If You Aren't Laughing; You Aren't Living

NEW BLOG!!!!

2010-09-15T08:48:00.002-05:00

Since I haven't updated this in ages....and I have a new focus for a blog (rather than just rambling)... here's my new blog home:

http://triandfinish.blogspot.com/

Add it to your favorites, follow me... give me some lovin'

New Giveaway -

2010-04-05T14:06:00.000-05:00

Yay for giveaways.... go to The Red Chair Blog and sign up for a super fun giveaway from CSN Stores!

Good Luck!

I swear I'm not dead...

2010-04-01T15:51:00.000-05:00

So it appears that I am THE worst blogger ever. My whole 365 pictures in 365 days was a flop.

Not too much going on around here.... I'm thinking about putting my house on the market this summer. I've been there 5 years (crazy how time flies) and ready for something new, different and BIGGER! How a single girl living by herself can outgrow a house doesn't make much sense...but it's happened.

GW2010 was a few weeks ago and it was so fun! I love my girls! Here are some pics just for fun!

Happy Easter y'all :) What a wonderful time of year!

Kristin and Me!

Newbs, Cayla, Me and Ciearra

Amber came to visit on St. Patty's day!

St. Patty's day!

Who loves a give away ? I DO I DO!!

2010-02-24T09:31:00.000-06:00

My fellow blogger at JUST ADD WALTER is doing a super cool giveaway..... go check it out

Not Me Monday - P365 D4

2010-02-08T12:07:00.000-06:00

MckMama has a Monday dealy where she does "Not Me Monday" - a time to confess what you DID NOT (sense sarcasm) over the last week...here it goes:

I did not sit around in my pajamas all day on Saturday not once showering (until 10:30pm) and NEVER put on a bra.

I did not leave the house wearing said pj's, sans bra, and houseshoes to try and catch Time Warner Cable office before it closed. Nope....I'm way more classy than that. Where were my rollers?

I did not almost cry when I made it to the TWC office and they told me "sorry we are closed"..I'm not THAT emotional.

I did not make my darling roommate walk around Lowes looking for curtains and curtain rods... not me I know he's way more manly than that.

I did NOT just go into the bathroom at work and sit there for five minutes b/c it's the warmest place in the building and my office is freezing...WHO WOULD DO THAT? Gross!

I do not hope that this day is over...b/c it is glorious ...sense sarcasm here...

P365 Day 4 - I wish I was here today: Kona, Hawaii....

Project 365 day 2 and 3

2010-02-07T19:33:00.000-06:00

I'm horrible about blogging on the weekends....

This weekend was great! Friday I went to Ft. worth and saw Joey Green (check him out - he's an up and coming coutnry artist that is sooo good)...

Saturday I slept in and laid around the house all day and did some house projects....

Today I went to church for an AWESOME sermon...sometimes I swear I get out of bed and go to church and it is like I'm meant to be there.

So a great weekend all together :)

P365 D2...my sweatpants.... I laid in around these all day on Saturday...until 10pm when I decided to take a hot bubble bath and put on some clean pj pants....

P365 D3.... Bent Tree Bible Fellowship.... when I go on Sundays... which I'm trying to go more...this is where I go.....Love the minister Pete...

Project 365 day 1

2010-02-05T12:54:00.000-06:00

I was reading through blogs today, yes I know I should be working...but it's Friday, I'm tired and maybe a little hungover....and found Project365.

The 365 project aims to collect photos documenting 1 year of your life. So you can build a picture of the little day to day things that make your life so special and unique. Everyone can take part and join in! All you need is a camera.

So I thought...what the hey.... why not right?

So today...my donut and Diet Coke...it's one of "Those" days...

Have a wonderful weekend!!!!!!

Comments...

2010-02-03T09:44:00.001-06:00

Comments are back up and working....if you've tried to comment and haven't been able too..you can now!!

YIPPEE!!!

LA update coming soon......

Simple Pleasures...

2010-02-01T10:13:00.002-06:00

Christy (click the link for her blog) blogged about her 10 simple pleasures..... I figured it would be a nice update.... (since I am rapidly becoming the world's worst blogger). I agree with Christy - friends/family aren't included b/c they are WAAAYYY more than simple pleasures...

1. Chocolate - it is smooth, sweet, and makes me feel better in ANY situation...even after I've gorged myself at a dinner such as Texas de Brazil.....

2. Reality TV - Typically watched with something chocolate in hand.... mindless entertainment after I've racked my brain all day at work fixing other peoples problems

3. My running shoes (or bike shoes)..... thankful every day to have two legs and two feet to be able to swim.bike.run and I know every time I put them on in just a few hours (and a few thousand calories later) I'm going to feel better and probably have forgotten about whatever was bothering me that day.

4. Vodka/Rebull - delicious and needs no explanation (you can also throw in any kind of red wine here)

5. Girls Trips - plain and simple a necessity...

6. Deuce..... my loyal companion who is ALWAYS happy to see me, never talks back and loves me always :)

7. Reckless Kelly, Joey Green, or any tune really - I can bust out my AWESOME singing voice and jump around like a maniac ... secretly wishing that I had a AWESOME singing voice b/c I think I could be an awesome rocker

8. Hugs.... nothing like a good old fashion bear hug when you need one the most

9. Automatic windows....

10. Toilet paper....where would be without it

What are yours?

2010? When did 2010 get here?

2010-01-07T10:47:00.003-06:00

So - I realized today that I get really frustrated when people don't update their blogs but I've become THE WORST BLOG UPDATER EVER!!!

It's been over a month!!!! (Not that I get that many hits anyway - but still)

December 2009 -

December 2 - surgery day on my shoulder. I was initially diagnosed with a torn labrum (see here) but when the dr. cut me open and took a look I ended up having a labral tear, a rotator cuff tear, decompression, and bone spurs. So needless to say more was going on in there than we thought.

The surgery lasted 2.5 hours and I was completely knocked out. It was arthroscopic which was great considering all the new stuff that was discovered. I was terrified that they would have to completely cut my arm open - but thank GOD that didn't happen!

I remember everything up to laying down on the OR table. I remember my anesthesiologist adjusting me on the table and putting on the mask - after that I woke up a few hours later with a huge dressing and sling, a nerve block (which was AWESOME) , and a scratchy throat from the tube they put down my throat.

My post-op nurse said that I was the calmest patient she's had waking up from anesthesia. Apparently people get real pissed off when they wake up - but I was calm and smiling (go figure).

So Mom was there to take me home and nurse me back to health. I was great surgery day. The nerve block stayed on for around 24 hours so I felt nothing until til Day 2 late afternoon!

I did get a little nauseous when I tried to stand up to fast at the surgery center but they gave me some nausea medicine and some pain medicine and I was good.

I took my pain pills through the first week. Monday of the following week was the last time I took any. (I was VERY proud of myself...maybe I have higher pain tolerance than I thought)

My post-op visit with the dr. on December 8 went well. I had my stitches removed and he told me to start some stretches in the shower. (That hurt like a bitch)

I went back on Dec. 29 for my three week follow up after my stitches were removed and I was able to get out of my sling completely! YAY!!!!! and start PT (YAY and OUCH!).

I started PT on Dec. 31. It wasn't as bad as I thought.....

I was back in the gym three weeks after my surgery day - to the date. No running because of the jarring (and I was still in the sling) but I did the EFX and the stair climber... plus some lunges. It felt so good to be back!!!

The 26th I was back on my bike(on my trainer of course, that I had gotten for Christmas)... I rode for a while but realized it was REALLY hard to keep my balance on my bike with a sling.. even stationary.

I've ridden a few times on my trainer but not too terribly hard, not pushing it because it still hurts to extend my shoulder to riding position. I can ride fine sitting up with my hands on my hips (if you can picture that) but that's not very intense.

I started running again last week. Man - have I lost endurance. A 5K about killed me... I remember the days last spring when that was a warm up :)

I started swimming yesterday - not easy and not freestyle. Definitely a 1/2 breaststroke. I say 1/2 because it is still hard to fully extend. I kinda looked like I was drowning I bet. People were probably laughing. Oh well.... I have scars so suck it.

After my swim I did cardio for an hour - I was at the gym 2 hours yesterday - man that felt good! It helps they opened a brand new gym that I LOVE!! all brand new equipment, mini screens on the cardio equipment, etc... it's just NICE - plus towel service which is a HUGE PLUS to me b/c I always forget towels...sigh

So I'm getting back in the swing of things... faster than I thought. At one point it was sixteen weeks before I could even THINK about swimming and now I'm doing it 5 weeks post op. YAY!!! Still no weight lifting... but that's ok - this gives me time to focus on my endurance and cardio.

December was busy trying to recoup and get back in the swing of the things. I took the week between Christmas an New Year's off (which was glorious!!). Sarah was here for that week and it was GREAT to spend time with her.

January so far has been all about catching up on work.... taking a week off at the holidays I thought wouldn't be so bad but clearly people still work (not as much..but still). I had emails piling up and my to do list was up to nearly 100 items. I've worked it down to 45 in 4 days. Not too shabby :)

Other than that things are same 'ole same 'ole.....

I'm ready for Girls weekend in march.... but then again I'm always ready for vacation!!!!!!!

My new year's resolution -

update my blog more...but that would mean I would have to have an exciting life so I have something to write about....so

NYR #2 - get a life :)

Oh little bloggy - what has happened??

2009-11-30T14:36:00.002-06:00

I've forgotten about you!

This is the big week - surgery week.

I'm nervous, scared and anxious.... I've been reading a lot on line about my surgery and it looks like it could take up to 12 months to fully regain 100% strength in my shoulder. But each case I've read, each patient has said totally worth it.

I'm nervous about the anesthesia (more so about vomiting after) and also that for some reason it won't work on me and I'll feel everything.

I'm scared because well...it's surgery

And I'm anxious to get it over with and be back to normal life with no pain. It's been killing me lately but that's probably because I unloaded all my Christmas decorations from the attic by myself and moved a 500 pound piano by myself. I also moved a bed and an inversion table.... maybe I should have asked for help.... oh well too late now.

I'm not looking forward to being out of commission for a few days. From reading it looks like pain meds are going to be a definite for the first 3-4 days. Pain meds make me soo sleepy so I'll probably just be lazy through the weekend. I'm hoping to get back up and working on Monday, at least from home if nothing else, and be driving the following week.

PT should start a few weeks post op....

Come by and see me... I'm sure I'll be in my Rx la-la-land but always enjoy the company!

Have a Happy Monday!

Pic of the week....

2009-11-19T10:45:00.003-06:00

I'm sure you are all wondering why I have a picture of a shoulder with an area that's highlighted in yellow.... that yellow part on my shoulder is completely torn from front to back (or from 3 o'clock position to the 9 o'clock position in medical terms)

I also have a frayed rotator cuff....

All of which will have to be repaired on December 2 when I have surgery.

I have NEVER had surgery in my life; minus my wisdom teeth being taken out which doesn't really count.

It will be arthroscopic, a 2 hour procedure.... my Ortho will repair the torn labrum and rotator cuff and I'll be on my way.

Over the last few weeks my shoulder has been really bothering me... I was swimming in the pool at the gym about 2 weeks ago and heard a loud pop... it hurt but I kept on swimming. I called our family ortho the next day and scheduled an appt for last week. He sent me to have an MRI last week which showed all the tears and frays... awesome.

This is the same shoulder I hurt in 6th grade when I dislocated it rolling down a hill at the Dallas convention center during a church trip. Apparently if you have a dislocation before the age of 16 you have a 90% higher chance of having a second dislocation later in life. So I've pretty much had a "loose shoulder" since then. But it has been exacerbated over the last year since I've been swimming so much.

Apparently this injury is most common in baseball pitchers...

Anyway - say a few prayers for me in two weeks when I go under the knife...

Happy Thursday!

November 18, 1999

2009-11-18T09:49:00.005-06:00

November 18 holds a very sad place in many Aggies hearts.

It was on this day that Bonfire fell at 2:42am and 12 Aggies lost their lives.

I was not on campus on 11.18.99 nor was I in College Station - I was at home in Lewisville; folding laundry at nearly 3:00am when I saw the news come on that Bonfire had fallen. I was a freshman at UNT - only a few months prior I had forgone my acceptance to A&M to stay home because I was not ready to leave home just yet.

Many of my now best friends were on campus that day and have recounted their stories to me many of times. From hearing the sirens in the dorms to running out on the polo fields and attending the candlelight vigil.

I remember distinctly trying to get ahold of a boy I had dated in high school. He was in the Corps at A&M and I knew there was a possibility of him being on stack that night. I wasn't sure when his outfit was going to be out there but I remember thinking "Oh my God he could be there."

I never saw a Bonfire burn but I know the special place it holds in my heart as an Aggie tradition and a legacy of the 'Ole Army Days.

I love Texas A&M and today I think about all the history, tradition, and wonderful times I had there. I also remember the 12 that lost their lives on stack that day and say a prayer for each and everyone of them and their families.

We Will Never Forget....

I heart Ellen...

2009-11-16T09:35:00.001-06:00

This will make your Monday... sorry I missed the pic of the week last week...this should make up for it!

Go Watch...

2009-11-10T17:33:00.000-06:00

THIS VIDEO

and...

THIS VIDEO

leave comments....send the links to friends... win my friends some $

Pic of the week...and some super excitement

2009-11-05T09:29:00.003-06:00

Pic of the week:

My dear friend, a partner in crime, Karen - laid out in her kitchen with trash all over her. By far the funniest, and most entertaining part of my Halloween evening....

Just thought you may need a good laugh on this Thursday - LOVE YOU KAREN!!!

Super excitement today because Sarah is coming into town!! YAY!!! She gets here in just about one hour!!!

Can I tell you how much I LOVE November...

2009-11-03T13:35:00.003-06:00

Almost as much as I love DECEMBER!!!

I seriously love this time of year - the weather, the food, the holidays, EVERYTHING!! My goodness I get so excited!!!

This weekend is my 10 year reunion, the following weekend is C's bday weekend, then the Baylor/A&M Game with the Castleberry/Bland Clan, THEN THANKSGIVING!!!

This month is going to FLY by!!!! Before you know it will be my most favorite time.... decorating for Christmas :) whoo-hooooooo

I'm thinking about changing my Christmas theme this year - my tree is traditionally gold and white.... very sleek and pretty (and I only get REAL trees)

I'm thinking something different this year - I LOVE my grandmother's santa clause collection I have so I'm thinking about doing a red/green tree with Santa influence... but I also LOVE LOVE LOVE a peppermint tree.... Garden Ridge - watch out HERE I COME!!!

Halloween Weekend...

2009-11-02T14:48:00.006-06:00

What a weekend... So FUN!!!

Friday night I kept my precious Shelby while Nick coached and Paige attended the Garland H.S. homecoming. Shelby and I had so much fun playing and reading and eating and just spending time together!

Sweet girl fell asleep in my lap while reading her Pumpkin Halloween book.... I wasn't going to see her on Saturday so I put her costume on her Friday so I could take pictures... she is just about THE cutest kitty-kat you ever did see...don't you think???

*Don't mind her crazy hair - we had been playing hard!*

Her cute little black tutu and tail :)

Precious is the one word I can use to describe her.... Love her to pieces!!!

Saturday was packed with errands and cooking - and then C&K Halloween Fantasy Factory... so fun! Everyone was dressed up and we had a blast....

.... I was Tina Turner for 1/2 the night and Ciearra for the other 1/2... my costume wasn't very comfortable after a few ~~beers~~ (I mean red bull and vodkas) and one too many pizza rolls.... Ciearra's drawers were WAY to accessible so I helped myself to sweat pants and a hoodie...Thanks C!!!!

~~Coop~~ Spiderman came over to Karen's to trick or treat....

Mario and Julie were the men and womens bathroom signs... HILARIOUS!!!

Octomom and Bob Lumberg - a.k.a. - Pat and Zoe

Roomie pic - me (Tina Turner), Tommy (old civil war guy) and Deuce...

Balloon Boy Karen and Me.... I mean Tina

We had so much fun.... hint for Thursday - pic of the week - involves Karen, the Kitchen and a possible dog pile..... Munch on that for a while.... :)

Pic of the week....

2009-10-29T13:07:00.003-05:00

At the Challenge last weekend they had all these boxes of chalk for kids and spectators to write things on the concrete with at the finish lines and through the course of the race. They were giving the chalk away also to take home... and since my new home project was chalk board/magnetic section of a wall in my kitchen I took some... but not before leaving my mark on LS'09...

I love you Jess - and miss you every single day.

Livestrong Challenge Picture Overload...

2009-10-27T09:39:00.013-05:00

I thought I should dedicate a post solely to the pictures we took over the weekend... you can read the recap HERE

Before the Race - so early it was still dark :)

In front of the capitol

Our whole group...

Dave and Della

Newbs and Zeke

Cay and Newbie

Cayla....

After the 5K - Cayla, Newbie and Me

Newbie and Me after the 5K

Holding our posters of our bf we share....

He loves me more :) j/k

Zeke, Papa and Mama Newbie, and Newbie

The 5Ker's... (minus Ciearra's momma)

Just us girls :) Ciearra, Della, Newbie, Cayla and Me

Newbie and Zeke

Cayla, Newbs and Zeke after finishing

Before the race in the staging area

We look so serious...

Headed out for the ride

Lance Armstrong finishing the 90 miler

Me, Newbie, Ciearra, and Cayla after the ride

Me finishing the ride

Newbie crossing the finish line

Ciearra after just finishing

My Favorites....

AH - MAZING.....

2009-10-26T12:51:00.011-05:00

Is the one single word to describe this past weekends events.

I participated in the LiveStrong Challenge this weekend with a handful of lovely friends - we all united together to raise funds for cancer research and the LAF (Lance Armstrong Foundation) and also take on a physical challenge of running and biking.

If you are not familiar (although I presume most of you are) the LAF is a non profit organization, founded by Lance Armstrong in 1997 that inspires and empowers people affected by cancer.

Just a brief overview (I stole from the website)

The LAF believes that unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything. Read LAF Manifesto here. LAF also provides the practical information and tools that people with cancer need to live life on their own terms and also take aim at the gaps between what is known and what is done to prevent suffering and death due to cancer.

The LAF unites people to fight cancer and pursues an agenda focused on:

Prevention
Access to screening and care
Improvement of the quality of life for cancer survivors
Investment in research

It truly is becoming a passion for me; especially after this last weekend.

To see the community of cancer survivors, individuals who are still fighting the battle, loved ones, care givers, etc was truly amazing. The camaraderie amongst this group of individuals is truly a testament to the impact that cancer and the LAF has had on each person that was there. Cancer, like the LAF, not only affects those that are diagnosed... but all.

We (Cayla, Hunter and I) arrived in Austin late Friday checked into the hotel, visited with Della and Dave, Newbie and Zeke and then headed to bed (we had an early morning).

Saturday morning we arrived at the race site at 6:45ish to pick up our packets and get ready for the 5K. There were over 3,000 people there to participate in the run. The support was also unreal. The streets were lined with supporters, volunteers, friends, family, yellow balloons, signs, etc.... It made running a whole lot more fun for me :) (I hate running remember)

I enjoyed looking around and reading all the signs that were on people's back... let me explain.

