Thanksgiving Point 1/2 marathon 2013 - hear the moo'ing of my sore calves?

Ahhh........tis the season and I'm LOVING it baby!

Since I'm not pacing anymore, I decided that this would be a selfish season.  The race season about ME!

Granted, that didn't make me train for this one any more or.... at all. But I did manage to sign up for at least one race a month so I would have plenty of things to look forward to and to "train" for.

Today was the first of the races just for me, the Thanksgiving Point 1/2 Marathon

Splenda Daddy picked my packet up for me on his way home from work, so I really didn't have any idea where I was going in the morning but I didn't doubt I could just follow the predictable line of cars.

Alarm went off at 5:30.  I dressed, brushed my teeth, double checked I had everything and out the door I  scooted.  After a stop for gas, a monster and my traditional pre-race maple donut, I was on the road and headed south.

Sure enough, plenty of cars all lined up heading in one direction, so I jumped in the queue and followed along like a good sheep.  Several volunteers were guiding traffic, so I just did what I was told and easily parked.  It was about 20 minutes to race time and I wasn't ready to get out of the warm car just yet.  I got my spibelt packed with my phone, and lip balm.  Put on my garmin and then attempted to turn on my ipod.

Dead.

Wha??  I fiddled, I flipped the switch and nope.  No music.  I must have left it on and it ran completely dry.  Huh.  Okay, so I am now facing 13.1 miles with NO TUNES!  I shrugged, stuffed my purse behind my seat, took off my long sleeve tee and locked the car up.

I quickly made my way to the porta potties and was a little worried about the long line.  Luckily it went quickly and I was able to make my way over to the start line.  I had seen a friend who is pacing and tried to find him, but couldn't.  Instead, I slid in right in between the 2:00 and the 2:05 pacers and waited for the start.  After a moment of silence (a whole 'nother blog post about THAT), we were off.

Since I was going into this race with little expectations, zero training, and only the rumors of a brutal course, I eased into my pace.  I really had no idea what to expect or where I should try and push myself so instead, I relaxed and just ran according to how comfortable I felt.    Holy smokes!  What a good feeling.  No looking at my Garmin to make sure I am on the right pace for a group, just listening to my body and doing what it felt like doing.

**Side note - Friday I was diagnosed with Vestibular Neuritis.  I have exercises to retrain the nerves, but I'm told it will take several months so until then, I have some motion and balance issues.  I should mention that while I had no ipod with tunes, the song that kept going through my head was Carole King's  "I feel the Earth".  Good times.

About mile 3, I came alongside a fellow runner friend Susette!  YAY!!  So fun to see a familiar face!  And since I had no tunes, I was up for a little chit chat.  We stayed together for a while, just talking until the next water stop.  I lost her there.

The course is extremely hilly with a lot of winding turns.  When someone told me it was brutal, well, they weren't kidding.  I've done more 1/2's than I can count and I don't remember anything quite like this.  I can take hills.  I can take winding turns.  What I didn't care for was the fact that the course was 90% on concrete.   If you do any kind of running, you know that concrete is NOT your friend.  Worst surface to run on.

The scenery?  GORGEOUS!  Truly beautiful.  It had been billed as an opportunity to run through the tulips, but I don't remember seeing any.  It's a beautiful golf course though and I wouldn't mind going back and driving the cart while the boys golfed.

The course was extremely well aided.  Every two miles or so, there was water, powerade, Gu, oranges, banana's.  I've learned to take advantage of every aid station, so I let myself walk through a few of them.

At about mile 10 is when my legs turned into open rebellion.  They not-so-gently reminded me that they hadn't practiced for this since January and they were not all to happy about what I was pushing them to do.  My right IT band started to ache, but more irritating was the fact that my calves were literally seized into tight little balls.  I reminded myself of the Naproxen I had taken at the start line and mentally tried to shake off the pain.

Love the feeling of the last mile.  Legs are dead tired, but you can see and often hear the announcer, the crowd and you know that you're almost there.  As I rounded the last corner for the final .2, I found enough energy to kick and sprinted in.  I was watching the race clock and noted that I came in 2:08 and some change!  YAY!!  WOW!  More than I expected for myself!

I let them cut off my timing chip and then walked to the fence to hold on to it while I stretched.  Ahhhh.......relief for the calves.  Momentarily at least.  Stretched for a good several minutes and then headed in search of water and food.  I noticed a tent outside the runner's area that had some PT guys doing some stretching.  I jumped in line and took advantage of them working my IT band, and my calves.  Felt great!

Made my phone call to Splenda Daddy, checked the results table and then headed home.  I kind of like this kind of race.  Get there, run, go home.  No dilly dally'ing around.  Just get in and get out.

