hate to see summer go. My girls are just loving flip flops and summer dresses right now and my allergies are taking a beating from all the weather changes. <br />
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The Peanut started Kindergarten last week. They start pretty early here in northern California. She handled it "okay" I guess. The second day was the hardest but she's a really smart kid and once they get into a groove of actually "learning" things, I think she'll just love school. I did. I could not wait to read and learn (what happened?! ha). <br />
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When I asked her if she read the note that I left in her lunch box she was quick to say "Mom! They didn't teach us reading yet!" Smarty pants. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mb4MyoDz_z62wzD4YRciGE_J3_lSiJV4F75zjVjz3FUSaG4lf_KzrHqhjfVz3S-axN6TuRJgAkmyBis8B9okYo_VsrXMk2Pca-PlceyXkCXGZYoT941izCE1Rj_6F8FBPhmxlsArwZc/s1600/K+School+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mb4MyoDz_z62wzD4YRciGE_J3_lSiJV4F75zjVjz3FUSaG4lf_KzrHqhjfVz3S-axN6TuRJgAkmyBis8B9okYo_VsrXMk2Pca-PlceyXkCXGZYoT941izCE1Rj_6F8FBPhmxlsArwZc/s320/K+School+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The Peanut with her lunch box and backpack!</div>
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So cute - notice her "bicycle dress!"</div>
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Squeaker is doing great, she's such a jabber box at times and quite soft spoken at others. She has a personality that is not to be challenged! Getting dressed is her"thing" as she prefers to pick out her clothes which usually involves a skirt/tutu of sorts and some kind of shirt that either has animals on the front OR is the color pink. Don't you dare try and dress her in anything different. <br />
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Our little fashionista!</div>
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As for running, I am still managing a run every weekend usually <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-good-weekend.html">The Ridge Loop of Death</a>. That seems to be the perfect mileage for my ankle right now. Some days I run it fast and don't walk the big hill and other times I just run it at whatever pace I can manage. I ran it this past Saturday afternoon when the temps were well into the 90s and there was no shade coverage. It was brutal but still a great run. <br />
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Every morning at 5 am I go to <a href="http://www.folsombreakoutfitness.com/">Breakout Fitness</a> and work my core, upper and lower body with Diane. I've been doing this for over a year now and finally am really seeing some results. Some that I like and some that I need a little time to get used to. My body tends to pack on muscle very easily vs leaning out with muscle. I probably need to tweak my diet a little bit and incorporate more yoga. I did attend a Bikram Yoga session last week. That was the first time in months and although quite a few poses were a little bit <strike>impossible</strike> difficult because of my ankle, it felt great to sweat that much and get into some deep stretches. I am planning to attend once a week (I have a Groupon that I need use up). <br />
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Vans has a big Century ride this weekend, despite some ailments with his achilles and knee lately. He is off to do this one by himself while I stay home and have a night and a day with my girls. Not sure what is planned but they are a riot. They keep me on my toes and make me laugh constantly. Just this past weekend we had a variety of funny moments. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMljwKS-_6aUhETTQc8bvHhe2r_T_MkzVPipK-LEV8DG2O1qi6odyhvXqctz3dsSR6CBbgziayRFIQJfNrFwbpUJGsXK3Oyhg343hGB7MOl3TntlLEU2p7D7-iL2JdkUKhMDNwmN_Lgo/s1600/Peets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMljwKS-_6aUhETTQc8bvHhe2r_T_MkzVPipK-LEV8DG2O1qi6odyhvXqctz3dsSR6CBbgziayRFIQJfNrFwbpUJGsXK3Oyhg343hGB7MOl3TntlLEU2p7D7-iL2JdkUKhMDNwmN_Lgo/s320/Peets.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Breakfast at Peet's Coffee</div>
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On Sunday I took the girls to Peet's Coffee before a scheduled play date. Normally I get the Peanut soy milk, with one shot of chocolate in it (as a treat) and Squeaker usually drinks water as she has Almond Milk at home but we had run out. Needless to say, she really wanted "milk" that morning. So I asked the server at Peet's to make one kids warm chocolate soy milk but to split it in half between two cups (as this is way too much chocolate and soy to begin with). I told Squeaker, as I handed it to her that it was "warm chocolate milk" as she had never had this before. She took a sip. Put the cup down. Looked at me. Looked at the cup. Looked at me again and goes, "GOOD MILK!" haha Oh boy.<br />
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Later that evening the whole family made a trip to Whole Foods (had to buy more Almond Milk - duh) and we sat in the Bier Garten with friends and listened to a local high school girl play the piano and sing. My girls were mesmerized! The were in awe of this young girl and so was I. <br />
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Sitting up close to the stage (that you can't see).</div>
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I love that my girls love each other so much. The Peanut is an amazing big sister. Yes, she has her moments when Squeaker pushes her buttons, but she always watches out for her, always. I cannot wait to see how they grow up. I can only hope, they always remain close and love each other as best friends and sisters.<br />
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Love.</div>
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However that's not to say I am totally blind to what lies ahead as well. The Peanut is smart and picks up on everything rather quickly and Squeaker is a dare devil with a flare for being the funny girl in the situation. <br />
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As cute as this photo is, it also scares me ... she's way too happy to pose in her tutu swim suit!</div>
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It is borderline Sports Illustrated Toddler Style if you ask me. :-)</div>
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<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-9786205093570798402013-07-28T19:27:00.001-07:002013-07-28T19:28:24.520-07:00A GOOD WEEKENDI think everyone groans on a Sunday evening when it is time to think about Monday and going back to work. Mondays are hard no matter what but they are especially hard after you have a fantastic weekend!<br />
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No, we didn't go anywhere exotic or special. We just stayed around the house but it all started Friday evening with the local concert in the park and just spiraled into a fun weekend of laughter, good times and giggles with the girls.<br />
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Saturday I woke up with every intention of going for a run along the Ridge Loop of Death (the 7 mile trail right near my house). For the past month or two, I have been battling low iron stores. I am not anemic, but my iron is on the low and my ferritin (the thing that carries and distributes iron throughout your body) is severely low. A typical range is 18 to 150 ng/ml and my level is less than 5 right now. Yeah, that's pretty low and explains my total exhaustion these last few months. However, I have been battling it lately with two doses of iron daily (one liquid and one pill) and finally, after many weeks, I felt pretty strong on my run! I still get tired pretty easily, but my body felt strong when I woke up like I was ready to tackle the Ridge Loop of Death. <br />
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Leaving my house, nice and shady...</div>
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For this run, you start out on pavement (on my street), hit some trails, then a bike trail, then some sidewalk and then you cross a main street and start your way up a fire road that is a pretty killer hill. I am super excited to report that I ran from the bottom to the top without stopping! This is a huge accomplishment for me. Usually, I am running with <a href="http://www.tiggert.blogspot.com/">TiggerT</a>, <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> or even <a href="http://www.be-well-run.com/">Mommy On the Run</a> and chatting up a storm. Hmmm, perhaps not talking at all and focusing on moving up the hill is the secret!</div>
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Yup, ran that whole hill! </div>
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The rest of the trail is more fire road that is all dirt but very exposed (so HOT). You wind around Serrano in El Dorado Hills with some nice views of Folsom Lake on your right (or behind you) and some massive homes on your left. </div>
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That little line way out in the distance is the bike trail portion</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwxVLShZxkf3UvV_KmKVyZ4KjTTlDE2yaiepopo4mRp9OW15dv7_L0owAn1GFW1sk66gUyh-hC5YOfv7pmSrAhMrWrBohyP5W1ALna41R2trBGwX5rBkNIvUnhqX39_4_V7p5fgEawhco/s1600/319+(800x600).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwxVLShZxkf3UvV_KmKVyZ4KjTTlDE2yaiepopo4mRp9OW15dv7_L0owAn1GFW1sk66gUyh-hC5YOfv7pmSrAhMrWrBohyP5W1ALna41R2trBGwX5rBkNIvUnhqX39_4_V7p5fgEawhco/s320/319+(800x600).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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About to head up hill again!</div>
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I ran up this second hill most of the way too. I was just feeling really strong in my legs and my lungs (finally! it has been too long!). </div>
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At one point you get dumped into Serrano by the golf course and you have to run on some street (past massive homes) until you find the trail head again. It was here that I decided to try and do a timer with my camera...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQunrCfhTrE7qvNpdjqLWR9bA_PYItp-S1pQFJqRCy8lJVm_-duZn1x0YkMfgSikWF_oqMtF1OHmGrTNhj75T1N_dAL6KYJ4M4-Oz-n6AkU-W0obOqYMDCnu87qRU3EyIR5fhjofNeFA/s1600/322+(800x600).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQunrCfhTrE7qvNpdjqLWR9bA_PYItp-S1pQFJqRCy8lJVm_-duZn1x0YkMfgSikWF_oqMtF1OHmGrTNhj75T1N_dAL6KYJ4M4-Oz-n6AkU-W0obOqYMDCnu87qRU3EyIR5fhjofNeFA/s320/322+(800x600).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Um, yea the "2" on the camera means seconds, not minutes. Ooops!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZo6ulMoc1GLi7XUPR_ZIEnX5h4CUGgbmEzHSIRJsKRSpSPO-PNGTJGW7yeAOEXltuuc7jyrmnq3NquTKO5AXan0ySLQlhNrf2_hS-xbOjYjYr43eyV2ZST1JSoftFLEDV8Gv6nt5b_2o/s1600/323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZo6ulMoc1GLi7XUPR_ZIEnX5h4CUGgbmEzHSIRJsKRSpSPO-PNGTJGW7yeAOEXltuuc7jyrmnq3NquTKO5AXan0ySLQlhNrf2_hS-xbOjYjYr43eyV2ZST1JSoftFLEDV8Gv6nt5b_2o/s320/323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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That home over my left shoulder was just finished. </div>
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I thought it was going to be the golf club house. Nope, it is some one's <strike>mansion</strike> home.</div>
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Anyway the rest of the run was somewhat uneventful. I ran into a nice man who warned me about a rattlesnake being on the trail (you see them often here). I didn't see any turkeys (thank goodness) and I made it home in good time!</div>
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Stretching on my driveway</div>
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When I arrived home both the girls and Vans were up and done with breakfast. The Peanut and I had to get ready to drive down to Sacramento where we were getting our hair done at my old salon. The Peanut's hair was super long and I didn't want to take her to the Lollicuts place for kids because they just spray her hair with water and cut. She's been swimming a ton this summer and really needed a deep shampoo and condition. </div>
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She was awesome. She was a little nervous about sitting back in the chair but with me holding her hand, she did great. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhWlq30GpqIpuzDVxIcwD2aV6r-TilerIDhYFLgieqbi0aDkeVWeKrH5ZEJmT_9fENO_-VTcIHiFNW7PdM11hAabwN136RqCnrgo28p8kKQc9dSLKFZg-V-lGooO-eXb3mIC8Bv49lqA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhWlq30GpqIpuzDVxIcwD2aV6r-TilerIDhYFLgieqbi0aDkeVWeKrH5ZEJmT_9fENO_-VTcIHiFNW7PdM11hAabwN136RqCnrgo28p8kKQc9dSLKFZg-V-lGooO-eXb3mIC8Bv49lqA/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Getting 2.5 inches off her hair!</div>
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ta-da! Shorter hair (so much easier)</div>
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She got some fro-yo for being so awesome.</div>
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After the beauty make-over session, we headed home. Vans had arranged to have a babysitter come over and watch the girls so that he and I could have a date night (with some friends) which involved wine tasting!</div>
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Wine tasting AND supporting the local </div>
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chapter of <a href="http://www.cci.org/site/c.cdKGIRNqEmG/b.3978475/k.3F1C/Canine_Companions_for_Independence.htm">Canine Companion for Independence</a></div>
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First date night in 8 months!! Woo hoo!</div>
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Sunday I went for a shorter four mile run. I didn't feel quite as strong (too much wine?) but it felt good to get out. We also had some pool time as a family.</div>
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Big Sister showing Little Sister </div>
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how to be a good "swimmer"</div>
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We even did some errands. Vans had to go to REI to look at some stuff. The girls disappeared for a bit and when I went looking for them .... this is what I found ... I totally caught them in the act!</div>
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Big Sister tortures Little Sister</div>
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Overall all, I say it was a great weekend. It may seem like we did a lot or maybe not, but we were together and everyone was in a pretty happy mood most of the weekend. I love weekends like these!</div>
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I am going to try and run as much as I possibly can this month. Most of my runs may end up being the Ridge Loop of Death but I don't mind. I just hope I keep getting stronger! <br />
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<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-65003513625674297062013-07-22T10:07:00.003-07:002013-07-22T10:19:26.923-07:00TAHOE RIM TRAIL 100 MILE (CREW)This weekend was the <a href="http://www.tahoemtnmilers.org/trter/trtindex.html">Tahoe Rim Trail</a> ultra races (50K, 50 mile, 100 mile). Once again <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> was toeing the line, but this year she was doing the 100 mile distance. Her first. Last year she did the 50 mile distance. You can read about that <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/07/tahoe-rim-trail-50-miler-crew.html">here</a>. <br />
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I was super excited to crew her again this year. Last year was such an awesome day and the energy at this race is indescribable. Maybe it is the high altitude, but the runners are just peppy, happy and generally in good spirits throughout the race. <br />
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I woke up at 4 am groggy but excited to hit the road. Last year I had Coach Nikon in the car with me but not this time. Driving up solo was kind of a bummer but I enjoyed having radio control in my own car for once.<br />
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By the time I hit the Sierras though I was getting tired. The excitement wore off and I wanted coffee. I decided to stop in Truckee at the same spot that Coach Nikon and I stopped the year before knowing full well that the Starbucks would be open. I grabbed my coffee to go and I headed towards Incline. <br />
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It was during this stretch that I had a moment of complete panic. Last year Pigeon started at 6 am, because she was doing the 50 mile distance. I totally forgot she was doing the 100 mile distance and that race started at 5 am! I feared I was not going to make because I was behind this slow driver. <br />
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We all know my math skills are pretty lame and when I texted Pigeon's <strike>better</strike> other half, "Missouri," I realized I might not miss her after all based on her projected splits. I parked, got ready and was about to set off up the hill to run/hike to the Tunnel Creek Aid station (miles 11 and 17.5) when I ran into Missouri. She was getting a cup of coffee at the restaurant at the bottom of the hill and I needed to use the facilities but felt bad using them if I wasn't purchasing anything. Since Missouri was buying coffee, I decided that "authorized" me to use the bathroom. We sat and talked for a bit and finally I figured I should really get going. I had forgotten the 4.3 miles to Tunnel Creek was all up hill. <br />
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It was a rough climb for me. I was just tired and low on energy (the story of my life lately) however when I made it to the top, I was in for a surprise. The Race Director decided Crew was NOT allowed in the aid-station area to assist runners. They had the area roped off. I hiked around and found a spot hoping to see Pigeon come through. After a while of watching runners come in, I realized that I missed her at the 11 mile mark. Crap. I felt awful. I ran across the race path, through the woods to the other side of the trail hoping that I would catch her as she came back up the hill to the aid-station (mile 17.5).<br />