At the race start they had a table with little signs you could pin on your shirt that said "In memory of", "In Honor of", and "Survivor". You could take these signs and put the name of the person(s) you were competing for. Most people pinned them on their backs so as you were running you could read who that person was competing in the Challenge for. One little boys said "In Honor of My Mom"... so sweet....

Mine said "In Memory of Jessica Gage Bonesio" (pics to come later)

It made the time pass quite nicely to read these; and also read the shirts of the many teams who had them made. Also very inspiring.

After the 5K we headed for a fantastic post-race breakfast at Austin Java... delish! Then went to the convention center to visit the "LiveStrong Village". The convention center was set up with booths, tables, etc for vendors. (It was basically a vendor-expo). There were all sorts of bike shops, doctors, fitness equipment, cancer centers, etc there advertising and giving free goodies... I loaded up on Aquaphor (which I have an addiction to), cliff blocs and bars, LiveStrong bracelets, and water bottles (seriously every booth was giving out water bottles)

Then we headed back for a much needed nap.... then dinner...

Sunday was the 20 mile bike race and probably the most sobering and awe-inspiring event of the weekend.

The race finish was lined with supporters (again) and yellow balloons - as you came across the finish line they stated your name over the loud speaker and how much money you raised. The lines of people cheering you on was crazy!!! It was so motivating and un real. I just kept thinking... I wish Jess was here to see this!!!

The bike course was hilly (hence the name HILL COUNTRY)... it started at Dripping Springs high school and wove through Dripping Springs... there was a 10mi, 20mi, 45mi, 65mi, and 90mi course. Lance was there... he rode the 90mi. course....pics to come of him coming in from the course.

OMG - speaking of Lance... I totally forgot to tell you that we saw him, up close and personal, on his bike on Saturday riding through downtown... he was literally an arm's length away....so YUM-O :)

The bike start was a little hectic.... we were on about a 15 minute delay...but really didn't start riding until about 1.5miles into the course.... it was so back logged with riders at the start that you ended up walking your bike until it thinned out. It was frustrating.... but it is for such a good cause you couldn't get too upset! We had a hectic morning that morning anyways so we may have all been a little on edge...

Our morning started out just fine... drove 30min. out to the course, parked without hardly any issues. Began getting ready for the ride into the staging area (about a mile or so) then I realized I had lost the car keys. While tearing the car apart and every bag in the car I still couldn't find them.... Cayla realized she had a flat tire on her bike so we had to change that.... meanwhile I'm still looking for the keys. I was about to say "f" it and make Zeke and Hunter look for the keys when I realized that I put them in the pocket of my jersey... seriously Allison??? These pockets are supposed to be handy dandy - but I clearly never use them or else I probably would have checked there first...oops! But we found them and were on our way.

The staging area to the start line was PACKED with riders of all levels, a ton of pros that were riding the 90miler with Lance...I wish I could have been up there to see all of them. Then towards the back were all of us 20milers and 10milers. There were riders of all shapes, sizes, and ages... There was one kid who participated in the 10mile ride that I swear had just taken the training wheels off his bike. There were dads that had the carriers strapped onto their bikes in back with their kids in tow... professionals, grandparents, all sorts of people... all riding for the same cause.

Seriously - you should all join my team next year and participate in this incredible event.

Registration opens December 1 for next year and you bet your ass I will be on that list.... Team Tri for a Cure in full effect!!!

OH AND...THANK YOU THANK YOU TO ALL MY DONORS.... PLEASE SEND ME YOUR ADDRESS; YOU WILL BE RECEIVING SOMETHING EXTRA SPECIAL FROM ME AND OUR TEAM SHORTLY :)

Pics to be posted soon....keep checking back!!!

Pic of the week....

2009-10-22T10:16:00.003-05:00

Well .... it's a video really....

You should go here:
http://www.youtube.com/user/4thCollective

and watch the videos from my friend Nick's Comedy Troupe 4th Collective.

This summer they won the Houston 48 Hour Film Festival with their video Subterfuge (which you can watch by clicking on the You Tube link above or click HERE)

Anyways....enjoy :) Happy Thursday!

Three posts packed into one....

2009-10-19T20:00:00.003-05:00

Pic of the week, Weekend Re-Cap, "Not Me" Monday....

We will start with "NOT ME!" Monday - a forum by which to admit your dirty little secrets... inspired by Erin B and MckMama...

This last week was a whirlwind for me, physically (fighting allergies and onset of flu like symptoms), emotionally (this will remain unsaid), schedule wise... too much to do. So it was not me who said "F" it and hopped on a plane to Houston to escape...and visit with friends and celebrate a wonderful woman's (and second mom) birthday at a surprise birthday party.

It was not me who, at this said birthday party, enjoyed watching a shirtless gentleman jump out of a cardboard cake that Kristin and I constructed from scratch. (description below)

It was not me who stayed a day and a half longer in H-town just because I wasn't ready to come home... and it certainly wasn't me who didn't do half of what I should have done today regarding work initiatives.

It certainly is not me who sits here on the couch and updates her blog and catches up on tv rather than clean and do laundry as she should...

*Not too exciting Not Me's today --- but stay tuned*

Weekend Recap:

As you can tell from above; I was in Houston this weekend. I hopped on the plane Saturday morning and headed south to celebrate Mama Lu's bday. Kristin and Nick had lovingly put together a wonderful surprise bday party for Lu and I was very happy when I was able to make it for her party. I headed out at 8am Saturday and made it to H-town with no problems... Kristin, Nick and I ran errands and got the last minute necessities for the party and then Kristin and I went to work on the cake.

Kristin had this brilliant idea to have a friend of theirs jump out of a cake to surprise her mom at the party; he agreed; but the problem was no one had a pop out cake (go figure). Luckily enough, K&N had enough cardboard to build a shelter out of so we went to work. We constructed the below cake out of cardboard, duct tape, staples, and scotch tape... excellent!

I forgot to mention it took a saw as well

The base of the cake...

Testing the "Popping Out" effect...

The first layer Iced....aka... tablecloth

The second layer iced....

FINISHED...complete with streamers :)

PIC OF THE WEEK:

Cayla and I at U2 - we had so much fun after a major ticket debacle was corrected.

Long story; but the short of it is that we were given counterfeit tickets (unbeknownest to the purchaser) and were kicked out of our seats. We eventually got the issue settled and was able to enjoy the show :) But not after a very irritated Allison and Cayla let them have a piece of our minds :)

I hope you have a wonderful week! I found my camera cord (as you can see) and I will be sure to post a Pic of the week on Thursday -

This weekend is the LiveStrong Challenge :) I am very excited!

U2... Rattle and hum....

2009-10-12T10:36:00.003-05:00

Circa 1988.... I was 7... but I remember this being the first U2 album I owned...

Tonight - I will get to see them LIVE at Cowboy Stadium...

stay tuned for concert/weekend recap.... I'm so excited I can barely stand it :)

***And no worries - I will take my camera!!!!****

Tri #4 - the sunday monsoon...

2009-10-07T18:37:00.001-05:00

Last Sunday was my 4th tri since April - During these last six months I have experienced a tri in the freaking cold, a little rain, a beautiful day .... and Sunday was a monsoon!!!

The race was set to start to 8am (late for a tri start time) transition opened at 6:00am... we arrived at 6ish... already soaking wet from loading our bikes and such...

Needless to say - I was not a happy camper... rain is great when you can lay around in sweatpants all day, watch tv, doze in and out of consciousness while watching movies...however; it is NOT optimal weather to be swimming, biking, and running.

During the pre-race meeting we were told that the bike course was cut short by 7.8 miles due to high water on the low crossings....about 3 1/2 feet of water stood stagnant at one of the crossings...and I'm pretty sure you utilize a bike and not a kayak during tri's :)

So the bike course was 6 miles instead of 13.8.... bummer....

Other than that things went realtively well... swim was good... I had a 6:30 swim time which was way better than what I had been averaging in the pool when I went to swim... I averaged 19mph on the bike (which I was ok with considering the conditions)...and the run was WAY better this time than my last tri (which I sucked).... all and all it was a great race for me.

The rain held off until the beginning of my run when the skies opened and buckets of rain fell on my lovely body as I pounded the pavement. Then it stopped... which was great... except I was carrying pounds of water weight during the rain... hey whatever... beggars can't be choosers!

We took no pictures (it was a monsoon people) so I have no pictures to prove the craziness that was this triathlon.

I did however BUY A CAMERA!!! (not that I had it during the race - clearly!)... So now I can post my very own pictures rather than stealing them. I bought this before my trip to California so go ME!!!!!

No pic of the week this week... I can't find anything good..... check back!

Six Months?

2009-10-04T15:39:00.005-05:00

Six months is a relatively short amount of time; but can crawl by like six years sometimes. Six months is 1/2 of a year, 25 weeks, on average 181 days, 4,344 hours, 260,640 minutes, 15,638,400 seconds.... doesn't seem like much when you break it down....

I started thinking today about the last six months and what I have accomplished, been through, learned, etc... begins my OCD bulleted list :)

* Competed in my first triathlon
* Since have competed and completed 4
*April, July, August and October (recap coming soon)

* Lost and kept off 25 pounds

*Experienced a pain unlike any other in the loss of my best friend - made it through it but still feel the pain everyday

*Seen one of my dearest friends get married...

*was involved in two car accidents in 28 days... sorry again Erinn :)

* went to Hawaii on an amazing vacation (Thanks Castleberry/Bland clan)

*Raised nearly $1,000 for cancer research between the LiveStrong foundation and the National Brain Tumor Society

* Learned that every experiences matters. You never know when they will be taken away. It is these experiences, no matter how painful, sucky, etc, that make us who we are and shape us into the human being we are.

*Learned that my nieces and nephew grow up too fast... Kaylee turned 9 and started 3rd grade, Shelby turned 1, Cooper turned 3 (outside of the six month mark)....

* Crashed my bike a few times.... but through those provided many laughs for my friends and hey that's what life is about laughing!!!

*logged more airline miles in six months than i ever thought possible....

I'm sure many many more things have happened in the last six months... but these just popped into my head... what does six months mean to you? what have you done? or what will you do?

Life should be a beach (all the time)

2009-10-01T14:24:00.003-05:00

It's pic of the week day.... are you excited???

My pic this week is the view that I woke up to for three beautiful mornings in California. Sitting out on the terrace of our hotel room, drinking coffee, and enjoying a cool morning on the beach is not too shabby my friends. If I could do it every single day I would. I seriously fell in love with the beach town of Hermosa Beach... too bad houses on the strand where we stayed range from a cool 2 million to around 7 million.... OUCH!!

Always, Sometimes, Never....

2009-09-28T13:34:00.004-05:00

I took this off my friend Kristin's blog...

What is Always, Sometimes, and Never to you?

I always...
- Use too many ellipses while typing an email, writing a blog, etc...
- Give my nieces and nephews kisses and hugs no matter how old they get
- Go shopping for a new outfit before any event
- Remember to tell people I love them (you never know when that will be taken away)
- Thank God everyday
- Want chocolate...or ice cream... or any dessert really
- Try and remember that no matter how unmotivated I am a workout is good for me
- Find a way to laugh....no matter the situation
- Have coffee Monday - Friday (and sometimes on Saturday and Sunday)
- Find the time and money for a mani/pedi
- Look for the brighter side

I Sometimes....
- Let my laundry pile up ... dirty, clean... either one
- Hold back emotion because I should be strong
- Skip the gym...even though I always know a workout is good :)
- Indulge in an appetizer, dinner, and dessert...
- Snort when I laugh
- Take vitamins
- Wonder what life would be like if one decision was different
- Daydream...
- Break the rules and wear flip flops to work (like today)
- Purposefully don't answer my phone...
- Wish I didn't have to work

I Never...
- Take life for granted
- Forget to tivo an important show (i.e. anything reality, grey's,)
- Eat sour cream, mushrooms, or olives
- Will stop loving thunder storms
- Will stop loving the color pink
- Put gas in my car when the light comes on... I always have a few more miles to go
- Want to stop learning
- Want to stop having firsts
- Want my friends or family to doubt that I love and appreciate them
- Water my yard....
- Wake up when my alarm goes off.... There is a snooze button for a reason

I get hurt so you don't have too...part 3!

2009-09-23T22:30:00.007-05:00

This sees to be a reoccurring theme on my blog.... remember HERE and HERE...

Last Sunday - Cayla, Tommy and I went to have a serious bike ride on the Trinity Trail. I hadn't been on my bike since my last tri the end of August (approx. 3 wks). We rode 22 miles from Ft. Worth to Benbrook and back (22 total).

It was a GREAT ride... we had a nice flat road to work some sprints, a few biatch of hills to work on strength, and subsequently super fun downhills (which are my fav.) all in all it was good ride.

About half way through the ride we stopped and saw the space shuttle being piggy- backed over an airplane... it flew right over us! It was so cool - it was flying from CA to FL and stopped in Ft. Worth at the base. It was amazing!! I had never seen a space shuttle before!!!!

Anyway - I digress....

With about 2 miles left in our ride we were on the home stretch. If you are not familiar the Trinity Trail is a little wider than a sidewalk...but wide enough to ride single file and have riders riding both ways. So we were riding single file.. Cay, Tommy, then me... when this group of riders (3) ... who i'm convinced thought they were "professional" ... were coming up on our left going the opposite direction of us.

The douche bag in the back of the pack, thought he would be cute and try to pass his friends but waited too long and for me to avoid hitting him head on I tried to ride the side of the trail. He missed his passing opportunity and hit me.... and knocked me off my bike. I fell straight flat dab on the concrete.... and yell a very loud explicative that starts with an "f" and rhymes with sucker....

I got up...pissed and now bleeding on my white handle bar tape..... and continued riding. Maybe 45 seconds passed and the douchey "professional" biker road up behind me and asked if I was ok. Here is our dialogue...

DoucheyBikerGuy: "Are you Ok"
Me: "yes"

DoucheyBikerGuy: "Are you sure; you have a strawberry on your arm?"
Me: "yes; I am fine"

DoucheyBikerGuy: "are you sure; you are bleeding"
Me: (in a majorly irritated tone) 'yes; if I wasn't I wouldn't be back on my bike"

DoucheyBikerGuy: "i'm sorry - I was just day dreaming out here... it's a nice day"
Me: "have a nice ride"

I quickly picked up my speed and got away from him because if I did not get away I was going to wrap my bike around his neck and throw him on the concrete.

I was so mad. Who "daydreams" while operating a moving vehicle!! I know it isn't a car or anything but someone could have been seriously hurt... what if I was a little kid??? There were plenty of little kids on the trail that day and he could have plowed over any one of them.

I was ticked... .and I still am to tell you the truth.

Anyway - here are some pictures I took tonight of my injuries.

The palm of my left hand is scraped and grossly bruised (you can't tell from the picture.. but it's green/yellowish now)

My left knee is scraped up... and I have a bruise on my hip.... I didn't take a picture of the hip bruise because honestly it's more on my arse and I don't want to plaster pics of my arse on the internet....

oh and my left elbow is all scraped up and has strawberries (or raspberries...which ever...)

Hand

Hand pic #2

Elbow....

Elbow #2

Knee...

Dallas-Ft. Worth Brain Tumor Walk:

2009-09-21T21:16:00.002-05:00

Dallas-Ft. Worth Brain Tumor Walk:

Shared via AddThis

NBTS Angel Adventure Walk

2009-09-21T15:30:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!

I'm so excited to announce that Juli Gage (Jess' sister) has started a team for the Angel Adventure walk in Ft. Worth on November 7.

This team is going to walk in memory of Jess' and also to help support those that are fighting brain tumors currently and remembering those who have bravely fought before us as well as celebrating with the survivors of this disease.

The walk will be held on November 7 at Trinity Park in Ft. Worth. What an amazing event last year this was supporting Jess and all of the other brave fighters, survivors, family members, friends and supporters!

Click this LINK to donate, join the team, and show your support!

Thank you for all your love and support!

Another week down...

2009-09-18T16:50:00.006-05:00

This week was good (but honestly looking forward to it being over). I was in Seattle for work Wed./Thurs. I love Seattle - I hope I can go back and visit for fun soon. It's such a great city.

I did sit next to a very interesting and functioning alcoholic on the plane on the way to SeaTac. She was downing crown and water like she hadn't had anything to drink in days...and boy did you smell it and experience it. She kept asking me to read her book, listen to her music, she asked 4 times where I was going and where I was from. She angrily told me I had that "white collar kind of work" she only had "blue collar kind of job". She worked for the airline I was flying and I have serious doubts about flying them again if she is the one working on the tarmac. Sylvia if you stumble across this and you remember sitting next to a blonde who you thoroughly annoyed.... maybe it's time for an intervention.

I should have taken a pic of her for the pic of the week.

Instead: here it is.....

My precious oldest niece Kaylee...

She is going to be NINE tomorrow!! I can't believe it.

Kaylee - Happy birthday my love - I love you more than you will ever know!!!!

I need to dedicate a post to Shelby..... wait and see....

Happy Friday!!

Fall TV makes me happy....

2009-09-10T14:38:00.006-05:00

I have said numerous times to numerous people... I am addicted to TV.... reality, sitcoms, movies, HGTV, Food network, anything.... I simply love TV.

So this time of year not only does it make me happy to be entering into the Fall Season (even though we really don't have "seasons" in Texas)... I am super excited. This is my favorite season.... for multiple reasons...

* cooler weather - By this time of the year I am so damn tired of 100 degree days.... My tan has worn off b/c I'm no longer in the sun, taking vacation, or tanning at Palm Beach

*Better wardrobe... I love dressing in the fall... Saturdays and Sundays consist of my A&M jersey and my Romo jersey - which makes me really happy with a pair of ripped up skinny jeans (see them HERE). Not to mention winter/fall clothes are soooo much cuter than summer clothes... I will miss my cotton dresses that I live in during the summer but I'll throw a pair of leggings on and some cute boots and call it a day :)

*Football Season - enough said... laying around on a Saturday watching endless college football makes me happy. Not to mention I look forward to Lee Corso choosing the mascot head for his pick that week.....and then I love love love to watch my Cowboys on Sundays... you can't beat that :)

* Closer to Christmas and Thanksgiving - the holidays are my MOST favorite time of the year so by September I'm ready to eat turkey, ham and all the fixings :)

*and..... FALL TV - which makes me equally happy as football....

sooooo for the pic of the week this week..... here are some of the shows I will be rotting my brain away to over the next few months :)

Bros. and Sisters - one of the greatest shows on television....

Biggest Loser - my secret motivation for all things "gym" - except I do normally watch it with some type of dessert in hand... :(

My nerd show.... and I love that Sheldon (arguably one of my favorite characters) is from East Texas...

TV brilliance at it's best... if you don't watch this show you should... FX Thursday nights

An MTV favorite - along with the Hills (shown below) and Real World/Road Rules Challenges... even though now the challenges are just mainly RW b/c they don't even do RR anymore... I love Whitney Port... even though she makes questionable fashion choices (in my opinion)...she super hot and could wear a garbage bag and look good

An old Reality TV favorite of mine... going strong now for what seems like 100 seasons. I love me some Jeff Probst and this is the one reality show I have NO desire to be on. I know I couldn't hack it and don't want to pretend I could. However, I wouldn't mind having the Survivor diet and coming home super skinny....

A Thursday favorite as well.... Love me some Addison Montgomery Shepard...

Another great sitcom that you should watch.... Barney Stinson (Doogie) is the best character on this show and will make you laugh until you cry

Grey's...need I say more?