Overall take away?  Could not have asked for better running weather.  Seriously!  I even got a smidgen of a tan line from my shorts and tank top.  It was the perfect temp, clear skies and simply beautiful.  Doubtful I'll do this one again simply because of the concrete.  Had the path been asphalt, this would become one of my favorite races, but me no likey the concrete and really, who am I kidding?  I'm just too old to hack it. Even the hills and winding turns were so doable!  Hard, challenging, but doable!  Vertigo?  pshaw!  Just that darned concrete.

Final stats
Time: 2:07:11
6th place (out of 33) in age group
331 place (out of 835) overall

Not too shabby.  Not my best.  But, I'll take it.

And for the record, I have re-dedicated myself to serious training.  Just you wait and see.  I'll get faster.

Thanks for a great event Thanksgiving Point - you did a stellar job!

**Coming soon, my thoughts on the moment of silence for Boston

An open letter to my daughter-in-love's

Clearly, I'm getting old and feeling pretty squishy.  My last son to get married is tying the knot in less than two weeks.  I've been spending a lot of time just thinking.... (danger).

Anyway - just some words to the luckiest girls in the world.  The ones that married (or soon to marry) my boys.
Thus, an open letter to my daughter-in-love's

My dear sweet girls,
  Yes, I do feel like you're mine.  In a way.  See, you are now intertwined with my eternal family unit forever so yes, I guess I like to call you mine.

I am and will be forever blessed because of each one of you.  You each bring a unique and wonderful flavor to our family soup.  That extra certain spice that would ruin the whole meal if it was missing.  Thank you for being a part of us.

I know it's not easy.  My son?!  Being married to my family?!  Our silliness, irreverence, immaturity, and lack of an attention span longer than a gnat's is sure to be exasperating.  You probably figured that out the first time you were here for Sunday dinner.  But in spite of that I hope you felt how much we love each other and that includes you.  It's more than the fact that you love my son, so by default I love you....no - it's much more than that.  I love you because you are everything I could ever want for my son and our family.  You are perfect for the man you are married to.

It's interesting being the mother of boys.  My biggest worry about them growing up and getting married is that they would no longer spend much time here.  I know with girl's it seems that they always tend to migrate more to her mother's house.  I get that.  I truly do. So whenever I would think of my son's getting married, I would try to resign myself to that picture.  Oh how each of you have proven me wrong!

Thank you for sharing your husband with me and his Dad.  Thanks for letting us stay so connected.  Thanks for thinking of and showing consideration for our feelings.  Thank you for loving my son.

Just so you know, we did try hard to teach them to not be annoying.  As each one was potty trained, they were taught: Lid/seat down, wash hands.  Lid/seat down, wash hands.  Lid/seat down, wash hands.  Over and over again.  That was just part of the "going big boy potty" routine.  If he gets lazy and leaves the seat up - call him out on it.  He was taught better.

He knows how to clean.  Saturday's were "scour the house" day.  When they were little and Splenda worked weekends, we would scour the house and then do a hike in the mountains during the summer.  He knows how to mop a floor, dust and vacuum, and clean a toilet like a professional.  If he does less than a stellar job, remind him.  Actually, remind of the time his mother lost her ever loving mind and yelled that "everyone who has a penis, get in here right now".  I promise, you won't need to repeat the cleaning reminder.

He knows how to cook.  Because they grew up with a mom who hates cooking and a dad who is good and would do it all, they clearly understand there are no "rules" about who does the cooking.  In fact, if I can share a secret:  Screw up dinner once in awhile.  But offer to clean the kitchen if he will cook.  Guaranteed, you will get yummy dinners and then won't have to go behind him and clean the kitchen again.  You'll have done it "right" the first time.  *wink wink*

He also knows how to do laundry.  Albeit, they all take short cuts, so let's be honest, unless you truly hate it - you might want this one.  Splenda Daddy ruined too many shirts of mine our first year so he is no longer allowed to go near the laundry.  It's best that way.  If worse comes to worst, my son has been taught and he can, but you should think carefully about whether you want to let him.

He can be tight with money.  Sorry.  I blame Splenda Daddy for that.  He will also think things through quite extensively when making large purchases or big decisions.  Again, you can thank Splenda for that one.  However, I think you will find that after many years, it's a huge blessing that he is so frugal with the money.  He knows how to manage it and how to take care of his responsibilities.  Again, Splenda gets the credit for that.  Any impulsivity he displays lies squarely on my shoulders.  I'm so sorry.

He makes a great Daddy.  Either now or in the future.  They had the greatest example in their own father.  Don't worry about him changing a diaper or helping with baths or feedings.  Natural's.  Very hands on and I think you'll find that refreshing.  You'll never need to "ask my husband if he can babysit".  There is no such thing as a dad babysitting his own kid.  Your husband understands this.