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Sure enough, I saw her bright yellow shirt and her spiky hair hiking up the hill. I ran down to her and told her that I was not allowed to help her in the aid-station and I had to get all my questions and inquiries out of the way right then. Have you peed? What color was it? Have you eaten? What did you eat? Are you drinking? Did you take any Tylenol? She seemed in good spirits. Her bottles were half full and she needed water in her hydration pack. All good signs. She also used the facilities at this aid-station. She said her heel was bugging her but that was it and she was off but not before I could grab a quick photo!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-lN6FVPCkfeBRkd-yncC4u90U3dC1YrvZ2WZhwo7HBlfso1qKV7jfixDL-8XT9GtKuW7dAANlzWwrn_iioKujp2G4KfpihkZlZP1aee9kDM5WEEYN2wN4_-L148nkyzHxNKPExpkDH0/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-lN6FVPCkfeBRkd-yncC4u90U3dC1YrvZ2WZhwo7HBlfso1qKV7jfixDL-8XT9GtKuW7dAANlzWwrn_iioKujp2G4KfpihkZlZP1aee9kDM5WEEYN2wN4_-L148nkyzHxNKPExpkDH0/s320/1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Headed to Diamond Peak!</div>
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I decided to turn around and head back down the hill. I remembered the horrible parking at Diamond Peak and I just wanted to get there (and I was starving). <br />
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Going down the Tunnel Creek Trail is much more fun. It's all down hill. So I just motored down and took some photos along the way.<br />
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Lake Tahoe. My Happy Place. </div>
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I made it to my car and inhaled a bar, some water and the rest of my coffee. I called Vans on the way and was talking to him and the girls while on speaker phone and because of that, I missed the turn into Diamond Peak. Oops. Vans had both girls solo all day and is battling a possible torn achilles on top of that so he had his work cut out for him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXOYOmwWyr6F9K4rR85QpfJsfakv7uk4PZYLLKuUKeqpdna-nEb4_iW2KBZT2GAuhU2mVOpu6RrIDXiIL2dUMdc08K52kd-kiw4GtBpq6uaRFW92Uxbt1h7EZc_w0NJD-HjxbiIW8Olk/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXOYOmwWyr6F9K4rR85QpfJsfakv7uk4PZYLLKuUKeqpdna-nEb4_iW2KBZT2GAuhU2mVOpu6RrIDXiIL2dUMdc08K52kd-kiw4GtBpq6uaRFW92Uxbt1h7EZc_w0NJD-HjxbiIW8Olk/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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He found a new park for them to visit.</div>
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Once I figured out my mistake, I turned around and made it to Diamond Peak missing the last parking space by seconds. I parked along the wall thinking that it probably wasn't the best idea. It wasn't. I overheard some race volunteers talking about those people getting towed. I wandered back to my car and chatted it up with one of the volunteers. She confirmed what I heard and was super nice. She stood in a vacant spot in the lot for me so that I could go run and get my car and park there. This race AND its volunteers are pretty awesome. <br />
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I found Missouri but I also found Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman!!! Those two are now the proud parents of 3 month old Super T. Seriously, this kid is BEYOND cute. I find that I can't hang around him too much otherwise I start thinking about a possible third child (no thank you!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4uaiFvXhuiWcLtHniTKqF4C2CEDkQK3EvN58i9h_vX_XoYrkMw1L04MVYDmgVl74nHQrvAGt7VlM_SeerZUQ3bK9b7i6FjYCt9PSsa13TiNtcRefCnmjmxLCnq-zyOYN4yQU53JxBA4/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4uaiFvXhuiWcLtHniTKqF4C2CEDkQK3EvN58i9h_vX_XoYrkMw1L04MVYDmgVl74nHQrvAGt7VlM_SeerZUQ3bK9b7i6FjYCt9PSsa13TiNtcRefCnmjmxLCnq-zyOYN4yQU53JxBA4/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Captain Kirk & Super T</div>
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We saw a lot of runners come through. Some looked great. Others not so much. It was hot in Tahoe. Very hot. Eventually Pigeon came rolling through looking a little tired but still seemed in good spirits. She told us that her tummy had gone south up the hill a ways and that she may have a blister on her heel. Once she stepped foot into the aid-station area, the crew was on fire helping her out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJh-olmfKs8HXr2vcpgBR55IT7OCpyx4Zo-MZ_uL9TKLoKUfCaHGdg4FYE1z6VhGHcUqDCAV9M8xyZauJPVjmBBJWsLpiwYfh1Xoav9QPEU_1jLHmmOk7Xu6wu-SNRq2NgS3BIT23lxo/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJh-olmfKs8HXr2vcpgBR55IT7OCpyx4Zo-MZ_uL9TKLoKUfCaHGdg4FYE1z6VhGHcUqDCAV9M8xyZauJPVjmBBJWsLpiwYfh1Xoav9QPEU_1jLHmmOk7Xu6wu-SNRq2NgS3BIT23lxo/s320/3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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She has awesome friends.</div>
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I am the lame crew person that just takes photos! </div>
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We filled her bottles, tried to get some food or Ensure into her and got her back on her feet ready for the climb up Diamond Peak (which is brutal). Missouri and I felt good. We both thought that Pigeon was doing okay. Heck, she looked 100 times better than she did at this aid-station last year. As Missouri and I were discussing this and carrying all the gear out of the area a man, two feet from me projectile vomits. In my direction. Oh.my.word. I about jumped into Missouri's already full arms and almost started dry-heaving. I cannot handle throw up. Ugh. That just about killed my excitement. </div>
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At this point, we had hours to kill. Hours. Pigeon would not be coming through the 50 mile mark until about 7 or 8 pm (it was currently 2:00). I could have made the climb back up to Tunnel to see her. I wanted to but I figured that since I wasn't allowed to crew her anyway, there was not much I could have done in support. I also needed a nap and food. </div>
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I drove down towards Spooner Lake and got refused entry into the park (once again) and instead found a nice shady spot in the overflow lot. There I took a nice nap in my car (this year I brought a pillow and a blanket) and had some food and used the restroom. After a couple of hours, I changed my shirt and hat (to make myself not look like a runner) and tried getting into Spooner Lake again. Not only did that work but they also gave me the local's rate to get in! Sweet! </div>
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Missouri was there and saved a spot for me. We made our way to the aid-station and set up camp getting ready for Pigeon to come through. A little after 8 pm she came through and she looked, unsure. She said she had thrown up all along the trail on the way in, her feet hurt and that she could handle nothing but liquid calories. Her weight was right on which was good considering she was throwing up but she was also peeing so she wasn't too dehydrated. Her feet however, was a whole other problem.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjNPoh5jgacWBudE_YalqIfQ3L9qeGPD9Ag5dQpLwmkJdlk2EtjEDd97rYDVO8MpSRigMwKT9mgMfWWY5In7_3RVjWFExX3z5f6vhsJFGjShXMYSNqf9k0OrjD32PYXB2A0BzdUmAOzY/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjNPoh5jgacWBudE_YalqIfQ3L9qeGPD9Ag5dQpLwmkJdlk2EtjEDd97rYDVO8MpSRigMwKT9mgMfWWY5In7_3RVjWFExX3z5f6vhsJFGjShXMYSNqf9k0OrjD32PYXB2A0BzdUmAOzY/s320/5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Doing some emergency work on her feet. </div>
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She had massive blisters, the size of blueberries between her toes and a huge one on the side of her heel. It was nasty. I mean, feet are kind of nasty in general, but this was pretty gnarly. Missouri stepped up to the plate (as well as, Jen, Pigeon's pacer for the evening) and took care of her feet while I, apparently do nothing but take photos. :-) </div>
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She stayed here for a while. We got some liquid calories into her and some fruit and taped her toes as best we could. When she finally left the aid-station, it was dark and headlamps were needed. I wished her well and gave her a hug as I had to head back home and call an end to my <strike>photographer</strike> crewing duties. </div>
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It had been a long day and I was in awe that Pigeon was embarking her next 50 miles. She never ceases to amaze me. <br />
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Another person that amazes me is this lady: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1IaYbJ8wT845e5zW5xpMMoSjAixlZaZaK45dTVqxCszBvjtGVYZoPJvdUsKavEihJObTXLUvh_xEgs5teYR35MvpjNzftofz8nAJegIRhJ4Ww9Y9K7eWM3Xb4kIHsD8zIu6OB-UiVWw/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1IaYbJ8wT845e5zW5xpMMoSjAixlZaZaK45dTVqxCszBvjtGVYZoPJvdUsKavEihJObTXLUvh_xEgs5teYR35MvpjNzftofz8nAJegIRhJ4Ww9Y9K7eWM3Xb4kIHsD8zIu6OB-UiVWw/s320/4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The legendary <a href="http://www.therunnerstrip.com/2013/06/in-awe-of-ann-trason/">Ann Trason</a>! </div>
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It was kind of neat to see her. She was pacing someone that evening. I know a lot of people have opinions about her but there is no denying her talent. <br />
<br />
On my drive back down the hill I kept sending Pigeon as many vibes and happy thoughts as I could handle. <br />
<br />
When I arrived home, Vans was still awake and had some friends over who were in the area (it was 11:00 pm). I stayed up and told them all about my day. Not being runners at all, they were amazed at times and dumb founded at the sights I had seen all day long. They don't get it but I do and I still have the Tahoe Rim Trail 50K itch that needs to be scratched some day. Some day.<br />
<br />
Vans shared his day with me. I realized I had not seen my girls since Friday evening before they went to bed and I wouldn't see them until Sunday morning when they woke up. Peanut was actually sleeping at a friend's house so I wouldn't see her until Sunday afternoon! I missed my girls but they had a great time with Vans. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVVvQCP7qx9xOhhTpoc3qnoJ_9soNW7bNv4vcrb1_t3kNLTIaD_fWp2WvozHVmDrJjMBFBPUvCzLXnS0zHZe-r5uxfnCvnMmJCfHGseyuuhAMmk_HaIxg7JlqZZyuECL4nxSYlDgYnqA/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVVvQCP7qx9xOhhTpoc3qnoJ_9soNW7bNv4vcrb1_t3kNLTIaD_fWp2WvozHVmDrJjMBFBPUvCzLXnS0zHZe-r5uxfnCvnMmJCfHGseyuuhAMmk_HaIxg7JlqZZyuECL4nxSYlDgYnqA/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Double Trouble.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3O1nbKA-ngBpINYpbPKzO-oo579QpmXgeATR52cMWXQ3MordTwhodLmDk0IuqO22OjSX8L1r8hJftOg10Ug9yqGLOvbRSW2j_qM83Bm5zZOTK_MWYylo5xjofYPBvyOB2gKogc83_8E/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3O1nbKA-ngBpINYpbPKzO-oo579QpmXgeATR52cMWXQ3MordTwhodLmDk0IuqO22OjSX8L1r8hJftOg10Ug9yqGLOvbRSW2j_qM83Bm5zZOTK_MWYylo5xjofYPBvyOB2gKogc83_8E/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Squeaker is trying to grow as fast as the Peanut.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt65W61Ks2tGVJQ-KTRDjnfwEbqb5N9DlOlAt46diRsm0XDXhwlq0WiaeaTcxyeHQ_Z1AGK8JVvHT07eOSSWEkujLlXH84H9N9SH67rpznKOO3VihKGrdi5NNAM3-eqFRIyIg_G1oTAo/s1600/photo+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt65W61Ks2tGVJQ-KTRDjnfwEbqb5N9DlOlAt46diRsm0XDXhwlq0WiaeaTcxyeHQ_Z1AGK8JVvHT07eOSSWEkujLlXH84H9N9SH67rpznKOO3VihKGrdi5NNAM3-eqFRIyIg_G1oTAo/s320/photo+6.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Okay, maybe they were getting </div>
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a little tired of the photo session. </div>
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As for Pigeon, I will share that she unfortunately did not make the cut-off at Tunnel Creek on her way back. She ran further than she has ever run before. 67.5 miles. I am so proud of her. So proud. I hope she recovers this week and is not down on herself for not finishing because she seriously has more heart and determination and I know that 100 miles is in her future and when the time is right, it will happen. I just hope I am lucky enough to pace her across that finish line or at the very least, stand at the side and take her photo! :-)</div>
trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-47000058264446672162013-07-15T09:58:00.001-07:002013-07-15T09:58:13.672-07:00DON'T CALL IT A COME BACK!Oh how I have missed blogging. I tried blogging for my new employer but I am limited in the topic that I am allowed to blog about and let's face it, I like blogging about my kids and running/fitness. <br />
<br />
This blog may not be updated as frequently as it used to be in the past, but I need an outlet. I am looking into purchasing more Picasa space so that I can add more photos and I am also looking into having my blog printed into a book format (years 2009 through 2012) so that my girls have a memory of this crazy life and all our wacky adventures together. I want them to remember to never sweat the small stuff; just sweat daily. <br />
<br />
A lot has changed since December of 2012. My girls are all grown up, or so it seems. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhX5DHzLKPS0GQip44GBbPLI2q8Sa_BtZIukw4rXtiouzHWz-sgNuCiHps14JYeLurmUxKdbTnrq6WqdmEsLK7D1VdbFYKCbFMRSmCKxplanFnzsqupKlNuK-ksi5wAJdiqHp-csIxN0/s1600/B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhX5DHzLKPS0GQip44GBbPLI2q8Sa_BtZIukw4rXtiouzHWz-sgNuCiHps14JYeLurmUxKdbTnrq6WqdmEsLK7D1VdbFYKCbFMRSmCKxplanFnzsqupKlNuK-ksi5wAJdiqHp-csIxN0/s320/B1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The Peanut is 5 now and about to attend Kindergarten!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0WZB0v0niEZdAoAvdLEKft2wov93eqYewdpKaFeO5aGSuhFUkZqKrgi1uJrcOO1fRxZbNhx5eo2cvnH7TAJQSrmg9Wn3bTj1eQ5oN74D30YJWXP5lMzHirr4sqerBqcHcpf7Alcj3Hw/s1600/B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0WZB0v0niEZdAoAvdLEKft2wov93eqYewdpKaFeO5aGSuhFUkZqKrgi1uJrcOO1fRxZbNhx5eo2cvnH7TAJQSrmg9Wn3bTj1eQ5oN74D30YJWXP5lMzHirr4sqerBqcHcpf7Alcj3Hw/s320/B3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Squeaker is 2 and barrel of laughs AND trouble.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RTb80HCLXMH8RZgkV64G-TIltWTdLPnXf17vvNtPpPkHYWxDKyhZMEImG83YvVeMG5X1d49o0PCDeCdPwYVFiMsC_JA_Huf9Z4oMR58sbRgumRgJRvvRnb3R2Y1yPaTGd43GMObESc8/s1600/B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RTb80HCLXMH8RZgkV64G-TIltWTdLPnXf17vvNtPpPkHYWxDKyhZMEImG83YvVeMG5X1d49o0PCDeCdPwYVFiMsC_JA_Huf9Z4oMR58sbRgumRgJRvvRnb3R2Y1yPaTGd43GMObESc8/s320/B2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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They are each others best friend ...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictO8G_7VF2T47dIc_lcA7BczeiZLb7RLfoe9rTrAFbp07uZR6ZYxWchCzup1151DG-unh2tG87C004Si-MWZWKqnPaGIb7fOK69WJZQKFFaVueJoYYO3t5n8ZFo4N9fL3Att3FDAQrG0/s1600/B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictO8G_7VF2T47dIc_lcA7BczeiZLb7RLfoe9rTrAFbp07uZR6ZYxWchCzup1151DG-unh2tG87C004Si-MWZWKqnPaGIb7fOK69WJZQKFFaVueJoYYO3t5n8ZFo4N9fL3Att3FDAQrG0/s320/B4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and I love them more than anything. </div>
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So hopefully I will be able to write more and <u>hopefully</u> it will involve some kind of running or at the very least, something amusing. I admit, my time is limited so my posts may be brief but I don't think anyone will really mind. </div>
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Cheers!</div>
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~ Trailmomma</div>
trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-20757610930036153692012-12-29T20:35:00.002-08:002012-12-29T20:35:54.491-08:00POSSIBLE BREAKAs you can see, it has been quite a while since I last posted. In that time, I turned another year older, we celebrated Christmas and the Peanut saw her first every Nutcracker production at the Convention Center downtown. She loved it. <br />
<br />
However, I am not running much if at all and therefore do not have much to post in that realm. I cannot post any photos of the girls and I don't really want to start deleting photos off my blog (even though I already have) because I have grand dreams of taking this blog and having it printed (photos and all) into a book format for my girls to have when I am gone. In order to have more photo space, I would have to purchase more web-space from Picasa online which I am already doing for our family site. Sigh. <br />
<br />
So it is with a heavy heart that I must say the Trailmomma blog is taking a break. It most likely will not be permanent but at this point in time, I have no idea when I will return. Heck, it isn't like I have the time lately to post and honestly, posting about not running is even more depressing than just not posting at all (to me). <br />
<br />
So happy holidays to all my readers. Thank you for sticking with me this far. My Trailmomma email will continue to work so if you need to reach me, you can do so through there (unless you know me and know my (wink wink) real email address). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHO3Lrg05nX0SZv-x0hng2rnXAAwwzD6CODATVlyA7D3KU5WyjOjjHVYMZQVBoFmpH9R7LErXA06AGbusPV1C65eRYtyXMmIwKhoYYOAU0eJXjETlgbt0wWRCKxeGbWvU8XiNGo-KkhRA/s1600/089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHO3Lrg05nX0SZv-x0hng2rnXAAwwzD6CODATVlyA7D3KU5WyjOjjHVYMZQVBoFmpH9R7LErXA06AGbusPV1C65eRYtyXMmIwKhoYYOAU0eJXjETlgbt0wWRCKxeGbWvU8XiNGo-KkhRA/s320/089.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Holidays</div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-5081009541920816962012-12-03T19:49:00.000-08:002012-12-03T19:49:10.741-08:00JERSEY WEDDING
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Trailmomma family recently traveled back to New Jersey
to visit Jersey Dad and attend my brother’s wedding. This was the first flight
for Squeaker, the third trip to NJ for the Peanut and Van’s fourth east coast
wedding. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">From past experience I knew that flying out on a redeye was
the way to go. What I didn’t know was that we would be flying on a puddle
jumper from Sacrament to San Francisco. That flight basically sucked. The long
leg however to New Jersey was decent. It was long enough that the girls could
sleep and not be disturbed by having to get off and change planes. However, the
plane was extremely uncomfortable for adults (especially one with two kids
sleeping on her).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While in New Jersey we attended the rehearsal dinner at our
favorite Italian restaurant, Frank’s. I think Frank’s is pretty much the only
reason Vans truly flies to New Jersey. He isn’t a great traveler, especially
when flying long distances overnight. I think his meal of spinach filled
ravioli and home-made cannoli’s really helped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The wedding took place on a Friday and my brother’s fiancée
looked like a princess so, from here on out, she will be called Princess Mayra.