I only order Showtime when Dexter is on.... it's that good that I'll budget in $24.99 for one TV show... I can't wait till the end of the season and buy it on I-tunes... I have to know what is happening when it's happening... but it does creep me out that Dex married his sister on the show in real life... I just can't get it out of my head... DUDE it's your SISTER

The Hills.... an endulgence I am not ready to give up.....now that LC is gone.. Kristin is going to bring the drama and I can't wait :)

I am sad to see Big Brother end next week.... I could go on and on about that show (and probably dedicate a kick a$$ blog to BB12 next year)...this however is one reality TV show I know I could win... and should totally try out next year.

Other shows on my tivo: Amazing Race (another one I think I could do exceptionally well at), Desperate Housewives, Accidentally on Purpose - new this year, The Good Wife (new as well), Law and Order SVU, America's Next Top Model, So You Think You Can Dance, and the Rachel Zoe Project.

I hope you enjoy your fall tv as much as me.... :)

Happy Thursday!!!!!

My life in pictures would be much better than words...

2009-09-09T14:40:00.006-05:00

I've decided that I should start taking more pictures rather than stealing all the lovely pictures my friends take. I think my life would be better described that way...

To do this would involve two things:

#1 A camera - which I need to purchase... if you remember, I think I posted somewhere about my inability to hold a camera correctly after a night of drinking. At Kristin's bach. party I dropped it and broke it....oopsie

#2 The mind to remember to bring said camera on trips, outings, etc.

I also should probably throw in a 3rd thing and say a camera case.... maybe this would aid in helping not break every camera I've owned.

Anyway - I digress....

I had a lovely weekend in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. It was fabulous ....

I was wishing today I had a camera for a few reasons... which gave me the hankering for the title of this post...

I was wishing I had taken pictures of my super awesome packing job. Normally a 5 day trip would surely involve me checking a bag; but I fit all my stuff in a carry on size bag. That is right... a carry on....

My Hawaii trip including a rather large suitcase...fully equipped with 49 pounds of endless "necessities"... everything from 6 bathing suits...to a hair straightener...5 pairs of flip flops, running shoes, 15 (i think) dresses, etc... you get the picture. I was supremely made fun of for my lack of efficient packing skills. *on a side note * Della and i went to NYC for Spring Break our senior year in college and I packed everything... including, hooker boots, jeans, sweatshirts, and a jacket in a carry on. So somewhere between college and now I have lost my inherent ability to be a compact packer. Maybe I am on the upswing with this last packing job....

My suitcase for my Baton Rouge weekend included .. I'm recalling from memory (see it would be better with a picture) 2 pairs of jeans, 1 pair of sear-sucker pants, 1 pair of loungy pants, 5 dresses (and then I purchased two more while I was there ... so 5 on the way there... 7 on the way back), 2 pairs of flip flops, 1 pair of running shoes, a pair of wedges, 3 sets of work out clothes, 2 sets of PJ's, a few tshirts, a few cute tops to go with jeans, socks, undies, bras, hair straightener, hair dryer, clutch purse, jewelry, toothbrush, bathroom necessities (all packed in a zip loc for security), and 2 cami's. ... see i did good :)

You should have seen how tightly rolled and meticulously placed these items were....it looked like I had a serious case of OCD..but it all got there and back and didn't cost me $50 to check :)

When I got home I had my new pair of shoes from ShoeDazzle waiting for me. ShoeDazzle is my shoe of the month club (the best invention ever)... i should dedicate a blog to the wonderfulness that is ShoeDazzle :) As I was talking to Erinn today she said...oooo send me a picture (b/c of course I'm wearing them today)... good idea E..except no camera .... I guess I have one on my phone but eh...it's never the same quality.

My shoes are fabulous by the way....

Anyways - I know this is a bit of a random post but seriously life is much better told through pictures than words!

Whoo hooo It's Friday :)

2009-09-02T20:46:00.003-05:00

Not too much to update this week: just a normal run of the mill week.... I'm in Baton Rouge today... I came in last night and had a lovely welcoming! It's great to be here (finally) :)

Sorry for no pic of the week this week... I just couldn't find anything that "struck" me....

But hopefully I'll have some good ones for next week after my trip here in Baton Rouge...

I hope you all have a wonderful and SAFE holiday weekend.... I'm off to shop and celebrate a special person's bday...oh and that pesky little thing called work... I have to do that too....at least for a little bit today!!

Have a great weekend!

The many faces of Cooper Webb.....

2009-08-27T22:48:00.005-05:00

Erin... Here you go... the pic of the week!

sorry it's Friday and it should have been up yesterday...BUT ... I was super busy at work :)

My newphew Cooper cracks me up! Here is a series of pics from the funny faces he makes...

My precious.....

I know I know...

2009-08-25T11:48:00.006-05:00

You are saying to yourself "Allison...where have you been!!!" j/k j/k

I have been here...just super busy :)

Last weekend marked completion of Tri #3.... I was not looking forward to this one AT ALL!!! In fact, I pretended to hurt myself on Saturday but it didn't work....

Let me explain why I pretended to hurt myself.... the bike course. I drove the course on Saturday afternoon... it was 14 miles of rolling hills. Good thing I had Dolce b/c I never could have come close to finishing that course on the old bike. I might have finished eventually but there would have been NO way I could have walked the next day.

I normally do all these fancy schmancy write ups after my tri's but I'm not feeling it this time. So I'll give you the basics... 300meter pool swim (loved it.... hate open water), 14 mile bitch of a bike (loved it...and hated it all at the same time), 3 mile run (hated it...b/c i hate running supremely)

This was Newbie's first tri, my 3rd and Cay's 4th.... It was an awesome experience again (as it always is after the fact) and I'm so proud every time I finish one of these it makes me not ever want to stop :)

Until Tomorrow.... it's pic of the week day you know!!!

Dolce...

2009-08-17T09:58:00.006-05:00

I finally bit the bullet and bought my new bike... Her name is Dolce :)

I took her for a spin on Saturday morning and we are already in love.... a relationship made at Plano Cycling and Fitness on Friday, August 14 :)

I love her... and so does my body...

Hawa-ii

2009-08-13T10:40:00.005-05:00

All I can say is "WOW" and "THANK YOU CASTLEBERRY'S :)"

Hawaii was amazing! We had an awesome trip! Would you like a re-cap.... ahhh why not :) We can start on Monday, August 3...

Monday night - Cayla came over and stayed with me since we had an early flight on Tuesday morning. We were going to drive to the airport and drop the rental that I had from my wreck and then head to the gate for our flight. I packed and Karen came over for a visit..... we ended up at the bar. OOPS :) We went to Scooters (an ole fav...but now kind of scary on a Monday night) then to Fox and Hound for some frosty beverages to start off our vacay!!! We got home and crashed...and set the alarm for 6am :( ick...not fun after you've been drinking...but ok b/c it marked vacation starting!

Tuesday - 7:30ish am.... arrive at the terminal to check in.... my bag weighed 49 pounds...enough said. You could ask "Allison, how did your bag weigh 49 pounds when you are going to a destination that could possibly require the least amount of close short of being naked..." My answer... "I'm a SERIOUS overpacker"

Tuesday - 8:30am - flight departs for Phoenix
Tuesday - 10:45ish - arrive in Phoenix
Tuesday - noon ish - depart for Kuai
LOST TRACK OF TIME AT THIS POINT....

arrive in Kuai - depart for Honolulu - arrive in Honolulu - depart for Kona - arrive in Kona (9:15is pm Hawaii time; 2:15AM Texas time) Total Travel Time = 18 hours....YUCK!!!

While we were in Hawaii we relaxed on the beach, hiked a volcano, snorkeled at one of the top 20 reefs in the world, played at the pool, went to a luau, toured a vanilla farm, visited waterfalls, cooked out excellent fresh fish right off the boat, met some new friends from California, Ohio, and Hawaii, ate alot, drank alot, and relaxed ALOT!!!

It was an amazing trip :) Cayla has posted all of our pics on FB... but here's a sneak preview until I can go steal her's off FB and post here....

Here's a few....

On the plane to our last stop - Kona :)

On the tarmac in Kona - you get off here and used to this is where you would get "leid" due to the cost of Lei's they no longer do that unless you pay for it

Night one - Luau (me and Cay)

Luau night - Me, Cay, Chesney, and Katie....

Mai Tai's - the best drink EVER

The Hawaiian Vanilla Company - who knew Vanilla comes from Orchids!!!

Me and Cay - Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls

Recap...

2009-08-03T14:08:00.001-05:00

Well hello my faithful readers...

I have MIA - except for the small post on Friday on my "Blogiversary"...

I was in Chi-town all last week for work... I wish I could say that I went to Sears Tower, a Cubbies game, ate all the pizza I could stand and threw in a brat here or there... but I literally walked from the hotel to our office... that's it (except for the short excursion to Harry Carey's for dinner one night with my colleagues).

It was a great week in Chicago though. A great sales skills training workshop where I was finally able to put faces with names, shake a few hands, and finally meet some our upper management. All in all it was a great week, a great learning experience, and hopefully a nice stepping stone to my future with my company. I always feel re-energized coming home from trips like this... puts my job/career into perspective.

So I don't really have a "pic of the week" for last week.... I could try and drum something up but since nothing is jumping out at me (and i'm four days late) I think I will keep you in suspense until this Thursday.

Please note - this time tomorrow I will be flying high above the skies on my way to Hawaii! Are you jealous yet??? So the pic of the week this week will sure to be something FABULOUS from the big island :)

I'm hoping to get some good workout time in while I am gone. I can't complain about running on the beach, biking on the coast or swimming in the ocean! That reminds me - I need to pack my goggles :)

I hope you had a fabulous Monday ....

Aloha!!!!!!

Happy Blogiversary!!!

2009-07-31T10:54:00.004-05:00

Today is my one-year anniversary of keeping my blog! AND OH MY HOW THINGS CHANGE!!!

Thanks for sticking with me through the ups, downs and in betweens :) I know not all my posts are super exciting, life changing, quality reads; but I appreciate that you take an interest in reading about me, my ever-changing life, and my pursuit of happiness, love and all the things that make me laugh.

I hope I bring a smile to your face and maybe a bit of optimism to your day.

I'll keep posting as long as you keep reading (and I know when you read *wink*)....

Updates coming soon.............

Pic(s) of the week

2009-07-23T09:49:00.003-05:00

My pics of the week are themed in nature... :)

As you know if you've been reading for awhile, I am a big supporter of the LiveStrong and Lance Armstrong Foundation.

A few months ago the girls and I started discussing participating in the LiveStrong Challenge in October. The LIVESTRONG Challenge is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's signature fundraising event inspired by hope, courage and the perseverance of Lance and the nearly 12 million Americans affected by cancer. We take to the streets on bicycles and on our feet, uniting individuals to stand together to fight cancer. The LAF and LIVESTRONG believes that unity is strength, knowledge is power, and attitude is everything; which I completely agree.

Jessica was united in strength by her friends, family, loved ones and even strangers; she educated herself about her disease and empowered herself to fight as did her family; her attitude was COMPLETELY unwavering and admirable. I learned more from Jessica and her family than I ever thought was possible; however I do not want others to have to feel the pain that this disease brings not only to the patient but the family and friends as well.

It is important to me to do what I can to "pick a fight with cancer" and help find a cure. I truly believe in this cause and this fight; and I hope you will unite with me to do what you can.

I hate asking people for money - I've only done it one other time; when Jessica was raising money for the angel adventure walk last October; which is another amazing cause. The National Brain Tumor Foundation is another great non-profit group that fights for brain tumor patients and raises money to find a cure.

I hope you can help - any amount is appreciated... $1 will go along away in my book.

Thank you for your support, prayers, love, hugs, flowers, etc over the last 2.5 years. As you all supported me and Jessica in her fight for the last few years; now it's time to unite and fight with those that are still undergoing treatment and fighting their own battle so that we can TRI for a cure!

Click Here to donate and see my personal page: http://austin09.livestrong.org/allie0622

Click Here to donate to either me or my teammates and see our team page: http://austin09.livestrong.org/triforacure

Buffalo Wild Wings made my pic of the week because Newbie has been so gracious and found a sponsor for our team jerseys! One of her friends in Beaumont owns a few BW2 I believe, and he has agreed to sponsor us!!!! That is so awesome and we are so excited!!! THANK YOU RAJ AND NEWBIE!

Hooters, North Richland Hills is also a pic of the week, because my friend Chris is the GM there and he has awesomely agreed to host a car wash and bake sale and all the proceeds go to our fundraising efforts!!! We are hoping that car wash will be in August and the bake sale in September! I am so excited that Chris has graciously offered this to us and is helping us out to raise money for this event. THANK YOU CHRIS!!!!

Thank all of you again for your support, love and prayers!

Have an awesome weekend!!!

Della-palooza '09

2009-07-20T13:07:00.003-05:00

This weekend was Della and Dave's wedding weekend and it was seriously amazing!

From the rehearsal dinner to the bubbly good bye - each and every aspect of the wedding was perfect!

Della and Dave are now celebrating their new married life in Cancun on their honeymoon and I can't wait for them to return and hear how it went!

We had such a blast this weekend in College Station! It was great to see everyone that attended and I saw so many old faces I hadn't seen in forever! We definitely relived our college days Saturday night after we said goodbye to D&D. We hit up northgate for some good 'ole college station drinking and eating - you must have Tijuana fries from the chicken :)

I will admit - I steal all of my pictures. I don't have a camera and haven't had one for some time now. I broke mine at Kristin's bachelorette party in October...oops ... miller light had nothing to do with that....

I was supposed to buy a new one when I reached one of my weight goals... but other things seemed more important or necessary each time I hit a goal and so I put off getting one. So I don't have any pictures to post until my friends post on FB and then I can steal them, save them and post them.... I know I'm a thief. You've now learned my dirty little secret...

So when they get around to posting I'll post here...

Della looked absolutely gorgeous :) My favorite part of the whole weekend was after the Priest pronounced them Husband and Wife; Della turned to us (her bridesmaids) and in the cutest little voice said "I'm Married!" and had the biggest most happiest smile on her face I have EVER seen.

I was so honored to stand as her Maid of Honor and will forever treasure being a part of the happiest day of her life.

Della and Dave - I love you guys and if you need anything...I'm only a phone call away! LOVE Y'ALL!

Drum Roll Please...

2009-07-16T13:11:00.004-05:00

I know you all look forward to "Pic of the Week" Thursday :)

Today I have 2 (I guess I'll make up for last week since I was beside myself in NOLA and not blogging)

#1: Group pic from Della's Bach Party before dinner! I didn't have this one when i posted about the whole party HERE...but I love this picture... I would love it even more if Kristin could have been with us...

#2: The drivers side door of my car:
It doesn't look so bad in the picture except for the fact that it's the DRIVERS SIDE DOOR!! I was sitting right where she impacted me! I got a call from the body shop today and it's about $4500 - $5000 worth of damage. They won't know about my axle until they pull it apart; but Kelley Blue Book says in "excellent" condition it would only have a minimal trade in value. I hope they total it out...

More to come after the wedding this weekend.... watch out College Station - we're comin' back!

"Come pick me up I just got in a F'in wreck...."

2009-07-15T14:21:00.003-05:00

The first words out of my mouth when I called Karen yesterday when I was 1mile away from her house and stuck in the middle of the service road of the George Bush Turnpike.

I had left work and was headed to Karen's to go pick up our wedding dresses for Della's wedding. Cayla was over on our side of town for a dentist appointment so she was going to meet us and then we were going to hang out. (Like I haven't seen these girls enough... j/k :)) I love summers when my friends don't have to work!

Soo... I'm on Old Denton turning right onto the service road, minding my own business; when seriously out of no where this lady drives into the side of my car.

Apparently she had made a U-turn and cut across three lanes of traffic to turn into the shopping center where Hobby Lobby is and didn't pay one bit of attention to me and my measly little car. Her Honda Odyssey van drove right on into me... and could have possibly totaled my car.. AWESOME!!!

I just paid this car off in February, put two new tires on it on Wednesday of last week, and to top it off, had a full tank of gas.... UGHHH.

So - I'm working from home today because I'm car less until I can pick up my rental tomorrow.

Awesome blossom....

Hope your Tuesday was better...

WOWZA...

2009-07-13T14:47:00.016-05:00

First of all... I hate Mondays; especially Monday's after a weekend spent in the most sinful city behind Las Vegas....New Orleans, LA! (I will reference here as NOLA)

Our adventure to NOLA started on Thursday for Della's bachelorette party. She is getting married this weekend in College Station and I'm super excited for her.

We will go by days for the recap:

Thursday:

5:00am - alarm went off...Karen stayed with me b/c we had to get up super early to make our 7:30am flight...if you fly with me you know I have to be earlier than most b/c I fly standby on passes...the earlier you are there the better chance of you have of getting on your chosen flights. It's the price I pay to fly for free...

5:45am - Mom picks us up (with the radio BLASTING might I add) and takes us the airport where we promptly meet up Cayla... If we only could have found a Jungle Juice stand at Love Field... (More to come on Jungle Juice)

7:00am - Board our flight....

7:30am - take off

10:30am - land in NOLA...During our one hour wait for Della at the airport we ran into Sam Bradford (OU Quarterback) and Colt McCoy (TU Quarterback) apparently there were having some football camp in NOLA sponsored by Peyton Manning and they were all there. We wished Della was there so she could have taken a picture with them... we thought it would be cute for her to a "gig 'em" pose in b/w the two rival schools!

11:30am - Della arrives...we promptly load a 15 passenger van driven by a man with the THICKEST Cajun accent EVER...he seemed safer than some of the other cab drivers...and head to our hotel.

12:00pm - we get to the hotel...get early check in... SCORE! and head out to get lunch at the Cajun Van Driver's (CVD) recommendation. Central Grocery - for the Original Muffaleta. **Not to mention on the way we stopped to get a frozen beverage at one of the many bars along the way.** I had drink envy - I bought a frozen red bull and vodka (YUM-O) but Cayla got Jungle Juice and I was envious...it was soooo yummy

We made it back to the hotel ate lunch, Newbie and Audry joined us...and the girls changed and headed down to the pool. I had to work on Thursday - I had been answering emails and on calls all morning (minus flight time obviously). My email had been going off since about 5:30am and didn't stop until 5pm... what a day. But everything was handled and in place. I had 2 conference calls to be on that afternoon - so as the girls finished off a bottle and a half of champagne I was in the room working (BUMMER!!!). I got off my calls a 4ish and headed down to the pool with them ... where we went through a few more bottles of bubbly and then headed back to get ready for dinner.

Thursday afternoon pics:

5am wake up call ... calls for no makeup and pouty/kissy face...

Karen at the airport...showing off her fleur de lis....

Getting our yummy drinks on Bourbon Street

Workin' by the pool...actually I think I was talking to Mom here...

Gettin' our tan on....

We headed out that evening for dinner at Acme Oyster House (Another recommendation by CVD). It was YUM-O... there was about a 20min. wait so we had fun taking pictures outside waiting to be called in!

Dinner Pics:

The group outside Acme Oyster House

Aud and Del

Me and Cay

HIGH FIVE!!!!!

The group (minus Cayla she was taking the pic I think)

After a YUMMY Dinner we hit Pat O'Brien's and Tropical Isle... two necessities if you are in NOLA...Hurricanes and Hand Grenades...