As for how he treats you?  Again, he had the best example possible, so expect to be treated like a queen.  Anything less, and Splenda finds out?  Well  - let's just say there might be some serious dirtbag arse kickin.  Your husband knows the value of a woman and how she should be treated.  He understands her feelings and the importance of being validated.  My only suggestion would be to let him know your treat of choice in cases of extreme hormone swings or depression so that he can be prepared at all times.  He's been taught to treat his wife as his number one priority, but he also knows not to let himself be taken advantage of.  Why do you think he picked you to marry?  He knew that you show him the same in return.  It's one of the many things I also love about you.

When you do have your inevitable differences?  Don't bring them to me or Splenda.  Or your Mom, or your friends or your coworkers.  Take them to each other and the Lord.  You will easily forgive your husband much quicker than anyone else and you don't want them thinking any less of your prince because of a simple spat between the two of you.  Keep your privacy.  Your marriage is YOURS and no one else's.  Create boundaries for yourselves with other family members and friends.  Ultimately when all is said and done, it's just you two.  Make it the best DUO you can.  Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries.  The only third party referee or consultant you should have is God.

Extended family time?  I love that we can all be together and if I had my wish, we'd have one big compound with acres of property that we all loved on together.  But in reality, that is neither reasonable nor healthy.  So let's make sure we get together on a regular basis and talk often, but don't forget that YOUR family is your first priority.  Splenda Daddy and I understand.

Thank you for being such a wonderful mother to your children.  Our grandchildren.  Whether you have one now, one on the way or one in the future - you are THE link for us to our posterity.  You are a crucial piece in our eternal family and we love you for it.  We love that you are willing to share them with us and allow us to be grandparents and create memories just as we have with our own grandparents.  Isn't it such a cool thing how the whole family cycle works?  Thank you.  Thank you for being a part of ours.

And finally, I want to express again my love for you.  Each one of you.  Kar, 'Tana and Mind.  Every day I thank Heavenly Father for you being in our lives.  For your goodness and for your love of my son(s).  You are everything I could have ever dreamed and hoped for.  A mother's love for her son is a very unique thing, I hope you'll each get to experience it.  And honestly, it's a hard thing to let them go to another woman for the rest of their lives and beyond.  However, because each one of you is such an outstanding daughter of God and woman in the gospel, it has eased that for me.  I don't worry about them.  I don't fear about their feelings, if their wife is being nice, if she will let him come over to visit, if I'll get to see or babysit the baby.  You have each embraced me and welcomed me in your lives and I appreciate it more than you will ever know.

So carry on my good girls.  You are amazing.  You make my son happy.  You make me happy.  You complete him.  You complete our family.  I can never adequately express how much that means to me nor how much I love each of you.

xoxox
mCat

PS - To my Jillie: You were a daughter to me.  I loved when you called me 'Mom', I loved our talks and I loved your spunky fun.  I love you and I thank you for teaching me so much on how to be a mother-in-law.

Chloee's traditional birthday video

I'm a little late with this.  Like almost a whole month, but it's been taking me awhile.....

Hopefully youtube doesn't yank it, I bought the songs and appreciate the artists talents and it fits with the pictures so.........  fingers crossed!



Love you Chloee!

xoxox
Mimi and Poppa

September Baaaayyyyybbbbeeee!!

GAH!  I am so wicked behind on documenting life and crap.

First things first -

Several weeks ago, Splenda Daddy and I came home from church to a most wonderful surprise!!!  We had to stay quiet about it for a little while, but now the news is public and I can start posting away!!

Another little Catmull grandbaby!!  WOOT WOOT!!

The lil peanut is due the end of September.  Right now it's still up in the air as to the gender but by May 10th we should know.

I super thankful that the kids invited me and Dana (Montana's mom) to come to the "reveal" ultrasound!  What a fun and beautiful thing to share with my good friend and our kids.

As tempted as I have been to start buying cute little baby things, I'm holding off until we find out whether I'm stocking up pink or blue......

Congrats to my kids!  Tuffy and 'Tana are gonna bee amazing parents and for the record, another grandchild does NOT make me old.  NOT.

The = sign on facebook, why I don't change my profile pic but why I still love everyone

I've been fascinated all day by watching friend after friend change their profile pictures to resemble something like this:

As I understand it, it's a symbol of solidarity as the Supreme Court begins ruling on Gay Marriage rights - click here for latest news.

I wasn't surprised by many of my friends who changed their pictures, I fully expected it, and quite frankly might have been disappointed if they didn't stand up for what they believe in.  

Others surprised me somewhat but only because I had not previously understood their views.

I then read one thread where a friend exclaimed how proud she was to see so many profile pictures changed and more so because several of the people that she least expected to, joined in the movement.