The Peanut was in awe. This was her first wedding and she has been so excited.
We bought beautiful dresses and tights and she could not wait to wear them.
She’s is equally excited to wear them again on Christmas Day. Princess Mayra
did a fantastic job with the wedding and my brother (Tom Green – not really but
he looks like him) looked very handsome. The rumor is that he had a lot to do
with the appetizers being handed out after the ceremony. They were super
cleaver. Small shot glasses filled with tomato soup with teeny tiny triangles
of grilled cheese on top. So clever! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Unfortunately, Squeaker started the trip off with a nasty
fall at daycare (literally, 2 hours before take off) and her bad luck continued
while in New Jersey when she developed a cold, tummy issues and started
teething majorly. Maybe they are all intertwined but needless to say, she was
clingy and emotional the entire trip which made things a little difficult. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, with all her troubles, sleeping (with her sister)
was a breeze. The two of them snuggled together for three nights. It was
precious and some of my favorite photos. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdnZpt0jgBoVmFtN5IISE6BgIDmMqDaXA0kWJ5jHf_y0N2rKNDBoyPuQCi-MjQ9_va5jUr9kzYlblSA12e_ahs_u-hozTs2D1aFWpPl-yoO5eUIlJdd1c6dtSL5zqVtI-WSttnKghVK4/s1600/128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdnZpt0jgBoVmFtN5IISE6BgIDmMqDaXA0kWJ5jHf_y0N2rKNDBoyPuQCi-MjQ9_va5jUr9kzYlblSA12e_ahs_u-hozTs2D1aFWpPl-yoO5eUIlJdd1c6dtSL5zqVtI-WSttnKghVK4/s320/128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The trip was way too short (as always) for me. I miss my
family very much and I miss New Jersey. I know people might laugh and say
“really?” Despite the reputation that New Jersey has, the people there are one
of a kind and they are honest, tell it like it is people. I admire that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The devastation from Sandy was evident. So many fallen trees
and damaged homes, it was heart breaking. My house is not anywhere near Jersey
Shore so I can only imagine what that area must look like. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The weather was cold, the temps were in the low 30s and high
20s most of the trip. I forgot how much that temperature can be both unbearable
and yet refreshing at the same time. The girls had a rough time adjusting at
first but the Peanut had her heart set on building a snowman. She did the best
she could with the snow she had (and no gloves). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our flight home on Sunday was not overnight. I find this is
the best way to readjust to the time change. Despite being stuck on the tarmac
in Newark for almost two hours and almost missing our connection in Denver, the
flight was okay. The Peanut was completely entertained and is quite a good
traveler. Squeaker however, is quite a handful. I can’t blame the kid entirely
as we didn’t book her a seat and instead carried her 25 lb body on our laps …
when the Peanut flew to NJ at the same age, she sat in a car seat which limited
her range of motion. In hind sight, we probably should have bought Squeaker a
seat. Next time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now we are back and getting into full Christmas mode. Elfie
had arrived while we were gone and the Peanut is beyond thrilled. She woke up
this morning groggy and fuzzy and instantly searched the house for him. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I love this time of year. I wonder where Elfie will show up
next? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy Holidays from the Trailmomma family!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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ps: I'd post more photos (I have tons) but I am out of picasa space. :( I still have not figured out a way (other than purchasing more space) to keep the photos I have and post new ones. I think I might have already deleted some past photos to allow the current ones. </div>
trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-72114942663984271322012-11-22T06:41:00.001-08:002012-11-22T06:41:18.509-08:00THANKFUL<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well once
again, blogging has taken a back burner. I think I know what I can make as a
New Year’s Resolution huh? <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What has
been going on lately? Well, Vans and I really struggled for a while missing
Jack the Cat. When I say that I miss him, the Peanut calmly tells me that I
will see him again someday. She is so wise for a four year old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meanwhile, a coworker of Van’s wants us to
take her new kitten … who is only 5 months old … and very cute I might add. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuStxKJsT5h7TKumVBuAS-qBPGqmt1EHhoLNpERGlgIiB3YhhZK4xBzc48QIqEVd0MULBr_7b5WuvjPnoxUyFcHrpedjDLyT-7EhXmFr7vPXfI66Z42luSm8NUsuC76ssZnSVVX5BuKBg/s1600/new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuStxKJsT5h7TKumVBuAS-qBPGqmt1EHhoLNpERGlgIiB3YhhZK4xBzc48QIqEVd0MULBr_7b5WuvjPnoxUyFcHrpedjDLyT-7EhXmFr7vPXfI66Z42luSm8NUsuC76ssZnSVVX5BuKBg/s320/new.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, we
did just have our carpets professionally cleaned and I admit that I am enjoying
the ability to wear black clothes without having three inches of cat hair on
them. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In terms of
fitness and running, I am proud that I am continuing my Breakout Fitness Folsom
routine five mornings a week! One of those days has been a yoga day which I
avoided for as long as possible but my perpetually tight hips, lower back and
now hamstrings could no longer stand the pain. Yoga has definitely helped those
areas but honestly, I should do it more than once a week. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Running has
been happening as well although not as frequently as I would like. I manage a
four mile run one or two days in the middle of the week during my lunch hour.
Sometimes I run with Vans and sometimes not. I enjoy these runs although they
are rushed and I know once my work load increases after the first of the year,
they might not always happen on a regular basis. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On
Saturday’s I have been either running with TiggerT, doing the Ridge Loop of
Death solo OR as was the case last weekend, doing the Ridge Loop of Death WITH
TiggerT while there was a monsoon happening around us. Despite the wet and the
cold, I really had a lot of fun on that run. I always enjoy running with
TiggerT though. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanksgiving
morning the Trailmomma Family will once again be toeing the line at the Run to
Feed the Hungry complete with two jogging strollers. <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2011/11/keep-on-keeping-on.html">Last year it poured</a>. This
year, the weather is looking to be a lot better. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Things have
been good. Even though Vans and I feel extremely busy, to the point of being
stressed, we are both grateful and thankful for the family we have, our health
and our time together. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy Thanksgiving from the
Trailmomma Family!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngm1PBg72TJiko9ilTe1gkO7J04FwBNjfMBdydg-jZsfmDjTLNze48iKUGRk7kVUaFe6UmOy5UuaF2No8AcrUHYPW0q-OaLAgTYc7x_sxm-nCp3YMXGwGqq24QkcwrLVNE8MP17ISpTI/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngm1PBg72TJiko9ilTe1gkO7J04FwBNjfMBdydg-jZsfmDjTLNze48iKUGRk7kVUaFe6UmOy5UuaF2No8AcrUHYPW0q-OaLAgTYc7x_sxm-nCp3YMXGwGqq24QkcwrLVNE8MP17ISpTI/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p></span> </div>
trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-76003010350627229012012-11-21T07:02:00.002-08:002012-11-21T07:02:30.740-08:00TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIESThe Trailmomma blog is working on getting back together but we are having technical difficulties ... as in, I have too many photos and no more room! Picasa and Blogger are preventing me from posting anymore photos unless I buy more storage space or delete what I already have. I hesitate to delete anything because after we were robbed and our computer and photos were stolen ... this blog has been godsend capturing moments that we thought we had lost. <br />
<br />
So stay tuned while I figure this glitch out. I have a post (and of course photos) ready to go!trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-28889373184826012522012-11-06T20:33:00.003-08:002012-11-06T20:51:15.061-08:00JACKY BOY<span style="font-family: inherit;">I moved to California from New Jersey July 4<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup>, 1999. I had
graduated college in May and hopped on a Greyhound Bus (with my best friend
& next door neighbor). While I don’t recommend that mode of transportation
for a cross country move, it was the cheapest and most scenic for a poor post
graduation college student. We left Port Authority New York on a Thursday
evening and arrived in downtown Sacramento early Sunday morning. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pam’s Aunt (my dad’s baby sister) picked us up at the bus station and
the rest is history. I have remained in California ever since … it was 13 years
this past July. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fast forward to late January 2000 and I had just moved into my own
apartment in mid-town Sacramento. I was ecstatic to finally be living on my own
and having a place to call my own. Even though I was over-joyed to finally feel
like an adult living by myself, it was also lonely. I had five roommates
throughout college and lived with my aunt when I first move out to California
so I had truly never been 100% on my own before. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My aunt knew how much I wanted a cat. My landlord allowed pets but
required a pet deposit that was pretty steep for a girl who now had to come up
with both rent and a car payment … in addition to student loans. One weekend,
out of the blue my aunt loaned me the pet deposit and took me to the SPCA to
find myself a cat. I will never forget that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My childhood kitties always found us by showing up on our door step. I
had never been to an SPCA before and was honestly quite shocked and saddened by
all the kitties in cages. If I could have, I would have taken them all home
with me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The people at the SPCA let you “pick” a cat and then take that cat into
the “get to know you room.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were
able to spend a little time and then had to put the cat back and had the option
of playing with another one … while all the other kitties watched. This made me
sad. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I had my eye on a few but quite a few kitties came in “pairs” and I
wasn’t about to have two cats in my shoe box apartment. Then I passed a cage
containing a 5 month old kitten that didn’t really look like a kitty … he
looked more like jack-rabbit with his big pointy ears and his orange fur with tiger
stripes. He mewed at me and I asked the girl if I could see him. She laughed
because apparently he had been seen by lots of people that day and was tired of
being taken in and out of his cage. Needless to say, he wasn’t happy to be
taken out again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">She put us in the “get to know you room” and he quickly darted under a
chair. Hmm, not much personality I thought but still quite cute. Eventually he
came out from under the chair and stood in front of both my aunt and myself. He
looked at me and I looked at him and I kid you not, what follows next actually
happened …. (<em>background – growing up my childhood cat and love of my life was
full of tricks; he could roll over on command and was quite a showman during
the holidays with this trick</em>) .. Back to the SPCA - I looked at this orange
tiger cat with pointy ears who was staring at me with big eyes and said
“Well buddy, if you could roll over or something I’d take you home with me
right now” …. Bam!! He dropped and rolled over right on cue! No joke. My aunt and
I looked at each and laughed and I said “I’ll take him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I named him Jack because #1 He looked more
like a jack-rabbit than a cat and #2 The SPCA lady had said he’d been in and
out of that cage like a Jack in the Box and #3 The name just fit. Jack the Cat.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By the way … no, he never rolled over again. He got me. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohI7po3r7DAJgUmb3keamtUxYd0uQnlxydsOgMr4asy6U5AllN-NL8OGSEJiYaYNELfvAD20HHfklZxcfA7AZHVAuDfBHoJq30adU1ecVxm3Pm2eZ_4b1GYYbQxuAmVckSK1mlbo7nGQ/s1600/photo2244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohI7po3r7DAJgUmb3keamtUxYd0uQnlxydsOgMr4asy6U5AllN-NL8OGSEJiYaYNELfvAD20HHfklZxcfA7AZHVAuDfBHoJq30adU1ecVxm3Pm2eZ_4b1GYYbQxuAmVckSK1mlbo7nGQ/s320/photo2244.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jack about 5 months old</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So with great sadness I write this to say that on Monday, November 5,
2012, Jack the Cat, at age 13 has passed. I can barely write this without
sobbing so please excuse any typos from here on out. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jack had been through a lot in his life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">He was my boyfriend watcher when I lived in my apartment … giving any
boy that came over grief. Vans was probably given the most grief. I think Jack
knew Vans and I were meant to be and so he gave Vans a really hard time for a
long time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jack would ride around in my car with me all the time. He was a
polydactyl cat or commonly referred to as a Hemmingway Cat because he had an
extra toe on every single paw … which made trimming his nails regularly quite
the challenge but the vet was fascinated by him. Everyone was. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jack moved with me back into my aunt’s house when I lost my job with
PBS. He moved with me into our first home after I married Vans. He was by my
side every day when I was pregnant with the Peanut. Although he was not
thrilled when she was born, the two quickly became friends and he looked out
for her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-EYeBiyVXu1Uykzsdkmz1HX5hIl_QzTxPOzMNCuZbLyF4r2XdepNfOMAYZRttJUW_jw7LHdU0M0qjqCLbf5ETvczb6Zu1IIqyo2ChPwz4O91qrA_eI7N8LnCqXnkjZRizry7P8kV6wY/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-EYeBiyVXu1Uykzsdkmz1HX5hIl_QzTxPOzMNCuZbLyF4r2XdepNfOMAYZRttJUW_jw7LHdU0M0qjqCLbf5ETvczb6Zu1IIqyo2ChPwz4O91qrA_eI7N8LnCqXnkjZRizry7P8kV6wY/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Peanut's first Christmas with Jack</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7tKlhnkFX4TBHpX53Vp8F1mDTGAbsKtCQhZBDlqfM9Hzh0inFJk8Gbr1XM-Yo0GAv9gzzbSl7mOk7qz5-evfKWAn5HNP8CbBdjvWcZCYNUCo-Mc6O_CDUaCL9QQJAduATkBH89qhcdo/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7tKlhnkFX4TBHpX53Vp8F1mDTGAbsKtCQhZBDlqfM9Hzh0inFJk8Gbr1XM-Yo0GAv9gzzbSl7mOk7qz5-evfKWAn5HNP8CbBdjvWcZCYNUCo-Mc6O_CDUaCL9QQJAduATkBH89qhcdo/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Helping her unwrap her gifts.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our move to El Dorado Hills was a bit rougher on Jack I think.