Cayla and me with our hurricanes at Pat O'Brien's .... we even were able to keep the fun glasses!

Group shot (minus Cayla...she was taking the pic again) with our hand grenades :) YUMMY

Friday - we hung out by the pool ALL DAY seriously from 11am - 3pm...had poolside cocktail and lunch service...with fun music. Took a little nappy from 3pm - 4pm got up and did it all over again ... but this time with super fun bachelorette festivities...a checklist, a veil, and a sash can get you free drinks ALL night :)

Dinner was at NOLA (Emeril's Restaurant). It was fantastic; however my pork loin was a little dry... I won't fault them too much because they made up for it with the sweet potatoes and basil pesto garlic infused soup. Not to mention; amazing focaccia rolls and jalapeno cornbread.

Pics from Friday night:

Group shot on Bourbon Street

Our bachelorette!

Me and Del

One of her checklist items was to dance on a bar....

Newbie and Del

Singin' karaoke at Cat's Meow.... David Allen Coe-Why Don't You Ever Call Me By My Name
This was during the "Let Me, Let Me, Let Me" part

We had a blast... We owned Bourbon Street that night... we even played our traditional "High Five" game...

Saturday was rough and so was Sunday - but I'm hanging in there and trying to catch up on sleep... The wedding is this weekend and we'll do it all over again!

CONGRATS DELLA AND DAVE! I LOVE YOU GUYS SOOO MUCH AND CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO SPEND YOUR LIFE TOGETHER!!!

Livestrong Challenge HELP!!

2009-07-13T10:19:00.005-05:00

Need ideas for a team name for our Livestrong Challenge we are doing in October. We are doing this in memory of Jess and to help raise money to find a cure for cancer.

Brainstorm and leave a comment with your idea...

***Weekend update to follow later.... so fun in NOLA****

We picked a team name... TRI for a Cure...

visit our team page at austin09.livestrong.org/triforacure

Visit my personal fund raising page at austin09.livestrong.org/allie0622

44 things about me that you probably don't care about

2009-07-07T09:56:00.004-05:00

I got this email yesterday ... it asks 44 random questions (43 really because I think #37 is missing) about you.... so I figured it would be a nice post today... even though you probably don't care...

So I'm going to post it .... then TAG all my blogger friends to do the same and post on their blogs so I can learn 43 random things about you! (see tags at the end). I am going to leave them a comment on their last post and tell them I tagged them in this blog so they will fill it out and post!

1. Do you like blue cheese? Hell no… gross …

2. Have you ever smoked? Yes

3. Do you own a gun? No… but my Brother in law thinks I should own a taser

4. What flavor of Kool-Aid was your favorite? Grape

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointment? Not really… unless I think something is seriously wrong with me…

6. What do you think of hot dogs? I think hot dogs are essential at the following:

1. sporting events

2. any cookout

3. any 4^th of July celebration

7. Favorite Holiday Movie? Miracle on 34^th Street!

8. Favorite thing to drink in the morning? Coffee every morning… minus sat. and sun.

9. Can you do push ups? Yes I can actually!

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry. It’s a tie b/w the only three pieces of jewelry I wear… my aggie ring, my heart rate monitor/watch, and my livestrong bracelet… each for it’s own significance

11. What's your favorite hobby? Does Shopping count… if so then shopping… if not then working out… it could be a tie actually

12. Do you have A.D.D? what was the ?..haha yes I do sometimes

13. What trait do you hate about yourself? Sometimes I expect too much out of people

14. Middle Name? Lynn

15. Name 3 thoughts this exact moment:

1. I want to go home… I have too much laundry to do to be at work

2. It’s freezing in my office today

3. What an awesome day I had yesterday (Sunday)

16. What do you read in the bathroom? I’m not usually in there long enough to read anything… unless I’m in the tub… then it means trashy magazines or whatever book I’m reading and I tend to get pruny and have the water so hot I end up more sweaty than I was when I started my bath

17. Current Worry? That I don't have enough time to get everything done before Della's Bachelorette Party

18. Current hate right now? The movers in my office

19. Favorite place to be? Anywhere with friends, family and people I love...

20. How did you bring in the New Year? In H-town with lovely friends

21. Where would you like to go? To Aug. 4^th… I’ll be in Hawaii then

22 . Name three people who will complete this? Kristi, Erin and Christy

23. Do you own slippers? Yes and I love them… but I only wear them when it’s cold

24. What shirt are you wearing? Plain white T with a vest

25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Never have… but I think cotton is much snuggly… satin seems to be a bit pornish

26. Can you whistle? yes

27. Favorite color? Pink… duh look at my answers

28. Would you be a pirate? Sure! arrrrrghhhhh PIRATE… C?

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don’t sing in the shower… unless I remember to put on my ipod to my little speaker things then it’s whatever is playing

30. What is your favorite name? not even thinking of this at the moment

31. Favorite boy's name? see above...

32. What's in your pocket right now? Nada… I never keep anything in my pockets

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Tony

34. What vehicle do you drive? Pontiac G6

35. Worst injury you've ever had? My dislocated shoulder in sixth grade… … however this HUMOGOUS bruise on my thigh seems pretty terrible at the moment

36. How many TVs are in your house? 2

WHAT HAPPENED TO 37?

38. What is the best memory as a child? To many great ones to recount my favorite!

39. Do you have any pets? DEUCER!!!!!

40. Does someone have a crush on you? I hope so

41. Your favorite books? Anything by Emily Giffin… or anything like it …

42. Do you collect anything? Nope… However, I’ve started keeping my swim caps from tri’s… so far I have 2

43. Favorite sports team? Aggies and my dallas cowboys!

44. What song do you want played at your funeral? yall pick I don’t care… I’ll be catching up with Jess

TAGS - you better do it!!!!!!

Christy, Kristi, Erin, Kristin, Desiree, Donica

Tri #2 - "Control the Freakout"

2009-07-06T11:57:00.006-05:00

Well this weekend marked tri #2 .... Here are the deets (details for those of you who don't follow my lingo)

Who: Me and Cayla....
What: Playtri Festival - included My First Tri, Sprint, International distances as well as swim races
When: Sunday, July 5, 2009 - 7:03am start time
Where: Las Colinas, Texas - Marriott Las Colinas
Why: Because we are dumb, crazy, and just plain stupid... but we love it...well after we are done we love it!

Sunday started off early.... 3:45am my alarm went off. As my darling friends were just going to bed after a long night of drinking games and celebrating the 4th of July - I was waking up to "Boom Boom Pow" on the radio/alarm clock.

I jumped out of bed... jumped in the shower... I know who showers before a 2 hour workout... but it's a must for me on race day for two reasons:
1. It wakes me up... did you see what time my alarm went off
2. I need my hair wet to french braid it

After my shower - I outfitted myself in my new tri-gear. Same shorts as last race but new improved and super cute top :) See to the right...

I loaded my bike rack and bike on my car on Saturday night so I wouldn't have to worry about it on Sunday morning. I still did though and checked to make sure I didn't miss a strap to secure it and make sure I had my lock, etc. etc.

I tripled checked then double checked my check list... I'm a super list person so I had to make sure I had everything from toilet paper to my race belt.... and I was out the door at 4:20am.

There is not very many people on the road at 4:20am...

I got to the race site, parked, got my gear, put in my ipod and headed to the transition line. I waited for Cayla to get there so we could rack together... supringsly she was race #59 and I was #58 so we rack together.

Cayla got there we got body marked, racked our stuff, and frolicked in the rain. Oh yes my dear friends, it started raining. As if I wasn't nervous about this enough... it started raining and continued to rain right up until we jumped into the water.

We waited in the parking garage while it rained and until we had our pre race meeting. While we were waiting we saw, not ONE but TWO cars, try to attempt to drive up the ramp and lost their bikes and racks into the rafters of the parking garage. Finally after the second person hit the rafters with their bikes the race director posted someone at the entrance to stop people from driving up the ramp if their bike was mounted on the roof. I felt so bad for these people... their thousand(s) $ bikes ripped off of their car and hanging in the balance... ugh what a way to start a race day!

We had our pre race meeting...and headed to swim the start.

CONTROL THE FREAK OUT...

I said on multiple ocassions as we overlooked the swim area... "Cayla I don't want to do this".. "Cayla why do we do this"... "Cayla are we stupid"...

500m looks alot shorter in a pool

We jumped in - heard the gun and took off...

The rest is history... but I'll explain anyway :)

The Swim was good ... I freestyled probably 80% of it... which I was proud of. I have said on multiple occasions that I DID NOT and still don't think I was prepared for this race. I should have trained harder and trained more... but I finished and that is what mattered. I hadn't been in a pool in I can't tell you how long until Saturday. I swam a quick 500m at the gym just to make sure my new googgles worked. Other than that it was about training in open water rather than for distance.
Time: 13:54 500m
Goal was under 15min
ACCOMPLISHED! :)

The bike - felt great! My bike is old and slow and heavy so I could have performed better on a new bike... which I am still contemplating buying... but overall I was proud of my performance. It rained the whole time we were on the bike so that sucked. Between getting splashed by the puddles and the constant spitting from the sky it was not the most favorable conditions but it could have been worse I guess!
Time: 46:10 - 12miles
Goal: under 53 min.
ACCOMPLISHED! :)

The Run - I hate the run...I felt like shit during the run actually.... and my time showed it. I am not even going to make excuses... it was awful
Time: 36:59
Goal: 32 min.
FAILED :(

Total Time was 1:40:09 - not to shabby I don't suppose... I wanted to be under 2hours and so my overall goal was attained!

I'll have pictures soon!

another post about the weather...sheesh I'm getting old...

2009-07-02T15:43:00.003-05:00

This is what I saw yesterday when I got in my car to leave work... 109 degrees AWESOME!!! actually it said 111 but this a few minutes into my drive....

It is so hot here - and every day I get in my car and about die of heat stroke.... not to mention I have to compete in a three sport race on Sunday...jealous?

Enjoy frying your eggs on the sidewalk people...I know I will!

On another note: Happy 4th of July - I hope you all have a safe and FUN 4th! Be careful, don't drive drunk or buzzed or tired... it's all the same... there's my little PSA for the day :)

weather update...

2009-07-01T12:58:00.005-05:00

Now the high for Sunday is 99 - but partly cloudy - so this could be good... I'm hoping for high 70's low 80's during race time...

Water temp was at 90 degrees on June 25th... it will be nice bath water temp.... anyone wanna throw some bubbles in???

Here's where I'm going to swimming: ICK....

awesome...nasty...run off lake... ICK ICK ICK

No crashes...Yet...knock on wood

2009-06-29T15:17:00.004-05:00

Cayla and I went for our weekly workout together on Saturday and I survived... no crashes in clipping in and clipping out.

We are down to the week before my 2nd tri and I am more nervous about this one than I was the first. I felt fully prepared for my first tri but this one...not so much.

Swim: 500m
I haven't been in a pool in like forever... Cayla and I have been swimming in Grapevine lake which has been good to "control the freakout" but bad because I haven't really been focusing on distance - just not freaking out in the water. I think I should be ok - but 500m is almost double what the first tri was so naturally I'm a little freaked out. I hope to freestyle the entire 500m but I'm not above resolving to breaststroke if needed.... even backstroke for that matter... it's what got me through last time and hopefully will get me through this time.

Bike: 12miles
Well what to say here except I'm super scared that I'm going to crash either coming out of or into transition. With my clip in pedals/shoes it makes the whole bike ride a bit more scary for me. This past weekend while riding with Cayla I realized that while I'm clipped in it totally uses different muscles that I'm not used to so I'm afraid I may tucker my poor little legs out if I am not careful and have nothing left for the run.

Run: 5k (3.1 miles)
The run ... well I can do 3.1 miles on any day alone...and even after I biked in the 103degree heat a few weeks ago - but I'm super nervous about it too. The high is 105 this weekend so I could literally blow myself up if I'm not careful! :) j/k.... The good news is I won't drown or crash on this part... I just would begin walking if I needed to.

I don't know - I feel like I'm stupid and haven't prepared well for this... I want to cry actually... I wish I had a few more weeks... this heat makes it awful to train after work and I certainly don't get up at 4:30am to work out - I love training but I heart sleep more (I'll be honest)

Hopefully I can concentrate this week and get focused in time for Sunday...

The Tri is in Las Colinas if you want to come out and watch me drown, crash and walk ... should be a good time :)

Graduation Day.... = Crash Day = pic of the week

2009-06-25T18:59:00.005-05:00

I did it... I bought clip in pedals and cycling shoes today! YAY - I feel like a real cyclist! I'm super excited but now I have the new bike bug MORE THAN EVER... I totally want to go back and buy a new bike.. and I just might!

Here are my new shoes:

They are Specialized brand -they are a three strap Velcro cycling shoe. They can change between SPD and road pedals and I'm SUPERLY DUPERLY EXCITED about them.. not only are the pretty...they are comfy and will hopefully help improve my ride!

My pedals are just normal Shimano SPD pedals... basic clip pedals but I can change them out to have a road pedal if I need/want to.

I am totally prepared to crash on my face multiple times before perfecting the art of the clip in/clip out maneuver.

We'll see... I seriously want a new bike now.... and I may just do it!

Keep checking back :)

They say it's your birthday...

2009-06-22T13:45:00.005-05:00

And...THEY ARE RIGHT!!!

Today is my bday and I think by far the best birthday EVER... and the day isn't even over yet!!

If you've known me long enough you know I celebrate "Birthday Month".... I concocted this month long celebration as a child; I think partially b/c I never got to take cupcakes to school b/c I was a summer baby.... so I said.... "If I can't take cupcakes to school; I'll celebrate all month"... makes sense right??

This year I have been a little bit more low key in celebrating "birthday month", but I still in my head knew that I could whine and say "BUT IT'S MY BIRTHDAY MONTH"

Saturday we had Della's shower at this precious little tea room in Richardson, The Chocolate Angel Tea Room. I highly recommend you use this place if you need to host a baby shower, bridal shower, bridal luncheon, anything... it is awesome! The food was fantastic, the service even better! It was phenomenal!

Saturday night we went out for my bday to Cool River in Irving. I picked this place because there was supposed to be a cover band, Big Daddy, playing ... but they backed out last minute and another cover band was there; which was cool b/c they were good too! We had so much fun! I have lots of pics but again... they are on FB and I can't get on FB at work... so you will have to wait.

Then today I get to work and my boss takes me out for an awesome lunch at Cozymel's and my awesome co-workers baked me a cake and sang me happy birthday.... Not to mention the influx of emails, texts, phone calls, etc.... My mom gave me $ towards my Hawaii trip...SO AWESOME... It has seriously been like the best birthday ever!

2009-06-15T14:31:00.007-05:00

Oh Monday's....

I haven't updated in almost a week... so sorry for the delay ... I missed the pic of the week last week so I guess I'll throw it all into one blog...

Things have been crazy, as I'm sure you can imagine. Between coping with Jess, work, tri-training, etc I feel like my head is continually spinning around on my neck. Hopefully this week I can get back to some sense of normalcy.... normal being realitive.

First - good news - I'm going HERE in August with Cayla. YUP! Hawaii baby... I've never been, always wanted to, so I'm going. I bought my ticket last week and I'm going... August 4 - 9 you can find me basking on the beach in Kona...I'm sure something will happen on our trip that will be blog worthy so I'll try to update.. unless I'm asleep or tipsy on the beach... then you will have to deal with waiting until I get back. However; tipsy would also make for a good post..I don't think I've "drunk blogged"... could be interesting...I'll make sure spell check is active.

So I'm super excited about vacation - I can't wait....

and now it's Tuesday... I started this yesterday but got tied up with work and wasn't able to finish my post...

So where was I ... OH THAT'S RIGHT I'M GOING TO HAWAII! Jealous yet? Have I mentioned it enough yet?

My pic of the week for last week is a before and after...

Before:

DRUM ROLL PLEASE....

AFTER:

I can't believe it! I feel amazing - I've done a triathlon (about to do a second and third) Cayla has done 2 (b/c I missed the registration... remember HERE)

It has been amazing to have a goal and stick with it. Cayla has inspired and motivated me in ways I never thought possible. We were riding our bikes a few weekends ago at the lake and I said to her... "Did you ever think 1 year ago we would be riding our bikes around Grapevine lake?" and she said "No, but i love it" and I said "me too"

Somethings are better shared with other people... and this is one of them!

Two Poems....

2009-06-09T14:53:00.003-05:00

God looked around His garden
and He found an empty place.
He then looked down upon this
earth, and saw your tired face.
He put his arms around you
and lifted you to rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering,
He knew that you were in pain.
He knew that you would never
get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough
and the hills were hard to climb
So he closed your weary eyelids,
and whispered, "Peace be thine."
It broke our hearts to lose you but
you didn't go alone,
For part of us went with you
the day God called you home.
(Author Unknown)

When I am gone, release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do,
You mustn't tie yourself to me with too many tears,
But be thankful we had so many good years.
I gave you my love, and you can only guess
how much you've given me in happiness.
I thank you for the love that you have shown
but now its time I traveled on alone.
So grieve for me awhile, if grieve you must
then let your grief be comforted by trust.
That it is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.
I won't be far away for life goes on.
And if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can't see or touch me, I will be near
you'll hear all my love around you soft and clear
And then, when you come this way alone,
I'll greet you with a smile and a "WELCOME HOME".

Gone but not forgotten....

2009-06-09T10:50:00.005-05:00

I cannot begin to even mention every person that has called, emailed, texted, facebooked, myspaced, etc their condolences. Thank you so much to each of you for your outpouring of love, support and prayer. I don't think I could have made it through the last few days without each and everyone of you.

I still cannot believe that Jessica is gone. It is so hard to wrap my head around the fact that she has left our earthly world. I take comfort in knowing that she is in heaven completely healed and sitting at the right hand of our Lord. I know she was greeted in heaven with "Well Done My Good and Faithful Servant" but it still is hard here for those of us that survive her. For the last 16 years of my life I have talked to Jessica nearly every day... minus the last few months because of her cancer... I can't stand the thought of not being able to call or email her or text her silly little things that we shared. It's hard to imagine that she won't be standing in my wedding when I get married, or be there at the birth of my children, or be the two little old ladies at Luby's having lunch...

She was my best friend - through and through. We went through alot together since we met in 7th grade...and now I know she will watch over me and protect me through the remainder. She is my angel...

I have prayed daily for 2 1/2 years that Jessica would beat this disease. That she would be the one that lived to tell her triumph over cancer... but that was not God's plan for Jess. Jessica bravely defeated this disease and she lives in heaven... it is the cancer that is dead.

I just can't say thank you enough to all of you who read this blog and prayed for her. Your prayers were felt by many. Please continue to pray for Bo, Ronnie, Stephanie, Juli and James as well as Jess' countless friends.

She will be missed by many.... until we meet heaven I will miss her everyday...

BFFASSFEAEAEAEAE....

This was something that Jess and I wrote at the bottom of every note during our grade school years and every email there after... BFFASSFEAEAEAEAE...

It stands for: Best Friends Forever And Secondary Sisters For Ever And Ever And Ever.....

She was my "secondary sister"... I will forever miss her

Jessica Ashley Gage Bonesio....

2009-06-04T13:44:00.005-05:00

My precious best friend has gone to dance with our Heavenly Father....