I got thinking about what message am I sending when I don't jump on board and change my profile pic.

Does it mean that I don't love gay's or lesbians?

Does it mean that I am threatened, scared or afraid of their lifestyle?

Does it tell people that I refuse to allow others equal rights?

As of this moment.  Right now.  Let me be clear.

NO to all three above questions.

Years ago, after meeting an incredible woman, her wife and child - I wrote a blog post sharing my feelings.  Click here, if you are interested in reading it.

I have gay family members, friends and acquaintances.  I'm not afraid of them nor their lifestyles which are different than mine.  Just as I am not afraid of someone who follows a different religious sect than mine.

I believe all people should and can receive equal rights without destroying what other people hold sacred.

Ahhh, that's where it gets tricky.

See there are many of us who believe in the bible, God the Father and Jesus Christ His Son.  We believe God ordained marriage to be between a man and a woman.  Key word Marriage.

In my faith, as through all my life, Marriage is held sacred.  It's not to be entered into lightly.  We made covenants with one another (more than vows).  That in itself makes Marriage and the very word Marriage something different and holy.

For one who believes these things as part of their religion I am compelled to stand strong for those principles.

I do understand that many do not share my beliefs.  Other religions, faiths or belief's in a different kind of high power are common in all walks of life.  I do not expect them to hold the same value to a word that I do simply based on the fact of our varying beliefs.  And I appreciate when I am given the same respect in return.

That being said, for those gay/lesbian couple who are in committed relationships, have children, and enjoy all the benefits of a legal Civil Union, I believe are entitled to all the same legal rights as a marriage is.  Insurance, children decisions, end of life decisions etc.  Their Civil Union is legally the same as a Marriage but I believe simply called something different.  

Can Marriage be reserved for those of us who believe in God, the bible and His mandate for marriage to be with one man and one woman.

Can Civil Union be reserved for those who believe in unions that are different than that?

Legally, I would like to see no difference.  I have no problem with same sex couples enjoying the same legal benefits.

Religiously, it makes all the difference in the world to me.  As one who believes in God and his mandates of what Marriage should be, I want to obey and honor that directive.

Just as I don't want other people to tell me how I should believe or practice my religion, the tolerance goes both ways.  Those supporting the equal rights/marriage are in turn attempting to force me to accept something I don't believe in.  

No win situation.

There has to be a compromise.

Can it be merely a difference of a use of words?

Marriage = between a man and a woman.

Civil Union = between same sex couples.

And maybe instead of the Federal Government making that decision, it could be left up to the individual states.  Just as was originally intended when the United States was created.  The states to govern themselves.

I don't know.....just some thoughts.

Guess I needed to clarify that just because I don't change my profile pic to be an equal = sign like everyone else today, doesn't mean I don't love everyone and want them to be happy, enjoy freedoms and legal rights just like me.

I guess I just want to hold the name Marriage as sacred as I believe it to be and as the God in which I believe in, commanded it to be.

But I like giving my gay and lesbian friends their special name that is just as sacred to them and entitle them to all the same legal rights.

Just my thoughts.

Love you

xoxox

mCat

Chloeefornia Palooza wrap up

Okay, so I was doing so good and then something hit me Monday and I haven't quite been the same since.  Think vertigo-ish without nausea, can't focus eyes, feel "wonky" like I'm on gas at the dentist.  Monday was a complete wash.  Chloee went to school,

(celebrating St Patty's day with her Leprachaun trap)

 the kids went for a run and lunch, I laid on the couch trying to sleep whatever the crap it was off (with no success). Here is it 3 days later and I'm still "wonkish".

Anyhoodle - we stretched out Chloee's birthday a little longer by giving a present every single day.

(a shark bank from Tiburon - how cool is this? She loved it)

Enjoyed the last few days with the kids even if it WAS overcast, gloomy and cold.  This was one of those nice vacay's where we really didn't do much but just hang out.  Nice quiet time doing nothing but being together in the same rooms.  Love it.

Tuesday, Chloee went to school.  Corb went back to work.  Karalee and Splenda took a run and I tried to walk off the wonk's.

Hardest part is leaving when Chlo is at school. I wanted just one more little goodbye.  We showed her special BD present that should be delivered this week so it's kind of like dragging it out even a little more....yeah I like to milk them.

Overall, a great time spent with my favorite SoCal kids! Always love it on base.  Always love time spent with them just hanging around, playing, talking, watching the Jazz.....you name it, we can make it enjoyable.

Now babysteppin our way to April when we get EVERYONE together for the nuptials!

Chloeefornia Bouncin Birthday Extra's

and a few more random pic's

Karalee's hard work and stress

was worth it for this beautiful smile!