Additionally, I was pregnant with Squeaker and he knew. Once again, he stayed
by my side when I was pregnant but after she was born; he kept his distance I
think realizing it was a bit harder to compete with two kids. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jack was an indoor cat and sadly our new home, although filled with
lots of windows, didn’t allow him an opportunity to sit on our patio like our
enclosed condo. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It seemed like his sickness came on all of a sudden but I often wonder
if we perhaps we just didn’t notice because we got sucked into the busy lives
of work, kids and house duties. He still had spunk and he still slept by my
side. No matter what, every single night, when I crawled into bed, Jack would
crawl and snuggle himself right under my right armpit and sleep there. Then,
without fail, in the middle of the night, he’d get up and move to the left arm
pit. I used to grumble and moan and complain about terrible sleep but last
night … without him… was probably the worst night of sleep I have ever had.
Instinctively, my arm created a nook but sadly, Jack was not there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The house is lonely and cold. No one was there to greet us when we came
home last night. Jack used to sit on the stairs and watch the girls eat dinner.
Last night Squeaker pointed to the stairs with a questioning look like “Where
is Jack?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdosfWlIjDaZz2Ptzrj2qfn4U-SHEUZSH4rdc_3D20Y_DCP9dLntbRTeMXMRnkUPEcMit0olfJw96R9fdmUWmsPl0UIiH6CVJn9fNSr5iRi6XUkivk__s8dHmavTzZIo0UxkCgTeYh2xY/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdosfWlIjDaZz2Ptzrj2qfn4U-SHEUZSH4rdc_3D20Y_DCP9dLntbRTeMXMRnkUPEcMit0olfJw96R9fdmUWmsPl0UIiH6CVJn9fNSr5iRi6XUkivk__s8dHmavTzZIo0UxkCgTeYh2xY/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Squeaker and Jack on the stairs a few days ago</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you are still reading, thank you. I just felt the need to devote
something to Jack. The vet gave him his passport to kitty heaven on Monday and
I held him in my arms the entire time. The Jack I knew was long gone but a
glimpse of him did return when he got an adrenaline rush upon arriving at the
vet’s office. I think he feared being poked and prodded again because for the
last few weeks we fought to figure out what was wrong with him. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">He was and always will be my only baby boy. He was my best furry friend
and he forever remains in my heart which right now hurts and feels empty. Vans
is feeling the same way which is touching because despite the rough start to
their relationship, Vans and Jack had a bond as the only two males in the
house. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will never cease to amaze me,
how much losing a pet can hurt. Jack wasn’t just a pet or a cat, he was family
and I loved him as if he was my own biological child. Losing him hurts. A lot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We miss you Jack. I miss you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Into my world you came with a flare<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tiny and small with striped orange hair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Big pointy ears and a wet little nose<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And four furry paws with a few extra toes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">All night you would play. All day you would sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not a moment of peace would you let me keep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Chasing laser pointers and eating hair ties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You were always protecting me, especially from flies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p> </o:p>You traveled with me through life’s crazy waves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You basked in the sun most of your days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p> </o:p>At night you would sleep in the crook of my arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And you stayed there all morning even after the alarm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p> </o:p>You’d greet us each evening right at the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Even after two kids, you’d come back for more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love you more than you could ever know. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It pained me so much to watch you go. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In my head and my heart you will always be …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">That furry little baby sleeping right next to me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p> </o:p>I love you Jacky boy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jack in his prime. King of the patio. </span></div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-22185702881919016982012-10-21T12:02:00.001-07:002012-10-21T12:04:35.434-07:00A WEEKEND WITHOUT RUNNINGThis Trailmomma is sad. Super sad. My week started off well enough. I found a group of guys (and one other girl) who play basketball 2 to 3 times a week over their lunch hour. On Monday I joined them (as the only girl that day). It was great. I was a huge basketball player/fan in high school. I've missed playing and I haven't lost that much of my shot over the years. I realized the aerobic part of me terribly slipping as I was sucking wind play 3 on 3 half court with these guys. I know I have not been running much since I started working (one day a week actually) but man my endurance severely has declined. <br />
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Thursday Vans and I made a lunch date. He works directly across the street from my building so we met over our lunch hour for a 3 mile run. He mainly wanted to show me around the work neighborhood should I want to start running on my own. Instead, we realized we both really enjoyed running and connecting over the lunch hour together. I can foresee this 3 mile loop turning into a nice speed work type of run occasionally. <br />
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The "bad" part of all this lunch time activity however is that I have to do the activity and then shower and return to work clothes which often include high heels. I don't wear super high heels mind you ... but higher than my summer attire of flip-flops and running shoes. Fast forward to Friday when I could barely walk. The ball of my foot hurts so bad and my second and third two are practically numb. <br />
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Of course I've googled <a href="http://www.ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/FootandAnkle/Metatarsalgia.asp">my diagnosis</a> ... and there doesn't seem to be much that I can do. I am on the hunt for some work shoes that might be better for my feet but generally those kinds of shoes are ugly. <br />
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Saturday I had good intentions of waking up and going for a nice 7 mile run through the Ridge Loop of Death but the minute I put my foot on the floor tears came to my eyes the pain was that bad. I hobbled around all morning hoping that whatever it was would work itself out but when I put on my running shoes and took a few steps I turn around defeated. <br />
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I resorted to taking some Advil later in the day because the pain is so bad I can't even drive my car (it is my right foot). <br />
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I figured a day of rest would be fine and that maybe we'll see how I do on Sunday ... the Advil did ease the pain but not eliminate it. <br />
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Well this morning the pain is worse upon waking and I just got done driving the Peanut to her swim lesson and I was crying the whole way home.<br />
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I am not sure what else to do other than ice, rest and Advil (and I hate taking Advil). I am especially sad because next Saturday is the inaugural <a href="http://runthedamnhalf.com/Damn_Run/Welcome.html">That Damn Run half marathon</a>. Vans is doing the 10K and I am doing the half and we've arranged for childcare during the race (actually the very awesome race director's family has offered generously to watch the girls while we run). <br />
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I've never had a stress fracture but this is what I imagine the pain to feel like. I was so excited because I though I found a way to run twice a week (over my lunch hour) instead of just on Saturdays ... <br />
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I guess I just have to wait until this settles and figure things out. Perhaps take a better look at my running as well as my work shoes. Next Saturday's race is not going to be an easy one. I've run most of the course once or twice ... it is going to be long half marathon especially if I have this foot pain (and my usual ankle pain).<br />
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The girls keep my spirits up though ... they are so much fun right now and they super excited for Halloween ... as am I!<br />
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Also exciting is the Peanut's new (to her) big girl bike. Vans hooked her up the bike trainer last night and she had a blast getting her workout on! <br />
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Pedaling fast!</div>
trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-14881976230504612662012-10-09T20:26:00.000-07:002012-10-09T20:30:34.524-07:00URBAN COW HALF MARATHON RACE REPORTYeah, that title is right ... I had a race this past Sunday. It's been in my running cue for a while but to be honest, I haven't run more than 5 miles in a long time. <br />
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Since work has started, I've only been able to run one day a week IF that ... but I received a free entry for the <a href="http://urbancowhalfmarathon.com/registration.html">Urban Cow Half Marathon</a> and I had to attend in order to promote the <a href="http://urbancow.upbeatworkouts.com/">UpBeat Workouts Urban Cow Training iPhone App</a>. <br />
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You couldn't beat the weather on Sunday. It was in the 70s and glorious. Leading up to Sunday however was a tough few days. My work had a team building event in Lake Tahoe. I spent Thursday and Friday in Tahoe doing team building stuff (and consuming a lot of wine) and then came home and tried to motivate to run the race on Sunday. Saturday was spent watching both girls and doing various odds and ends including weighing in for my final weigh in session at Breakout Fitness. I'll do a post on that later. <br />
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Sunday morning I had to wake up at 4:30 and leave the house for Land Park so that I could set up the UpBeat Workouts booth. It was going to be only me representing at the booth. I set up the booth the best I could in the dark and freezing cold. <br />
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<a href="http://clarkscornerione.com/site/">Kraig from Clark's Corner</a> found me and we agreed to run the race together. I think we both could use the motivation and support from each other. My goal was simply to finish and to hopefully finish in under two hours. <br />
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The gun went off and we started running. My Garmin beeped at the first mile marker but I did not see the actual marker. I just assumed that I had missed it when Kraig leaned over and told me that he thinks we were not supposed to run that loop around the park ... he thought someone made a mistake. Yup, he was right. As it turns out, the first wave of runners (my wave) followed a lead biker who apparently made a wrong turn and we ended up with about 13.69 miles on our legs when all was said and done. <br />
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Most of the runners around us were not angry but they were generally annoyed. I think everyone that I know pressed "stop" on their watches at their own 13.1 mile marker. Eventually the race directors evened out the times and apologized to the first wave runners. Our finish time was 1:55 which is about an 8:50 minute mile. I'll take it. Considering I haven't been running nor have I been racing ... that suited me just fine. My ankle was a bit tender during the race and my left knee is still a bit achy. I am just assuming it was too much too fast too soon. <br />
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After the race however was the brutal part. I had to stand for over two hours at my booth. That is where things got painful. My legs and joints were sore, I was freezing and hungry and really, all I wanted was a nice hot cup of coffee. Still, it was nice to socialize and I saw a few friends. <br />
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Monday was Columbus Day and Vans was home with the girls while I was at work ... the price he had to pay since I started a new job. He sent me the following photos: <br />
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Typical "dad outfit" flowers and animal print</div>
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Playing in a club house at a local park</div>
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Following big sister</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-fcQ7i7gy3vPRxsv5O0JZCX9sAjDDAdO7LBCg2W3HSbq9AiKYzXbqLwoP_hYeynZfkEYjh12Riwgzb2FJLMLe043ocy5Hk7HqOro0tKGVsJOB6OyIvb-9v549IiXR5vpKBMuCHxuZ2k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-fcQ7i7gy3vPRxsv5O0JZCX9sAjDDAdO7LBCg2W3HSbq9AiKYzXbqLwoP_hYeynZfkEYjh12Riwgzb2FJLMLe043ocy5Hk7HqOro0tKGVsJOB6OyIvb-9v549IiXR5vpKBMuCHxuZ2k/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can't follow me up here!</div>
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Ta-da!</div>
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<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-26410283528157524152012-10-02T20:28:00.003-07:002012-10-02T20:28:48.532-07:00HELLO WORLD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello blog world. I am alive. We were away in Lake Tahoe for 8 wonderful days. While we were there, Vans and I celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary. Eight wonderful years with my best friend. I couldn't be happier. </div>
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Well, I could have been a tad bit happier if the Peanut didn't wake up on our anniversary morning at 3 am vomiting. It happens. She recovered. We all did and we enjoyed our week regardless. The weather was fabulous. <br />
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I didn't do too much running. Mostly just a few 5 mile runs here and there and then one day I did 8 miles. I lifted some weights and did one day of circuit training. I think I needed the lower key week instead of a week filled with long runs. <br />
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I also think now that the girls are older, Vans and I have less "adult time" to do stuff like working out and instead had to figure out a way to keep the Peanut and Squeaker entertained. <br />
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I think we did okay though ... as a family we did the following ...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIt4mmP0_w9vzQT9EKulHTlDBulBdUJLFI6lyWZOq0OlXGkLI32cHYyzaS6l-ryFIhp6coj_OC5oDAc-GdTm4f2OEqjdNo62MOuFZ0jg1FcXu97S0-PkskreHmcBK68s9QH2JJ442yQA4/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIt4mmP0_w9vzQT9EKulHTlDBulBdUJLFI6lyWZOq0OlXGkLI32cHYyzaS6l-ryFIhp6coj_OC5oDAc-GdTm4f2OEqjdNo62MOuFZ0jg1FcXu97S0-PkskreHmcBK68s9QH2JJ442yQA4/s320/021.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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We danced at the festival in the village</div>
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We climbed on big chairs</div>
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We played on the swings</div>
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Rode the gondola</div>
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Bounced</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSdvF3NiyrTtNvfRMVOVVJ_VJtc6YZSJgMRkOuF9yNobIKpu8jiusb52TtHxL271XU8-t4b35jkgUGWEXVhX8iI3HnsJ7Ku3YiGt6Q6GYa229SZWq6shd8YQPfLanBGmUIRfpL-mLrug/s1600/186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSdvF3NiyrTtNvfRMVOVVJ_VJtc6YZSJgMRkOuF9yNobIKpu8jiusb52TtHxL271XU8-t4b35jkgUGWEXVhX8iI3HnsJ7Ku3YiGt6Q6GYa229SZWq6shd8YQPfLanBGmUIRfpL-mLrug/s320/186.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and were SUPER cute. </div>
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I really could go on and on with the photos. We also went on a nice long bike ride with the girls which everyone enjoyed. We visited the KidsZone Kids Museum in Truckee which was new to us and a hit for the girls. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xiZuGeNun7zuPLlKTsnBDD3TkxTjoxcTq4bFO_9-3x9FZRpMIkaZ9t2TQNunb1cgrzrdCl-QoC3cfFukMFLwL3q0MmKhpsTEyY4LxxZeE35iYPLMKq8Pep5xfafNg-BIZZVK1BOOZgU/s1600/267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xiZuGeNun7zuPLlKTsnBDD3TkxTjoxcTq4bFO_9-3x9FZRpMIkaZ9t2TQNunb1cgrzrdCl-QoC3cfFukMFLwL3q0MmKhpsTEyY4LxxZeE35iYPLMKq8Pep5xfafNg-BIZZVK1BOOZgU/s320/267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Even if they broke the rules a bit. </div>
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Life has been hectic to say the least. Work is going well but sadly it takes me minimum 3 days to do a proper blog post ... not that I have much to blog about lately since I am only running one day a week right now. I continue to go to my strength training class which has kicked my butt this week. Taking a week off was not smart as I am hobbling today with the kind of muscle soreness that is so bad it aches just to use the restroom!</div>
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Later this week my new work group is going on a team building retreat to...you guessed it, Lake Tahoe! I will be back up there for two more days later this week leaving Vans with the Peanut and Squeaker. I will (hopefully) enjoy a full night of uninterrupted sleep in a nice big hotel bed ... all to myself .... complete with an uninterrupted shower! Heaven! Although I will miss the family. </div>