Please pray for Jess and her family during this incredibly difficult time. Don't take for granted one moment with your family, friends and loved ones... you never know when they may be taken from you.

Jessica was the best friend a girl could ask for. I will miss her everyday until we meet in Heaven ...

I love you Jessica Ashley - I can't wait to see you again...

PLEASE VOTE!!

2009-06-02T21:07:00.002-05:00

Please vote for my friend Kristi ...

HERE!!!

Click HERE and you will be directed to Jenny Garland's blog. Scroll down and vote for Kristi's Pleated Summer Clutch!

Thanks so much!

2nd and 3rd Tri - should be 3rd and 4th but whatever...

2009-06-01T13:56:00.003-05:00

I have officially signed up for my 2nd and 3rd triathlons! I'm super excited! This should be my 3rd and 4th but I'm still ticked at active.com for not letting me register for the one this past weekend that I should have done with Cayla. But oh well...

My 2nd one will be over July 4th weekend in Irving... a Sprint Distance this time... 500M Swim, 12Mi. bike and a 5K (3.2 mile) run... The 3rd will be in Rockwall in August 300M pool swim, 14 mile bike and 2.9mile run

I 'm super nervous about the swim ... again because it's open water and I freaked out last time... and haven't really been in a pool in about four weeks. Tony and I semi-swam yesterday...but I'll be honest I was way more interested in laying out than working out...

The bike - I'm always nervous about... this will never change... I feel so uncomfortable on a bike it isn't even funny... I'm going to go today and get a new saddle... I think that may be the reason I'm so uncomfortable... I also want to buy a bike rack for my car... I'm tired of having to basically take my bike apart to get it to fit in my car.

FYI - This sport is freakin' expensive...

The run - I'm most confident it. A 5k is nothing to me anymore...well alone a 5k is nothing... compound it with a swim and a bike and it may be another story...

So it's back to the training program... I found a 13 week training program that I took the last 5 weeks of and I'm going to work off of that. I should be fine... but you never know and I don't want to get too confident... b/c then I will drown in the swim, crash on the bike, or fall during the run...

I went last week and got "officially" fitted for my bike. The guy at the bike shop said my craigslist road bike wasn't too terrible after all! He said it was probably a '93 or '94 model ... which is old but has really good working components. I was excited to hear that.. but I do have the new bike bug now.

They have some pretty nice bikes for not too terribly expensive for a road bike. I've decided I don't want a tri-specific bike... I think I would enjoy a road bike more and I would rather add the tri-components to my bike than have it designed specifically for tri's.

I hope to start enjoying cycling more.. I think a new saddle will definitely help. I also think a good pair of cycling shorts may do the trick too. The only bad thing about cycling shorts is I can't wear them when I compete. The padding is awesome for long rides but if you try and swim in a pair of cycling shorts you are basically swimming in a diaper and will chaff on a run like nobody's business. My tri-shorts are much more friendly for competition. They aren't very water absorbent which is good and the padding isn't very thick so chaffing isn't a problem during the run and they provide just enough cush on the tush to be beneficial.

I'm also thinking about graduating to clip-in pedals and cycling shoes... Apparently it helps alot with speed and non-fatigue...however I'm still nervous about this because I'm afraid I'm going to crash when trying to clip out...
That would make for a good blog post...

Wish me luck as my training starts again...

Pic of the Week:

2009-05-28T10:36:00.004-05:00

My best friend Jess....

www.jessicagage.com

Lots to blog about on this Monday...

2009-05-18T13:14:00.007-05:00

Monday's are notorious for being sucky...right... at least I wake up and say ... S$%t it's Monday again?? Where did my weekend go??? This Monday however; was different...

I woke up promptly at 5:40am and was on the treadmill running at 6:00am...

So - I was worked out, showered, made up, dressed, and was at work by 7:45am... wowza! That's a days work and it wasn't even 8am...

This weekend was a whirlwind... Friday night I had a graduation party for a friend, she graduated from UTA with a bachelor's in Interior Design...so if you need some interior decorating I know the person to call!

Saturday I celebrated graduation's for Cayla and Hunter... Hunter finished law school!!! He graduated Friday at 2pm and Cayla graduates from grad school at 7pm tonight! YAY for both of them!

Saturday Cay and Hunter threw a great graduation party in Ft. Worth! Blue Mesa catered... YUM-O... I think I ate the whole tub of sweet potato chips...

We took lots of pictures but they haven't been downloaded off the cameras yet - but when they are I'll post pics...

On the athletic front:

I signed up for another tri in Agust ... August 23 to be exact! YAY... AND...Newbie is doing it with us!!! woot woot!!! So excited! This will be Newbie's first tri and I'm so excited to be competing with her and I think Cay is going to sign up to.

So between now and then I'm on a waiting list for a tri on May 30, but it's not lookin' so good.... they only took 150 registrants and I'm on a waiting list of 12 people... which means nearly 10% of the registrants would have to drop out and as of today not one person has dropped out. Cayla isn't going to be happy with me....

Here was my dilema and why I'm on the waiting list in the first place. I tried to register a few weeks ago and the active.com site was down for two days and wouldn't let me register so I tried again the third day and finally go through... however after I inputted all of my info it gave me a big red warning label that said "EVENT FULL" or something irritating like that...

So I have emailed the race director every week asking if anyone has dropped and every week it is a "No Sorry" :( ... and he puts the sad face...

UGH!

On a happy note... My other SUPER TRI FRIEND CHRISTY finished 3rd in her triathlon this past weekend! Way to go lady - IMCOZ ain't got nothin' you!!!!

Back in the saddle again...

2009-05-13T12:58:00.006-05:00

Well it appears that possibly 50% of my motivation has returned. If you remember... I blogged HERE about losing every ounce of motivation, want and joy of working out. Well two Sunday's ago it came back and all it took was a good 2.5 hour workout with Cayla. Last week I worked out three times - still not back into my six days a week routine... but better than zero.

This week I worked out Monday - I did cut it short because of this pesky bladder infection that crept up on me. I got off the bike twice to pee... ouch... uti + stationary bike = sucky workout...

Last night was girls night (our monthly BYOB dinner at a local restaurant) and I didn't make it to the gym since I went to the dr. for the bladder...but no worries... we are back in the saddle again today.. hungover and all.

I will work out today after work if it kills me - and it might. I'm sick at my stomach, have a headache, and uber tired..

I'm way too old to be gallivanting around town drinking on a work night. I should be given a curfew... Mom... wanna re-instate one???

Happy Belated Mother's Day

2009-05-12T09:12:00.006-05:00

Happy Belated Mother's Day to all you mommies who read my little blog!!

I'm sorry I wasn't able to post before Mother's Day to wish you happiness BUT better late than never right???

My mother's day was spent taking care of my mommy who had surgery on Friday on her foot. She had a bone spur the size of Australia on her left big toe and had it removed Friday so she could walk like a normal person again.

Even though surgery only lasted 35 minutes and she came out with only 5 stitches... it looked painful and let's face it... being immobile sucks.

So Friday morning I had Mom at the surgery center at 6am. They promptly took her back and prepped her for surgery and we (Kaylee and I) kissed her adios and headed out to get some breakfast. We knew we only had like 45 min. so we went and grabbed some donuts... YUMMMM definitely a favorite breakfast food of mine and not one I treat myself to very often... thank you to my "healthy choices" decision and "hey I'm fat let's loose weight" mentality.

We sat in the waiting area about 10 min. before they called us back because she was finished. Another 30-45min. later we were outta there! We were home (at my house) with prescriptions and everything by 10am.

I had taken the day off work so I enjoyed laying in my bed and napping on and off, getting some much needed laundry done (I always let my laundry pile up... it's because I shop too much and never need clean clothes), and playing on facebook... I know I'm retarded... but I can't get on FB at work.

Saturday consisted of Mom sleeping on and off and me trying to clean my house as quitely as possible as to allow her to sleep. I didn't get much done but enough that made me feel like I wasn't living in a pig stye anymore. I took Mom home late afternoon/early evening to recoup in her own bed.

Saturday night Tony and I went to see X-Men Origin:Wolverine. UM It's an AWESOME movie and I've only seen X-Men 2 a long time ago in the theater and don't really remember it. So no XMen background is needed. Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds are UNBELIEVABLY ripped in this movie - ladies you will enjoy - Hugh + Ryan + No Shirt = good movie!

Sunday was Mother's Day and I went to my mom's and cooked brunch for her, Anna, Randy, Pappy, Marion and the kids...

We had Quiche Lorraine, Cinnamon Bun Filled Pancakes, and Fresh Fruit. It was delish!

I hope all you mommies had a great day! Now it's back to the grind...

Here's a pic of me and the best mommy in the world!

XOXO,

Pic of the week

2009-05-07T08:43:00.004-05:00

Today my pic is something that many people see and wear but for me it has special meaning.

The LiveStrong Bracelet.
As I have blogged on here many times before, most recently HERE; My best friend of 15 years Jessica has been bravely fighting brain cancer for over two years.

At the beginning of this year, after a year of chemo, radiation, etc, Jess started noticing that she was loosing her balance - long story short she has had some major setbacks in her fight against this awful disease.

When Jess was first diagnosed I made her a scrapbook of survivor stories. Most of these stories came from the LiveStrong website. I found all survivors of brain cancer and put them together in a scrapbook to encourage her and help her remember that she can survive this awful diagnosis.

I also ordered her the survivors notebook that the Lance Armstrong Foundation offers for free. It includes tools, stories, and reading topics for cancer patients. Jess also had me read Lance Armstrong's book "It's Not About the Bike" This book is about Lance Armstrong's personal fight with cancer and all the trial and tribulations he went through as a cancer patient.

When Jess was diagnosed we all began wearing our LiveStrong bracelets. This bracelet had no meaning to me before the day she was diagnosed and now I don't go a day without wearing it; in fact I rarely take it off.

Cancer is a disease that will more than likely affect everyone at some point in their life. It is horrible and devastating. It does not discriminate.

Just take a moment today and think about someone you know who has fought or is fighting the fight that is Cancer. Say a prayer for that person or people who have bravely fought this disease. If you haven't been personally affected - take a moment and give thanks.

Pic of the week = picS of the week and a little overdue blog....

2009-04-30T09:11:00.008-05:00

I was going to blog about this waaaaay back when HERE however - my little "bump in the road" of unemployment got in the way - so this waaaay overdue!

Let me take you back to October 25, 2008 -

Saturday, October 25, 2008 My dear dear friends Kristin and Nick got hitched. I was SUPPOSED to blog about this like six months ago - but I didn't and I feel HORRIBLE that I never gave the appropriate shout outs to them on my blog that I know nine million people read every day. J/K

Kristin and Nick are very near and dear to my heart. They are wonderful friends (more like family) who have seen me and supported me through many trying times in my life. I am very lucky to have friends like them.

In fact I am very lucky to have all of my friends in my life. Sometimes I think we take for granted the 2am sobbing phone call , the 6pm I had a hideous day at work phone call, the OMG I'm getting married phone call, or the OMG I'm having a baby phone call, or the OMG we broke up phone call, or the every day "how was your day" phone call. I am so blessed to have many people in my life that I call friends. And I love each and every one of you! enough w/ the sappy stuff... let's get on to the goooood stuff...

Soooo Kristin and Nick hosted their wedding at a HUMGO home in the River Oaks District of Houston. Cayla and I flew down early to spend time with Kristin before the big day and help her finish all of her last min. to do items.

Now if you are reading this and you know Kristin, you know she THRIVES on lists. She has lists for her lists and is so supremely organized that on ANY trip she takes she puts all of her reservation confirmations, directions, etc in plastic sheet protectors inside her folders. She was appropriately deemed "trip mom" years ago when her organizational skills were first revealed.

So I knew that NO DETAIL was going to be left out. Cayla and I PRYED (literally) her wedding binder out of her hands when we arrived and told her not to look back and enjoy her weekend!

What an honor to be a part of such an amazing day for such wonderful people. Kristin and Nick couldn't have planned a more perfect celebration for their marriage. The food was fantastic, the drinks were flowing, and the weather was perfection!

I hope you enjoy the pictures below and get a glimpse of what an amazing night this was and how fun it was to celebrate their relationship.

I LOVE YOU BOTH DEARLY AND CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO SPEND THE REST OF YOUR LIVES TOGETHER...even though this is six months late! LOVE YOU!

Kristin Getting Ready...

Group toast with all the girls, Robin and Mama Lu Lu
(we missed Karen and Audry at the wedding)

We couldn't get her to stop looking out the window.... but it made for a cute pic!

A photo montage... props to Clint the photog!

One of my favorites!!!!

We transformed the back yard from ceremony to reception... BEAUTIFUL!!!

Yummy Cake - Nick's cakes were Ice Cream Cake - fantastic!

No wedding is complete without the Time Warp!

Love you!

Here Clint said "Sexy face" - I think Tyra would be disappointed....

Adios Mr. and Mrs. Urbano - We love you and we will pelt you with wedding rice to prove it!

Motivation anyone???

2009-04-28T13:22:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure what has happened to me... I was seriously motivated from November until April 19... now I can't find an ounce of me that wants to work out and considering I just signed up for my second tri ( a true sprint this time) I better dig down deep and find my motivation soon.

I didn't work out once last week because my pink eye returned...ICK and my throat was killing me. It hurt to swallow anything but hot tea and advil. I worked from home three days last week because I didn't want to infect my office with the lingering matted eyes and huge tonsils. I figured I should hole myself up in my house and try to not infect people with what I am now convinced is "pig flu". I went to the dr. on Thursday after 4 days of painful swallowing and basically a hot tea diet for him to tell me I have had a "lingering virus". It rested the few days leading up to the tri when I was finally feeling better and then reared it's ugly head again after my body recouped. AWESOME!

So last week I rested.... not a single lap in the pool, loop on the bike or short run and secretly I loved it! WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME!!!! I was uber-obsessed for 5 months and now I want to cry.

I am a "Monday start person" if I have a goal I have to start on a Monday... no matter what. It's like life starts over on Mondays...so I time everything to a Monday start.

When I first started training for the King Tut I upped my distance on the bike and run every Monday - on the swim every other Monday... when I started trying to loose weight I started on a Monday with all the girls. When I tried to log everything I do in Livestrong.com I started on a Monday (that has been a failure by the way - sorry Erinn). So Sunday I was like - tomorrow is Monday - tomorrow starts training again.

Cayla and I decided we are going to compete in another tri at the end of May. May 30 to be exact. This one is a sprint - same swim distance (300m), double the bike from last time (12miles or 20K) and almost double the run (3.7 miles or 6K).

So yesterday I leave work (with a packed gym bag) and decide I was going to go for a nice ride on my bike. I don't know if it is me, my bike, my non working legs or what but it killed me! Usually a tiny six mile bike ride (in comparison to what my other tri friends are doing) should be nothing... and considering I just did this a week ago (after swimming and 90% uphill) it should be cake. But I thought I was going to die. Literally - it felt like my heart was beating out of my chest and I could collapse at any moment. It was horrific and scary - because now I feel like I am weaker than I was when I started training in the first place and couple that with ZERO motivation and you have yourself a real winner.... UGH!!!

I hope it's just the lingering effects of being sick and I can work myself out back into motivation - I guess we'll see.

On another note - I am an official USAT member now - crazy.... and exciting. Here's a line up of possible events Cayla and I are talking about doing. OOOOO- and I think we talked Newbie into doing one with us in October! YAY for Newbie!!!

May 30 - Paddle, Pedal and Pound the Pavement Grapevine, Texas (Sprint Distance)
October 4 - Benbrook Women's Tri Benbrook, Texas (Sprint Distance)
October 25 - Livestrong Challenge (5K and possible 10 mile bike ride)

I would like to look at participating in a sprint in July and August as well - but who knows I guess we will see; I don't want to wear myself out!!!

I'll keep you posted on the motivation factor - hopefully it returns soon or I am going to gain back every ounce of every pound I lost....

Maybe Biggest Loser tonight will put me back in the saddle.....

Pic of the Week

2009-04-24T12:32:00.009-05:00

I didn't have a chance to post this yesterday - I was working from home b/c my pink eye has returned... ick...

This isn't necessarily a "Pic" ... but I made it into one. This is a screen shot of my friend Della's Fundraising Page for the Relay for Life. She will be a member of a Relay for Life team in College Station and she will be walking for numerous reasons. If you have a few extra dollars and can donate to her team that would be awesome.

As you know cancer has affected me personally in ways that are indescribable. Jessica has been my best friend for 15 years and is in the fight of her life with this horrible disease. If you have a second please visit her website at www.jessicagage.com and leave her a note of encouragement or better yet - stop reading this and say a prayer for her.

There are many other people that this disease affects daily. I hope that no one reading this will ever have to know the affects of cancer on someones life. If you have a one dollar or one hundred any donation to find a cure for cancer is worth it.

Here is the link to her donation page - DELLA'S DONATION PAGE (CLICK HERE)

Tri Pics

2009-04-20T13:42:00.009-05:00

Oh the joys of the iPhone!

I figured out how to take screen shots on my iphone awhile ago.... this little trick came in handy today!

I can't access facebook at work... but I do have the fb app on my iphone... so I pulled up the pics... took screen shots... uploaded them to my computer at work and VOILA!!!! See below...

**Captions under each picture***

Cayla was very nervous about getting DQ'd for not having her helmet on.... Note... this is us walking to the race site... we haven't even entered at this point... and we are WALKING!!! The boys took care of our bikes for us...Love you Cay!

It was a very early morning...here we are entering into the race site... approx. 5:15am

Pre-Race Pic...

Our wetsuits are SEXY!!!

Getting our game face on.... more like the OH S$%T face... what did we get ourselves into...

This is one of my favorites....

One last HIGH FIVE before we take the plunge

And we're in....

The Beast....

Finishing the swim.... I look rather manly here....but still with a smile!

Starting the bike...

Finishing the bike... action shot

Starting the run... Last 1/3 of the race!

Almost to the finish line!!!!

WE DID IT!!!! (With our medals/key chain...yes our medals turn into key chains)

My First Triathlon... Recap

2009-04-20T11:12:00.004-05:00

What an AMAZING experience is all I can say! I always knew that race day would be exciting, nerve racking, and vomit inducing (No I didn't throw up.. but I wanted to on several occasions) but I never imagined the sense of accomplishment I would feel once I was done. I will recap with you all the race day events so you can have a clear picture of what an awesome day it was!

Race day was Sunday at 7:00am... my wave was scheduled to start at 7:05... female first timers. This was a "My First Tri" so our distances were shorter than an average sprint tri. The male first timers were scheduled to start at 7:00am.

Apparently being a triathlete means you enjoy waking up at the butt crack of dawn... or at least pretend that you like waking up at the butt crack of dawn. My alarm went off promptly at 3:45am Sunday April 19.

Transition areas open up at 5:30am and it was about a 30 minute drive to the race site and every clinic I went to said "be there 30 minutes before transition opens" so that's what we did - or planned on doing.

We arrived between 5:15 - 5:20am to begin setting up our transition area. Transition is where you run into after the swim, bike out of and into at the beginning and end of the bike portion, and run out of at the start of the run portion. All of your equipment is placed here, bike, helmet, shoes, towels, sunglasses, anything that you need during the race is placed in the transition area.