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I leave you with a few more photos from our week in Tahoe as well as a crockpot recipe as requested by <a href="http://rainisgoingthedistance.blogspot.com/">Rain</a>! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNfS-26zcqOIS9PNPUw6uzAmw_7BWFkEfXivoGrXwByc9G5ntZPtLd1KIlDQCzFE6rvPMuFB202dVb4Lz3A5oSOOiOW0APQBo8Jr6kDe6VfPDRd_5XtUPn6HYMS9o9lreCrXSZDozoUI/s1600/138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNfS-26zcqOIS9PNPUw6uzAmw_7BWFkEfXivoGrXwByc9G5ntZPtLd1KIlDQCzFE6rvPMuFB202dVb4Lz3A5oSOOiOW0APQBo8Jr6kDe6VfPDRd_5XtUPn6HYMS9o9lreCrXSZDozoUI/s320/138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Goofy girls</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVExwtkjUX0YMDBCZsO3ZtfF5IjJvUA8m0Y1p_s6Wv6NZaKQyj8T5KaewCPQ_s_IFlLmQ1fhPMTKLoZrXqZpgfTfCEXJHEGnh6og3n2zvkrqNg13NIdynmU45BBkPvA0VZaNrjFup-ds/s1600/321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVExwtkjUX0YMDBCZsO3ZtfF5IjJvUA8m0Y1p_s6Wv6NZaKQyj8T5KaewCPQ_s_IFlLmQ1fhPMTKLoZrXqZpgfTfCEXJHEGnh6og3n2zvkrqNg13NIdynmU45BBkPvA0VZaNrjFup-ds/s320/321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brave girl</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbMIjE4HzWJJI-04HAoI4IHkLH6avWsS0Pzd-jRYfWo6CfMyiNMWgDkWT75HDWAc9XXDtzElFEziDwAMcdArH84Tdvdoduh-fIg4IjMsbYOS7JZVqGHuiNeRA1GdmZqHyCFeHH3qa6Rk/s1600/339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbMIjE4HzWJJI-04HAoI4IHkLH6avWsS0Pzd-jRYfWo6CfMyiNMWgDkWT75HDWAc9XXDtzElFEziDwAMcdArH84Tdvdoduh-fIg4IjMsbYOS7JZVqGHuiNeRA1GdmZqHyCFeHH3qa6Rk/s320/339.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Determined Girl</div>
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Crockpot Recipe</div>
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<div class="recipeTitle">
<strong>Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili</strong></div>
<div class="source">
<strong class="recipeHeading">Source:</strong> My Own</div>
<div class="cookTimes">
<span class="dur cooktime"><strong class="title">Cook</strong><span><strong>7</strong> Hr</span></span><span class="clearfix"></span></div>
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<strong class="recipeHeading">Servings:</strong> 4</div>
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<strong>Ingredients</strong></div>
<div class="ingredientsPrint">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">2 medium</span> <strong class="name">sweet potatoes</strong> </span> <em> diced</em></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 small</span> <strong class="name">sweet onion</strong> </span> <em> diced</em></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 </span> <strong class="name">red bell pepper</strong> </span> <em> seeded and diced</em></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 (14 ounce) can</span> <strong class="name">black beans</strong> </span> <em> drained and rinsed</em></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 (14 ounce) can</span> <strong class="name">roasted diced tomatoes</strong> </span> <em> drained</em></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1.5 cups</span> <strong class="name">vegetable broth</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">3 cloves</span> <strong class="name">garlic</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 tbsp</span> <strong class="name">chili powder</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 tsp</span> <strong class="name">cumin</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 tsp</span> <strong class="name">paprika</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1 pinch</span> <strong class="name">cayenne</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span class="nowrap"> <span class="amount">1/2 tsp</span> <strong class="name">sea salt</strong> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"> <span class="amount">1 </span> <strong class="name">lime (for a splash at the end)</strong> </li>
</ul>
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<strong></strong> </div>
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<strong>Directions</strong></div>
<div class="directions">
Combine everything (except lime) in a crockpot sprayed with cooking spray (or lined with a crockpot liner). Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.</div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-43077622957120649902012-09-20T07:14:00.001-07:002012-09-20T07:14:13.200-07:00BAY TO BLISS RACE REPORTThis report has been a long time coming. I am finally getting a chance to sit down and type. The reason is because I started my <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/09/long-over-due.html">new job</a> this week. So far things are going well in both the job aspect, the commute, working out before going to work and meal prep. I am literally nonstop moving from the minute I wake up at 4:30 am to the minute I go to bed, which lately has been about 9:30 or so. <br />
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The crockpot is my friend. I've prepped two crockpot meals this week. I fill the old pot before bed and then turn it on when I get home. Usually (because my kids are so picky) there is enough to have as left overs (or lunch) later in the week so I get quite a few meals out of it. I've also been pretty organized in planning all our meals this week. Tonight for example, I came home and made dinner for the girls while simultaneously prepping the crockpot (for tomorrow's dinner) AND making an additional meal for us on Friday because I have to make muffins tomorrow night. Catch all that? Are you as exhausted as I am? <br />
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But let's talk about more important stuff ... like running and racing! This past Sunday was the <a href="http://www.tahoetrailrunning.com/trail-runs/emerald-bay-trail-run/">Bay to Bliss Trail Run</a> in Emerald Bay. This was the third time I have done this race. I sort of have a vendetta against this race because <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2010/09/stupid-is-as-stupid-does-big-blue.html">the first year</a> I ran it, I was pregnant with Squeaker and didn't know it. <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2011/09/bay-to-bliss.html">The second year</a> I ran it, Squeaker was just three months old and I was up all night and nursing. This year, I had nothing holding me back. I wasn't working (yet) and I had basically 9 months of free running time behind me. The stars should have aligned and I should have had an awesome race ... right? Nope. Ugh, this race rocked me to the core. <br />
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It all started on Wednesday when we had an intense lower body workout at Diane's. I felt fine after and even ran with TigerT that day. The next day however, I ran with <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> and man, could I feel it in my legs. I took Friday and Saturday off from running as well. I felt semi-rested on Sunday morning but once I started moving, I realized that wasn't the case. <br />
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When the whistle went off and we raced UP hill to the trail head, my chest seized and I knew instantly this was not going to be easy. I can tell when I am tired from just running up hill and tired from something else. I couldn't catch my breath and my heart felt like it was going to rip out of my chest it was beating so hard. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxadkYmBry5RKRkGDkh5UfFYtGo4FrjSqvMuE2HnD7pFPR7g5bVXA6COS4IKfeYP5yQVVWL_8CD5_rMIEvudLIkAH2QMbKFhHqd63XInELMhUloltMnMAxYenb-Qcg0UQVIRa21MynIM/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxadkYmBry5RKRkGDkh5UfFYtGo4FrjSqvMuE2HnD7pFPR7g5bVXA6COS4IKfeYP5yQVVWL_8CD5_rMIEvudLIkAH2QMbKFhHqd63XInELMhUloltMnMAxYenb-Qcg0UQVIRa21MynIM/s320/024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here I come, sucking wind!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0IfSAmRg5xL05yZRAcl-Uqsi5n_YpCMQz1-GFcsAVSk-xCHmvTcjOEHu2G_hpBcPtYU4sZhVmEkCVhdSF3rJhtZ-T1lzLg362cA6FJJJ37Q_cuAwwGYkXf5spO8HvlWrN-ODCmP7UcM/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0IfSAmRg5xL05yZRAcl-Uqsi5n_YpCMQz1-GFcsAVSk-xCHmvTcjOEHu2G_hpBcPtYU4sZhVmEkCVhdSF3rJhtZ-T1lzLg362cA6FJJJ37Q_cuAwwGYkXf5spO8HvlWrN-ODCmP7UcM/s320/025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There I go ... sucking wind.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CiYO512vdCe9yQ4Cnf5MfvO8tSsGXBgmsMzPoAH4eWmdr0nIAzNJjgL-TZG1uuEvty_xOQtGM8zRm0pTWMa083yp-sTuKjNOIKrS1Ews_WUP0Q66X7DvGp8QvgypfbKOfcKpsU7Wh5A/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CiYO512vdCe9yQ4Cnf5MfvO8tSsGXBgmsMzPoAH4eWmdr0nIAzNJjgL-TZG1uuEvty_xOQtGM8zRm0pTWMa083yp-sTuKjNOIKrS1Ews_WUP0Q66X7DvGp8QvgypfbKOfcKpsU7Wh5A/s320/026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bye bye!</div>
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That was pretty much it. The entire race my breathing was super shallow, I was wheezing and my heart rate was holding steady at about 166 and topping off over the 170s on the hills. No matter what I did, I could not bring that heart rate down ... even when I walked a few times and I barely walked. I am getting ahead of myself. Let's start with some photos. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij85u2V9DYL3r2KCpz6eGiX4uqBoBzOIO6cr_rvg0Z21WM_YptJerEjIDeJYrzGSMT0LL1V8WG3ePpLibJwfFSqc4QW6Jz8YmG8K0c7zkBEqgLu80CksFsRB6EXV21Nkkh5ut_8MuBfhU/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij85u2V9DYL3r2KCpz6eGiX4uqBoBzOIO6cr_rvg0Z21WM_YptJerEjIDeJYrzGSMT0LL1V8WG3ePpLibJwfFSqc4QW6Jz8YmG8K0c7zkBEqgLu80CksFsRB6EXV21Nkkh5ut_8MuBfhU/s320/009.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The girls</div>
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The usual crew came out to cheer me on. Vans likes this race because it ends at Lester Beach and we generally hang out a while and enjoy the private beach. This year however, there was a totally different vibe. The park rangers were gruff right from the start and the park was practically filled so Vans had to drop me off and I had to run and then he had to lug both girls to the starting area. We even left the house two hours before the race started. <br />
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Last year at this race Squeaker was just three months old! She couldn't even hold her head up ... now she is climbing on stuff. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOWMq41UHvQOXGtivWnbr7Ma8bLTe0YMmGvdEIXTMO6WeZ2j7kcjraz3EyCCJsBY2uJoLy13xr1vET9NtLFIGORS2upgF6KGVAbPiIyOUxO815ADgfVJMaAkpb8r8ggWaTR-Ej4OUxYE/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOWMq41UHvQOXGtivWnbr7Ma8bLTe0YMmGvdEIXTMO6WeZ2j7kcjraz3EyCCJsBY2uJoLy13xr1vET9NtLFIGORS2upgF6KGVAbPiIyOUxO815ADgfVJMaAkpb8r8ggWaTR-Ej4OUxYE/s320/013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So excited to be mobile!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5gPXPg5_tinWdIvLsAYeNm7uJ5f_q_Nz9MSNEQxIZfDkRVsSOnCO24R8G_6MiS3JCpXmGUELmPdsx4zMhr__txOKtBuqK4_t2a8Ej6q9tDJGh4MVy89iuRK5IF_CwbjnA4SDn7uc6mQ/s1600/DSC_0465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5gPXPg5_tinWdIvLsAYeNm7uJ5f_q_Nz9MSNEQxIZfDkRVsSOnCO24R8G_6MiS3JCpXmGUELmPdsx4zMhr__txOKtBuqK4_t2a8Ej6q9tDJGh4MVy89iuRK5IF_CwbjnA4SDn7uc6mQ/s1600/DSC_0465.JPG" /></a></div>
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Not so sure about this race stuff last year</div>
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Anyway, I started off just sucking wind up the hill but I kept running refusing to walk. I was in the front of the pack. When we entered the single track I pushed it hard and I passed quite a few people by running up the embankment. That was pretty much my theme all race. Race the downhills as much as I could and just try and stay steady on the uphills ... which are hard. There is a lot of stair climbing and hills the first five miles. I had forgotten. <br />
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At one point I took a gel thinking maybe I needed some energy or fuel and at the very least, it would be a nice chance to take a small walking break. I didn't carry water as they had two aid stations. I didn't feel like I wasn't hydrated and I didn't feel like I was low on energy. I just felt like I was breathing through a straw the entire race at altitude. <br />
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While I was out trying to survive, Vans and the girls were experiment with the self timer feature on our camera. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmbVGSzSdCGFxdRkawNcf5qsn4h7CiEd7eixzWi5jPLgM7DdFzl9C6FiDuqZ5kYjAADFPwAY7Tq_RIqAFgg4mEO5C53Eg4xSrpvRFWOXPn8ZL7WdyaGN4_nM7LoUh53M-sn6jWRB1-hs/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmbVGSzSdCGFxdRkawNcf5qsn4h7CiEd7eixzWi5jPLgM7DdFzl9C6FiDuqZ5kYjAADFPwAY7Tq_RIqAFgg4mEO5C53Eg4xSrpvRFWOXPn8ZL7WdyaGN4_nM7LoUh53M-sn6jWRB1-hs/s320/033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Wait ... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAVqLCFfcQxxr1ePr-lmuO7DdKugSPK-aonFB6I0zz7xOSj49CxZQFPwFGRptKOZE3VXIdX0bgu3-svWxfOFqVAFyU5a-SAlQQMHfSlWfVP_ySb8VshCVSDStutPzN9xvGi1zdDAOG-E/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAVqLCFfcQxxr1ePr-lmuO7DdKugSPK-aonFB6I0zz7xOSj49CxZQFPwFGRptKOZE3VXIdX0bgu3-svWxfOFqVAFyU5a-SAlQQMHfSlWfVP_ySb8VshCVSDStutPzN9xvGi1zdDAOG-E/s320/035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Wait, wait not yet!</div>
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There you go. </div>
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At mile 4 you hit Vikingsholm and you start climbing stairs. Mile 5 you just hit some up hill tracks. At this point, two girls and a guy were in front of me. The two girls had just passed me so I was feeling deflated a bit. But at one point I know the rest is down hill. <br />
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Once we hit that down hill section I turned on the jets and just started flying down. I was on the heels of this girl but she never offered to let me pass and every opportunity that I had to ask she sped up even more so whatever. I just let it go knowing once we hit the pavement parking lot I'd have a chance. Unfortunately at this point, I looked at my watch and new a PR was out of the question but I could still beat my time from last year. <br />
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As I would later find out the girl in front of me was from Indiana and she was having an "ah-ha" moment on the trails with the lake being SO close to her. She was just in awe and I had to smile because really, that is one major reason I do this race, the views and being so close to Lake Tahoe. At one point we hit a really sharp curve and the Indiana girl went flying off the course and almost down the embankment which was steep and would have been really bad. Luckily she caught herself and gave her some grief about making me nervous. <br />
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Soon we hit the parking lot opening and I said "I don't meant to be rude but I have a PR I want to try and beat" and I just flew by the two girls and the guy and raced as hard as I could. <br />
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The Peanut was watching for me ...</div>
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And was so happy to have someone to wait with her. ♥</div>
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This year I came flying down the hill and I jumped the stairs instead of trying to be careful. Vans was too busy fiddling with the camera to catch me. I ran through the finish shoot and straight into the lake without stopping ... shoes and all and it was awesome. <br />
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It felt SO good. </div>
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I ended up getting fourth in my age group. The first place girl was <a href="http://dailyadventuresgretch.blogspot.com/">Gretchen</a> who was also first or second female over all ... she's fast AND she just ran <a href="http://dailyadventuresgretch.blogspot.com/2012/07/the-magic-and-madness-of-hardrock-100.html">Hardrock</a>. Tough. Go read her race report on that. Wow. <br />
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The rest of the time we just had fun on the beach until it was time to go home. This race is tough for the family because we have to load the car and get up early. This year the park rangers at Lester Beach were kicking us out near the end of the race awards. Boo. Still, the girls had fun. <br />
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Even Vans was having fun ...</div>
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with the free post race Sierra Nevada Beer</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>**This was not proof read ... no time, so please excuse typos, I will fix ... eventually. :-)</em></span></div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-71493626420141018182012-09-06T14:33:00.001-07:002012-09-06T14:41:17.221-07:00LONG OVER DUEToday's post is long over due. I know over the last few years, the Trailmomma blog has changed. What started out as a goofy fun loving "beginner" trail running blog morphed into a "beginner" ultra training blog and eventually a child rearing blog with some running (road and trail) sprinkled in for good measure. <br />
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I have been running. I just have not been blogging about it. Most times I forget my camera or the run itself is not that memorable or exciting. Usually I am by myself except for the few occasions when I am lucky enough to run with TiggerT or <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a>. <br />
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However, this last month or so I have been running a lot more. Mostly by myself which has allowed my mind to wander and reflect on the last nine months of my life. I will warn you now, feel free to click away as this post won't be anything but a reflection on what changes my life has gone through lately and where I am now and where I want to be. <br />
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Almost nine months ago I was laid off from a very unsatisfying job that left me pretty much self conscious, afraid and honestly, stupefied. I had been with them for five years and even though the last year or so things were "unhealthy" (to say the least), I stuck it out because I thought I was "lucky" to have a job. What I now realize, is that it was a blessing that I was laid off. I would never have left on my own and I would have endured countless negative comments and energy thrown my way. <br />
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Of course nine months ago I didn't see it this way. I was nervous, scared and worried we wouldn't survive. I have a wonderful family (both by blood and by marriage) who supported us in more ways than I can list and who I owe a world of thanks. <br />
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♥ They thank you too. ♥</div>
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I spent the first month of my "vacation" running. A lot. Since TiggerT has a flexible schedule she called me often to run. That poor girl. I can only imagine what she must have been thinking on those runs. I would just rant and rave, complain and talk non-stop about what I had just been through. I would throw out crazy ideas about "trying new professions" and "doing something completely different." I even went and had an interview at a local college to discuss what it would take to change careers. TiggerT was awesome. She listened and told me to be patient. Let things be and who knows what would happen or where life would take me. She never once told me what to do and for that I am grateful. <br />
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Over the course of the summer I got to experience some pretty awesome things. I was able to spend some quality time with my two girls twice a week every week while also allowing them to continue going to daycare so as not to completely disrupt their lives. <br />
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Peanut at school</div>
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Squeaker at school</div>
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At first it was rough. I am not a "stay at home mom" type and I give all stay at home moms many kudos. It is a difficult, selfless job that requires creativity, patience and the ability to tune out a lot. Squeaker was nursing for half the time so in a way, that made our bonding experience much closer because I was able to toss the pump and just be with her. The Peanut learned to be patient and self sufficient because of that as well and she also developed an amazing attitude and relationship towards her sister. I watched their relationship blossom every day together. Peanut is an amazing big sister with an even more amazing heart. <br />
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I was able to go on many trips that I might not have been able to go on before. We had fun in <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/05/sucking-wind.html">Tahoe</a> (<a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/08/friends-birthdays-tahoe-oh-my.html">many times</a>), I went to <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/06/pacific-crest-marathon-race-report.html">Sunriver Oregon to run a marathon</a> and relax with some <a href="http://mommydontherun.blogspot.com/2012/08/on-run-familys-california-adventure.html">great friends</a> and I was able to spend a lot of time with <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/07/howdy.html">Jersey Dad and Jersey Mom</a> when they came out for their annual visit. Never, never will I have this much time to enjoy so much. I was and am, truly blessed. <br />
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At some point over the summer, Squeaker stopped nursing and I started trail running more in my own neighborhood and enjoying it. TiggerT and I started running the Ridge Loop (of Death). I really like this run. It has a mix of everything, some single track (minimal, but some), some fire roads, some pavement and lots of up and down hills with very little shade coverage. It is here that I do most of my thinking. <br />
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It was on one of these runs that I decided in July to be part of the <a href="http://folsombreakoutfitness.com/BreakoutBody.htm">Breakout Fitness's Breakout Body session</a> which is 3 months long. It is kind of like a "biggest loser" type of thing without all the competition. This session, Coach Diane decided to do a gluten free and vegan program which is what I wanted. I already am gluten free and vegan so it wasn't a huge change for me in that regard. What <u>was</u> a huge change however was strength training, TRX and core work four to five times a week (in addition to my running). She also requires that I write down everything I eat which really opened my eyes to how much I snack throughout the day. With two kids, that is very easy to do (picking pieces off a kid's plate DOES have calories despite what your brain tells you). <br />
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Come on mom ....</div>
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have some food!</div>
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I have to say, I am in the best shape of my life right now. I should be when I am able to workout five days a week with Diane and then add an hour to two hours of running on various days as well. This also will not last forever and I am actually very sad to see this part of my summer go away. Working out and running gives me sanity and time to contemplate things going on in my life. This will all change in a week. <br />
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Bye bye daily running!</div>
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What is happening in a week? In one week I start my new job. Yes, I got a job. I actually secured a job back in early June but they didn't "need me" until mid-September. How is that for awesome? I feel like I am in college again having a job lined up for me at the end of the summer. This new company has been on my "wish list" for years as it comes with a reputation that can't be beat. What is even more amazing is that they found me and encouraged me to apply. I applied in April. Interviewed all through May (they have an extensive interview process) and then was offered the job in June! <br />
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I am excited. I am nervous. I am also scared and sad. I have really grown accustom to being a stay at-home wife/mom but financially that is not something we can manage. I jokingly tell Vans that I would make a great "Trophy Wife" for him but he just rolls his eyes. I guess I can't persuade him. <br />
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I have spent the summer really turning my family around health wise. It has been wonderful to have the time during the day to prepare and make really healthy meals, grocery shop on a moment's notice and never have a pile of laundry. I am slowly removing all the plastic tupperware containers from our house and encouraging us to use glass containers to avoid the toxins heated plastic can let out. Vans pretty much eats vegan/vegetarian at home and both Peanut and Squeaker have been introduced to all sorts of new vegetables, grains and meals. They may not like it, but they try it (most times). <br />
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What are you making for dinner this time mom?</div>
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These are the things I am going to miss. My new commute is not going to be pretty and we will not be getting home until late. Luckily (or unluckily?), the four of us will be commuting together to and from work/school. Sadly, we will be getting home so late that it will literally be dinner, bath and bed for the girls ... which means I am going to have to have something for dinner in mind. Our departure in the mornings will be early as well which means breakfasts to go packed and lunches packed as well. Lots and lots of planning and being organized ahead. Also, I need the ability to just let go if something is not going to go as planned which is most likely going to be the case <strike>most</strike> some days. <br />
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Just chill out mom. Relax. </div>
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As for working out, I will be going from two hours a day to realistically (hopefully?) one hour a day. I plan to keep my strength training classes (for now) with Diane because I love them, they are effective and right now it is my only option since it will be too late to run after work. Running will have to happen on weekends and the occasional evening at the track with TiggerT if the evening goes well. <br />
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I suspect a rough road ahead full of new adjustments and new routines. I guess just accepting that is half the battle right? <br />
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Still, I am excited for the future. This new company is a dream come true and the people I have met there so far are super nice and they seem to really value their employees. I am eager to get my brain functioning again in a way that is not focused around dishwashers, vacuums or baby wipes. <br />
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Still, I will miss thinking about baby wipes every once in a while ... these girls are pretty awesome.<br />
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One</div>
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Two</div>
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Three</div>
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GO!!</div>
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Live Life</div>
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Love Life</div>
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♥ Thank you to all who have supported us these last nine months. ♥</div>
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<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-37499549957014589642012-09-03T12:42:00.000-07:002012-09-03T12:42:48.390-07:00CAMPING 2012Every Labor Day weekend, we go camping. Here is <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2011/09/camping-2011.html">2011's camping recap</a> with photos. <br />
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Just like last year, we camped at Donner Lake. The Trailmomma family headed up late Saturday morning with a truck full of stuff (for just one night) and arrived shortly after noon ... with hungry kids.<br />
<br />We stopped at a rest stop on our way up and unfortunately Squeaker took a tumble off of a concrete bench and fell onto the pavement below ... face first. She split both her top and bottom lip open and screamed bloody murder. I was using the facilities when it happened and I could hear her scream loud and clear. Luckily, it did not prevent her from having a nice time camping.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8jl22_i7HGZOWkWIbMLKdMNG7iQUDfbA4X9e4NykBdfaaTSgKi8B1q6Lwxf_a7WpC_oaaUwbUOywiJGPJJkulTBMGJTW9y6lIcD7jLwWhFAoZA17od5ZOiclxPDX2sJy-To1E_oYyNg/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8jl22_i7HGZOWkWIbMLKdMNG7iQUDfbA4X9e4NykBdfaaTSgKi8B1q6Lwxf_a7WpC_oaaUwbUOywiJGPJJkulTBMGJTW9y6lIcD7jLwWhFAoZA17od5ZOiclxPDX2sJy-To1E_oYyNg/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Having a snack in the dirt once we arrived.</div>
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Once again we rented a tent from REI since our own personal tent is way too small. Last year we brought the air mattress but for some reason I don't think it worked out to sleep on ... this year we purchased a pump that actually works and tried sleeping on it again.<br />
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Sadly we have no photos of us assembling the tent this year. It is much harder to assemble your tent, unpack your car and keep an eye on two kids.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMD05mzbwHyMhmklfWA2Umy9__40WzI0ia_3kBcz65K3DMUHpUVZdXA62aSymvaEZUxnYgzBnsAh8C6DiZc0OpjrrOXhTcpyuurQD2M58CDD_pFVkcmNHubXN4-CIWEhVOetEnSauHg6s/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMD05mzbwHyMhmklfWA2Umy9__40WzI0ia_3kBcz65K3DMUHpUVZdXA62aSymvaEZUxnYgzBnsAh8C6DiZc0OpjrrOXhTcpyuurQD2M58CDD_pFVkcmNHubXN4-CIWEhVOetEnSauHg6s/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Checking things out</div>
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Squeaker was only about 3 months old when we went camping last year so this was a whole new adventure for her. She had a blast.<br />
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Not long after arriving and unpacking we took a walk to Donner Lake. The trail leading to the lake is not that far and surprisingly, the Peanut rode her strider bike the entire way and it wasn't an easy ride. There were lots of rocks on the trail. I was so proud of her.<br />
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Cooling herself off after the ride</div>
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But clearly not that tired</div>
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Squeaker just loves sitting in dirt. Period.</div>
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Walking back ... I guess she was too tired to ride her bike.</div>
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After our time at the lake, we headed back to the campsite to get ready for dinner. I think finally after five years of camping with kids ... Vans has come to terms with the fact that they will just remain dirty all.the.time. He stopped trying to clean hands and faces because after a while, he realized it was pointless. </div>
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Giving up keeping them clean.</div>
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The temperature was pretty chilly for this time of year. It was definitely colder than last year but I think we all managed just fine. Squeaker might have been squeezed into some old jammies that were a touch too small for her but she didn't seem to mind. </div>
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She went to bed fairly easily despite not sleeping in a pack and play or anything. I put her down a bit later than normal because she was just so revved up with all the excitement camping brings. The Peanut stayed up later to enjoy some S'mores but eventually went to bed well too.</div>
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Can't have camping without S'mores</div>
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Off to bed ... full o'sugar!</div>
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For the first time in about five years of camping, I was able to leave the kids in the tent and enjoy some wine by the campfire with Vans instead of sleeping in the tent with the kids! </div>
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However, at 6:30 am Squeaker sat up in the tent and looked completely bewildered as to where she was and why she was there. Once she saw all of us, she was fine but she was not quite ready for the very cold temps that morning!</div>
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You can see the tears in her eyes.</div>
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Actually she cried hysterically when I had to change her diaper (who wants their bum exposed when it is that cold?) ... and then cried even more when I had to leave the tent to make breakfast for my crew. </div>
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However, while I was gone ... there apparently was a photo session in the tent ...</div>
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Tiger of course came camping</div>
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Squeaker laying on her sister's cot</div>
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Not happy. Wants her Mama. </div>
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Soon it was time for breakfast and sitting by the morning campfire. </div>
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Hot chocolate!</div>
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Then it was time to burn off some morning energy.</div>
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wheeeee</div>
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Chasing her big sister!</div>
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Vans went for a late morning bike ride to Donner Summit and I took the girls back to the beach with the rest of the crew.</div>
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Back at the beach</div>
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Having a good time</div>
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Running around</div>
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When Vans finished his ride he came straight to the beach. We both took a nice dip in the (freezing) cold water. It felt great to rinse off the dirt and sort of refresh. Sadly, it was time to pack up and go home. The kids were hungry and tired and we had to return the tent to REI before they closed. </div>
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The following picture pretty much sums up the day/trip nicely ... Your classic end of the weekend photo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxrwXer7St4cz0WHxenpncBMhdjfGBrMnwXcYnIW5w6uXYbXy2EhewdzpLmLSPL9BiL7_GgnqZZvDE7-n617euC6iRKt44KlZuQ9E4h7OmCkk5SpV78ZDz8AumlOLA1K8FxhQ5-yPATvc/s1600/127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxrwXer7St4cz0WHxenpncBMhdjfGBrMnwXcYnIW5w6uXYbXy2EhewdzpLmLSPL9BiL7_GgnqZZvDE7-n617euC6iRKt44KlZuQ9E4h7OmCkk5SpV78ZDz8AumlOLA1K8FxhQ5-yPATvc/s320/127.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Before we even left the parking lot. </div>
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As much as I like camping, it was nice to be home, clean and having a nice healthy dinner. I woke up this morning to go for a speed workout run with TiggerT at the track. She had 4 x 800s on tap with 3 minutes of rest in between. I admit I was slow, dehydrated and a little "off" tummy-wise for the run but it felt great to run and get things moving.<br />
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Today is Poppa's birthday and so we are going to head down to Sacramento to celebrate! Happy Labor Day all ... - Trailmomma<br />
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-30581804252507056702012-08-25T20:37:00.002-07:002012-08-25T20:37:49.931-07:00FRIENDS BIRTHDAYS TAHOE OH MYI know it has been awhile, or at least it seems like it has been a while since I last blogged. We have had a nice two weeks with friends visiting from Whistler Canada to celebrate Vans's big birthday that included trips to Tahoe, trail runs, TRX workouts and lots and lots of swimming. <br />
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<a href="http://mommydontherun.blogspot.com/">Mommy on the Run</a> and family arrived on the 14th and mayhem immediately started. <a href="http://mommydontherun.blogspot.com/">Mommy on the Run</a> has a four year old (Monkey) and a 1 year old (Bundles) so that means the Peanut (age 4) and Squeaker (age 1) had built in daily play dates ... as did <a href="http://mommydontherun.blogspot.com/">Mommy on the Run</a> and myself and Vans and Mr. Bear. They have a true bromance. <br />