When we arrived the transition waiting line was already a mile long. People are serious... as you waited in line you were "body marked" with your race number on one thigh, one arm and your age on your calf. FYI - permanent marker is removed off of skin by rubbing alcohol... in case you ever need that piece of info. Soon after body marking transition opened and were let in. We racked our bikes, set up our area, and took a look around to familiarize ourselves with the entrances and exits of transition.

At 6:45am we had a pre-race meeting for the newbies that went over the rules, regulations, etc by one of the referees... 7:00am and the first wave of male first timers jumped off the dock and headed for the starting buoy.

5 min. after their wave started we jumped off the dock and made our way to the starting buoy. Cayla and I were very nervous... one because it was FREEZING Sunday morning. The water temperature was 62 degrees!!! We high fived... and jumped in the water together. Our goal this whole time during training was to finish together... no matter what. We felt like we were at the same level of preparedness so no matter what we would cross the finish line together.

We heard the air horn and started our swim... here ensues Allison's moment of freak out. I realized about a minute into the swim that I had forgotten to start my heart rate monitor and watch. As I was swimming in this lake I tried to start my watch... bad idea... I freaked out... I could not catch my breath so I stopped free styling and back stroked. Now this was very disappointing to me b/c I had worked so hard to be able to freestyle. But let me tell you ... .swimming in a pool is WAY different than open water swimming. I know "swimming is swimming" but seriously it was hard... and scary... b/c I got slapped a few times. I still did a respectable time on the swim of 7min. and 38 seconds... but it was literally the scariest 7 minutes of my life. I thought I was going to drown and the kayaks were going to have to pull me out of the water. I ended up placed 12 out of 38 in the swim.

When I got out of the water I headed up the bank and promptly met the "strippers". These people are assigned to strip you out of your wetsuit as fast and efficiently as possible. I was amazed at how quick they peeled that thing off of me. Once my wetsuit was off I headed down a large hill, through the tennis courts, to transition. The hill was the 2nd scariest part of the race... I thought for sure I was going to bust it. I had wet, cold, numb feet and was running down a slippery hill. I didn't bust it... thank goodness... and made it to transition.

I waited for Cayla at transition and was relieved to find out that she had a minor freak out in the water too. I guess nerves and the newness of open water swimming got the better of us. But we had made it ... 1/3 of the way done!

We hopped on our bikes and headed out for the 6mile bike ride. This was the hardest part of the race for me. I don't think I had prepared fully for the bike portion. I was sick the week before if you remember with PINK EYE so I slacked on bike training. I took my bike out for a spin on Saturday but only for about 3 miles and not on any hills ... which the bike route was 80% uphill. I am not going to lie... it was a struggle...but I made it and I finished it on my bike, in one piece, with no crashes! I finished the bike in 32 min and 32 seconds with an average of 11.1 mph. We finished 33 and 34 out of 38...

Cayla had finished about a min. and a half before me in the bike so she waited for me at transition this time. Transition was crazy between the bike and the run. As I was getting my things someone had taken my race belt with my bib number on it. I know this was a honest mistake because my belt and number were returned at the end of the race... but I didn't have a number the duration of the run. I was so afraid that I was going to get a penalty. As we started the run I spotted the race director and told her... she said if I had received a penalty to let her know and she would correct it. I didn't receive one so I was excited!

The run was an out and back 2 mile. I was frantic and crazy after not having my number so the first few minutes of the run was a tad difficult...but I had Cayla there supporting me and telling me to breathe... sometimes I forget to do that!

We finished the run in 19 min. and 15 seconds... an average of a 9 min and 38 second mile! We placed 8th and 9th out of 38 athletes! So the run was definitely our strongest sport!

We crossed the finish line together... got our "great job" medal and visited with all the lovely people that came to support us!

Overall we were 23 and 24 out of 38. Not too bad for our first time I don't think!

Once we could pack up transition we did and headed to Blue Mesa for their AMAZING Sunday brunch fully equipped with bottomless mimosas!

Thank you to Tony, Hunter, Anna, Kaylee, Karen, Erinn, Chris, Julie, Mario and Della and Dave for coming out to support us! It was so great to see each of you at the finish line! We really appreciated your support and signs and yells and screams!

I have pictures that Tony, Hunter, Erinn and Anna took during the race that I will post later. I am at work and can't download them to post but I will post soon.

Now it's time to start training for a sprint distance in May... maybe I have found a new addiction....

Recap of Results:
Swim - 7:38.95 - 12th out of 38

T1 - 6:33.65

Bike - 32:32.75 - 34 out of 38

T2 - 1:34.20

Run - 19:15.55 - 8 out of 38

Total - 1:07:35.10

Pic of the Week

2009-04-16T14:48:00.004-05:00

My friend, Nick, and fellow blogger over at AU2012 sent me this picture today...

This is the honest to god Lunch Specials board at his office.... hmmmm....

Hope it made you laugh on your Thursday!

5 days before my first triathlon...

2009-04-13T20:20:00.005-05:00

and I'm fighting double pink eye....

REALLY???? It's getting better.. but it still sucks. I noticed mid-week last week I felt like I was getting sick so held off from working out and slept ALOT ... like on Sunday I slept for nearly 12 hours and then took an hour nap at my moms on Easter.

Anyways - Friday night after a lovely dinner with Cayla, Hunter, Kristin and Nick.. I noticed my eyes were bloodshot.. by Saturday morning I had to pry them open with a cro-bar... not really but I might as well have. I woke up at the butt crack of dawn on Saturday to go to a tri-clinic over transitions... after that Cayla and I were going to work out but instead she promptly drove me to CareNow to see a Dr. They tested me for strep too.... luckily that came back negative. But pink eye was confirmed in both eyes. Along with some serious allergy issues for which I was prescribed a 30 day supply of allergy medicine that comes in the largest box known to man.

I hit the gym today, totally disregarding the advice of Erinn, Tony and Michael, but it made me feel good... and I feel better tonight.

I can't believe I'm 5 days out from this triathlon. I'm starting to getting nervous... and it's Monday. I can't believe what I will be like on Saturday...oh help me.

The transition was clinic was helpful... although some of the "transition moves" were way more advanced it was really helpful until this smart a$$ guy in the crowd starts talking about when his friend does tri's she suffers from vertigo. Seriously... then the teacher was like "Oh yea... you can get dizzy, sick from the water, vertigo is common, blah blah blah..." That sent my nerves HAYWIRE... Cayla and I looked at each other and about threw up.

So - this week it's no equipment failure... it's eye and breathing failure... say a few prayers that I heal up before Sunday!!!

Sunday = Equipment Failure Day

2009-03-30T14:05:00.004-05:00

Well... I think it's official... I have copped to believing the old adage of "When it Rains it Pours"....

I always try to look on the bright side of things... find the silver lining in the gray cloud... look at the glass half full instead of half empty... but yesterday I wanted to kick all those happy thoughts in the face...

It was Sunday which meant two things 1) Cayla and Allison's super weekend workout and 2) BUNCO!!!! I was so excited to get up yesterday and spend the day in Ft. Worth with my equally workout obsessed bff.... I packed all my stuff for a great workout and a great night of Bunco with the girls.

As I was over half way to Ft. Worth I had a minor freak out... I had left my heart rate monitor strap at home (or so I thought... I later found it shoved in the bottom of my gym bag). Without my strap I couldn't track my heart rate or most important my calories... which is truly what I work out for... to see the number at the end of each workout and then the following Monday to get my trophy ( I LOVE TROPHY MONDAYS). So I was like crap.. this sucks... but half the time my heart rate monitor straps transmits to my watch that I am dead anyway (constant 0 heart rate) so I was like whatever ... I'll run my watch for workout time only... then I found it like I said crammed in the bottom of my bag so I was happy...

I get to Cayla's and we suit up (in our super cool bike shorts previously mentioned HERE) and head out for a 6 mile ride around her neighborhood. Probably over 3 miles of the 6 miles we rode were uphill... suck....

We were about 1/2 done with our last 3 mile loop and I had been coasting pretty good downhill in my highest gear when I went to shift to a lower gear to start climbing a hill.... and I hear a "POP". I hopped off my bike and realized that the gear line had snapped and there was no way I was going to be able to shift. So I rode the last 1.5miles UPHILL in my highest gear... and it sucked... big time.

So... equipment failure #1 - broken bike

After our bike ride we dropped the bikes and ran the same 3 mile loop around her neighborhood... mostly uphill again.. half the time we were running my heart rate monitor said my heart rate was at like 300... totally inaccurate... good for my caloric output (not accurate) but soooo wrong... it also read a few times that I was flat lined... ZERO

Equipment failure #2 - Heart Rate Monitor Strap...

After we ran... and kicked a&$ btw.... we headed to the gym for a swim and some weights. Everything went according to plan in the weight room... no major mishaps but the pool is a different story.

Now my initial fear about this triathlon was swimming.... remember my plan HERE... I have since subsided this fear with massive amounts of time in the water. I finally was able to swim the entire length of the tri distance freestyle which was a HUGE accomplishment for me. I still think that "fun" swimming is sitting in the lake with a life vest on such that it resembles a diaper and a beer in hand... but "work out" swimming has become a particular fun activity for me. Until Sunday.... Cayla and I hit the pool for the last portion of our SUPER SUNDAY WORKOUT... we were going to do a quick 30 minute swim because we were now on a time crunch for Bunco and still had to fight Central Market ...

We warmed up with a few laps... then moved on to two different swimmers drills that will help decrease lap time and increase the appropriate way to swim (i.e. give you better form and maximize your output underwater). I was one lap away from finishing the drills and about to start our 300m swim when I came out of the water for a breath and realized I couldn't see. I had been blinded by the water that filled up my goggles because the rubber suction-ey things had separated from the plastic goggle part.... AWESOME... I couldn't see and my eyes were burning.

I tried to swim a lap without goggles and realized quickly that that wasn't going to happen ... I swam smack dab into the lane divider.... I'm sure the life guard got a good laugh....

Equipment failure #3... broken goggles

So it was a good workout... I feel great today.

On another note... I ran 5 miles on Saturday for the first time in my life and DIDN'T stop not one time!! I was so proud of myself!!!

I have also started taking a crap-load of vitamins.... I need a geriatric pill box to accommodate. Here's a brief run-down:

One-a-day multi-vitamin (women's formula) - 1 x/day
Omega 3/Fish Oil (for joint health) - 1 pill 3x/day
Glucosamine Sulfate (for joint health) - 1 pill 3x/day
Potassium/Magnesium (for my sucky charlie horses) - 1 pill 1x/day
Calcium (for strong bones... I don't want osteoporosis) 1 pill 1x/day
Vitamin D (for calcium absorption) 1 pill 1x/day

Seriously.... it's crazy...

Well old lady Allison is off to finish taking her vitamins for the day and finish working so she can work out and do it all over again tomorrow!!!

I'll keep you posted :)

19 days to go!!!!!

I wear skinny jeans so you don't have to...

2009-03-26T14:14:00.007-05:00

I AM OFFICIALLY BACK IN MY SKINNY JEANS!!!

I have had two pairs of jeans in my closet that have been hanging there waiting for me to drop the lbs. and be able to wear them again.

The first pair - an AWESOME pair of True Religions I bought YEARS ago on sale from Neimans.

I probably bought them too small for me initially and wore them like twice before I wasn't able to wear them any more... now I will tell you ... I FIT INTO THEM appropriately!! No hang over on the waist band... not leg pooch through the intentional ripped up holes... so exciting. I love these jeans people... I have been waiting for my work outs to pay off on the scale but more so... so I could fit into these damn jeans. When I bought them I ripped them up a little more than the picture shows so they are my grungy real expensive jeans... I love them... I heart these jeans so much. Now I have to go get them patched though because there is a big rip in the crotch... probably because I was trying to fit my fat ass into them when I shouldn't have...

The second pair - and way less sentimental attachment... is a pair of dark James jeans that are more trouser style. When I bought these I bought them for Friday jeans day at Genex. After one or two tries at wearing them I realized my fat ass thighs were too big to make these slim line pants look good on me. So I did as any normal chick would do... I hung them up in my closet until I could wear them... and now I can wear them. In fact, I wore them to work yesterday just because I could and they looked damn good... and they were baggy by the end of the day which made me feel even better.

I buy spandex so you don't have to....

2009-03-17T10:38:00.006-05:00

32 days people.... a little under a month and I will officially be a tri-athlete!! WHAT WHAT!

So as most of you know... Cayla and I work out for a long workout on Saturdays. Well this Saturday we weren't able to workout together so we pushed it back to Monday. Cayla is on Spring Break this week so she came out and we hit they gym... HARD!!

We graced 24hour fitness with our presence for nearly 3 hours!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was insane!!! I left feeling like I had dropped like 10 pounds... come to find out this morning it was only 2... but hey I'll take it!

After we were finished working out we decided to go by RBM (Richardson Bike Mart) and pick up new bike seats for our road bikes. After a slick salesman and $110 we ended up with matching tri-outfits..... really???? Who does this????? Who goes in for a $30 bike seat and spends over 3 times that on an outfit? WE DO!!!!!!

We purchased the tightest pair of shorts and shirt I think imaginable. Complete spandex my friends... complete with padding in the nether-regions for comfort. I am trying these shorts out for the first time today when I take my bike out for a little spin.... no worries... I'll blog if I crash.

If this outfit isn't motivation to drop my last 10 pounds.... nothing ever will be....

see below....

Cayla and I in the dressing room at RBM before we bought out outfits...

Me and my outfit....

Cayla and her outfit

I get hurt so you don't have to...part 2

2009-03-05T09:23:00.006-06:00

If you remember correctly a few days ago I posted this ... well as you may have noticed it said "Part 1"... you have to assume that I would follow up with a "part 2"....

So.... last week I decided I would take a run over to Karen & Ciearra's... it's about 2 - 2.5 miles from my house to theirs. Not too bad right...

So I lace up my shoes, grab my iphone (which operates as an ipod too... good thing I can listen to my tunes and still have my phone in case something happens right...), and head out the door for a nice afternoon run. It was probably almost 80 degrees that day... such a pretty day.

So here I am trucking along Kelly towards George Bush. Now, to give those of you who are not familiar the "lay of the land" between my house and Karen's, we basically are separated by a HUGE MASSIVE TOLL ROAD. To get to the side of the street that Karen's neighborhood is on I have to cross over George Bush and subsequently run about 3/4 of a mile down the access road to get to the entrance of her neighborhood...

I was having a minor freak out because I couldn't remember if there were sidewalks along the access road... luckily there were so I was a-ok! Had there not been, this could have been a much worst post... ie... I get hurt by getting run over by a car on the highway....

As I'm crossing over the bridge and cars are whizzing by me... I start feeling this burning sensation right by my hip. My iphone was in it's little sports case and clipped onto the waist band of my running pants so I figured "Oh it's just hot from being played" so I scooted it over so it would stop burning me......

Little did I know at that point .. I had already been burned... and blistered for that matter. WHO GETS BURNED AND BLISTERED BY AN IPHONE??????

See below

You can't really see the magnitude of the blister in this picture... over the course of the few days following my run it scabbed over and was gross... now it's healed but I will NEVER clip my iphone to my waistband again... I will ALWAYS use the arm strap that came with the case.

Toodles!

AU2012

2009-03-03T10:18:00.005-06:00

Ok ... I know many of you who read this blog are going to think that I am certifiably NUTZO after you read this post... however, I am ok with that.

A few years ago my two dear friends, Kristin and Nick, explained to me the theory of the "Animal Uprising of 2012". It is a theory that in 2012 our precious domesticated and non domesticated animals are going to turn on us.

This may sound like a bad zombie movie but it's actually kind of interesting as well addictive. Now that they have roped me into this theory I can't help but scour the news sites for incidents and evidence that AU2012 is upon us.

For example, in January birds flew into the engine of the plane that went down in the Hudson. This could be a precursor to what we should expect in 2012...

Just for another though provoking 2012 moment.. the gorilla that attacked it's owner's friend a few weeks ago... basically mauling her to an almost death.

Everywhere you turn AU2012 is on the rise... and to officially note this in the cyber world... we have started a blog... au2012.blogspot.com

Feel free to submit your own stories... I know you are wanting to throw me in a loony bin right now but I'm serious people... just look around you and watch for the stories of animals attacking... they are everywhere!!!!

If for no other reason it is humorous AND totally distracting from anything that you should be doing at work :)

RUN FOREST RUN!!!!!

Guest Blog Ciearra Style....

2009-03-03T10:05:00.004-06:00

This is long overdue and is filling me up with angst and anger so I need to let it out! Three things I HAVE to talk about and let my opinion be known, The Bachelor, Steve Harvey Morning Show and The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, two of the three I am absolutely disgusted with!

One – The Bachelor. I boycotted The Bachelor this season for many reasons, 1. I think the idea of these stupid shows are BULLSHIT…you are not going to find the person that you are going to marry and spend the rest of your life with through a reality tv show...point proved by the numerous failed relationships that crash and burn after the show and their five minutes of fame has fizzled… except for Trish and that fireman guy…lets see where they are in 20 years, 2. What kind of woman are you if you are going to put yourself with 20-30 other women COMPETING FOR A MAN’S ATTENTION! No one should have to compete for a man’s attention THEY COMPETE FOR OURS…Where are your standards ladies! AND 3. Why the hell would a FATHER, let me repeat the word FATHER bring his three or four year old baby that is at his most impressionable age of his life into a NATIONAL REALITY TV SHOW with 20-30 women who are strangers to this child and this “so-called” FATHER. What is this “Father” teaching his son? I got it, that his son can have 20-30 women at his disposal, that marriage is a joke, you can propose to one and let her go once another one or problems arise!…which BTW is what happened at the end of the show….This brings me to the last rant with The Bachelor. Ladies where have our standards gone, again!…We talk and say chivalry is dead no it is not dead we have just lowered our standards and don’t expect or we make justifications about why people we date, our boyfriends and even some husbands aren’t gentlemen…Do you expect it at all times? If not, why not? Let me get back to The Bachelor, once our lover-boy-shitty father-horrible waste of space dumped the “lucky” girl, whom he picked at the end of the show, Melissa, said he loved, put a ring on her finger, and PROPOSED…he confessed to her that “things”, we never found out what “things” those were, were different and he hadn’t been able to stop thinking about the other girl from the finale that he dumped, Molly! The “Dumpee” was pissed like anyone would be and left the show...ok fine…THEN they bring out the, Molly, first “Dumpee” from the shows finale. The Bachelor, once our lover-boy-shitty father-horrible waste of space, confesses to Molly his new love for her and how he just broke it off with Melissa, let us not forget the girl he just proposed to SIX WEEKS EARLIER and he wants another chance with Molly…I’m thinking no girl in her right mind would say yes after he embarrassed her in two ways 1. Broke it off with her on national TV AND 2. Sucked face and probably ophed (Slept with) Melissa the past 6 weeks doing who knows what while they were ENGAGED….THEN TO MY AMAZEMENT …SHE SAID YES! WTF! Ladies can we learn a lesson from this, A GUY has once shot and that’s it....um especially if he dumps you to put a ring on another girls finger or in real world examples, sleeps with another girl, lies to you, doesn’t do things he says he will. Can we please remember what a ring on the finger means also…FOREVER…not like today’s loose terms of an engagement ring. I was livid and thinking last night this is why guys are the way they are bc we, ladies, are allowing it!! We go back to them time and time again! Learn that guys will not change especially if we allow then to continue in the bad behavior they are portraying. STOP MAKING EXCUSES FOR THEM…AND GROW UP LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!