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Squeaker & Bundles</div>
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While they were here, I took Mommy on the Run to a TRX class and a core conditioning class. I think she enjoyed it ... at the very least she saw why I constantly complain that some body part of mine is sore! I also took her on my Ridge Loop (of Death) run near the house. It is a 7+ mile run that combines some trails, fire road and pavement. A mix of everything but with some nice views of the surrounding area. <br />
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Early in their visit we spent a lot of time at the pool with the kids. The temperatures here were in the high 90s while our pool was about 84 degrees ... which incidentally was roughly the air temperature for Whistler. Mr. Bear and Monkey LOVE to swim so they were in heaven at the pool.<br />
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Fun pool games</div>
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Aqua-Baby</div>
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We took them to the local duck park</div>
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We went to the Thursday night concert ... the kids loved dancing</div>
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The Canadians :-)</div>
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We literally took hundreds upon hundreds of photos between us so I cannot possibly show all of them or explain everything we did while they were here. We literally were on the move for 10 days straight (you kind of have to be with four little kids and two "grown" kids).</div>
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Towards the end of the week we went up to Tahoe. We stopped at Sand Harbor for the day and had some amazing beach time. Sand Harbor is one of the nicest beaches in Tahoe. Just great sand, easy access to the water and great people watching.</div>
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The purpose of going to Tahoe though was to celebrate Van's birthday. Mr. Bear, Mommy on the Run and I all collaborated earlier in the summer and picked the perfect house that had one of Van's "wish list" requirements ... a view of Lake Tahoe. </div>
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The view from our deck which ran the length of the house</div>
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For months I had sent out emails to all of the people in our lives inviting people up to Tahoe to help celebrate Vans's birthday. Besides our Canadian friends, we had people who flew in from Arizona and an old "skate" buddy who drove up all the way up from Sacramento to spend a few hours as well as a few friends from EDH and their kids. People either popped in for the dinner/drinks celebration or they came for the beach time or both. It was definitely a packed day that was a lot of fun. Vans's was happy.<br />
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Long time friends.</div>
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Vans and Mr. Bear mountain biked on both the Flume Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail while in Tahoe. Mommy on the Run and I gladly watched the kids in exchange for an opportunity to run for a few hours in Cool with <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> later in the week. That is right, it was a blogger run! Mommy on the Run and Pigeon were able to meet for the first time but both reach each other's blog.<br />
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Mommy on the Run has been interested in all things Western States for a while and she was super excited to learn that we would be running from Cool to No Hands Bridge. She also knows a lot about Cool too. <br />
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Mommy on the Run</div>
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Pigeon & Trailmomma running again!</div>
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The run was fun. I took up the caboose because my ankle was not feeling 100% AND because about an hour before I took an hour long strength and conditioning class that had me doing many many squats and lunges and my legs were toast. Pigeon and Mommy on the Run didn't seem to mind.<br />
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At one point since Pigeon and I were finally running together again AND I finally remembered to bring the camera ... we just HAD to bring back the JC Penny poses we had done a few summers ago.<br />
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Modeling our Visors</div>
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We made it to No Hands Bridge and I think for the first time ever, Pigeon stopped and read the signs with us!</div>
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History</div>
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On No Hands</div>
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After our photo session at No Hands Bridge, we went back the way we came and decided to go up K2.</div>
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The bottom of K2 ... it is one steep hill</div>
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I was not exactly thrilled. ha</div>
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K2 is almost an entire mile in length and one rocky climb. My ankle was extremely unhappy during the climb but I secretly enjoyed the workout. </div>
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But the views are awesome at the top</div>
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We finished our run just as the temps were really starting to heat up. I forget that Mommy on the Run is not used the heat we deal with up in Northern California. I don't think it bothered her that much because she was smiling ear to ear when we made it back to the car.</div>
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Smiling!</div>
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Thanks Pigeon for being tour guide! </div>
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The whole Mommy on the Run family has since returned to Whistler. The house is awful quiet without them all here. </div>
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Today I met Pigeon in Cool again to run the full course for <a href="http://runthedamnhalf.com/Damn_Run/Welcome.html">That Damn Run Half Marathon. </a>We really only ran about 12 of the 13 miles but apparently we were very close to a bear that Pigeon HEARD but we never saw (others saw him) and we also had to nurse a very tired Traildog to the end. He was struggling poor pup.</div>
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My legs feel pretty darn good considering I ran in Cool on Wednesday with Mommy on the Run and Pigeon, then 7 hill miles in EDH with TiggerT on Friday followed by 12 miles in Cool today. I have not run this much in a while and although my ankle is a bit swollen and sore ... my legs and my heart are smiling. </div>
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trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-16727403057258711152012-08-11T20:09:00.002-07:002012-08-11T20:11:15.379-07:00SIDE BY SIDEA friend of mine asked me what the girls photos would look like side by side. A parent at the girls' daycare stopped me to say that her and her sister are constantly asked if they are twins, yet they are three years apart ... she thinks my girls are going to have the same questions.<br />
<br />
I know they look a like as infants. The Peanut's baby photos could easily be Squeakers and vice versa. I mean, I know the difference and I know who is who ... but right now, I don't think they look a like much at all. Definitely related, but not twins. Who knows, maybe it is their different personalities.<br />
<br />
So it has me wondering what Squeaker will grow up to look like ... of course "herself" is the easy answer but right now, she has none of the traits that the Peanut had at 14 months (namely, Squeaker LIKES to sleep) ... Squeaker is also a dare devil with amazing balance and coordination (a gift from Vans no doubt) where as the Peanut has my uncanny ability to have gravity constantly pulling at her and forcing her to fall, trip and end up bruised and battered. Sorry kid. <br />
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So here is a little game of Who is Who ... I won't write who is who until the very end so good luck!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7vZlODqEzZEjXlQ5VCc9Ri9qLXlhSqLIwY262gXqdNtrgBXa8z7qAFISEtnb2MOB5FBFGcYzqCpEYxtlNvGIo8gsVkIZJDhJKqG6m998ka0sACk5VxCi_YqIpwD95Ek1gKkVYEUx3SbQ/s1600/S+14+months.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7vZlODqEzZEjXlQ5VCc9Ri9qLXlhSqLIwY262gXqdNtrgBXa8z7qAFISEtnb2MOB5FBFGcYzqCpEYxtlNvGIo8gsVkIZJDhJKqG6m998ka0sACk5VxCi_YqIpwD95Ek1gKkVYEUx3SbQ/s320/S+14+months.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A</div>
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B</div>
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C</div>
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D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhfquBj15BdsLKVTTBoE_31sSp0OfnMdDuBn5LRqdAGIu8C5BdpY2bgGDPbt6h61l6mXerpe3PTcWhfxAPlSWLCOCP1P4_AjocSzsHzbguyjEAIjFESZVTf-h5hG4NUz7s6eqXu-8so0/s1600/S+14+months+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhfquBj15BdsLKVTTBoE_31sSp0OfnMdDuBn5LRqdAGIu8C5BdpY2bgGDPbt6h61l6mXerpe3PTcWhfxAPlSWLCOCP1P4_AjocSzsHzbguyjEAIjFESZVTf-h5hG4NUz7s6eqXu-8so0/s320/S+14+months+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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E</div>
<br /><br />
So who is who? :)<br />
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Answers:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A: Peanut, B: Squeaker, C: Peanut, D: Squeaker, E: Peanut</span> <br />
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<br /></div>trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-72899377725507388892012-08-07T09:28:00.001-07:002012-08-07T09:28:21.360-07:00AUGUST ALREADYWow it is hard to believe that it is August already (and that I have not posted anything yet). Needless to say, I've been busy. Busy just enjoying the summer, my girls and the craziness that comes with all of that. <br />
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I've been really working hard at some strength training lately and some TRX stuff. It is paying off a little bit because I am seeing some results in my arms and core (some, not a lot ... yet). However, there are only so many hours in the day and because of this, I am not running nearly as much as I was before. On one hand it is due to time issues and on the other my legs are just tired ... tired from strength workouts, tired from chasing two little girls (one who is recently attracted to the cat food) and just tired from sleepless nights (thank you Olympics). <br />
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Last Saturday though I went to Cool for the second free training run for <a href="http://runthedamnhalf.com/Damn_Run/Welcome.html">That Damn Run Half Marathon and 10K</a>. The Race Director for this race is none other than my old Way Too Cool 50K/AR50 training coach (and friend) <a href="http://www.neverstopsrunning.blogspot.com/">Coach Nikon</a>. The race shirts for this race by the way are pretty darn awesome. <br />
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This is on the shirt!</div>
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I have big plans to do the half marathon course ... even though my running has been less than stellar lately. The race is late October and actually is the the last race on my list (minus <a href="http://www.clarksburgcountryrun.com/">Clarksburg</a> which I promised to run with TiggerT who is training for <a href="http://www.runcim.org/">CIM</a>). <br />
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The run on Saturday was great. <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> was there. I pretty much ran with her the entire time ... just like old times except she is in awesome shape and I had to walk a lot of the climbs. I didn't mind and I know she didn't either. This race is going to be one tough half marathon though ... it has a brutal mile climb in the middle that just goes and goes and goes. It's in Cool though, one of the prettiest places to run and that can't be beat.<br />
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I have about a month left before I have to start working again and enter the real world. I am having mixed emotions about it and feel like a roller coaster when I think about so I am just not thinking about it. I have way too many other exciting things happening before I have to dust off my skirts and heels.<br />
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Vans is having a birthday in a week so or so (it's a biggie) ... and we're having company that arrives next week and is staying with us for a whole week AND celebrating Vans's birthday. Lots to prepare before they get here and of course I want to cram everything in that I can while they are here. It has been lovely being home to enjoy all the visitors we've had lately because normally I am a slave to lack of vacation time and have to work while everyone else is having fun. Not this time!<br />
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The girls are getting so big too. Squeaker is almost 14 months old and is running (not quite steady) around the house. She adores her big sister and pretty much lets her get away with MOST things ...<br />
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Like playing fairy dress up</div>
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The Peanut is really into swimming lately and loves watching the Olympic swimmers. She is only four but the kid can free-style and I am quite impressed. She's getting braver swimming across the pool by herself and jumping off the diving board. We tried introducing her to dance (ballet, tap, jazz) at her own request but the poor child has my coordination skills (sadly) and it wasn't a good fit. She's told me she would like to go back to her private swim lessons that we normally do in the winter. <br />
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Vans is moaning because apparently swim meets are the "worst" according to more experienced parents but I can't help but smile that she is so interested in something ... I was never a great swimmer and if she likes it, I say go for it. <br />
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Hanging out at the pool at night</div>
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Squeaker however, enjoyed the Peanut's dance class more than anyone.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxi8CEh1mLRYL4r1Vh_vY-UewPGSd0hd5JeSoFrWSBu0kM7NYHmC_Al7Qr5kWJ3lLQX5jqKLyh5HH1kR0i8J04xvqnb3YJqFRTd6rlFJvQopvUMhbK_hrtl8DCBaLKsz2aPle_7_W8hz8/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxi8CEh1mLRYL4r1Vh_vY-UewPGSd0hd5JeSoFrWSBu0kM7NYHmC_Al7Qr5kWJ3lLQX5jqKLyh5HH1kR0i8J04xvqnb3YJqFRTd6rlFJvQopvUMhbK_hrtl8DCBaLKsz2aPle_7_W8hz8/s320/025.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-78406096044344162312012-07-30T12:20:00.000-07:002012-07-30T12:20:59.020-07:00HOWDYWe're back!!!<br />
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Jersey Dad and Jersey Mom have been out visiting for a week. It was a wonderful week and I miss them both. The girls also miss them a lot. <br />
<br />We had a great week of fun including a trip to the theater! Jersey Mom, Peanut and I went to the Music Circus in downtown Sacramento to see The Little Mermaid! It was the most amazing play ever. I think the adults were more impressed than the kids. We arranged to have the Peanut's two young buddies join us (their moms too) and it was just adorable watching them all giggle and hug each other.<br />
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Three Best Friends</div>
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Isn't that photo just adorable? They are all four years old but they treat each other like they have known each other for twenty years. It melts my heart.<br />
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While the grandparents were here there was lots of spoiling, playing and laughter. It was so nice having them here.<br />
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Jersey Mom (aka Gramie) helping Squeaker with her shoes</div>
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Squeaker decided to wear her sisters underwear!</div>
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Jersey Dad (aka Poppy) and Jersey Mom (aka Gramie) helped in so many ways. They entertained the girls so I could get workouts in. I was able to cook some nice vegan meals in peace while they all played together or watched tv. They even allowed Vans and I to take an over night in Lake Tahoe!!!<br />
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That's right, for the first time in four and a half YEARS Vans and I had a night away from the girls!! We decided to head to South Lake Tahoe just for a night and stay at the Embassy Suites. It was wonderful. We of course missed the girls but we were awe struck how FAST one can pack up and get out the door WITHOUT kids in tow! Wherever we went ... it took us five minutes to get out the door. <br />
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Our first stop was a beach in South Shore ...<br />
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We just relaxed, read, swam and talked. It was nice. We eventually packed up and headed to the Embassy Suites. We choose that hotel chain because they have FREE Happy Hour from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm in their lobbies ... can't beat that!<br />
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Cactus Bites! Yum</div>
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Vans and I had a nice time in Tahoe. We danced all night long and stayed up way too late but we were able to sleep in later then we have in a very long time. Thank you Poppy and Gramie! Thank you so very much.<br />
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Their visit was very short but so wonderful. We might be seeing them again soon in November IN New Jersey (I really hope so) ... the girls love them dearly. <br />
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Other than their visit, I have been running here and there but not a lot. I have been focusing on building muscle and core strength and I have to say it is really working! I am really seeing some results with my new routine and my modified diet. <br />
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In other news, Squeaker is finally done nursing. Bittersweet but my crewing at Tahoe Rim really was the nail that ended it all since I wasn't home much that weekend. She's doing okay, as am I. Actually, I stumbled across a few photos that Van's took while I was crewing in Tahoe. <br />
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Swimming</div>
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Dancing</div>
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Laughter</div>
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Helping Dad clean the office ...</div>
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That last picture made me laugh out loud. Squeaker doesn't look so sure about sharing the box with her big sister. </div>
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We are having a great summer so far and we have more adventures to come and more company coming to stay with us next month. </div>
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Despite all the bad things that have happened to us over the last year or so ... I have to say I feel lucky, blessed and over joyed with what I have in my life. Family is everything and I love mine. </div>
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<br /></div>trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-76858043472451669572012-07-22T09:54:00.000-07:002012-07-22T09:54:03.321-07:00TAHOE RIM TRAIL 50 MILER (CREW)Yesterday was the <a href="http://www.tahoemtnmilers.org/trter/trtindex.html">Tahoe Rim Trail</a> 50K, 50 Mile and 100 Mile race. <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a> has been doing these races consecutively since I have known her (even though each year she swears she won't run it again the following year). <br />
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The slogan for this race is "A Glimpse of Heaven .... A Taste of Hell" and even though I have never run this course (yet) ... every runner, no matter the distance, has said that slogan is pretty darn accurate. <br />
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Years past, Pigeon has run the 50K. This year she set her sights high and trained like a machine and wanted to do the 50 Miler. Originally I was going to pace her the last 25 miles but due to my ankle and my inferior athletic ability right now, she decided (and I agreed) that <a href="http://www.neverstoprsrunning.blogspot.com/">Coach Nikon</a> was probably her best and ideal pacing partner. <br />
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She did however, ask me to crew her and I of course said yes! Instead of car camping with her, due to child care issues, I decided to drive up Saturday morning, the day of the race. I woke up at 3 am and left my house at 4 am to meet Coach Nikon where we would car pool to the Tunnel Creek Aid Station (11 miles into the race). <br />
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The race started at 6 am and we knew there was no way we were getting to the start. So we drove up highway 80 talking most of the way despite our lack of caffeine. Once we hit Truckee, I needed to use a bathroom and Coach Nikon needed an espresso and fast. <br />
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We hit the Safeway in town and walked in like we owned the joint ... at about 5:30 am .... we split up to do our necessary duties and I think we both realized the same exact thing at about the same time. On my way out of the bathroom (which is in the belly of the store) ... I caught Coach Nikon's eye across a few aisles and he mouthed "I think they are closed!" Yup, sure enough the whole store was closed (workers were furiously stocking shelves, no one saying a word). The doors had opened for us and we just went walking all around not realizing we were not supposed to be in there. It was pretty funny. We found a Starbucks that WAS open got our drinks and headed for the Tunnel Creek Aid Station. <br />
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We parked our car and started the 3.5 ish mile climb to the Tunnel Creek Aid Station. Hiking and talking the whole way. Now, Coach Nikon just ran <a href="http://neverstopsrunning.blogspot.com/2012/07/journey-within-my-2012-running-of.html">100 Miles at Western States</a> a few weeks ago ... so it was pretty embarrassing that I was sucking wind just HIKING up this hill while he was just breathing like it was no big deal. That man is in some serious shape. Me? Not so much.<br />
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We did however stop to take a few photos for Pigeon ...<br />
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Long live the JC Penny Pose!</div>
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Posin'</div>
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The hike to Tunnel Creek is a good climb and has the most beautiful views. Once we reached the top however, Coach Nikon was Mr. Popular. He knows everyone in the Ultra Running Community it seems. </div>
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Mr. Popular</div>
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It was fun being at Tunnel Creek because you get to see the runners at least twice if you stay there long enough for them to come back up from the Red House Loop. We really enjoyed helping everyone that was coming through. The day was getting hotter by the minute.</div>
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Soon Pigeon came through. She was very quiet which made Coach Nikon and I pause for a moment because she was not telling us how she was feeling but she looked pretty darn good.</div>
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Trying to get some clue as to what she needs</div>
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Taking the rocks out of her shoes</div>
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Refueling</div>
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Pouring some cold water on her to cool her down</div>
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After Tunnel Creek, Coach Nikon and I hiked back down to the car and drove over to Diamond Peak where we would see Pigeon and friends again (those doing the 50 or 100 mile races only). </div>
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Of course like goof, I left my camera in the car and so I have no photos of Diamond Peak which is sad because a lot happened there. It is the half way point for the 50 Milers and the day was H.O.T. There were quite a few runners who dropped due to heat and elevation and others who were seriously struggling.</div>
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<br />What I failed to get a photo of is the massive climb that Pigeon (and other runners) had to do in order to get out of Diamond Peak. If you have ever been to Diamond Peak to ski or snowboard, just picture trying to hike UP one of the biggest ski runs there. You can bend down and touch the dirt in front of you as you climb without bending at the waist. It is THAT steep.</div>
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It was here that Coach Nikon left me to pace Pigeon the last 25 miles of the race. Once they were on their way I bummed around Incline for a bit before trying to get a spot down at Spooner Lake where she would finish about 5 hours later. </div>
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Coach Nikon brought her back to life on the trail and she actually came strolling into the finish earlier that originally expected and looking strong!</div>
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Finishing 50 miles!!!</div>
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12 hours 23 minutes and still smiling!</div>
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Way to go <a href="http://www.trailpigeon.blogspot.com/">Pigeon</a>! She rocked and I am sure she will have a race report up very soon! As for me, just like I do every time I go and watch this race, I come home and tell Vans how bad I really want to try and to the 50K next year ... and maybe it will happen. I told him I want him there though to support and be part of my crew. </div>
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My Jersey family is out for a visit now so I'll be off having more adventures!</div>
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<br /></div>trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-84000025162288700802012-07-16T13:12:00.001-07:002012-07-16T15:50:07.612-07:00LAZY WEEKENDIt was actually a fairly quiet weekend for us. I am not complaining at all because sometimes a nice quiet weekend is what a person needs.<br />
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Friday was great because I was able to get in a nice 7 mile run on what I call the Ridge Loop. It is a combination of both road and trails but it is mostly up hill for the first four miles. I have decided my goal is to get better and better at this run by running all the hills and trying to improve my time. I've also been working on my running form a bit as well trying to focus on NOT striking my heal. <br />
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Friday evening the Trailmomma household did our usual Concert in the Park and the weather was perfect. TiggerT came out to join us and the Peanut ran her ragged the entire evening.<br />
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Saturday was the start of my latest new adventure. In an effort to tone down all the pounding on my ankle I signed up for a three month fitness class that involves a lot of core work, strengthening, TRX and some general conditioning. This is totally outside my element and something I admit I am terrible at. I have poor form, poor core strength and practically no upper body strength. This is definitely going to be a challenge for me. There is also a diet component to it. I am already a gluten free vegan but this program is having me focus on paying attention to portion sizes and eating slowly so that I can tell when I am full which is something I totally stink at doing. It is in my genes. Stuff your face like you'll never have food again. Whole foods all the way. <br />
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The Peanut and Squeaker had a nice weekend as well. The Peanut stole the camera yet again and took a few photos ...<br />
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Self Portraits</div>
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Some feet shots</div>
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Squeaker is walking about 80% of the time. When she needs to get some where fast she'll still crawl though. She did great on Saturday morning when I had to escape to my early class. <br />
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She is also into "high-fiving" people</div>
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Saturday evening was a pool party for the Peanut and Squeaker's daycare. The Peanut was very excited to wear one of her new dresses and I must say, I am very proud of her hair ... she calls it her "princess hair." <br />
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Pretty</div>
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Princess Hair</div>
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Sunday was a great day because we went to our local farmer's market. We have yet to go this year whereas last year we'd go every Sunday. Squeaker was just chillin taking it all in.<br />
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Too cool for school</div>
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Vans buying some fruit</div>
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The Peanut doesn't eat a single ounce of fruit. Nothing. There is not one fruit that exists on this planet that she will consume but she the loves the farmer's market because they sell "treats" and she always finds a way to get one.<br />
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I have a treat!</div>
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Cupcake!!!</div>
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Squeaker eventually clued in to what the Peanut was eating and wanted some too. Like a great big sister, the Peanut shared.<br />
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Squeaker had some cupcake too</div>
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Sunday evening we had a nice dinner at TiggerT's house (love having gluten free friends!) and at the same time, Vans and I realized we've totally lost our pool skills. Eight years and two kids ago, he and I were quite the pool sharks ... now we're terrible. TiggerT we want a rematch some day! <br />
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Today I took my first strength and conditioning class and I had to modify it a bit as I hurt my knee on Saturday (read: old age? klutzy?). It was nice though to work on some other muscles. I learned very quickly how weak my hips and core are right now ... it is going to be a hard three months. <br />
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Looking forward to the weekend ahead as Jersey Dad and my step-mom are coming for a visit. I know the girls are super excited and I am always excited to have them visit. I miss my Jersey family so much some times. <br />
<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7687332147636252015.post-88914250902982953412012-07-10T16:56:00.001-07:002012-07-10T16:56:29.220-07:00ADVENTURESIn my <a href="http://www.trailmomma.blogspot.com/2012/07/fourth-of-july.html">last post</a>, I was going to take a four day break from running. I am happy to report that I actually followed my own rule (for once)! <br />
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I've been battling sinus issues for weeks now. Over the weekend we had some good friends over for a swim day! It was a blast.<br />
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We did actually swim.</div>
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However after they all left, I realized I had a fever and went downhill from there. Finally on Sunday evening I started to feel a little bit better which was good because I had a run date with the <a href="http://www.upbeatworkouts.com/coaches.php#sally">Queen of Hearts</a>. When I run with her, I know we'll go at a nice steady pace and usually never more than four or five miles.<br />
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We started running our usual route through her neighborhood and then eventually up one of the levees towards the trails that parallel the river. We had not gone far when we started hearing popping sounds and smelling smoke.<br />
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All of a sudden the trail in front of us is totally covered in fire! Luckily I almost always carry my cell phone and we hiked up to the levee and called the fire department. They made it out in seven minutes (the Queen of Hearts timed them) and they had the fire out in no time. They thanked us because had it spread it could have jumped the levee and reached a lot of homes. <br />
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After my run I went home and was hit hard with a crippling head and sinus ache. I could barely see let alone look at a computer screen or light. I took what I could (which is only Tylenol since I am still nursing Squeaker) and waited patiently for the pain to subside. It eventually did. <br />
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That was the last time I ran and I have a run date tomorrow too. I am not sure how it will go. I find it funny that something in my FACE is inhibiting my running. I hate summer colds.<br />
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Luckily Squeaker and the Peanut are doing much better cold-wise. So much so ... that one evening Squeaker disappeared and usually I have "mom-ears" and can hear wherever she is and whatever she is doing. This evening, it was too quiet ... which is never good news. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpb-UHVaNHfSI3tR3YsyDu3UIJ_4Y9Wt-89SQiF8-GQSmSWxjBpGovUgfe3zlKRPhs0bV-jDUlYv2ucJyfVImP7yNOmYLWp7botLnRbqKrmGcTHpzT6jBrRCzAvwgrLLJm23czXaa-Vus/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpb-UHVaNHfSI3tR3YsyDu3UIJ_4Y9Wt-89SQiF8-GQSmSWxjBpGovUgfe3zlKRPhs0bV-jDUlYv2ucJyfVImP7yNOmYLWp7botLnRbqKrmGcTHpzT6jBrRCzAvwgrLLJm23czXaa-Vus/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Caught "white" handed ... it was apparently snowing tissues</div>
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Today I had the girls all to myself and I was not looking forward to figuring out what to do with them in this heat. So I packed some snacks and some hats and drove towards Tahoe. <br />
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I found a little hole in the wall spot that we basically had all to ourselves. The girls had a blast and we stayed cool. Can't beat that. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9g7NQbvoDNeLjKQm4y2Gzt97CMkEJHBuWN8UMHesRVFKQ2zwZFoW0-BnqMhZzxGKk_FgA_e4ZV71CwzqOb2TGyrKItHZVnuN-x2AfQDntREehtMQJnz9ty63oIRBFX7CXs-XqXWQ33c/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9g7NQbvoDNeLjKQm4y2Gzt97CMkEJHBuWN8UMHesRVFKQ2zwZFoW0-BnqMhZzxGKk_FgA_e4ZV71CwzqOb2TGyrKItHZVnuN-x2AfQDntREehtMQJnz9ty63oIRBFX7CXs-XqXWQ33c/s320/022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Peanut had fun</div>
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Squeaker had fun ...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TSReTflwls25IAmJwmHA13NeexebDiimOhTrSYcLzs8BC1Hep51u39NAZQZbfEaGeQsHGZTTZv3SbGDuGYa2JxgU4RUvANvXyAQ7g_qIX4wTUHa1EydNZtKsJk1UnoZX5XJuQUFvfxQ/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TSReTflwls25IAmJwmHA13NeexebDiimOhTrSYcLzs8BC1Hep51u39NAZQZbfEaGeQsHGZTTZv3SbGDuGYa2JxgU4RUvANvXyAQ7g_qIX4wTUHa1EydNZtKsJk1UnoZX5XJuQUFvfxQ/s320/031.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Squeaker really had fun! </div>
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It was a great day. A very muddy, sandy and wet day but everyone had fun. When we arrived home the three of us jumped into the pool to cool and wash ourselves off. </div>
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I love summer days. </div>
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<br />trailmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05989462989068742386noreply@blogger.com0