Two- This morning on my way to work I’m schmoozing through an array of stations and found myself thinking about last night and the very thin backbone this woman had with THE BACHELOR, our lover-boy-shitty father-horrible waste of space, and I hear Steve Harvey of the Steve Harvey Morning Show 105.7 FM speaking on the Rihanna/Chris Brown fiasco. For those that don’t know, here’s the latest, Rihanna has gone back to the man who beat her face into her brains and has disrespected herself to the most extreme way she ever could let a man beat on her and went back to him. Steve Harvey was talking about how upset he was at Rihanna’s father, bc his father is very lackadaisical about this whole situation saying he is with Rihanna no matter what she decides either to be with Chris Brown or not. Steve Harvey was furious with her father and explaining how if it was his daughter he would find Chris Brown and beat his “punk ass”. As Steve Harvey said, “Any man who goes outside his manhood and puts his hands on a woman is a coward”. TRUE TRUE Along with that quote he went off on a tangent about how he heard a WOMAN from a sound byte speaking on the Rihanna/Chris Brown situation he found asking, “Well what did Rihanna do?” Steve Harvey went off for 20 minutes stating it doesn’t matter what a woman does, MEN NEVER HAVE AN EXCUSE TO PUT THEIR HANDS ON WOMEN! Ladies again after hearing that sound byte what are we thinking? I know that most, well hopefully most, women will say it is not ok for a man to put his hands on a woman but for those “NOT MOST” women what are we thinking...Again we are ALLOWING MEN to think it is ok to act in this way! We have to raise our standards!

Three- Sadly, right after I was so happy to hear the angelic words coming from Steve Harvey, I turned the station to The Rickey Smiley Morning show 97.9 FM who was just doing the entertainment news. They were talking about the Rihanna/Chris Brown reconciliation. The people on that show said, “I bet they are having a hard time reconciliating with the media all over them” and “They both (Rihanna and Chris Brown) need to go to a private place with a psychologist to get over this.” My mouth almost fell off my face when I heard that! TO GET OVER THIS? NO Christ Brown’s punk ass, as Steve Harvey put it; needs to get his punk ass thrown into jail where he will really feel like a punk ass when he is getting it up the ass and then he can feel what it is like to be Rihanna that night. Has this abuse just become so normal that people are not forced to deal with consequences of their actions? Not once did I hear that Rihanna should not be with Chris Brown…Not once did I hear what is she doing? Is this really ok? No it is not ok with me!Ladies, we HAVE GOT TO STEP UP! What type of mankind are we turning into? What happened to what The Bible says, the golden rule, and parents teaching their children to be mature, respectable adults! And ladies if we want a gentleman and chivalry back we have to expect it. We are allowing men to act the way that they do …

PS – If you are thinking why is she not getting on the men…bc if I expect a man to treat me one way and he doesn’t, he’s gone…I don’t deal with PUNK ASS BOYS...It starts with us ladies

I get hurt so you don't have to...part 1

2009-03-02T12:25:00.004-06:00

I wasn't going to blog about this... BUT... since the two friends I told this story to initially have blabbed their big mouths because they think it's funny (not naming any names... KAREN AND CIEARRA) I will go ahead and tell you what happened...

*****FLASHBACK ABOUT A MONTH AND HALF AGO....(insert wayne's world finger movement and sound here)******

I was super stoked to get my bike. Tommy had found it on Craigslist for me and I was so excited to have a real road bike. If you remember correctly, the only other bike I've ever had was like a pink, basket and all, 10 speed that I barely rode because I lived on gravel and that makes it rather difficult as an uncoordinated little girl. (not much has changed... I'm still rather uncoordinated)

Anyway...

I got my bike and Tommy came over to fix it up... check the gears, brakes, adjust the handle bars, seat, etc...

After all was complete I took it out for a spin... The loop around my neighborhood is about a mile give or take... so I figured that would be a nice little "get acquainted" at 10pm ride...

I was going pretty good... quick little jaunt through the neighborhood... when all of a sudden four houses down from my finish line (my house)... I got going WAY to fast....

I panicked... forgot where the brakes were and laid me and my bike over in the street. It was either that OR hit the mailbox... and I opted for a few scrapes rather than a broken neck, hip, leg, arm, etc...

I totally freaked out... I didn't know what do... now you may have a TINY bit of understanding as to why I have a few apprehensions regarding the bike portion of my triathlon.

I have gotten on my bike sense and I'm doing just fine... but I don't ride in streets and I tend to enjoy riding where there is no one around that I can plow into and subsequently discombobulate.

I have a feeling I will soon be comfortable on the bike ... just as I am now comfortable swimming.. however I may prefer drowning over a bought of road rash...

When Good/Great Things Turn Bad...

2009-02-18T13:00:00.004-06:00

Ok so yesterday I noticed a phenomenon...

I was at the gym... enjoying a nice workout, running, some weights, some abs... you know the usual quick workout. When I was done working out I needed gas BAD... like so bad my car almost didn't start... so I went across the street to fill up so I could make it to meet my sister. Anyways...

I thought to myself... WHY ON EARTH DO THEY PUT A CHICK-FIL-A NEXT TO THE GYM AND THEN ADVERTISE THEIR SUPER YUMMY MILKSHAKES!!! This started a series of events that transpired over the course of the evening... I kept noticing good things that inevitably turned bad...

Example 1.

The Gym (good thing) -

The gym next to chick fil a with life size posters of milkshakes (bad thing)

Example 2.
A brand new paper plates and all Cadillac SLR (good thing) -

A GUY driving the PEARL PINK brand new paper plates and all Cadillac SLR with a Mary Kay decal (bad/totally weird thing)

Example 3.
Toll Tags - only the best invention ever if you lived confined by three tollways (Dallas North Tollway, PGBT, and 121)

People who pull up to the tollbooth wait for someone to come to the window (which no one was there) realize then that no one is there and proceed to dig for change for 10 min. By which at this point me reversing is not a viable option because of the line of cars that have piled up behind me. (bad and frustrating thing)

Example 4.
Cosmetic Surgery - whether corrective or enhancement admit it it's a good thing

People who have so much cosmetic surgery they can barely open their eyes, shut their lips, or blow their nose... (bad AND disgusting)

Example 5
Making out - a favorite past time of most people

Making out in a restaurant parking lot ... but not just making out... more like mugging down... ok seriously almost having sex outside of the car on the parking lot.. GROSS GROSS GROSS

Anyway... I just thought I'd share :)

Happy Hump Day!

two weeks...

2009-02-15T20:50:00.005-06:00

I haven't blogged in two weeks almost... I'm slacking!!

Tri training is going great! Cayla and I are training together now for two hours on Saturdays. It is so nice to train with someone ... I wish we lived closer so we could work out together everyday!! We are just under two months until race day and I'm getting more and more excited each week... but that also comes with more and more nerves.

I'm super nervous about the bike portion of the race. I was initially most nervous about the swim but now this bike part has really got me freaked... I think I need to spend some time "getting comfortable" on the bike. I'm afraid if I don't feel comfortable I'm going to seriously injure myself or someone else...that would make for a nice post though...

I am also three weeks out before our annual girls trip. This year we are headed back to Fredericksburg the first weekend in March. This will also conclude our "Operation Get Fit" Challenge that we started in November. I'm not sure if I initially blogged about this or not but back in November, all the girls, took part in a fitness challenge to get ourselves back in shape. This was about the same time I decided I wanted to do this triathlon so it worked out perfect. We put $50 in a pot... $25 will go to the biggest percentage of weight dropped and $25 will go to biggest drop in BMI. This has been the best thing ever.... I have completely embraced this challenge and feel better about myself now than I have in along time.

In the meantime...

I saw "He's Just Not That Into You".... such a cute movie! I highly recommend reading the book first though. I read this book when it was first published in 2004 and fell in love with it so naturally I was stoked when I saw the previews for the movie.

It is so cute. And although I don't agree 100% with every part of the book/movie it is a fun, mindless, romantic comedy that even the guys would enjoy. So buckle down, pay the $100 it costs to go to the movies now-a-days and see it!

Continuing on to my TV addiction...

American Idol is in full swing! WHAT WHAT!! I love A.I. ... I love the tryouts, Hollywood week, everything! I get sucked in EVERY YEAR!

We are into our top 36 now and the first group sings Tuesday... I will throw it out there... I love Kai Kalama. He made me cry during his audition in San Francisco and I was soooo happy when he made it through. Even if he doesn't win.. he's a winner to me :)

Family Stuff:

Coop turned 3 on Friday! I can't believe he is 3!!! It seemed like just yesterday he was this tiny thing! It is also hard for me to grasp that Shelby is going to be 1 in two months. I was able to see all three of my precious nieces/nephews on Saturday for Valentine's Day. I played Cupid and delivered them all their Valentine Goody Bags... as far as I'm concerned they are my perfect Valentines!

I did have a slight emotional moment when I left Paige and Nick's... Shelby started to cry when I was leaving and it made me cry. I love that little girl so much she is sooooo cute and soooo sweet. She would just cuddle with me and love on me; she is really starting to take on a personality.

I was equally excited to see Kaylee and Cooper on Saturday. I just knew that they would love their goody bags. AND I only gave them one thing of candy each so Anna wouldn't yell at me. They each got a heart shaped Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.... it's my favorite and I knew they would share.... I totally had ulterior motives. Kaylee and Coop always make me smile and after a long day at the gym their hugs and kisses were just what I needed.

I'm so lucky to have such a wonderful family!!!!

On a serious note:

Please continue to pray for Jessica. Her chemo regimen now is pretty hard on her and I ask you to lift her and her family up in your prayers for continued strength, healing and peace. If you get a second visit her website and leave her a note of encouragement at www.jessicagage.com

Have a great Monday!

College Station

2009-02-02T12:54:00.005-06:00

This weekend was SOOO much fun! As I mentioned last week, I headed to College Station for the weekend to see Della and Dave. They have lived there almost a year and I have yet to make it down to visit (WORST FRIEND EVER)... It ended up a bunch of our old college friends were down there as well and we had such a great time!

Friday we went and saw Reckless Kelly... a great show.. but not the same w/o our favorite band member Jimmy who has moved on from the band and now they have a new bassist. That's ok... we'll still love them!

Saturday we got up and went to the basketball game (after my favorite lunch in College Station... Laynes). We watched the Aggies BTHO OSU (haha Sarah) and headed to northgate after that! Now mind you, I am getting old, and I can't "party" like I used to. We were at the bar from 4pm until 2am... Allison was (and stilll is) TIRED!!!!

It was all and all a great weekend... good friends, good food and a lot of good fun!

Needless to say - my training was obsolete this weekend... that's ok though I'll start again today... I got my bike this weekend so if you see me crashed on the side of the road... keep driving I don't want to be embarrassed... I'll be ok... but if you drive back by and I'm still not up... call 911 please!

Me and Ciearra at the game

Old Friends and New Friends...

Ciearra, Della and Me at the Game

Me and Del

I think I've gone crazy...

2009-01-29T21:27:00.004-06:00

I spent two (2) hours at the gym yesterday... and burned 1300 calories AND didn't want to leave! What's wrong with me.... it's become an obsession...an addiction...but I guess a healthy addiction at that..

Today I went and swam 400 meters and had to force myself to rinse off, change and go home to have a nice meal and watch some tv... deep inside I wanted to stay longer..

I guess it all comes in waves... some days I can barely pull myself out the door to go the gym, other weeks I want to sleep there... ah well... I guess it will work out (no pun intended).

My training is going good... yesterday was the first time back in the gym in a week. I did a little weight training, a nice run and some cycling... I left feeling amazing!... I woke up feeling like I was going to fall over from pain. I hadn't worked out in so long I got sore! I haven't been sore since I started this process; so I hadn't felt that in awhile...by the way... IT HURTS!

If you are a member of 24 hour fitness I highly recommend the 24 LIFT class... EXCELLENT but you will be hurting the next day.

On another note: (maybe a little personal)

Do you ever wonder why life doesn't work out like the movies (or tv, or books for that matter). You think you do everything right, live a good life, make good, responsible, mature decisions and it doesn't turn out quite like it did on Grey's Anatomy or You've Got Mail or a Nicholas Sparks Novel.

I guess you have to make your own movie (boy readers I don't mean that kind of movie).. write your own story, paint your own picture... you get my drift. It's a beautiful thing... life... you can have a different story, book, painting every 24 hours...

Allison's piece of advice for the day: HAVE NO REGRETS....

I'm headed back to good 'ole college station this weekend to see Della and her fiance Dave so I won't be on the blogging front but when I get back I'll post pictures and tell you how FABULOUS my trip was!

Have a great weekend!

Busy Busy...

2009-01-27T23:12:00.005-06:00

Hi ya! Well it's been crazy around here the last week or so... I was traveling for work last week and then went out of town on the weekend... I was literally home for one day last week until Monday! It was fun and the weekend went by WAY to fast!

Last week I got a new fence! YEA!! If you have been to my house you know the awful shape my fence was in.. falling over on all three sides, two inaccessible gates and slats down throughout... well I buckled down and gave in and got a new one and I love it! I can't wait for spring to be here so I can start making over my back yard! Sod, new flower beds, flagstone... I can see it now!

It is FREEZING here tonight! It's dropped into the low 20's and sleeting like crazy... the rooftops in my neighborhood are already all white and my front and back yard are blanketed in ice and sleet as well. At about 2pm this afternoon I received an email that work was delaying opening until 10 if that gives you a clue to the madness of this winter weather Texas is experiencing. You know us Texas, it gets below 70 and we freak out and break out with parkas, not to mention we don't drive anywhere either!

Deuce (my dog) HATES any kind of precipitation... he literally will hold going to the bathroom for days if it is raining... he also hates the cold so this is a lose/lose situation for him. He hasn't stepped outside since this afternoon before the sleet hit...hopefully I can get him outside for like 5 seconds to pee before we hit the sack! I hate to tell him that Thursday is bath day ... he hates that too. He probably will hate me now... it's cold raining/sleeting and he has to have a bath... and get his teeth brushed..poor Deucey!

Well we are going to hit the hay... I hope you all have a great week!

Ciao!

stupid html

2009-01-22T09:22:00.005-06:00

Hello my lovely blog readers... I was keeping track of how many hits my little blog was getting but something happened with that html code and now I refuse to start over again at 0!

Training for the tri has been lax this week... I've been traveling for work so it's been hard but I'll get back in the swing of it next week.

Today I want to dedicate my post to one of my sisters, Anna... For Christmas I gave her cake decorating classes. She had taken an interest in cake decorating awhile ago and is really good at it. So I figured I've give her some professional lessons to enhance her already natural ability. She just finished her third week in class.

This is what I have discovered:

1. She makes a better butter cream icing than any professional cake I've ever eaten... and I've had a lot... I do pride myself as a cake connoisseur..

2. She faced her fear of clowns... this week in class she had to make a clown cake... sorry sister I wasn't aware of that when I signed you up

3. You should totally hire her out to make your kids birthday cakes...

So that's it... she's really good and it tastes REALLY GOOD!

Keep checking back for further updates :)

860 Calories Down.... 101 Days to go!!!

2009-01-07T19:34:00.005-06:00

This week marked the re-start of my tri-training. I was L-A-Z-Y during the two week holidays between Christmas and NYE... but I made myself get back into the swing of things this week.

I was not starting off the week very good on Monday because the weather was bad and I didn't want to get out in it and my friend Tommy came over because his power was out at his house (ice from tree branches fell on to the power lines and completely knocked out his power). So there was no gym time for me on Monday...

Tuesday I decided I MUST go - so I took Deuce out for a run... it was hard getting back into the "groove"... but Deuce always makes it a much more enjoyable trip. He was really scared though because this crazy woman walking down Kelly kept hissing at him and putting up cat claws. I seriously thought Deuce was going to jump up into my arms and I was going to have to carry him home...but instead we turned it up a notch and sprinted.... good for Deuce to not see the crazy lady... good for my heart rate and endurance!

Today (Wednesday) I went to the gym to cycle and run ... I still haven't gotten my road bike but hope to have it soon. Ciearra went with me and we had an AMAZING work out! We cycled on the spin bikes for 25 minutes ( I made C go an extra 5 minutes with me... I thought she was going to kick me in the face)... then ran for 20 and did an abs class for 15... so after an hour of working out I burned nearly 900 calories!!! It feels so good.... my "operation get fit" girls are going to be jealous!

I can really feel myself changing... my endurance has certainly picked up... I feel stronger and clothes are starting to fit better. My weight has stayed steady over the last month.. no gain but no loss either... I hope since I'm turning up my workouts now I will start to see results on the scale.

I heard at the gym today abs are 80% diet and 20% exercise... something to think about ....

OH MY GOODNESS!!

2009-01-02T18:37:00.013-06:00

I have so much to blog about... I haven't had a computer (or the time since the holidays) to sit down and blog so I'll try to do a December 2008 recap...

1. I got a job! AWESOME! I'm so excited I start on Monday, January 5... at Cambridge Integrated Services Group. I am going to be an Account Manager in the Client Services division. My new office will be about 10 minutes from house and I hopefully will have the opportunity to travel. I will have a book of business that I am responsible for once the initial sale has been made by the sales force... this will include implementation, problem soliving, benchmarking and other stewardship reports and meetings, continued education, etc. I am so very excited about this awesome opportunity! I truly know this position was worth the wait! The job and the people completely fit my personality and my goals and I'm so fortunate to have found a job with such an amazing company!

2. FAMILY PICTURES - It was so nice to get the WHOLE family together to take pictures for the first time. Our pictures included - my mom, me, My sister Paige and her family (nick and shelby), and my other sister Anna and her family (Randy, Kaylee and Cooper)... NINE of us... six girls... you can imagine the chaos that ensued...

It was wonderful and we were able to get a ton of awesome pictures from our AMAZING PHOTOGRAPHER STEFANIE!!

3. I was able to be a part of an AWESOME friends wedding right before Christmas. Laura was my roommate in college and she married her handsome little husband on December 21 in Georgetown, SC. It was an amazing weekend filled with wedding festivities and reconnections. I was able to see a few friends that I hadn't seen in a long time and catch up. I also was able to meet all of Laura and Jaime's wonderful friends and family. Their wedding was beautiful and I so enjoyed being a part of it.

4. CHRISTMAS! Christmas was so fun this year. It was my niece - Shelby's - first Christmas and so much fun! She loved tearing up all the tissue paper while opening her presents and playing with all of her fun toys. She has started crawling and is now officially on the move! Kaylee and Cooper also had an amazing Christmas... they are so fun as well and Cooper really "got" Christmas this year. Kaylee is the best big sister ever and helped him with opening his toys and playing on the wii with all of their fun new stuff!

5. New Years - WELCOME 2009!! I welcomed in 2009 in Houston with my friends Kristin and Nick. They hosted a party at their house fully equipped with lots of food, drinks and rockband! I'm just about the most amazing rockband singer ever...

This holiday season was filled with family and friends. This was definitely the best way to end a great year and an even better way to begin a better 2009! I hope each of you had an amazing and BLESSED holiday season as I did.

4th photo challenge

2008-12-23T22:21:00.006-06:00

I was tagged by my friend Kristin of www.kiersserendipity.blogspot.com/ to participate in what I have deemed the "4th Photo Challenge".

Instructions:

1. Go to the place where you store all of your pictures on your computer and open up the 4th folder.

2. Open the 4th picture

3. Post the picture and give an explanation

4. Tag 4 people

The photo above was taken on my 27th birthday at Sherlocks in Addison, Texas. I am enjoying a nice refreshing Vodka/Tonic w/ 2 Limes... I'm not sure there's much more explanation than that!

I tag:

1. Erin - http://www.benavidesfam.blogspot.com/

2. Kristi - http://www.kyndallandavery.blogspot.com/

3. Desiree - http://themoellenkamps.blogspot.com/

4. Johanna - http://deloplaybook.blogspot.com/

Happy Holidays!

1 week down... 18 to go...

2008-12-14T23:30:00.003-06:00

I finished my first real week of "Operation Triathlon". It went well... I have increased my biking to about 6 miles (give or take dependent on time) each work out and 1.5 mile run. I should be good in no time.. haha j/k!

By far swimming is going to be most difficult.. I think I said this in the earlier post... but seriously I swam for the first time this week in a real lap pool at the gym and about died.... so close to death in fact my heart rate monitor stopped... which instantly made me panic and say (in my head... b/c if I said this out loud then I really would be crazy)... "OH MY GOD I THINK MY HEART STOPPED!" Seriously I said this and then realized it was just because it doesn't work in the water...

I was pumped when I saw the pool and thought 50m ain't bad... until I went to confirm the distance with the guy at the gym and he said "no ma'am our pool is 25m" - DANG I thought I had swam 200m and I really only swam 100m!

Seriously though - I may have to switch up strokes in the middle of the lake - yes I am swimming in a lake on tri day - does doggie paddle count as a stroke? Or if I start drowning and they rescue me do I automatically get to continue on the bike portion b/c I might have a chance at winning if this is the case.... Here's my plan:

Hop into the water - swim for about 45 seconds "play drowned" get whisked off by the med team - get a quick once over - they see I'm ok and I hop on my bike... maybe my sights aren't set on first place with this plan but a solid top 10! haha j/k

I'm also really excited not only b/c I completed one week of tri training but I have a big week coming up this week! I have 3 interviews! YEA GO ME! I hope one pans out - because I seriously need a job.... I have surfed the internet, watched tv and done laundry as much as 1 person can...

In addition to my 3 interviews I leave on Friday for my friend Laura's wedding in South Carolina! I'm so excited to see her and so honored to be a part of her wedding... standing beside her on her wedding day is going to be a blessing! Laura and I were roommates in college and had some pretty fun times (and lived to tell about them)... we also probably didn't always make the best decisions... but we learned from them and had a dang good time along the way.

She is going to be a beautiful bride and I'll post pictures upon my return ... I know you will all be on the edge of your seats for that!

If I don't get around to blogging before Christmas I hope you all have a WONDERFUL holiday season. I hope you all get to spend time with your families and the people you love most. And as you get whisked up in the wonders of the holiday always remember what we are celebrating and why we celebrate!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

xoxo

19 weeks and counting...

2008-12-08T22:01:00.004-06:00

I got this idea in my head a few weeks ago that I would start training for my first triathlon in April... I set lofty goals what can I say...

I have absolutely no desire to run a marathon or even a 1/2 marathon for that matter... I get bored too easily running... but I thought I can do something where it changes and isn't constant repetition of the same sport so I thought "Hey Why Not a Triathlon"... So I did some research and found one in April... April 19 to be exact... in McKinney, so close to home to where I can come home and puke my guts up afterwards.

Don't let me fool you - it isn't an Ironman or anything but it should be a pretty good starting point for me and an attainable goal for which I've set.... to simply finish! It is called "My First Tri" a division of the King Tut Triathlon on the same day... it consists of:
300 Meter Swim
6 mile Bike
2 Mile Run
in that order...

I've got the biking down so far and the running actually (my cardio endurance came back rather quickly as I routinely got back into the gym) but the swimming... HOLY CRAP ... it's hard.

It's way different than just splashin' around in the lake with a beer (which I typically consider 'swimming') but I will survive (hopefully there will be life guards just in case) it's only 6 laps in an Olympic size pool after all... this sound ridiculous as I type it...

So keep checking back for my progress on my tri-training... I actually must be a pretty good sales-woman I've roped three friends into doing this with me - SO -

POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS WHO MAY BE READING THIS... I HAVE GREAT SALES SKILLS!!! WHO ELSE COULD TALK SOMEONE INTO DOING A TRIATHLON??? HIRE ME!!!

and come support Me, Cayla, Kristin and Ciearra as we try to complete our tri on April 19... put it in your calendar people!

Thanks for reading!

(sing Jefferson theme song here) Movin' on up.... or out ... whatever

2008-12-07T22:48:00.005-06:00

Ok Ok Ok... I am finally sitting down to update ....

If you had the slight chance last week to catch my blog before I deleted the post you may already know what I am going to tell you... but if you didn't I'll tell you briefly what has been happening over the course of the last few weeks...

My last post (that I deleted) was much more eloquently written but I found myself after posting it struggling to decide if I should leave it up... so I figured if I was struggling about it I should take it down...

Bill and I have decided to take some time away from each other... and by take time, I mean for no better words, break up and move out... he has moved his stuff out of my house and into his own house that he is in the process of purchasing... a lot to digest in just three measly weeks.

I guess this time in my life fits the old adage "if you love someone set them free; if they come back they are yours, if they don't they never were"

With all of this that has been going on I have run the gamut of emotions - sad, angry, bitter, lonely, happy (yes even happy)... but I finally feel peace. I am at peace with the decision... I still get angry and sad and bitter and lonely and happy... but through all of it I am peaceful because I know that I will be ok.

Bill was/is a huge part of my life but our relationship didn't define who I was or what I was it only enhanced me and my life...so I know that I will be ok... because I am strong.

So with this new place I find myself at - I feel lucky to have a new beginning... and a new time to focus on me and my goals... to find a new job that is perfect for me and a new chapter in my life that is still unwritten (I totally just referenced the Hills theme song)

Thanks for taking time to read my little blog...

PS - we took family pictures today that were AMAZING!!!!! Hopefully I'll have them in a week or so and can share them with you. CHECK OUT OUR AWESOME PHOTOGRAPHER HERE

Wishin' and Hopin' and Thinkin' and Prayin'

2008-11-03T18:29:00.003-06:00

Well I think the title above describes my job search perfectly!

I am still on the search - by the way...

I'm wishing for a job to come along soon...
I'm hoping that it is the PERFECT job...
I'm thinking it can't be something I would settle for...
and
I'm praying that God answers my prayers about a job!

I think I've applied seriously to about 25 jobs in a week. I haven't heard anything back from any of them (Except my old company GENEX... that didn't work out) but it's ok. Patience is a virtue... so I will be patient.

I think I'll start following up on my applications tomorrow... especially the one's I applied for early last week. It's all I can do to pull myself away from the computer during the day. I am constantly checking my email for responses, checking the major job search websites, and checking companies websites for jobs that I would be interested in... here's a short list of positions I've applied for (If you know anyone at these companies feel free to put in a good word for me) - these are in no particular order:

1. SMU - Director of Partnership Services and Special Events
2. City of Southlake - Marketing and Tourism Coordinator
3. The Chrons and Colitis Association - Special Event Manager
4. Nursefinders - Account Manager
5. Stryker (applied for two jobs) - Marketing Manager and Associate Programs Manager
6. Southwest Airlines - Online Marketing Analyst
7. 3M - Sales Representative
8. Par Pharmaceuticals - Sales Rep
9. Astra Zeneca - Sales Rep
10. Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children - Special Events Officer

So there you have it - a short list of what my days have been consumed with. I haven't had to do this since college. It is a process........

I hope to find something soon and turn around and blog about my perfect job! Say a few prayers for me that I will hear something soon ... even a potential interview would be great!

Corporate Restructuring?

2008-10-28T09:56:00.005-05:00

Well I wish I was blogging about what an awesome time we had at Kristin's wedding this weekend... but before I get to that...

I went into work yesterday (Monday - by the way) under the pretense of our marketing meeting for the new location in Cedar Hill. Only to be told that my position was being eliminiated and taken to an hourly position with in each store. So here I sit on Tuesday, sad, pissed, and jobless.

I won't get into the in's and out's of my feelings (maybe another time) but I'm heartbroken right now... and my pride is a little bruised I must say.

So today - for the first time in my life - I am headed to the unemployment line.... (wish me luck).

so .... in the mean time...

Check out the new blog I added to my reading list... www.cakewrecks.blogspot.com

You won't be sorry - it is hilarious.... they show pictures of cakes that were the inspiration and then they way they actually turn out ... and in most of them people paid for it by a "professional" baker... I think the phrase "Buyer beware" fits this site perfect!

Well if you are reading this and know of any leads for a possible job please let me know... I'll be out hitting the pavement!

I'll blog about Kristin's wedding soon - it was absolutely magnificant and I don't want to bog the amazing evening down with my lovely attitude right now...

Be back soon!

Thank you!!!!!

2008-10-14T18:03:00.002-05:00

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!

Jessica has reached her goal for the NBTS Angel Walk plus some!!

Thank you again!!

Updates coming soon....

Please Donate

2008-09-30T21:08:00.009-05:00

As many of you who read this know... my best friend Jessica was diagnosed nearly two years ago with a brain tumor. Jessica has not let this diagnosis of cancer run her life and neither will her supporters! Please if you can visit her webpage www.jessicagage.com or visit the widget below. We are trying to raise money for the Angel Adventure Walk in November. These funds will support brain tumor research and aide in finding a cure for this horrid disease.

Please visit and donate if you can - any dollar amount will help!
Team - Love For Jess

Let's play ketchup - haha catch up I mean!

2008-09-25T22:32:00.005-05:00

What a corny way to start off a blog! (but I'm just a corny person I guess)...

I haven't blogged in like two and a half weeks!! WOW!! I'm sure you are all on the edge of your couches wondering where I've been and what I've been up to :)

Things have been crazy as usual... work has been especially nutzo lately...we are in the process of opening two new restaurants (one whole new concept) so it's been very exciting and busy around Bailey and Bailey Restaurants. I have spent more time in Cedar Hill it seems than at my own house but that is ok - the effort is worth the payoff :)

We are gearing up for a super busy month in October - we have weddings and wedding showers galore to be prepared for :) It will be fun to watch two sets of our dear friends tie the knot in October.

Kristi and I will also be a vendor at a HUGE craft show on Oct. 17 - Oct. 19 in Plano. Hot Tot Designs will be on display for all the world to see :) - Come see us we will be at Plano Centre
If you can't make it you should tell two friends - tell them to tell two friends..... and so on and so on.... :)

We had a super fun weekend last weekend... Friday night I went to the Ranger game with Cayla and Hunter ... so much fun to see them even though they live so close I don't see them often enough.

Saturday ... was Oktoberfest in Addison - celebrated the non existent-German heritage :) it was a great reason to get a good brat and a cold bier... also watched the Aggies loose pathetically to Miami.... GO AGS!

Monday I went to the Ranger game AGAIN but this time with Jessica... we had such a fun time - Can't beat a girls night at the ballpark! You can indulge in gluttony ... cotton candy, ice cream, nachos - YUMMY!!!!!!

Last Friday was my precious niece's 8th birthday - I can't believe Kaylee is 8! The fam celebrated Sunday night at my mom's house! Kaylee picked Spaghetti with Salad, Green beans, and rolls for her birthday dinner! It was fantastic - one of my favorite meals that my mom makes and birthday cake with ice cream...can't get any better than that!

Well I hope everyone has a great weekend....I promise to blog more frequently :)

xoxoxo

2008-08-27T08:52:00.002-05:00

I started to update yesterday but got caught up grocery shopping, doing laundry, and watching big brother - I'm addicted - not of course to laundry, but I think to grocery shopping and tv.

I love grocery shopping... I love making a list, cutting coupons and at the end seeing how much "I saved" when in reality I just bought a bunch of crap I'm not going to use but bought it anyway because I had a coupon.

Things you should always remember when grocery shopping:
- Stick to the initial list you make
- DON'T GO HUNGRY -my mom tried to teach me this as a kid - but it still hasn't sunk in. Seriously though who thinks when their tummy's are full "I need to go grocery shopping" not so much, it's when your practically starving and trying to put together a meal it pops in your head to go to the store...so you go with an empty stomach and come home with half the store and half the wallet size.
- Somethings you can't buy off brand, i.e. toilet paper only the best for back there.
- Don't go late at night - NOTHING is stocked!

Last weekend wasn't too excitingI enjoyed a concert Friday night and having dinner with my friend Erinn whom I hadn't seen in awhile on Saturday.

Friday night I went to Reckless Kelly with Karen, Ciearra and Cayla. We had fun being silly and relishing in our college days. They are such a fun band - it's always guaranteed a good time when RK comes to town.

Saturday Karen and I went to dinner with Erinn at Tom Tom sushi in the West Village. It was YUMMY! It was nice to catch up with Erinn and see her and her boyfriend Chris. They are so sweet and it's nice to see they are doing well.

This weekend I am so excited because Sarah is coming into town. Sarah, Jess, and I were bff in high school and were inseparable! She lives in KC and I haven't seen her since Jess' wedding. She comes in tonight around 8pm so I can't wait!!

Happy Hump Day!

6 Things you may or may not know about me....

2008-08-15T09:39:00.006-05:00

I have been tagged by my friend Kristi. I'm supposed to tell you six random things about me. Here are the rules: Link to the person who tagged you, mention the rules, tell six quirky, yet boring unspectacular things about yourself, tag six other bloggers by linking to them, and then go to each person's blog and leave a comment letting them know they've been tagged.

1. I dislocated my shoulder in 6th grade rolling down a hill in Ft. Worth... I got going too fast and ran into a charter bus tire... I was in an immobilizer and sling for 6 weeks... (AND my parents didn't believe me...)

2. I can drink 60 ounces of beer in 63 seconds...(well I could in college I'm not sure if this still applies... it was when I dunked my aggie ring...)

3. I am a reality tv junkie... plain and simple... I'll pretty much watch anything that claims to be "reality" or is in fact "reality"

4. My first car was a 1990 Pontiac sunbird... convertible... with serious electrical problems... I'm surprised the car didn't blow up while I was driving it.

5. I love taco cabana bean and cheese tacos...

6. I love to cook - dinner, breakfast, lunch anything. I love to be in the kitchen!

I only tagged three... I'm still trying to find friends that blog... so I tagged Kristi, Erin, Johnna

So excited!!

2008-08-07T16:28:00.005-05:00

Our website is up! www.hottotdesigns.com

I'm so excited that it is up! You can see sample swatches (more are coming soon) and pictures of finished products! We will be making a few aesthetic changes here and there but the idea is out on the web for all to see!

I'm also excited because we finally received our wii fit in the mail! I can't wait to start playing it and get fit in the process! I know it's lame - but I am totally excited about it.

I am also excited today because I get to see my aunt and uncle today in from Mississippi. Even though their impromptu visit was due to a loss in my aunt's side of the family, I am excited to see them :)

So today has been a pretty exciting day here!

Say Prayers for April - as her surgery was today.

Sadness and Comfort

2008-08-02T18:43:00.005-05:00

I am so thankful for so many things, my friends, my family, my health.

I learned late last week that my sister's best friend growing up was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is 31 and has two young children (4 & 2). She is a strong woman of God and her faith runs deeper than most. I find comfort in knowing that she will heal completely and live a life that will be fulfilling and long.

Her family was my family growing up - she has a brother one year older than me and her and my sister were the same age. As kids our parents would go out together on the weekends and we would stay home and mostly get into trouble. Me and her brother would bug the heck out of our older siblings as little brothers and sisters normally do. From my memory, I think we even created a band once called the "Four A's" (our first names all started with A). We overflowed the toilet at my mom's house more than once - causing numerous problems, not only with our parents but with the septic tank as well... not to mention the carpet, towels and all items used to clean up our messes....but it was all in good fun and created memories. Memories that I haven't thought about in years....

I think about my sister right now - I know what she's feeling - as I too have gone through this with my best friend. A different type of cancer on a different body part, but cancer none the less. It is hard when you see your friend go through something that you know nothing about. You can relate on most subjects when it comes to hard times, parental issues, significant other issues, etc but when it it something that you haven't faced; something as serious as a cancer diagnosis your whole world turns upside down and you no longer have a realm of understanding of what they are going through. All you can do is be there. Be there to cry with them, be there to love them, be there to pray for them.

I had never experienced prayer like I did when Jessica was diagnosed. I always had signs in my life that God was with me and I always had my faith in knowing that He was our Savior - but never had I experienced the power of prayer until her medical condition was revealed. It was amazing. A feeling indescribable with words. I hold true to the fact that this will be the same for April.

So I ask you today, if you came across this blog - please pray for April and her family as they forge through this journey.

God is good -

If You Aren't Laughing; You Aren't Living

NEW BLOG!!!!

New Giveaway -

I swear I'm not dead...

Who loves a give away ? I DO I DO!!

Not Me Monday - P365 D4

Project 365 day 2 and 3

Project 365 day 1

Comments...

Simple Pleasures...

2010? When did 2010 get here?

Oh little bloggy - what has happened??

Pic of the week....

November 18, 1999

I heart Ellen...

Go Watch...

Pic of the week...and some super excitement

Can I tell you how much I LOVE November...

Halloween Weekend...

Pic of the week....

Livestrong Challenge Picture Overload...

AH - MAZING.....

Pic of the week....

Three posts packed into one....

U2... Rattle and hum....

Tri #4 - the sunday monsoon...

Six Months?

Life should be a beach (all the time)

Always, Sometimes, Never....

I get hurt so you don't have too...part 3!

Dallas-Ft. Worth Brain Tumor Walk:

NBTS Angel Adventure Walk

Another week down...

Fall TV makes me happy....

My life in pictures would be much better than words...

Whoo hooo It's Friday :)

The many faces of Cooper Webb.....

I know I know...

Dolce...

Hawa-ii

Recap...

Happy Blogiversary!!!

Pic(s) of the week

Della-palooza '09

Drum Roll Please...

"Come pick me up I just got in a F'in wreck...."

WOWZA...

Livestrong Challenge HELP!!

44 things about me that you probably don't care about

Tri #2 - "Control the Freakout"

another post about the weather...sheesh I'm getting old...

weather update...

No crashes...Yet...knock on wood

Graduation Day.... = Crash Day = pic of the week

They say it's your birthday...

Two Poems....

Gone but not forgotten....

Jessica Ashley Gage Bonesio....

PLEASE VOTE!!

2nd and 3rd Tri - should be 3rd and 4th but whatever...

Pic of the Week:

Lots to blog about on this Monday...

Back in the saddle again...

Happy Belated Mother's Day

Pic of the week

Pic of the week = picS of the week and a little overdue blog....

Motivation anyone???

Pic of the Week

Tri Pics

My First Triathlon... Recap

Pic of the Week

5 days before my first triathlon...

Sunday = Equipment Failure Day

I wear skinny jeans so you don't have to...

I buy spandex so you don't have to....

I get hurt so you don't have to...part 2

AU2012

****Guest Blog**** Ciearra Style....

I get hurt so you don't have to...part 1

When Good/Great Things Turn Bad...

Guest Blog Ciearra Style....